tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41375268125529939102021-08-13T06:51:34.354-04:00The Classy ChaosTrista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.comBlogger166125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-48654043238458399812020-08-28T05:30:00.011-04:002020-08-28T06:54:04.510-04:00finally an august friday favorites<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday, Sweet Friends!! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It feels like forever since I’ve joined <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" target="_blank">Erika</a> in sharing a few favorites from the week, so this week’s download may span more than just this past week. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Part of my absence lately has been due to the majority of my spare time being spent in the garden or in the kitchen preserving it’s bounty. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After this past weekend, I can say for the first time ever that I canned 39 quarts of green beans, 7 quarts of sweet corn, and 7 quarts of tomato juice over the summer. I also froze 15 quarts of corn and several bell peppers. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gh1AbkCi6_c/X0h0rAfr9sI/AAAAAAAAC2A/kKUtWX8jIS0NpanZMUUK04uCmYc-3qRiACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/7F8440A0-F271-4EFA-B8C3-18B36DECC929.jpeg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0PqFrlbxK10/X0jhV4mWXAI/AAAAAAAAC3s/5Apz_TRqQD49wHuoSlDRUuQzFM5abTNhwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/A4D3A305-854E-4FDD-AC43-D895F36BBE7E.jpeg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gDqDloYmS1M/X0jhTUc6xsI/AAAAAAAAC3o/hVHstOyLs_EpaHv0eFyk2wj3TQ_vRrfqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/A2552F3A-187C-42BF-832E-17AFFBA2415A.jpeg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wd0MPc0wTcs/X0h09EjER4I/AAAAAAAAC2Q/TcfZAIe8vLYWDBb623U3LM_SscJ7kyEzQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/A1C663A8-9BA4-4C09-8ED9-10068003775B.jpeg" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">For someone who has never done any of these things before, I declare this summer a success. I’ve learned so much this year from my mama, friends, and even mistakes. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In other news, our Littlest Farmer has been paci free for almost an entire week. We learned that the preschool he is starting in September does not allow pacifiers. It was just the motivation we needed. We had promised ourselves we wouldn’t let him keep it past his 3rd birthday and that’s coming up fast. So, as of last Saturday morning they all just disappeared, and he’s surprisingly done really well. The first nap time was the roughest but after about three days, those haven’t been an issue anymore either.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VADzioKKmNg/X0h2RRn_hbI/AAAAAAAAC2c/eNkp4sxrzDcnc5k_TmjbbzcPc7DE9m7LwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/935E802F-4A6A-4F71-984E-955F5A8556DA.jpeg" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I want to say thank you to all of you who shared your thoughts on my <a href="https://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/08/all-things-currently.html" target="_blank">post from last week</a> regarding the need for our children to be in school. Your comments were so encouraging and helped me to feel more confident in my own feelings. After much prayer and consideration, we have opted to change schools this year. Our Little Farmers will switch from public to private school. This isn’t to say they won’t end up doing some days virtually, but the planned normal will be to attend in person classes on site. By the way, this photo is a shameless bathroom selfie from inside their new school. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1037" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4TBJVcvD5fg/X0h57Ta67JI/AAAAAAAAC3I/zJxX1fAdgasY0Wiiv_Pdw4YmNLWTOb5_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/9B5956B3-E1D0-46D4-BCB9-5E822751CDC3.jpeg" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My Little Farmers start school the week after Labor Day, so we’ve been in accelerated preparation mode this week. On Tuesday, I took the boys to tour the school and shopping for their school supplies. It was an inaugural trip for my Middle Little Farmer. Bless his sweet, excited heart. He woke up the next morning, dressed himself and wore his backpack around for at least a couple of hours. He is so excited for his first day of Kindergarten! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I know I mentioned that I was done with gardening for the summer, but I am still excited about my pumpkin and gourd patch. I had never planted gourds before. I picked up a pack of seeds because we love them for fall decorations. Why buy them when I can grow them?! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, planting gourds has been like opening presents on Christmas morning. Pull back a leaf and surprise! There are so many different kinds of gourds in the pumpkin patch. I have no idea what any of them are or if they are good for anything other than decor. Do you?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UNhY6Em6d6g/X0h4JCltiRI/AAAAAAAAC2s/eaJCx0FuBgYDTBSkeZCvaWWdmNHRkOgBACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/2C12A223-6D15-4FBE-90B0-9E69EF394C40.jpeg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-geUluvHJiuI/X0h4F2ptaXI/AAAAAAAAC2o/Opbj66-wXHoYnTxrlVgfZ0tHhnb0P9cgACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/13ABE137-6C53-4C96-9731-E327652982A2.jpeg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-520OY2lt1JE/X0h4OfzgThI/AAAAAAAAC2w/PD58fZ2A6Fgrvayqh6r36nP7a2FjB7YkgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/B774F1B6-61D1-4B07-B8A8-256651E4D3C1.jpeg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yUx6xlgC1pk/X0h4Wz__UlI/AAAAAAAAC24/PmZrf51UrGcoSl9FIvnn6LG2Bn17RNXEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/C5B16D14-7ACE-4DD7-8CBC-6B027B21CB0B.jpeg" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">So, here’s something interesting. Kentucky isn’t going to school in person, but they are allowed to play full contact sports, like football. So, this week has been full of football practice. It makes me feel as though Fall is on the horizon! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I should’ve been a florist. Okay, not really. But I did have a rough couple of days this week and needed a bouquet of fresh flowers. I didn’t have a trip to the store planned anytime soon, so I exercised the tiny creative bone that I have and put together my own. I snipped blooms from my knockout roses, day lilies and butterfly bush. Whatcha think? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_XgNpoxiRu4/X0h7BUrLmlI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/4PvniXnyLoYi-y4B81GmlI1A684k17_9wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/8EB7E1DC-2537-4D04-B7C6-81FEE5694EA8.jpeg" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Lastly, it’s still not too late to join me in studying the Help Club for Moms Devotional. I’ve created a group of mamas who are going to read through it together on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/classycountrychaos/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Reach out to me if you’re interested or want to learn more. It’s gonna be great! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BY-VLbH2WBY/X0h728uKtFI/AAAAAAAAC3Y/WTMGQSL01UYXRrKyevNe2OX--97pZjOvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/24177183-C56B-4143-941E-381C8B8A906A.jpeg" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Well, I think that about wraps up the week. September, here we come! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/classycountrychaos/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-30514161732368775952020-08-24T10:02:00.000-04:002020-08-24T10:02:01.876-04:00help club for moms fall 2020 devotional<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qUXcNdGTVU/X0PGMehIcFI/AAAAAAAAC1A/jJNgfrQc7Pc7Ycsuee63rNEiBens5MpUACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/8F8229CA-3CC1-41BD-A81F-E32662FE1114.jpeg" /></div><div><br /></div>Do you know what today is?</div><div><br /></div><div>Today is August 24th, and the official start of The Help Club for Moms devotional! </div><div><br /></div><div>I have been awaiting the start of this study because more than ever, I feel like I could use all the “help” I can get when it comes to being the mom I need to be for my family. </div><div><br /></div><div>God has entrusted me with three precious little humans to raise in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and if I’m honest, I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the responsibility. </div><div><br /></div><div><span><a name='more'></a></span>I feel like our world is in chaos and not at all interested in pointing people, much less children, to Jesus. If anything, the devil is doing everything he can to use the world to turn them AWAY from Jesus. </div><div><br /></div><div>So as Mamas, we are in a constant battle with the devil for the hearts of our children and our families, and it’s no surprise this can leave us feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, and craving “help.”</div><div><br /></div><div>Are you feeling that way too? Would you want to do this study with me? </div><div><br /></div><div>If so, it’s not too late to grab a copy of the devotional and it’s companion guide.</div><div><br /></div><div>I’m really looking forward to seeing what God has in store for this study and how He’s going to work in hearts and draw us closer to Him! </div><div><br /></div><div>If you’re interested in learning more or joining in, head over to <a href="https://helpclubformoms.com/current-study/" target="_blank">The Help Club for Moms</a> or contact me directly. </div><div><br /></div><div>I’m also considering creating a group on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/classycountrychaos/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> as a place to encourage one another and keep each other accountable as we go through the study for anyone who wants to join me. </div><div><br /></div><div>Who’s in? </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Monday, Sweet Friends! ☀️</div><div><br /></div></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/classycountrychaos/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-79663718800484614942020-08-18T20:57:00.000-04:002020-08-18T20:57:42.243-04:00all things currently<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Hello Sweet Friends! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I am enjoying some unusual quiet time this afternoon. Our electric went off earlier today rendering it impossible for me to work remotely. So I improvised, packed up my desk and the boys, and headed to my Farmer’s grandparents - where low and behold, we discovered the electric was on but the internet was not. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">So as my Littlest Farmer naps and there’s no access to the outside world other than the old fashioned landline, here I sit enjoying a bit of downtime, realizing it’s also the perfect time to catch you up on all things currently. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Let’s start with the garden since it’s taken up the majority of my free time lately. I mentioned in my <a href="https://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/07/friday-favorites-homesteading-edition.html?m=1" target="_blank">last post</a> how I canned for the first time. Well, it’s become somewhat of an addiction. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6h36cjtlJjs/XzxsIBnpKeI/AAAAAAAACzs/BKIrgMy3wfIASKLHGe8TBC3fEfT8gcpFgCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/D59DE122-CAF9-4B3C-B9C6-C16479828D5E.jpeg" width="480" /></div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span class="s1">This past weekend, I brought my green bean count to 39 quarts! I’ve also managed to freeze 15 quarts of sweet corn and discovered that it takes about a dozen ears to make a quart. Plus, I’ve got another 200 ears just waiting to be cut off the cob and saved for later. </span><p></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GYVUKo4k78M/XzxstcpR1HI/AAAAAAAACz0/JkFAGkOU1045B746nU3Siw3iwMG6vAzkQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/047EEAB4-9EFC-44A5-BAB7-A90618CAB586.jpeg" /></div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I also tried my hand at tomato sauce and that was a flop. The recipe I was using said to boil the tomatoes. My brain likened boil to add water and I’m here to tell you, that you DO NOT add water. I had worked so hard and those four pints of tomato sauce looked more like juice and tasted a lot less like tomatoes. I was so disappointed. The good news is that I have another bushel of tomatoes ready to try again. We shall see! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5svnFs4WXMc/XzxtlAHSUUI/AAAAAAAAC0A/e8hu1DaWeTk6ubngffeAP9aVx9SMwmXiACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/B3893D46-3272-4B16-9313-36A4FA05D5E9.jpeg" /></div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Have I mentioned that we picked up eight little chicks at the end of July? We had two chickens prior to that, but found nothing but a pile of feathers one day. Not sure what happened to them, but we think a Little Farmer accidentally left the coop door open, although none of them will admit to it. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5nIsNhdl5g/XzxuMCA_zpI/AAAAAAAAC0I/lcRpolm-Ilw-VeRtz7ZNIW_MWzIpN_IBgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/9A377443-0367-4C6D-B55E-1610354D74E0.jpeg" /></div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I absolutely loved having eggs at our fingertips, so we picked up some Buff Orpington and Rhode Island Red at Rural King. Unfortunately, we are already down to seven. We think a raccoon must have reached in and just grabbed one! Rascals. It will be a few months before we start getting eggs again, but it will be so worth it. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I think I mentioned in a previous post that I’ve started writing for an online Christian support group. It’s called the Help Club for Moms. I’ve really enjoyed being a part of it the last few weeks. It’s a group focused on supporting and encouraging one another, building each other up, while pointing all things to Jesus. You can find the group on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/636391573213553/?ref=share" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or visit their <a href="https://helpclubformoms.com/" target="_blank">website here</a>. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">The Club is starting a new study on August 24th if you’d like to join us. If you’re interested, you can read more about it <a href="https://helpclubformoms.com/fall-2020-reading-schedule-and-how-to-get-the-most-our-of-the-help-club/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W6RWU69KbDY/XzxvqOe4T4I/AAAAAAAAC0U/Lzeoc39wpwwpIqKVxKxh7R2Kgb7wBVIrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/E5C3519A-3327-45EE-87C5-CB2B17398A6B.jpeg" /></div><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">School - “should I stay or should I go now.” I’m singing that as I write it. Please tell me you’re familiar with that oldies song! If not, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwit1rOa_6XrAhWkm-AKHf_QAtcQ3ywwAnoECBUQBA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fm.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DBN1WwnEDWAM%26vidve%3D5727%26autoplay%3D1&usg=AOvVaw3uSnZLul3eoOvHn56rsXz3" target="_blank">here ya go</a>. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Anyway, Kentucky schools were scheduled to return to the classroom on the 26th of this month. However, it was announced last week that schools should remain closed until at least the end of September. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I normally don’t share my political views in this space, so I’m going to exert a considerable amount of effort not to start now. However, I will simply say that I understand this virus is real and that people need to take preventative measures to ensure as few people are infected as possible, but the lengths to which we are going will likely have even greater damaging effects than the virus itself. I can only stay positive by taking comfort in the fact that God is in control. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">That being said, whether to enroll our kids into a private school has been heavy on our hearts lately. We need to make a decision soon and covet your prayers. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">For those of you who work outside the home or are working remotely, what options do you have and what are you choosing? </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">In other news, Nugget has become a ball of fun. The boys absolutely love her and she’s taking after Cricket in that she wants to be wherever they are. I love that. I’ve never seen cats with such dog-like personalities. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vDynGIgPWFw/XzxwhyxlIcI/AAAAAAAAC0c/WCflBMThKAo9XaMIR_Kj8PNTa4ymDdIZwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/90854171-9E37-491F-9424-EC56BD55981F.jpeg" /></div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">I haven’t been running at all. I have got to find some motivation and discipline somewhere inside of me or everything that I worked for is going to be lost. This time last year, I was preparing for a Half Marathon. I ran three miles a couple of weeks ago and it was not easy. Ever since this year’s race was cancelled, I’ve just kind of stopped. The heat isn’t helping either. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Well Friends, I think that’s a glimpse of everything currently happening in our chaos. And if you’re still reading, THANK YOU for your support and encouragement of this little space of mine. It means so much to me. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Have a wonderful rest of the week! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/classycountrychaos" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-43916244274442441772020-07-31T11:33:00.003-04:002020-07-31T20:13:56.760-04:00friday favorites: homesteading edition<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday, Friends! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I’m linking up with <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" target="_blank">Erika</a> to share a few favorites from the week. Keeping it short and sweet today as this week has been kind of chaotic for me. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My oldest Little Farmer had his first camp out with friends last weekend. We thought for sure they’d end up inside before the night ended, but they actually made it through! They roasted hot dogs and made s’mores. I might have eaten three - they’re a favorite of mine.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TXXtpNYD6Ag/XyQzuyT-BKI/AAAAAAAACxM/Lbr__eHO8dYrKbxkOfd7jKh06xhnqoCSgCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/7DFA8B60-1B08-4DD7-9041-E84CEAEE768D.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: left;">I canned more green beans last night. I stayed up way too late getting nine more quarts done. Even after midnight, that “pop” sound is oh so exciting! Especially after I gave up on the last one, and as soon as I laid down, I heard it seal. Sweet dreams! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tD9gT7IZhc4/XyQ0lG2meoI/AAAAAAAACxU/x0xEEzMy1mE7dbTWGZbgeVFhXGkSS8DGACLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/F8B992AB-1671-49AB-9296-BB327CD03F04.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Over the weekend, I decided to repurpose the diaper changing table into a storage shelf for the beans. We have some closet space under our stairs. It’s super convenient and out of the way making it perfect for storing my canned goodies. I love how it turned out.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zjbo_k1EcWE/XyQ02xmG2eI/AAAAAAAACxc/wxAbkpyAH6oCM62byf7z2ISYHBpvLYrlACLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/9ACB4908-4F5E-43DB-B32F-8B583C2BE0AC.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nugget is becoming so much more playful and loves attention. It’s completely fair to say we are all smitten with this kitten. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYJnMMxfpA4/XyQ1WSXR6xI/AAAAAAAACxo/z4mwzCE8gicU3pCRntd1COtaYu41IF6nwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/37CD49C4-6297-4358-AD08-65202CCF5AE4.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lastly, we finally made time to pick up some new chicks. We’re so excited about these sweet little things. There are eight, four Rhode Island Red and four Buff Orphington. They’re so much fun to watch right now. I think my Little Farmers could stare at them all day! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qzxe04-ZUEw/XyQ42N3U5eI/AAAAAAAACx8/-iPdu0AwihQKiMIlCorBy9jzxWYIWxHzgCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/F99E2079-91A9-403C-BFB4-1378F60DFDF3.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, it’s time to kick off the weekend. Lots on the agenda. Make sure you’re keeping up on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, I’ve really stepped up my game in sharing the day-to-day excitement! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a wonderful weekend, Sweet Friends! I appreciate you! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-11638051298945233062020-07-24T07:12:00.004-04:002020-07-24T07:45:14.844-04:00friday favorites: garden goodness and kitten cuteness<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday, Friends! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Do you feel like the week following vacation is a challenging one? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I feel like this week has kicked my tail. Getting caught up with work, coming home to a garden that’s bursting at the seams with veggies AND weeds, children who are technically still on vacation, and hot hot hot weather. Combine those with a brain that doesn’t seem to be in optimal working order yet and a mama who feels overwhelmed, and the world wins. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I’m so thankful His mercies are new everyday. Today is a fresh start! My prayer is that I am a better version of myself today than I was yesterday. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I do have a few favorites from the week. So, I’m linking up with <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" target="_blank">Erika</a> to share. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After being away for a week, the garden had grown exponentially. Green beans galore, peppers run amuck, and finally the start of red tomatoes. Our pumpkins and watermelons also seem to have exploded, crawling out of the garden and into the yard. I’m so excited about all of this garden goodness, but that also means there is lots of work to do. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Nda8QpASEM/Xxq8szK193I/AAAAAAAACuc/FLyIpqLahYI-hwvnyYufPHwKE1hff6QdQCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/7FC507BC-CC9C-4E89-9015-E9E331909D57.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span></span><span></span><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IftJzb3Cgpo/Xxq77Kg_BgI/AAAAAAAACtw/N_lyL4Ee_O80AP25huYSmkAQcSv6l2sCgCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/4E85A43C-B0AD-43A3-B9BC-576203017205.jpeg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgFUE74Wx_w/Xxq8C5RZIMI/AAAAAAAACt4/CdKkuwSStGc6JsilHZYyAunOJViIXPxTwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/741D24AA-4C4D-4631-BFF4-43F316EA960A.jpeg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rczCfa1hw90/Xxq8UkHj-QI/AAAAAAAACuM/L9VXwpF6MRcDzWvL8rpz-PEpExKGZ9KDwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/D9685BD7-7302-41A9-A050-3BBAE89FE864.jpeg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tpheB0tg3Y/Xxq8P05vrAI/AAAAAAAACuA/_GOnZBVPoc8TeXbWjgeBMidPT_AEtl1xQCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/96114C3E-230F-4C59-83AC-0B04C09F0ED8.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So, that leads me to my favorite favorite. I picked and picked green beans. Then my sweet mama came with her canning stuff and taught me to can. I’ve always been intimidated by canning, but it is so not difficult! It is, however, time consuming. Regardless, it’s totally worth it. I managed to get two batches in during the week and turned out 13 quart jars. I am looking forward to doing more this weekend! Would you be interested in a how to post?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hyTVk2gLh5o/Xxq9BXpY_QI/AAAAAAAACuk/cbbGne6txSAgCP9L7tPxdrh9SZCNUjW5gCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/E2ED9117-8960-4CB5-BE6A-C5E816C395D4.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">While spending time in the garden on Monday, I heard a little meow. I looked over and Cricket had brought her kitten over. She always comes with me, but this time she hauled her baby out there too. It was the sweetest. The cutest part was I captured on video her toting her back. I thought, mom life happens to all moms, even cats! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUY02l-ci0Y/Xxq-ipd7uQI/AAAAAAAACuw/brfEzbumd2Mz79aSKqpoRjsLaYwnAlspwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/8C4FA077-E8E6-423E-B8BA-BA2BC83D1E26.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1409" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3aVtRAQ5Wo/XxrG9blEy7I/AAAAAAAACvY/lLU4XkZlOcsa6o1WXI0Ow6BGSxv-7DLIwCLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h640/0CCDC75F-0FDF-40EC-8AB2-576DFC1CA1DA.jpeg" width="512" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">By the way, we did finally name her. My Little Farmers were arguing over names on our way to the store one day this week. We finally decided that it was my Littlest Farmer’s choice since the other two had named a pet already. They were tossing around Bootsie, Socks, Mittens, Mixie, Dixie, etc. I thought for sure he was going to choose Bootsie. Finally, when I asked him one last time what we would call her, he said Chicken Nugget. I said, that’s perfect. He’s been obsessed with chicken nuggets all summer. So, welcome to the family Nugget! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We had these cinnamon rolls last week on vacation for the first time. I made sure to pick some up on my last grocery run. They are scrumptious. A nice change from the classic, and I love the buttercream icing. I may have eaten four in one sitting. They are the new breakfast favorite in our house for sure right now. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_oMfydvMPrk/Xxq_tZQbB3I/AAAAAAAACu8/rARqUCgEMpQJpm3zNDgzn5u_ulsYHyLEwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/0B92970C-A0C6-43F7-A57D-41982CDABA1D.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And lastly, I’m still learning new things about photo editing. Apparently, there is this feature called a preset. You apply them to your pictures and it automatically adjusts them to look a certain way. Take a look at this photo below. I used the Adobe Lightroom App and FLTR app to find the preset. If you’re interested in learning more, let me know. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KVfy-V3Mfx8/XxrAKKBCOkI/AAAAAAAACvM/2BMNmX3Tqe0lEREtLTCDxvg3_346HFCuQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/5927A473-741C-480F-AF60-E0F45CC35C7A.jpeg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">By the way, I picked up the shirt I have on from <a href="https://redletterclo.com/r?id=ed6968" target="_blank">Red Letter Clothing</a>. Use the link for a 10% discount. I love the buttery yellow color and the shirt fits to size. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Hope you have wonderful weekends! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-56986484788945232072020-07-20T05:30:00.037-04:002020-07-20T05:30:01.942-04:00vacation at pine knoll shores, nc<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="512" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zIP7C9IUPmw/XxUU8YJixqI/AAAAAAAACrs/nCO-Xzlsmfg5LE9eSuGhYCuiRnHwKcMKwCLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h512/F3CAE12B-760A-4B65-A28E-1D51803B37EC.png" width="512" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well Friends, I’m dropping in today to share some highlights from our family vacation. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We spent the past week basking in the sun and playing in the ocean at Pine Knoll Shores, NC, and it was absolutely perfect. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We waited last minute to reserve a property due to the uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, but ultimately opted to quarantine shore side for a change of scenery. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We stumbled upon a town home in Pine Knoll Shores via VRBO. We worked with the realty company that held the property to secure our reservation, and I can’t say how wonderful enough they were to work with. If you’re ever heading in that direction, touch base with the folks at Realty World - First Coast Realty. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span></span>As part of the Crystal Coast, the waters at Pine Knoll Shores were a beautiful emerald green and the clearest we’ve ever seen the Atlantic Ocean. The beach was clean and had plenty of space for all beach goers, most of which were families.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>We typically gravitate towards home rentals, but due to lack of options, we went with a town home. Upon arrival, we were more than pleased. It was much like a home and incredibly spacious even though it only “slept 6.” Everything was modern and beautifully decorated. The beds were oh so comfy and I will be adding a toaster oven to my wish list. The views were incredible and access to the beach was a breeze. We never felt uneasy or worried about the safety of our children. It was truly ideal. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span></span>My Little Farmers really had the best time. They boogie boarded, jumped waves, dug holes in the sand, fished in the surf, and found buckets of beautiful seashells. My Farmer and I stayed up too late, slept in, napped, and relaxed. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We did not dine out any due to COVID-19, but there looked to be many wonderful places to eat. The area also boasts an aquarium, and I know we would have loved to visit if it hadn’t been temporarily closed. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">All in all, we’ve decided this is our favorite North Carolina beach. There’s no question as to whether or not we will be returning. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Below are a few photos from our vacay. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PlFfAUMBdnM/XxShX8IsHlI/AAAAAAAACqA/4tMWxOKoDR8q5uziSqgkO9Vd9El-8-ZBgCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/1BDD512F-AF0B-4E00-B870-6C5A9A318CA1.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even Little Farmers need to haul cattle and grade sand while on vacation. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gkt4D6Vr0e8/XxShhdN186I/AAAAAAAACqQ/AdhU_FEEOBIhVmo_f_GTPhLi9HW6BsSlgCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/8E5976B9-91BB-4F51-A026-590A14E16105.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">View from the upper level deck. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r_z94qV3qlg/XxShg4MHZLI/AAAAAAAACqM/oRdaUm_J-igyRCkGTNn-vQC6e9LLEvlLQCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/8FA757CF-4345-4481-866C-CE9EAAF22D75.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Rainbow! </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vy7658ZwEcw/XxShXBzlnbI/AAAAAAAACp0/6j_LCAqsJ7EkEYZz1SRQtIl4eOJGNLwSwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/20A7FD23-6AB4-4BE9-A83C-51959D7643AC.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sunset. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3tD_08HkCsI/XxShXzU60wI/AAAAAAAACp8/lD936x_eM6MwQb6QfWXIueeP1IEjgzoNACLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/027F1BD9-D86B-4541-B7DE-883E92FF15ED.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Beach fun. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-96x1hnZ62-E/XxShh90SspI/AAAAAAAACqU/7E1gJjnRRQIOKmZq6RQ4LDvyWiWP9RXnQCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/B0A2D839-5ACA-4550-B2CB-362B21A6CD3F.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">First day on the beach, my farm flops tan lines. By the end of the week, they were burnt. Oops. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vhUfICVjDtE/XxShiznTufI/AAAAAAAACqY/enwOyZjOTXU9l3y-SzjmmEOWPlqv4wEhQCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/BB42C826-F085-4441-9378-FD571FF328D0.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Relaxation. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cA65sicOnZU/XxShi6TCxII/AAAAAAAACqc/lPKhF7Tv7Jw0kFVRRuHSfPFBGnFteQI3wCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/E94D5079-0B48-407A-9A07-49415271D458.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Storm blowing in. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3KBCKxNbzVM/XxSo-QnTVsI/AAAAAAAACrE/jyuycBgH6TwJdhpdry_EslmL0jXuQ3F0ACLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/81B983A5-D773-4C42-8574-7B546A94407D.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sporting the <a href="https://amzn.to/2ZYW5bE">best hat</a> and <a href="https://amzn.to/38IuVtC">sunglasses</a> EVER.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div>We are just so thankful to have been able to get away for the week and enjoy all of God’s ocean goodness. </div><div><br /></div><div>Are you and your family vacating this year? If so, to where? Do you have a favorite beach?</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-88647322070469292762020-07-17T05:30:00.002-04:002020-07-17T06:43:03.806-04:00friday favorites: creativity and social media progress<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4AZX8j07xN8/XxEbdo7VrQI/AAAAAAAACos/xGdKeo4iYQo77pUYMGl6VHvpaFvz-KtTwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/03A4C6F5-F3CD-4F8F-9DED-24E97E456628.png" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Hey, hey sweet friends!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Friday has arrived and I’m linking up with <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" target="_blank">Erika</a> to share a few of my favorites from the week. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was introduced to the <a href="https://www.canva.com/join/alpaca-beauty-clothe" target="_blank">Canva app</a> and I am loving it. The graphics are so much more fun than my random photos or default backgrounds. I’ve created a couple of my own graphics for some verses that I have loved this week.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3SPnCyQrIv0/XxETYRXritI/AAAAAAAACn4/UcQ6pKRzL7UZ-1SLenxrlTTK57UETfu0wCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/CF9A0252-3D52-4C74-9722-844FE3A5C12B.png" width="640" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NQh-xIhKc3o/XxETZHrzRPI/AAAAAAAACoA/QDjR59lfSW0IlPKhYbAdn6gpR729X9NNACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/D34F63B4-091D-46E1-839B-576A1D3C5FDD.png" width="640" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ADXdziJtxQ/XxETY466fBI/AAAAAAAACn8/mm1-oI11LjQ-lHF5oaI4a8tR6p3RDTENgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/F90BA39E-7E39-4855-9223-27445983F7C7.png" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What do you think? Are they better than what I usually share? And just how do you like my Friday Favorites graphic?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I finally finished the fifth book of Karen Kingsbury’s the Redemption series. I cried through a lot of this one, but it was worth the tears. I think I’m going to have to keep following along with the Baxter family in her sequel series. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1567" data-original-width="1041" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-de9x-fqfggY/XxEU9XTaZoI/AAAAAAAACoU/ytlBA-iupzoSfgT33H9apCnhWfl8ORxswCLcBGAsYHQ/w426-h640/E83D0C82-B909-4FCD-AE31-223738FEF38F.jpeg" width="426" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I received an email this week informing me that I had put 400 miles on my running shoes and that it was time to consider purchasing a new pair. Apparently, running shoes are good for 300-500 miles. It was this time last year that I purchased them. So that means that I logged 400 miles in the past year - that works out to be more than one mile a day on average! Truly, it is only by the grace of God that I was able to do such a thing. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1545" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S-rjsVsLGLI/XxEWQ6IGKVI/AAAAAAAACog/y6SPn4fevCcEZugdFB5dAWtffheOfnlyQCLcBGAsYHQ/w466-h640/D673DB8D-6534-4A89-82A3-B524BEDBD8C1.jpeg" width="466" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lastly, I have really grown a lot the last couple of weeks on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. I have learned tons about posting quality photos, hashtags, follow trains, and more. I’ve met some really wonderful people that I share so many things in common with. That being said, I am really trying to post more and share more of what’s happening throughout the week on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">IG</a>. I recap those wonderful things here on Fridays, but it’s just a snippet of our chaos. If you’re not already following me, I’d love for you too. I even posted my first video this past week with an audio guided tour of our small garden. Check it out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/s/aGlnaGxpZ2h0OjE3ODU4NTAyODMzMDU3OTQ4?igshid=5scp9h10x327" target="_blank">here</a>. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, I think that about wraps it up. Happy Friday to each of you!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-64498900738081833872020-07-10T05:30:00.034-04:002020-07-10T05:30:03.972-04:00friday favorites: bursting at the seams<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday, Sweet Friends!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm linking up with <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" target="_blank">Erika</a> to share a few favorites from the week. Sometimes I feel like I have nothing to share, and other times I wonder how I'm going to get it all in one post. This week just so happens to be one in which I am bursting at the seams to share all the good things from the past several days. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">First - I picked a ton of beans Thursday morning. We also dug up a few potatoes and I fixed them both for dinner. It was our first meal from this year's garden, and it was delicious. I cannot wait for the corn to be ready to pick.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgaKskDpEoc/XwfmnbrP53I/AAAAAAAACk0/vWNXndC6LIcd8aKrdiUGVDk-eG5myCwnwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/B7F10E87-3389-44A4-9A78-47980BE99068.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6oPLHC6v4VM/XwfnOKG_6bI/AAAAAAAACk8/xLSZcVsUAkY1nijb0X8cPG_55fijeUa1wCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/FC72D6AB-1630-4A7E-B565-D828E85324CF.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>We noticed on Sunday morning that Cricket and her kitten had disappeared. We deduced that she must've been frightened by the fireworks that we'd set off the night before. Off and on throughout the day, we called for her and searched places we thought she might hide, all to no avail. Finally, Sunday evening she appeared, but no kitten in tow. It took her a couple of days to feel safe again, but on Tuesday evening when we arrived home, she brought her back to us. It really is the cutest little thing. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVbgJ7FSR-w/Xwfnwvs_2HI/AAAAAAAAClI/0ubEdERRi-0BSOoznESy45uT0EykOeWrwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/AF4B6A16-87F3-4744-97A9-14840251DCE7.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Last year I planted a butterfly bush when I redid our landscaping. I've come to enjoy watching the butterflies flutter about while I'm working from my kitchen table. I managed to capture a photo this week. So pretty.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDL0LxFxeNY/XwfoMTpDReI/AAAAAAAAClQ/nf3QtxJqnY8mvUamZnSuObzfyof0YXfcgCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/A5CFA8FC-EAB6-4987-B34B-A14B9A5584C7.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I never paint my fingernails. I sometimes will paint my toes, but most times feel like it's more upkeep than it's worth. However, for the 4th of July weekend, I had a hankering to paint my toes red. Not sure where the desire originated, but it just sounded festive. I loved the color, but my favorite part about the whole endeavor was that after I was finished, I looked down at my feet and was instantaneously reminded of my grandmother. She always, always had red polish on her toes, and she never left the house without putting on a swipe of red lipstick. I hadn't thought about that in years. I even remember painting her toes for her once when she wasn't able to. I think I'll keep the red for awhile. Such sweet memories. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pWFHbDudrLQ/XwfohTpiqfI/AAAAAAAAClY/VD_Mzytmj4giLW-fEW0U1u8yH9oQPU8LQCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/B043B729-B68A-418F-B249-9F2F14E660A1.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So, my Littlest Farmer gets car sick very easily. It seems to have worsened now that we're rarely going in the car anywhere. Lately we've been visiting my mom for a couple of days each week, and the drive is over an hour and very curvy. He has gotten sick every single time, and more than once each time. I checked with his doctor on what we could do for him, and he suggested <a href="https://amzn.to/320wIsC" target="_blank">children's Dramamine</a>. My Littlest Farmer took the medicine this week when we traveled and never even got nauseous! What I loved was that it didn't knock him out either. If you've got a little one that gets motion sick super easy, this stuff is life changing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="233" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L3DB6CGVKwM/XwfkgpIR8CI/AAAAAAAACko/FOyRT9d2fsk7h2G9wR5TlpEPfX9EWDDVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/dramamine.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've been doing a little amazon shopping over the last few weeks. I am completely in love with this <a href="https://amzn.to/2ZYW5bE" target="_blank">straw hat</a> and <a href="https://amzn.to/38IuVtC" target="_blank">these sunglasses</a>. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jLkc9jrIR6g/Xwfo04UBmwI/AAAAAAAAClg/U--OlG60LFgjatdKixNzS-Od-WkxAM2WwCLcBGAsYHQ/w480-h640/7844DE83-E801-4F16-839B-3EDEF56AFFB5.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I picked up this <a href="https://amzn.to/326fKsX" target="_blank">Lands' End Tankini Top</a> in navy and the <a href="https://amzn.to/3ehdNfC" target="_blank">high waisted bikini bottoms</a> in gold. I love the color combo. Both of these are on sale too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="310" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_dFUEw3owpU/Xwfh0hoJ_GI/AAAAAAAACj0/8Z4SEpGmeIo3pq8E5Pz1xOnecfLWPGhKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/tankini.jpg" /> <img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="884" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aM46IMVWxzo/Xwfh3jvcfVI/AAAAAAAACj4/9s833nKcWV4Q7S09X2xQKK4SjfRrkPMVgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/bottoms.jpg" width="320" /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My Farmer was in need of swim trunks, and I caught <a href="https://amzn.to/3iNtSxm" target="_blank">these</a> on sale. He gave them two thumbs up!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1264" data-original-width="569" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MZhiowZ1hpA/XwfjCYxhcoI/AAAAAAAACkI/dRUjMXWGipgJ-Sr4o6XZdA8S7PYWh5B_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/swim%2Btrunks.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Does anyone else have a cup thief? I feel like ours disappear left and right. I gave <a href="https://amzn.to/3fbde8u" target="_blank">these</a> a try and we love them. They're the perfect size, the colors are pretty, and they're easy to grip. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="482" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2awh0jDUlxI/XwfjMNzl7TI/AAAAAAAACkM/xFW1mfIFiecrNgaOb8VSvS5J0t74nDA9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cups.jpg" width="320" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I picked up a <a href="https://amzn.to/321d1Rv" target="_blank">set of thank you cards</a> after Dad's passing. I wanted something classy and pretty to send, and these were perfect. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M28YdSFZ5-A/XwfpHDNLBJI/AAAAAAAAClo/-AE2288WKEYr2vviTy1sxbdOY5EgY9qTwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h480/DF252EF4-1737-4A71-B817-EC954C4318C1.jpeg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Big gardens need longer hoses. It's been so hot and dry here lately, I'm thankful we have this <a href="https://amzn.to/2ZYMQIw" target="_blank">100 ft long hose</a>. I picked it up in preparation for having to water our tomato plants, and it has sure come in handy this week. It's one of those snake like hoses. It just moves and wiggles on it's own. It's kind of creepy, but it goes the distance!<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="973" data-original-width="932" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AMDDUT5vzFo/XwfjWkRw9tI/AAAAAAAACkU/7V0sxN_vDW8HVYKvEG2zeVum05HO32q7wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/hose.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In case you missed it, I shared a little bit about how we came to be the hosts of our<a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/07/reunion-recap-glimpse-of-homestead.html" target="_blank"> annual family reunion</a> and what all went into preparing for the event. It includes a glimpse of our homestead as well.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eRFWIYgRxI/XwfkHQN56BI/AAAAAAAACkg/vGhCT6oiIScOIkBbGBQGn5eCixM9ubATACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h480/IMG_0929.JPG" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, that about sums up the week. God has been so good. I have several verses I want to share with you soon, but I’ll keep it to just one from this week that touched my heart. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iaRDr724pks/XwfsRlzfc6I/AAAAAAAACl0/8MNfiui6K50xVntSxHy2SVU7WtbXq7kHQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/211CE34A-C8B6-4C9F-9246-84867B5B5841.png" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I would love to hear some favorites from your week! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, and I’m trying to do a better job of sharing photos throughout the week on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. If you are not following, I’d love for you to. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a> just sort of picks and chooses who sees what - it’s strange. Also, if you haven’t subscribed by email, you can do so <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">here</a>. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Weekend! And thank you so much for stopping by! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-47591079690859016512020-07-06T05:30:00.046-04:002020-07-06T05:30:04.917-04:00reunion recap + a glimpse of the homestead<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Hey hey, Sweet Friends! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Even though I don’t usually stop in on Monday’s to share our weekend highlights, I do believe this past one is worth making an exception. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A little background first. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our family holds its annual reunion every year on the 4th of July weekend. It has always been kind of a big event. Lots of people, great food, games, fireworks and just loads of fun for everyone. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At the end of the 2018 reunion, my Farmer raised his hand when someone asked for a volunteer to host the following year’s festivities. I wasn’t near him at the time and didn’t immediately register what he’d done, but once I did, I was like “oh boy, what did he just get us into?”</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So in the Spring of 2019, my Farmer built an equipment shed onto our existing barn, as well as what we later named, the Conference Room. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The shed is beautifully built and houses various pieces of hay equipment 363 days a year. However, one weekend of the year, all the equipment is pulled out and tables and chairs are set up in their place. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GrxUTSTMlac/XwKbzQobhzI/AAAAAAAACaM/rV76xxrgXukShFfV4IYZqtQ-KRDHJFE-wCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0916.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>The Conference Room is really a man cave. It was added on to the barn and boasts a sink, air conditioner, small heater, refrigerator, and comfy seating. It’s a place of refuge during the hot summer months as well as cold winter days. It’s also the central hub for serving lots of people for a reunion. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Xm0MyWYjSE/XwKcTs2GIAI/AAAAAAAACa4/2j7exnAv6m0TPFwo9s9ro09dqsscl081QCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0924.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyDZRDrexMA/XwKb9u3YzUI/AAAAAAAACaY/Ss8GvLtQjscEun4rhr5lVxNEfRNslesDACK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0778.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I can’t not mention the other masterpiece that was built in tandem with the shed and conference room - the outhouse. This provides an onsite facility for my farmers while they’re working, and coincidentally, for reunion guests. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qCiFmySvotA/XwKcJk9LLGI/AAAAAAAACao/pVKPgeCRzp0Vt_8Yo0z1TDBJWGNqrRSyQCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0914.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vS9Qq7Es8x0/XwKeUNHOF7I/AAAAAAAACe4/ohVtbmgCtvslON8j_vZvhz5-EvmXGI6GACK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0915.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">While he was raising buildings, I redid our entire landscaping. I gutted most everything. I left a couple of knockout roses and azaleas, I planted day lilies along the front and side of our home, and added a touch of color with perfectly spaced red and white vincas. Instead of mulch, I put down river rock. I also tore out a piece of our sidewalk to make more room for flowers. I picked up some pots from Lowe’s for the leftover vincas and strategically placed them around the farm. It was a ton of work, but it turned out beautifully. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oRP0_QZiEpM/XwKctnFoAyI/AAAAAAAACbo/aC4E-yqR8UICzQsQXoa8EdOMvXh-qnQcACK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0910.jpg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2A3fkriWNZI/XwKcuma2WCI/AAAAAAAACbs/cJuOCaKeCbMGTVTv2aqvqaHTt11TWvYwwCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0911.jpg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qWg9Rnv6IcU/XwKcuzPaAdI/AAAAAAAACbw/AQLvRYwmYDwhv8xLRXn10pnneZpQZtVsQCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0912.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That being said, preparation for the 2019 reunion was intense, but the hard work and effort were totally worth it. We had 100+ people and all had the BEST time. I don’t believe anyone asked for volunteers for the next year because it was decided without question. Not to mention, it motivated us to do the things we’ve been procrastinating and afforded us the ability to enjoy those benefits ever since. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now, back to this weekend. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For the second year in a row, we were honored to host our family’s reunion, and it was once again, perfect. Family rolled in with food, drinks, games, and more. In the interest of minimizing the spread of germs, the tables were dawned with hand sanitizer. There was a hay ride and even an inflatable water slide! We played a couple of volleyball games, and the kids doused one another with water balloons. I had far too many cookies, and held my Littlest Farmer tight when the fireworks scared him. It was really a wonderful time. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And by the way, the preparations this year were not nearly as intense. Just a little clean up and a whole lot of weed eating. I did have to replant the vincas because they aren’t perennials, but everything else returned bigger and more beautiful. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are some photos from this year's event. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y8k4sMpKcIU/XwKbcjWHk6I/AAAAAAAACZ4/dQzZ2WuAl2Ysu86rlCpjbUwxgOpKk1PdwCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0866.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sh0D0lanjvA/XwKdCi_9F6I/AAAAAAAACcU/lupTFdJ2X38CyEus7anqOOfwZNCombN1ACK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0863.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ocV_kuoJsL8/XwKdPvLf0xI/AAAAAAAACco/ce081banim8vjG48WByomlwsVzIsSKFDwCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0870.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cwBEPAgUwzA/XwKd3I9o3LI/AAAAAAAACd4/5dP4B1GDZl4dNIxTcVrRtvF7UNcRy5vogCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0867.jpg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VlXahzKHp8/XwKd3f7K2UI/AAAAAAAACd8/F57Oi6cd3XQoRBSGlwz-kOHAO0gtRjcRwCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0878.jpg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zq7lMauAUYw/XwKd308Py7I/AAAAAAAACeA/gtaDUhkc2BMgvc2P1HiB4f4rCtI8XkPSgCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0894.jpg" width="640" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzWAZGaFqfE/XwKd5D0h5cI/AAAAAAAACeI/yucusRBV3mgECcID2ThRL0ZDSd-cb6UTACK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0928.JPG" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-winMFb4lfTc/XwKd5zFEihI/AAAAAAAACeM/i-nblazbTd0f4VLi0CPeAIOUTuE1Sl4KQCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0929.JPG" width="640" /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-winMFb4lfTc/XwKd5zFEihI/AAAAAAAACeM/i-nblazbTd0f4VLi0CPeAIOUTuE1Sl4KQCK4BGAsYHg/s960/IMG_0929.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div></div><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_SsNoNV53I/XwKd4O-FDCI/AAAAAAAACeE/N3goCTZOYVgs8u5Th6XHm_7LDJKHfoWKgCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0901.jpg" width="480" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next year! <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-66365553260779357802020-07-03T05:30:00.002-04:002020-07-03T05:30:08.679-04:00friday favorites: welcome to july<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Welcome to July, Friends!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Is anyone else struggling to accept the fact that we are more than half way through 2020? I mean, it occurred to me that I've worked from home more this year than I've been in the office. That seems so surreal. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Funny story - I took my Middle Little Farmer for his annual check up yesterday, and it had been so long since he'd been to town that he honestly couldn't remember where the doctor's office was or recognize the route we take to get there. Crazy. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyways, Friday has arrived and I'm linking up with <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" target="_blank">Erika </a>to share a few favorites from the week. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Found <a href="https://amzn.to/3iusFuK" target="_blank">these rubber boots</a> on Amazon, and my Littlest Farmer loves them. I'm hoping the eyes can help him recognize when he has them on the wrong feet. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gcUQSCZqKsI/Xv6nVoRoiUI/AAAAAAAACXU/nKiCZPDkftszbnqgbSiApIQp0FkHjySLgCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0831.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>Spent a couple of days at my mom's again. The boys love the change in scenery, and I feel like I have a little less to juggle since there is an extra set of hands and eyes. Not to mention, she does all the cooking! She spoils us for sure. I did manage to get in another farm run, and it is seriously the best view ever.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iT2_9Y-ODXU/Xv6n39zyrZI/AAAAAAAACXo/NkKdl3lm_QIBQNes8gO0f2OuWzm1MFtQACK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0817.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Introduced the boys to a childhood classic - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VHPPDZ" target="_blank">The Big Green</a> - and they absolutely loved it. It'd been so long since we'd seen it, my mom and I even laughed through the whole thing. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="The Big Green" class="s-image" data-image-index="1" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="320" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/A185m8yixVL._AC_UY218_.jpg" width="241" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our new dryer finally arrived. I've been using sunshine and a clothes line for the last three weeks to dry our clothes. I really didn't mind for most things and may even still use it for some things, but I am very ready to have soft, fluffy towels again. By the way, I'm pretty sure the delivery folks were a little taken aback by the level of enthusiasm I displayed upon their arrival.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaUpayN8ys4/Xv6sT79-EgI/AAAAAAAACYk/JlkjeJjFO7Mg07gW4Gbutee7afs_ARrnwCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0830.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In case you missed it, we played a little game of <a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/06/twenty-questions-all-about-blogger.html" target="_blank">twenty questions</a> earlier this week. It's still not to late to join in on the fun and link up with us. Posts like these are a breeze to write and even more fun to read. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtK4ko-XAmI/Xv6qxyIcEcI/AAAAAAAACYI/kms21tSTcXgI5yNgUNFM154xG5ymGlo7gCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0786.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What's on deck for your 4th of July weekend? Ours will be fairly hectic as we prep for and host our annual family reunion. We're excited though - it should be a great time. Make sure to follow along on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Independence Day to you and yours!<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-4025320146385900252020-06-30T05:00:00.003-04:002020-06-30T06:04:01.203-04:00twenty questions: all about the blogger<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Happy last day of June, Sweet Friends! <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Can you believe July is already here? I'm struggling a little to grasp that concept. We've been in quarantine since March, and as of right now, it looks as though I'll continue working remotely through the month of July. Even though things are starting to open back up in Kentucky, our daycare is still only open to essential employees. Surprise, finance is not deemed essential, and honestly, I'm okay with that. I am also incredibly thankful to work for a company that is willing to accommodate its employees and their families during times like these.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I digress... moving on. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now, let's get to know one another better. I realized it had been ages since I'd done an about me post, and since those kinds of posts are some of my favorite kinds to read, I decided to throw a little party. I hope you'll join us. Grab the image and add your link below. Not a blogger? Share your answers in the comments. The more the merrier!<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="1575" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXRaLDwgUNU/XvlMbifABaI/AAAAAAAACVc/LT_4SC_fGFwo0s8xnE_IcoH4jzyeJQqOQCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/E8AD5659-B31E-4348-80AA-3A8C0DE4473A.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><b><span><a name='more'></a></span>1 - Introvert or extrovert? </b><br /></div><div>I am naturally an introvert. I have to will myself to make introductions first or strike up conversations with folks I do not know well. Thanks to church, I've improved over time. Making a point to welcome visitors or encourage others even though I feel insecure has helped me become more confident in coming out of my shell. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>2 - Favorite movie?</b></div><div>I truly have so many. I mean, who came up with these questions? Can you really only choose one? Tombstone. Shooter. Shawshank Redemption. A League of Their Own. Sixteen Candles. Twilight. The Hunger Games. Pitch Perfect(s). Two Weeks Notice. Sweet Home Alabama. Never Been Kissed. Okay, so I should have said movie(s).<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>3 - Arrive early or late?</b></div><div>There was a time in my life that I was early or at least punctual. Then, three Little Farmers later and I'm happy to show up within 15 minutes - give or take - of when I'm supposed to. It's truly a toss up on whether leaving the house is a three-ring circus or a perfectly choreographed routine. We'd make a great reality TV show.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>4 - Last book you read? </b><br /></div><div>The last book I finished was The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes. Excellent book. I highly recommend it. I am currently reading Reunion by Karen Kingsbury and listening to Suprise Me by Sophie Kinsella.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>5 - Favorite holiday?</b></div><div>Again, who came up with these questions? I can't just pick one - there are things that I love and don't love about each holiday. If I must choose, however, I will go with the 4th of July. My Farmer's family holds their annual reunion on the weekend of the 4th every year. This year will be our second year to host the celebration, and I have come to love it. Great food, wonderful family, heritage, fireworks, American Flags, and nothing but pure joy on everyone's faces. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>6 - Pet peeve?</b></div><div>Loud sounds. Dirty laundry lying beside the basket. Socks turned inside out. Failure to pick up after yourself. Finding nail clippings in random places. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>7 - Food you refuse to eat? </b><br /></div><div>Melons of any kind and Sushi. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>8 - Favorite fast food chain? </b><br /></div><div>Chik-fil-A. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>9 - How do you keep fit?</b></div><div>I started running in August of 2018. I'm not keeping up with it as consistently as I'd like during this quarantine, but I'm still logging a few miles each week. I recently shared how I became a runner<a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/05/how-i-became-runner.html" target="_blank"> here</a>. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>10 - Morning person or night owl?</b></div><div>Definitely a morning person. I may be able to put in a late night with the aid of caffeine, but I will pay for it in the morning. I'm not wired to sleep in, and without enough sleep, my ability to function decreases drastically.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>11 - Favorite drink? </b><br /></div><div>Diet Mountain Dew.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>12 - Irrational fear? </b><br /></div><div>Stink bugs. They are completely harmless. Yet, anytime I come across one, my Oldest Little Farmer comes to the rescue. Their little bodies of armor are creepy. The way they buzz above and around you and then slam into you as though they have no sense of direction is disturbing. Plus, they stink. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>13 - Go-to snack? </b><br /></div><div>I have recently become a huge fan of Snickers' Peanut Butter candy. They bring me so much comfort and joy when I'm stressed and bored. It's probably a good thing that I can't always find them.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>14 - Strongest sense? </b><br /></div><div>Smell. No joke - if the person in the vehicle in front of me is smoking, I can smell it. I promptly turn the air off in my car and roll up the windows to avoid smelling the smoke. Did someone miss the toilet? They claim they can't smell it, but I sure can. Even after I've scrubbed. #BoyMom</div><div><br /></div><div><b>15 - Fictional place you’d like to visit? </b><br /></div><div>Stars Hollow. Lorelai and Rory Gilmore are holding a room for me at the Dragonfly Inn.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>16 - Kindle or actual book?</b></div><div>In a different world, an actual book. In my world, the Kindle. The Kindle allows me to read at impromptu moments of convenience, while lying in bed, and with one hand. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>17 - Last movie you went to see? </b><br /></div><div>Frozen II. I loved it. We honestly don't get to the movie theater that often, but the boys really wanted to see this one and so did I!<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>18 - Favorite season? </b><br /></div><div>Fall, and even to some extent, Winter. As much as I love the long days, flowers, warmth, and life of Spring and Summer, they also usher in a lot of work. With the onset of Fall, those things tend to settle for a bit. Plus, I also prefer running in the Fall. I can just run and run in those cooler temps.</div><div> <br /></div><div><b>19 - Beach or mountains? </b><br /></div><div>For a vacation, give me sunshine, sand, and waves any day of the year. To reside, I'll take snow capped mountains.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>20 - Favorite cereal? </b><br /></div><div>Cheerios with a dash of sugar. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">By the way, if you're not already following on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">IG</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, you'd make my day if you would. And if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe by email <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">here</a>. I promise not to overload your inbox - one to two a week, at most.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Please join us for the link-up! </div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="inlinkz-widget" data-uuid="a67eb519f89545cb8e01e0553f6d5945" style="background-color: #eceff1; border-bottom-left-radius: 7px; border-bottom-right-radius: 7px; border-top-left-radius: 7px; border-top-right-radius: 7px; font-family: "helvetica neue", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 30px 0px; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><div style="padding: 8px;"><a href="https://fresh.inlinkz.com/p/a67eb519f89545cb8e01e0553f6d5945" rel="nofollow" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-color: #209cee; background-image: none; background-position: 0% 0%; border-bottom-left-radius: 4px; border-bottom-right-radius: 4px; border-top-left-radius: 4px; border-top-right-radius: 4px; color: #efefef; padding: 5px 20px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Click here to enter</a></div></div><span style="display: none;"><script async="true" src="https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=9c9b10dbdecdfb9300b0"></script></span><!--end InLinkz code--><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-92112832593424886462020-06-28T08:18:00.001-04:002020-06-28T08:18:41.806-04:00let’s have a party<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">It’s been ages since I’ve done an about me post; and since those kinds of posts are some of my favorite kinds to read, I decided to throw a party. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I created this list of twenty questions to give you some insight into the author of this little space of mine, and I’d love it if you’d join me. Please share so others can join too. It’s tons more fun when there’s a party in getting to know one another just a little bit better. The more the merrier! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Party starts Tuesday, June 30th. Grab the image and join in on the fun.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="1575" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXfFk0Z3t-s/XviGYOEmDQI/AAAAAAAACVA/YEGA2Pzel-8Z6HQdKZ7cUGLrvdC0TnEUACK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/5BAE494E-FF1A-4851-9C66-318189503E1A.jpeg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1 - Introvert or extrovert? </div><div style="text-align: left;">2 - Favorite movie?</div><div style="text-align: left;">3 - Arrive early or late?</div><div style="text-align: left;">4 - Last book you read? </div><div style="text-align: left;">5 - Favorite holiday?</div><div style="text-align: left;">6 - Pet peeve?</div><div style="text-align: left;">7 - Food you refuse to eat? </div><div style="text-align: left;">8 - Favorite fast food chain? </div><div style="text-align: left;">9 - How do you keep fit?</div><div style="text-align: left;">10 - Morning person or night owl?</div><div style="text-align: left;">11 - Favorite drink? </div><div style="text-align: left;">12 - Irrational fear? </div><div style="text-align: left;">13 - Go-to snack? </div><div style="text-align: left;">14 - Strongest sense? </div><div style="text-align: left;">15 - Fictional place you’d like to visit? </div><div style="text-align: left;">16 - Kindle or actual book?</div><div style="text-align: left;">17 - Last movie you went to see? </div><div style="text-align: left;">18 - Favorite season? </div><div style="text-align: left;">19 - Beach or mountains? </div><div style="text-align: left;">20 - Favorite cereal? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a blessed Sunday! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-15077599234600922472020-06-26T05:30:00.021-04:002020-06-26T05:30:02.321-04:00friday favorites: name that kitten<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Hello Sweet Friends!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I am so happy to see Friday arrive. I've neglected this little space of mine lately more than I'd like, but the height of budget season has been upon us and deadlines have run amok. I do see a light at the end of the tunnel though. And I have a growing list of things I want to share when time permits. Until then, let's keep it short and sweet with a few favorites from the week.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I packed up my Little Farmers this week and headed to my parent's for a coupe of days. Having my mother and niece around to help with the kids while I work was such a blessing. My Little Farmers thoroughly enjoyed the change in scenery, and honestly so did I. This was my view while working. Knowing my Dad had sat in this very location while working on his computer brought on all the feels. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z_weaqs46ik/XvVoYdjA7iI/AAAAAAAACRU/txMqpyTw3Dc_2MINoI6VbKDlLsIAcFcFgCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0741.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>I also managed to squeeze in a short run while I was there. Instead of venturing down streets I didn't really know, I chose to tour the farm. It was kind of like a trail run - gravel roads and lots of hills. It was beautiful. And each field I passed brought back memories of all kinds. I did almost step on a tiny green snake, and the cattle in one field decided to run beside me, but otherwise it was perfectly peaceful. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SoIF4hQj3h4/XvVomM7CgVI/AAAAAAAACRg/MJrxVa_eC54GyhimxNSMDeQDLxh3EOrzgCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0745.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was finishing up some reports when I looked and saw the most beautiful sky. I ran outside and snapped this photo. Absolutely gorgeous. God is the ultimate painter.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rCmtA15QP0Y/XvVoy_HxsrI/AAAAAAAACRw/IlYs8J4yld8wNsYY3zqTisywA42hqZnEACK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0746.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our dryer kicked the bucket. We ordered a replacement from Lowe's, but delivery isn't scheduled until the beginning of July. That was end of last week. So, I am trying my hand at pioneer living. We hung some clothes lines in one of our hay sheds and have been letting the sun do the drying. Aside from the towels coming out stiff as cardboard, everything else does great.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hx7ziG2sHQs/XvVpJCF9WRI/AAAAAAAACSI/ovmsGapzRF8d8IiXCywV2QSlu2e0I-H5ACK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0762.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our sweet Cricket had her first litter of kittens. Well, there is one kitten. I'm worried there were more and only one survived, but I have no evidence of any mischief. I've researched and asked around, and it isn't uncommon for first litters to be only one to two kittens. We're taking name suggestions as we speak. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-88Cr2RBnZZs/XvVpX7VtUcI/AAAAAAAACSU/Kadd1uKoN3ELKw3tWM7Ju2Lhe6xKHpHMQCK4BGAsYHg/w480-h640/IMG_0761.jpg" width="480" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I saw this meme sometime during the week, and I literally laughed out loud. I definitely feel this way a lot of the time. How about you?<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="960" height="396" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JWrU_tyflEQ/XvVpm1Ck61I/AAAAAAAACSk/pgIuWzkH8qgIVk5YB8peSzuMz5ULzOD8ACK4BGAsYHg/w400-h396/IMG_0707.JPG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well friends, that about sums up the highlights of my week. I imagine our weekend will be fairly packed. It is the last one before the 4th of July. We're hosting our family's annual reunion for the second year in a row next weekend and it'll be all hands on deck in preparing for the event. I'm still hoping to sneak in enough downtime to finish Reunion by Karen Kingsbury and get caught up on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">By the way, if you're not already following on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">IG</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, you'd make my day if you would. And if you want to make sure you never miss a post, subscribe by email <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">here</a>. I promise not to overload your inbox - one to two a week, at most.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Weekends!<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Linking up with </i><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;"><i>Erika </i></span></a><i>| Friday Favorites</i></div></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-2419946944184827812020-06-19T09:25:00.002-04:002020-06-19T09:29:15.833-04:00friday favorites: call me productive<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday, Sweet Friends! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I am so ready for the weekend. This week has been a little tough on the work front. I secretly love budget prep season, but it can totally drain you. So, this week’s favorites will be ultra short and sweet. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I finished <a href="https://amzn.to/30ZtvJs">The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes</a>. It had a bit of a slow start, but once I climbed that hill, I couldn’t put it down. It takes place in South Eastern Kentucky and tells the story of an English woman who is swept off her feet by a Kentucky mine mogul’s son. She settles down in the States, and she and a handful of other women establish a library service on horseback. The story explores the culture, the obstacles, and victories these wonderful women experience. Five stars for sure. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="The Giver of Stars: A Novel" class="s-image" data-image-index="1" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="400" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91QsEyqrHiL._AC_UY218_.jpg" width="272" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>I’ve spent most of my extra time in the garden this week. I caged up the tomatoes and put a little straw around them and replanted a couple of rows of corn. The early group didn’t come in so well. We also planted a few more hills of watermelon. The first round of beans is starting to vine, and I am hoping to get those climbing up something this weekend. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7WtnXgxdSrY/Xuy6p7EN3iI/AAAAAAAACNE/na-8u32NzXUgS3VIroLEzBAKvay5phfiwCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0685.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My oldest Little Farmer is starting to ask for his own space. He currently shares a bedroom with his two younger brothers. So for the last three weekends, I’ve been tackling our upstairs bedrooms. There are two of them and they have historically been a play room and a guest bedroom. Well, the guest bedroom quickly became a storage room and the play room, with three kids, became a disaster. The main thing was organizing and storing the boys’ clothing. So, I filled and labeled tote after tote of children’s clothing and put them into one of our storage buildings. I also finally let loose of some of our baby furniture, like the crib and high chair. I purged all of the adult clothes - I had sizes ranging from 8 to 14, and I have those ready to give away. And then, between toys missing pieces or broken, I came up with half a dozen bags to dispose of. I am happy to officially deem this project complete. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4iI5tYm01mM/Xuy62nmwYEI/AAAAAAAACNQ/vO8pUXTakesC_eDXNWzly5CdeRkTCBCeQCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0705.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">With gardening and purging being my focus lately, I’ve struggled to get in runs consistently throughout the week. Sunday evening, I found myself without any Little Farmers and decided to take off. I was hoping for five miles, but would have settled for four. I’m not sure where the gumption came from, but I just kept going and logged my first six miles in a good while. It felt awesome. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7MqW9as1Zuc/Xuy7GnnJrFI/AAAAAAAACNg/29xneu27dqcIPkMRWoEzitnB4t4EBPIagCK4BGAsYHg/w400-h400/5AB37FEB-281F-4AC4-A683-9796D5BCFE8E.JPG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">One of my favorite things to do is join my Farmers on a cattle check. We have lots of babies on the ground right now, and I would totally keep one as a pet if I could stunt its growth. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AInUknCwxLQ/Xuy7Ue8viUI/AAAAAAAACN0/jTABCPT3akYr4OZ6-7_jxwmn4hYuHxY_wCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0700.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lastly, I need your help. We usually spend a week on the coast of the Carolinas, but it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen this year. We’re beach people. Our goal is to sit by the water and relax. Where do you go?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Linking up with </i><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;"><i>Erika </i></span></a><i>| Friday Favorites</i></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-69921575213746811622020-06-12T05:30:00.030-04:002020-06-12T06:48:30.465-04:00friday favorites: let it grow, let it grow, let it grow<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Hello Sweet Friends! <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyone else as excited to see Friday as I am? I know the past few weeks have been covered with God's grace and perfect timing, but they have also left me exhausted. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As most of you know, my father passed away a little over three weeks ago. Then last weekend, our family said goodbye to my Farmer's grandfather. In the midst of these trials and in an effort to keep myself distracted during my spare time, I've immersed myself into making the gardens perfect and purging toys and clothes. I think the constant motion has finally caught up with me, and I'm ready for a weekend to relax and decompress. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So, on deck for the weekend is <a href="https://amzn.to/2zoz7l2" target="_blank">The Giver of Stars</a>, a couple of good runs, and a whole lot of porch sitting. But first, let's kick it off with a few favorites from the week. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was hot and dry for several days in a row here in Kentucky. That's the perfect condition for working in the hay. Anyone else love the smell of fresh cut hay??</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl2nMNTuaoc/XuLyQPZKHpI/AAAAAAAACIc/QwrJ7MWrAHAE6kEtH4D0tQft3Nj6mwbKACK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0642.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>My lilies are in full bloom. I find them so vibrant and encouraging. I love taking a quick walk in the mornings to see how they and everything else is growing. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_IQBv3i2CTk/XuLy-2s9PmI/AAAAAAAACIw/x7N12FuYnbg8nIcf9UIvwBAgQGtp2yW9ACK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0657.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The garden is really coming along. Potatoes are starting to bloom, beans are beginning to vine, and a few small peppers have appeared. Let it grow, let it grow, let it grow!<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X_tySvEEUZE/XuLzxRCvjDI/AAAAAAAACJQ/jDTHAjNC3lsSKreucVyXCPWb8DMcsPk-QCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/IMG_0656.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I finished the <a href="https://amzn.to/3fbu46E" target="_blank">The Heist</a>. I was looking for something light and easy to listen to while I do chores around the house and during my runs. This was perfect for both. I will definitely listen to the second in the series. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3fbu46E" target="_blank"><img alt="The Heist (Fox and O'Hare Series, Book 1)" class="s-image" height="320" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81Qlqm9KNeL._AC_UY218_.jpg" width="195" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I saw this on Facebook and thought it'd be fun to share my answers and hear what yours would be. If I were on a deserted island with one book, it would be <a href="https://amzn.to/30wJwGA" target="_blank">Pretense by Lori Wick</a>. With one kind of food, it would be Italian - pizza and pasta are my favorites. And with one TV series, it would most definitely be Gilmore Girls. How about you?<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JoCZL0enhe0/XuL0YXCCwWI/AAAAAAAACJk/JnbThwBzz5AMk0zWyMM6uzrucpVBcisTwCK4BGAsYHg/w400-h400/IMG_0661.JPG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And in case you missed it, I shared my heart earlier this week on the <a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/06/the-trenches-of-motherhood.html" target="_blank">joys and struggles of motherhood</a>. Stop over and check it out. I'd love to know if you can relate. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Weekend, Friends! <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Linking up with </i><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;"><i>Erika </i></span></a><i>| Friday Favorites</i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-74793027248098985542020-06-09T05:30:00.028-04:002020-06-09T06:15:55.588-04:00the trenches of motherhood<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1575" data-original-width="2100" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5hFjeozme1I/Xt74Ex5jSWI/AAAAAAAACHs/yjnHgDEGB2E4oHM_Kznb8xk2YPu4iARygCK4BGAsYHg/w400-h300/IMG_4921.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have a confession. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Sometimes I feel like I’m navigating the open waters without a compass or crawling inch by inch through the trenches. At times I feel lost, helpless, and defeated. I often ponder on where I’ve gone wrong, what I should have done differently, and whether any damage I’ve caused is irreparable. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Then, with a simple observation of camaraderie between siblings, a brief display of affection, or an expression of compassion or servitude, the moment passes, and feelings of joy, pride, and thankfulness surge. I am reminded that even though I am not perfect, I am not a failure either. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><a name='more'></a>Parenting is HARD. Finding the right groove in which you encourage your child to become the best version of themselves while simultaneously correcting the errors of their ways seems impossible at times. Especially when the actions they exhibit are direct reflections of the parts of you that you’re not particularly proud of. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It’s in the moments of uncertainty that I am learning to lean on God more and more each day. I pray daily for wisdom, patience, and compassion. I pray for guidance in the best ways to keep peace, for sparks of creativity on days when they exclaim “there’s nothing to do,” and for understanding in the moments of frustration - considering that He must endure the same roller coaster ride of ups and downs with me as His child as I do with my own. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;">When I am in the trenches of motherhood, I pause, take a deep breath, and call on God for an extra dose of wisdom and patience. I remind myself that He loves me unconditionally and He is always in control. When I am weary and overwhelmed, I remember He is there. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Despite the parts of the ride that are fearful, worrisome, and overwhelming, the roller coaster of motherhood is undoubtedly the most satisfying of them all.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Not to long ago I completed the <a href="https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/18821" target="_blank">Help Club for Moms Devotional</a>, and I will never forget this statement by Deb Weakly, “raising your children for God is <i>holy work</i>.” What a profound reminder that our every day joys and struggles are our ministry as mothers. Whether on the mountain top of a day spent in harmony or in the valley of a day full of squabbles and ungratefulness, it will be worth it all. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Children are truly a gift from God, and I know that I am blessed beyond all measure. The fact that He has entrusted me with three of them to raise in the nurture and admonition of the Lord is humbling, slightly terrifying, and not at all something to be taken lightly. My prayer is that my children would see more of Jesus in me and as a result, draw closer to Christ.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I pray you are able to draw encouragement from reading this. If you'd like to see more posts like these, let me know; and if you are leaving encouraged, please share so that others may be as well.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-53911656227168562072020-06-05T05:30:00.024-04:002020-06-05T05:30:04.136-04:00verses of encouragement<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Lately, my prayer has been that God would draw me nigh unto Him, continue to increase my faith, and speak to me through His word.<br /><br />He has been answering that prayer, and as this week leaves me with a heavy heart, I'd like to share with you the verses from the last few weeks that I've found particularly meaningful. I hope you'll find some encouragement in them just as I have.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P8TX66FKFdI/Xtm58XeKQBI/AAAAAAAACDA/Jvhnw6_FBbwFuCzt-YCvX_nnnDr9Zd-zACK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image.PNG" width="400" /></div><br /><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r6WqxjfEE9k/Xtm6RdOdGII/AAAAAAAACDg/ZUBAaIaFqqY2G4rBJvygH2PKrORDx70_ACK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_1.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E7X4H_sFXCE/Xtm6YoS0pWI/AAAAAAAACD0/rN4o2Xqcy-oHDMQw1WcUWB-H2GKus3ABgCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_2.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21m9N_ARUtw/Xtm6gm1lrFI/AAAAAAAACEI/TlG-ZsQAeCIkW3r2hUd6URlo5ZVgb40zQCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_3.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wlsz5Z6G2i4/Xtm6qDSr2yI/AAAAAAAACEo/QuUd9mKWYssw49C0new8mwWnnyoa_M_5wCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_4.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOLU5ujLEOg/Xtm6yIdVx9I/AAAAAAAACE4/vpPsQWO7rRggbNNypzkOmlegDLGYjoyjACK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_5.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A95iHmDvX8I/Xtm64aGXMpI/AAAAAAAACFE/iVW3inf1s4Yp47L_syLAmaYQ-1VXr757wCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_6.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fvNIHdDOAJs/Xtm6_9ZuReI/AAAAAAAACFY/7Au2AY7N6aoW-NLDqxvTc9Z6hJe3HMs6gCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_7.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jkXDXCVDjFg/Xtm7HjpvpoI/AAAAAAAACFs/Ib25X_EGdwYzemyL4nqSff1t6f2CLGufwCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_8.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mX4FdPF_Pjw/Xtm7Od-_qqI/AAAAAAAACF4/-zGQkRm_-hcS-aI5VRPt56g-aOQjZKA8wCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_9.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZLWdXtGx54/Xtm7VokaBSI/AAAAAAAACGI/fXHn68JP02MmWTEcJGzw6l7_qgJ8G-FigCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_10.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iAl9R6gM7Zo/Xtm7b-D2M_I/AAAAAAAACGY/BP5qBxhO9uIRfAMHszPPygqE7KXzpu3ywCK4BGAsYHg/s400/save-image_11.PNG" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />What verses have been speaking to your heart? I'd love to know.<br /><br />Happy Friday! And I hope you each have wonderful weekends! <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Linking up with </i><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;"><i>Erika </i></span></a><i>| Friday Favorites</i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-14104943567975903572020-05-29T05:30:00.000-04:002020-05-29T05:30:00.340-04:00friday favorites: thank you<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="thank you sign wall" height="425" itemprop="url" src="https://cdn.stocksnap.io/img-thumbs/960w/thank%20you-sign_8672E0041A.jpg" width="640" /></div><br />Happy Friday, Sweet Friends! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">First and foremost, I want to thank each and every one of you for keeping my family and I in your thoughts and prayers, for your sweet words of encouragement, and continued support through this difficult time. <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; display: inline !important; font-size: 12pt;">The grief that comes with the loss of a parent is unexplainable. I cannot fathom trying to bear this burden without my Lord. The grace, comfort and peace that only He can provide is priceless and what’s kept me sane through all of this. Knowing my father is in His presence is everything. If you have never made the decision to accept Christ as Saviour, I plead with you to do so today. If you’re not sure what that means or have questions, please reach out to me and I will do my very best to help. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now, onto my favorites from the past week!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a name='more'></a>Dad’s services were on Friday. So on Memorial Day, I made myself resume some sort of normalcy. I woke up early, ran a slow five miles and then made my annual trip to our local greenhouse. Let me tell you just how much fun walking around the greenhouse during a pandemic was with my two youngest Little Farmers. (Enter sarcasm here.) My almost three year old insisted on driving the wagon while my almost six year old kept trying to sit on it to keep him from running over things. Cue the loud voices, bickering and crying that followed. And no, that wasn’t from me. I was trying to pick my plants at lightning speed while making that “mom” face, eschewing germs, and breaking a sweat. An hour and a half after we arrived, we left with beautiful hanging baskets, trays of vincas and tomatoes, sweat on our brows, and tears in our eyes. I have no doubt that the sweet folks who checked us out and loaded the car were sad to see us go.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VljPq2wxkG8/XtBnxgrDsDI/AAAAAAAAB70/NXxI5nfzcDgZdd5pkiwopoweF2QhBSR_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0571.jpg" width="640" /></div> </div><div style="text-align: left;">I spent the remainder of the day planting the rest of our garden. I added four more rows of beans, four more rows of corn, around twenty tomato plants, and a handful of pepper plants. I was sore the following morning. I think I logged almost 30,000 steps that day. But I am so excited to see this grow.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TK2T-Z29_9Y/XtBn0TC6MHI/AAAAAAAAB74/M7CG06VcN9cfy7WI560bqcOZllrqDD0ngCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0575.jpg" width="640" /></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; display: inline !important; font-size: 12pt;"><br /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; display: inline !important; font-size: 12pt;">In my commute back and forth to the hospital, I managed to finish listening to <a href="https://amzn.to/2zJkVTM" target="_blank">Next Year in Havana</a>. I loved this book! If you at all enjoy historical fiction intertwined with sweet love stories, this book is for you. I really enjoyed learning so much about Cuba’s history too. ★★★★</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2zJkVTM" target="_blank"><img alt="Next Year in Havana" class="s-image" data-image-index="1" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/913b0LVA+kL._AC_UY218_.jpg" srcset="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/913b0LVA+kL._AC_UY218_.jpg 1x, https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/913b0LVA+kL._AC_UY327_QL65_.jpg 1.5x, https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/913b0LVA+kL._AC_UY436_QL65_.jpg 2x, https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/913b0LVA+kL._AC_UY545_QL65_.jpg 2.5x, https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/913b0LVA+kL._AC_UY654_QL65_.jpg 3x" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">I received a set of wind chimes in memory of Dad. I have them hanging right outside our door where I can hear them easily as I sit at my makeshift home office. Every time they chime, it reminds me of him. I absolutely love them. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-awN_sxXS0sI/XtBnrTUIPvI/AAAAAAAAB7w/o2Cj1wvBE-4e0yz4Kzhg7YC0PGwbYBBJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0583.jpg" width="480" /></div> </div><div style="text-align: left;">I spent an entire evening this week planting all those red and white Vincas. My Little Farmers stayed busy with the <a href="https://amzn.to/2M6loSz" target="_blank">Benzai Wigglin Water Sprinkler</a>. They loved it. I always wonder about whether some of these kinds of toys are really all that great, but this one was a slam dunk. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2M6loSz" target="_blank"><img alt="Banzai Wiggling Water Sprinkler (12 Foot Wacky Adventure Summer &amp; Spring Sprinkle Spray Splash Toy - Backyard Fun ) (1 Pack) by Banzai" class="a-dynamic-image a-stretch-vertical" data-a-dynamic-image="{"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51EOa354RML._AC_SX466_.jpg":[437,466],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51EOa354RML._AC_.jpg":[456,486],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51EOa354RML._AC_SX355_.jpg":[333,355],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51EOa354RML._AC_SX450_.jpg":[422,450],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51EOa354RML._AC_SX425_.jpg":[399,425]}" data-a-image-name="landingImage" data-old-hires="" height="320" id="landingImage" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51EOa354RML._AC_SX425_.jpg" style="max-height: 417px; max-width: 402.25px;" width="308" /></a></div><br />I have been wanting a screen door for our back porch for as long as I can remember. Well, it finally happened this week. I love being able to leave the door open and not have the cat and the flies come in along with the fresh air. I am contemplating painting it red. I think we need a little more splash of color on the farmhouse.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TjwaZC3rqkU/XtBn1Yts14I/AAAAAAAAB78/YQZQC7VQdyw74mhORuZtmfBXf2xU2KijwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0589.jpg" width="480" /></div><br />And... my day lilies are finally starting to bloom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nj12DX1Lcpk/XtBnmU5mg8I/AAAAAAAAB7s/XwkY_fo8D38kh4_OTIt7udcrA31A2OVpwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0582.jpg" width="480" /></div> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Lastly, I have a question. If you’ve been reading for long, you know this little blog and writing is an outlet for me. It’s not something I can do full time, but when time permits, I thoroughly enjoy it. I've been considering freelance writing. Have any of you ever tried it? If so, tell me all about it!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Hope your weekend is wonderful! </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Linking up with </em><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;"><em>Erika </em></span></a><em>| Friday Favorites</em></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-18772210947644583232020-05-21T17:33:00.000-04:002020-05-21T17:35:01.335-04:00i want to remember<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1175" data-original-width="1600" height="470" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Int5YGHKlLs/XsbK1t2aQUI/AAAAAAAAB7A/1XRT2-Z_NzwK5IfGLqt9T73FK2r2WekWgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0520%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></div><br />Earlier this week, my father went home to be with the Lord. And those who know me well understand that my ability to remember is not one of my strengths. However, expressing my emotions through words is. So, as time passes by and the memories become more difficult to recall, I don't want to forget. I want to remember.<br /><br /><i><span style="font-size: large;">I want to remember...</span></i><br /><br />How proud you were of the Red Angus cattle you raised. <br /><br />That you only drove Chevrolet trucks.<br /><br />The way you loved my Little Farmers unconditionally.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a>How you loved your mother with ferociousness.<br /><br />The way you threw your head back when you laughed.<br /><br />That every vehicle you owned had to be white and have burgundy interior.<br /><br />How you loved to hunt and fish. <br /><br />The first time you took me hunting.<br /><br />How you loved fresh tomatoes from the garden.<br /><br />That you always called me Rose or Rosebud. <br /><br />How you talked so loudly when you started to lose your hearing.<br /><br />The times I rode in the tractor with you to bale hay.<br /><br />That John Deere was your choice of farm equipment.<br /><br />How proud you were the year my 4-H steer won best home bred steer because he was a product of your farming. <br /> <br />The time you taught me to ted hay and squashed my fears of turning the tractor over.<br /><br />How you always sang your own version of Take It Easy by the Eagles.<br /><br />The year I had my first 4-H calf, a dairy beef feeder, and you helped me watch it grow and prepare it for the fair. <br /><br />The time you had me pick up walnuts just for fun.<br /><br />How you had me ride the 4-wheeler through fields to dig up rocks that might damage the mower blades.<br /><br />The way you kept everything in pristine condition, neatly kept and all things in their rightful place.<br /><br />The time you played Pie in the Face with my Oldest Little Farmer only because he wanted you to.<br /><br />That Vinegar Pie was your favorite.<br /><br />How you made me read the Owner's Manual before surprising me with a car after my high school graduation.<br /><br />That your favorite channel was The Weather Channel.<br /><br />The day you walked me down the aisle and gave me away and then cried as I said I do.<br /><br />How you wanted nothing but the best for me.<br /><br />That you loved the sausage cheese dip and peanut butter fudge that I would make around the holidays. <br /><br />How proud you were to be chosen as a stop on the county farm tour.<br /><br />That you always sang to me Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two).<br /><br />The times you brought calves into the garage to nurse them back to health. <br /><br />That you always had suggestions for improvement after my games.<br /><br />Bringing lunch to you in the field during hay season.<br /><br />That your favorite chair was the recliner. <br /><br />How you didn't love unnecessary noise.<br /><br />The unexplainable, unconditional tie that bound you to my mother. <br /><br />That you taught me the value of hard work and discipline.<br /><br />How you wouldn't allow me to have passengers for the first six months after I got my driver's license.<br /><br />The way you treated your cattle as pets and named all of them.<br /><br />Passing you on the road when you were working, hauling gas or equipment.<br /><br />How you always made sure one of us put flowers on Nanny's grave. <br /><br />Riding along side of you in your gas truck. <br /><br />How you taught your children to have dreams, to follow them, and to work hard to make them a reality.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i>How I am so much like you.</i> </span><br /><br />I am proud to call you my father. I know you were not perfect, but you loved and were loved in return. I am proud of all that you accomplished. You may be gone from this earth, but you will never be forgotten. I know my grandparents and my uncle welcomed you with open arms. I know you are enjoying the farm God has for you and the Red Angus cattle you're tending to. I know that you will forever be loved, and that I will always be proud to be called your daughter. <br /><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-18030302399849298502020-05-15T05:30:00.000-04:002020-05-15T05:41:18.787-04:00friday favorites: chock full of goodness<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Hello Sweet Friends!<br /><br />I am usually terrible about taking photos throughout the week and never remember what happens one day to the next, but this week I strayed from the norm and brought my A-game. So grab your coffee or Diet Dew and get comfy, because this Friday Favorites is chock full of favorite things to share. <br /><br />I am the proud new owner of this Huffy Beach Cruiser. I posted on Facebook that I was in search of a gently used mom bike and within hours this beauty became mine. Riding with the boys is so much more comfortable now, and we have tons of fun. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5FME1FK3Xu0/Xr4PRW8e8KI/AAAAAAAAB6M/P1JlAkrPZGY-ix52EijOqOiNaFMwA4N0QCPcBGAYYCw/s640/IMG_0358.jpg" width="480" /></div><br /><a name='more'></a>I spent most of Mother's Day with my mama, just the two of us. We had cream of wheat for breakfast and macaroni and tomato juice for lunch. I drank a regular Pepsi and ate M&Ms without guilt. My mama also introduced me to the <a href="https://amzn.to/2WzdHKE" target="_blank">Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer Hot Air Brush</a>. Well, now I want one. Unfortunately, they are temporarily out of stock on Amazon, but when they return, it will be mine. Do you have one? Do you love it?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2y7lNB2" target="_blank"><img alt="Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer And Volumizer Hot Air Brush, Black" class="a-dynamic-image a-stretch-vertical a-stretch-horizontal" data-a-dynamic-image="{"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SX466_.jpg":[466,466],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SY450_.jpg":[450,450],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SX522_.jpg":[522,522],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SX679_.jpg":[679,679],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SY355_.jpg":[355,355],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SX425_.jpg":[425,425],"https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SX569_.jpg":[569,569]}" data-a-image-name="landingImage" data-old-hires="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" id="landingImage" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pyKU9f1jL._SX569_.jpg" style="max-height: 553px; max-width: 553px;" width="400" /></a> </div><br />Earlier in the week, I talked about <a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/05/how-i-became-runner.html" target="_blank">how I became a runner</a> over the last couple of years. I couldn't run to the barn and back when I embarked on this journey, and now I'm running 10-15 miles each week - for fun. I'd love for you to check out my story <a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/05/how-i-became-runner.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zt6RCoAUQ5A/Xr4PTLXI3VI/AAAAAAAAB6U/_mz_RHLQXOQMkpo0nj0GrlAEpQsvi4iAACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1158" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zt6RCoAUQ5A/Xr4PTLXI3VI/AAAAAAAAB6U/_mz_RHLQXOQMkpo0nj0GrlAEpQsvi4iAACPcBGAYYCw/s640/IMG_0375.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br />There were two verses this week from my daily devotionals that really resonated with me. His way is perfect (Psalms 18:30). This verse is such an awesome reminder that whatever may be happening in life at the moment, He is completely in control and it's occurring just as He designed. I also found comfort in Romans 8:26. I sometimes am unsure of what I should pray for, but in those times, Christ himself intercedes on my behalf. There is so much peace that comes from believing in both of these verses.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DBbeWjBohsc/Xr4PhetBbqI/AAAAAAAAB6g/HWK4kIbNQ6A5yPoQkMHxEPZtcoqVHugUACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/save-image.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DBbeWjBohsc/Xr4PhetBbqI/AAAAAAAAB6g/HWK4kIbNQ6A5yPoQkMHxEPZtcoqVHugUACPcBGAYYCw/s400/save-image.PNG" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5N3RjOBn_7M/Xr4Pgygi3LI/AAAAAAAAB6g/BEwqPDafzLABB2G7BpBnZ6rcSQWQw_YzwCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/save-image_1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5N3RjOBn_7M/Xr4Pgygi3LI/AAAAAAAAB6g/BEwqPDafzLABB2G7BpBnZ6rcSQWQw_YzwCPcBGAYYCw/s400/save-image_1.PNG" width="400" /></a></div><br />I have really grown fond of my makeshift home office. I am currently set up at my kitchen table with an outside view and instant access to caffeine and all things sweet and salty.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfehurL2zTo/Xr4PBJGQi6I/AAAAAAAAB58/fiKPlQUJJVsGNNnrxaK0jy9kBfyH89fTwCPcBGAYYCw/s640/IMG_0311.jpg" width="640" /></div><br />Never have I ever been more aware of the fact that I live with four males then when I pulled the back cover of the recliner off and found this insane stash of empty granola bar wrappers. My oldest Little Farmer confessed to the crime, but nevertheless I was appalled. Please, please someone check your recliners and tell me I'm not the only one!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yhq3N9Q0K3w/Xr4PDZLQZnI/AAAAAAAAB5w/5H_Jm9hi5802lJZeXkdIuTTawAt-ZjGmACPcBGAYYCw/s640/IMG_0326.jpg" width="640" /></div><br />I think my peas and potatoes survived the great May frost. I am finally starting to see real growth in them. The broccoli has decided to make an appearance too. I'm really hoping to get everything else planted this weekend. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VuYN7AhN7Ek/Xr4PgnErABI/AAAAAAAAB6k/C7qqRya-DfAaLlKdHACGLem30OC1SX0TACPcBGAYYCw/s640/IMG_0390.jpg" width="480" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LTK85nj_tV8/Xr4PYGolraI/AAAAAAAAB6c/mgJA1VXjuGMOBvzXvNgIH98rqyTOEEXxACPcBGAYYCw/s640/IMG_0380.jpg" width="480" /></div><br />I've been listening to <a href="https://amzn.to/2T6O9ma" target="_blank">Next Year in Havana</a> when I run. I love historical fiction and this book has me hooked. I'm anxious to see how it turns out.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2T6O9ma" target="_blank"><img alt="Next Year in Havana" class="s-image" data-image-index="0" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="320" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91S9kLZ0FPL._AC_UY218_.jpg" width="212" /></a> </div><br />If you ever make pancakes and need to cut them into smaller bites for your kids, use a pizza cutter! I'm not sure why I had never thought of this before, but it makes the task a whole lot easier and tons faster.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cve-h4M-3cA/Xr4PFNdFZLI/AAAAAAAAB54/dB8aeDh-pfMSUGT9-hp5A2lZ60IrKH9KACPcBGAYYCw/s640/D52DE807-F59F-4377-89C7-5D72A9BBC582.JPG" width="640" /></div><br />And lastly, we had a little excitement over the weekend when we had the opportunity to offer our field as a parking lot for the power company's helicopter. We watched it land and take off several times. The boys absolutely loved it. The pilot was using this crazy string of saws to trim trees from the sky. It was really neat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="903" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QCdSJS1CL4I/Xr4Pmhh1pgI/AAAAAAAAB6k/Eh8tyl4X2S0ULSRuLhbFcsEf8W3y8ECFgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/View%2Balbum%2B%25E2%2580%259CRecents%25E2%2580%259D.png" width="360" /></div><br />By the way, if you're not following me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, I'd love it if you would. I do a much better of job of sharing life on IG than I do on Facebook. Also, if you want to ensure you never miss a blog post, you can <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">subscribe by email here</a>. I post at most twice a week - so I won't be filling your inbox like crazy. <br /><br />I am super excited for some warmth, sunshine, storms, and gardening this weekend. I'd love to hear what's in store for yours.<br /><br />Happy Friday!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Erika </a>| Friday Favorites and <a href="http://www.delladevoted.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Della</a>| High Five for Friday</i></div><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-44699163653290787612020-05-13T07:00:00.000-04:002020-05-13T07:00:02.244-04:00how i became a runner<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VETPQFfi1Ec/XruJRkshDsI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/kQaC8t66a7I_cyIelAid7-2iuRIaTtrZACEwYBhgLKs0DAL1OcqzQQd23odyf2M7KVEQzTAciX1WBoGxqR-hmALgoyE0Vebxe52Ew-ukHXr2LgMR0RbwMnzNG3mTQoNiIJxRhqz5f0unQ-oeoIYZlNuKa2U2M6EYvHrjwZwPfjXa2xYhVKqTGfA96CvWydu1xM-7ohzFBNMM-JrQbzwpDD4R3zzHhftTfCZq9OZs-Tx-xOwlJgmXmGTnp-XHSNSkJgOveangPhDkc4_DvStBWU8V15lLyAfDD44oCxjFd0W21EJiRt-8IhFt21No2tv90A5RKZDgXK307L2TsHEP1n3IW3m4zJ5A9V7HR3WiX5GzRLKvrQHQUjjmK6pS_8CZ2buV8_Bo_2IThMZRn7l-KZmBU7V1OHArsBuWIsVTLMSNp2XoSqbOe4TJgTs4odYooCVTpd8NXkg6yYcU1QyjN2ShATYvsBaRXrPyCHMx5SuXNmDnSrKmldvUgSlqcXMATtTbkXdb_OsTHvIGqqhrbZcCKQuBTV0Rli-VSXta73YxBcCOgsAjn4eT6VtmfkOKdQkLZhPpnCXZEdEgvGMRNDXvUU98aLlk7GvnQaS9wFQ8ni8rZV--TqkioIlOiyipX1UIpPm876aNfuW_JA8AwhZju9QU/s640/StockSnap_HAM087SSHZ.jpg" width="640" /></div><br />It's been almost two years since I embarked on my weight loss journey to a healthier me, what I dubbed #operationnomorefattyboop. You can read what motivated me <a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2018/07/operation-nomorefattyboop-my-weight.html" target="_blank">here</a> and read through my progress <a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/search/label/weight%20watching" target="_blank">here</a>. But what I'm sharing with you today is not about the thirty pounds I lost or the ten that I've gained back since, it's about how I became a runner as a result of this endeavor.<br /><br />First, let's cover a little background.<br /><br />I was an athlete all throughout high school. I played volleyball, basketball, and even ran track. I could sprint with the best of them, but I was NOT a runner. I vividly recall the one time I had to run the mile at a track meet due to an absent teammate - I was certain I would die before finishing. I continued to be active through college, playing volleyball and intramural basketball. Then, I graduated and entered the workforce.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a>I'm an accountant by trade, and as such, my main exercise at work is gleaned from trips to the bathroom, the kitchen and the copier. Several years of employment and three babies later, I made a choice to not only eat healthier in order to lose weight but to develop an active lifestyle. I had learned through all my previously failed attempts at casting off the weight that I wouldn't persevere unless I was exercising. Plus, my family heart history isn't the prettiest and I wasn't getting any younger. A sedentary lifestyle was no longer an option.<br /><br />As a farmer's wife, mother of three, and full time employee, I knew that I needed to choose something that would fit with my schedule. As I considered my options, running seemed the most plausible - it can be done anywhere and at any time, no accessories or commute needed. Running a 5k someday had also been a dream of mine. So, the choice of activity for me was fairly simple.<br /><br />Now, let's talk about how I made it happen.<br /><br />I started with a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/5k-runner-couch-potato-to-5k/id448357306?mt=8" target="_blank">Couch to 5k</a> app. The program is three days a week and is eight weeks long. You start with alternating walk/run intervals. I remember thinking I would keel over when it increased to two minute runs. I liked that it focused on time and not distance, because I am slow as molasses. There were some days I didn't struggle, but there were a lot of others when I couldn't run the entire time it expected. On those days, I repeated them until I could complete them before moving on to the next.<br /><br />It took me about ten weeks to finish the program. At that point, I could run the entire time (35 minutes), but I knew I wasn't covering enough distance to finish a 5k. Nevertheless, I decided it was now or never and paid my registration fee. I completed my first 5k race in October of 2018. It took me 48 minutes and my family thought they'd lost me, but I finished!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t3QuejwSFwI/XruI7HC0SlI/AAAAAAAAB4I/-XTJSDZYBCsnamqjxIsY4FRTXBJGM6pOgCEwYBhgLKs0DAL1OcqxL3Rh_AdUyFGlQkyGZv-V2GsveYZrlS87hpM0KQF_sAfqH6VfeW4_keea-d85kx3d2bMEXDkdhpM832To69nVxH-XbVPM4EGYBAvUx3RIzVtPUz29syWuIQGs894eHCqGV_IHQCQDzln8GVdkFNBZWegXVmxusgrfnHRnDObfPdb7clcIJK6zDvrTpaQVb4mz38kZgZXWGdyVoPWWGBJGsM-6E8-sIBOmVM5E-yAV1FUEId6wehTSdKK_k1sDca25bRCQAghiYsf3NCj4qugJU-oY47RagHh9KM1ukTE6Qa74FLGhRn_YhvChB39Hd3aF9c8kR2F3FaM59Mt2ZwZj2bqmRBblFoCcYoA2enyPCMMlwJePDrQv1Q1pl4uqDrY3qrPfIh8p3u5yPUK6nsRaHmoY50Bw2J4WPpdMIPv0LmTAvU8BBceNMvXkwUtgKAeLz19By3ZKT8jAWKSWJsycN1d34_4jqD8Ql73QsVP27RjK3iW4PqthJs1VULMsm43FJtcRsOgX2fwD6qDXtzirG8nY8en2iEud8F3EDUzxLx-JSvkrxRFF9l7iwES9xhYARFTRBq2vSxib17INE708cgljkFH72WR4w_5ju9QU/s640/IMG_4134.JPG" width="480" /><span id="goog_557048213"></span><span id="goog_557048214"></span></div><br />Then... I ran another. And another. And another. Each race, I shaved off a little bit more time. I just kept running. I aimed for about 3-4 times per week and strove for three miles each time. In March of 2019, I finished a 5k race in a little over 35 minutes and won 1st place in my age division. I was beyond proud. I had not only ran one 5k, but I had ran a handful and managed to shave off 13 minutes since my first 5k attempt five months prior to that.<br /><br />I want to interject here and confess that some weeks were hard. There were weeks when I didn't get in as many runs that I wanted or days when I started to run and couldn't make it a quarter of a mile. Sometimes the roadblocks were physical and other times they were mental. However, I kept going back. I kept pushing. I refused to give up when I had come so far. I learned to not let one missed run keep me from another missed run. And if a whole week went by without a single run, that didn't mean I was done running. Life happens and I learned to adjust and not throw in the towel when it threw me a curve ball.<br /><br />One day, I had begun to notice that I didn't feel like dying at the end of my runs. I also knew that I didn't really have any interest in going faster. That left the only other option to go farther in order to keep pushing myself. So, on one of my next runs, I didn't stop when my watch alerted me that I had completed three miles. Instead, I kept going and added half a mile that day. After that, I continued to add on a little each week.<br /><br />At the end of June, I ran my first 10k. It felt like 90 degrees and the humidity was sky high. I remember I was about half way through and tempted to quit when a lady running fairly close to me had a runner with her who was coaching and encouraging her the whole way. Their words of encouragement and enthusiasm kept me going. I had to walk more of the race than I would have liked, but I finished. And I learned that I am not a summer runner!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O2WoSzJ-n64/XruLDx5RMDI/AAAAAAAAB4o/OkguixizPG4JIBYS-CB83hJXleKw4dYNgCEwYBhgLKs0DAL1Ocqz4i-J8-LlNbcSoGvetC9_ati0bduRY3okwI_LVgjhfgVVWXNp5L1RCR4zs8N9mUF2LWU-8zJNx5Fb_59ZQD5mNqaUOeUXLaVCLQI3YPkJYmvLkI-lDzyGiFIrR1fe2ggxTo94C6-M9WnuxEtFZYZEZTAs1PHoaX07f0NPMTZLXL90cmWXCbrvyifVZDTjDnrYdrGgKMhT_NvEFz_rfdi8snBRXBFyAhg8o0AWHSHd6CQH073Xx6Ckh651qr21oW2mrBufhXYqrdrnkhTEn1MUE5V1NcagGebsukbV5DjiLKOPEDB-GMEY99NZBntZXxI8MBnW4RfF8OdY7fH4DDl5KKVRjJcBBG6dHayYO3T3jEZeoSGXmX16t0aIsfrAhuoQqOIu3PLaAgTV6AopQ6Hu9RH60RfoDKbdRwSox0OHM4WkPn1KbYLmBX7fGpr9PNtzRzJvr6WkOj6bSPYRyiuMbK_PI229l9YvoGmnBiMxIFEFLbpwX6Xsd_hUlCSPVyGmF2EA39yegRg6ahdCcoHDugOjnlPIzpypDuoYe-M_1sJGceLAo0WSdajVG9bf3m77sBMInRjpf1DW-voeTijM3rl5qmc9E5_Awkpvu9QU/s640/IMG_8924%25281%2529.JPG" width="480" /></div><br />It wasn't long after I completed the 10k, that some friends of mine encouraged me to register and train for a half marathon they would be running in November. I immediately said no way. I mean, a half marathon is 13.1 miles!! I ran 6.2 and barely survived. Nevertheless, my interest was peaked. I started researching training plans and realized I could do this. I chose a training plan that fit my schedule as to the number of times a week I could run with the long runs on the weekend and went to work. I am thankful for the family in my life who supported me and encouraged me along the way. Long runs take time as does running multiple times per week. There were weeks when I had to rest and couldn't run at all. There were times when life happened and either I was sick or the kids were and running didn't happen. But I didn't quit. I just picked up where I left off and got back at it the next week. For this reason, I think it's vital to build in contingency weeks. If your training plan is sixteen weeks, kick off training eighteen to twenty weeks prior to the run. Life happens and this helped keep me from getting discouraged when it did.<br /><br />I adhered to my training plan for the most part and kept adding miles. In October, a friend of mine and I decided to participate in an eight mile trail run to help prepare for the half. I had never ran a trail run before, but thought it wouldn't be a big deal since I had been running around 6-7 miles already. Well, I was wrong - it almost killed me. Trail running is a lot of fun but it is so much more difficult. I was almost last, but I finished. I remember hobbling to my car and only getting a little ways down the road before stopping to throw up. Now, that was a workout. It took me a few days to recover, but on my next regular run, adding a mile seemed like a piece of cake. The trail run was worth it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nlSYcMUPrwU/XruKv5_iwfI/AAAAAAAAB4k/-D7oYaXxVn86wYcEQNAH8AcWvFyflsBPACEwYBhgLKs0DAL1OcqyYmp3BWA5yQtiCVagXBTUkR7Gbr4kki_7p81rYYD4wPpffukmC5StEnBY_Aqkn-DQMGtPpJcrrPHI06wmXIgjG8TDrgrwvF5Ap1pF25ZH-3Sg5hHvmfRZHsmsmAlGjoVMjhf2Ootkc3fIQQn9_9AaAr_7CfkDlOmgSehiGkMKGkcVUUmjzd0Ye7mP7O62LbGZvWdbUdvCG1qJ5gMG01_l4YfzuuVGIgxL-_oC8eXpvJRWa_xNgjA-twPY0qmbTM-epLqv6H0HqP_HqAOj1Nbf2S0lBJjFtF5IXb31krChT4yW8B-Rf8VHbVoLKyepJl1GtJ-d3ffb0l-VaT8CFC9nsu9bPwPvBZXLXAZnSFdHI7MxeqC6ht5UUqJOvSj0bBy8jaslW9C3j95tzraHKScQG6uNzEOpBi7sieAO2upb9Jd__9n_tcI_toePCMUs7u6mKaQu6fmTgtrOx8GsbsZ4dtpXUiBB160VAvarO4YzxAWU8Ht6f8XIyeG8OtjmOOTp6rgH8HLLsQywko4TiZldfyEefD08i_MerSW1Jjyj1M2x29ANQMhXeXyPg2vH0euxD7NTercxi8g74q9vW7mfkqlvYAjWy6NAwuZvu9QU/s640/IMG_5337.JPG" width="480" /></div><br />A couple of weeks prior to the race, I ran my first TEN miles. I was content then - race or no race. In a little over a year, I had gone from not being able to run for two minutes straight to being able to run for a little over 2 hours without stopping. I had become a runner. Now, I had become a runner long before that, but it was at that moment that I realized all that I had accomplished. God is so good.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OX6o7LNV8g/XruJDebYNAI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/pMGMMhB_8coY5_i203W36tPtdNCf0JYZACEwYBhgLKs0DAL1Ocqw04pZ2sK2tEK7DOqlPX9feAr3Lkp7yT-scibW3EOnKhErHfkOcd4wrmrhivuNu1MldlP5kytsaURrokdCivf3DnqjoZsjzSyOyfIz3jZCivksk-fboDp18trJtIdnbMajBuLWGHoFzssaPj7kytZ6jqEVWSTEj8QoOr41ceJqvVk1jFdhrdjiP346t61IOrAUGSx6pS1r0nIf1ZdViOk8kpZjsV5EerG10JIQmJ07hQ5xEiYtedHytboQnxUJHD4NRKaDYR3X8yVKDObwMNLmltjlLvzNMkg9BFJRqUK3YmDYbGHCR5gHD5kV35MWE9kllo5-UQ8i7lZ7EkkdP7JOJSCAdW504h5nJj4odkLCPNahLdxebxiS0M8dDdGCm7cfzAhwm3OMsOhHCN3MxKQLx5E4ohMxDAQ9HtpaUtQkQy4nm4mP8JhOE-hQfhrAEFwed6rx8e8u2kOKuBhPQfo9eeb01C57xpf63BKfuDsStCvJB9nQK4VvGOeT_tz2JJ3C0a0cDDPB8KtCQSz0nvqV6rVT5MEtBBXOBVJzuZc5lgSVEoZTcjV2MM2H16xp3UDQLgnUePf9szpcsGF9CvFztjbP2zLU6c10w1Jvu9QU/s640/IMG_5408.JPG" width="480" /></div><br />On a cold November day, I completed my first half marathon. I would love to say I ran the entire race, but I had to walk for a bit around the 11 mile mark. Everything was hurting. I took a small walk and then kept going. I finished in under three hours, which was my goal. I did it!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1126" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4xMKAIg8PQE/XruMdhtrJqI/AAAAAAAAB40/eiPdnL478bQnECSx3Ev8flx0J0oCbrHVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_5448.JPG" width="480" /></div><br />Today, I continue to run. I aim for 10-15 miles per week. The number of runs I get in during the week depends on life and the amount of miles I run each time depends on how motivated I am. I usually run at least three and will sometimes do seven. I had hoped to train and run for another half this month, but the Corona happened. So, now I'm shooting for a half in the Fall. My goal is to run the entire race and finish it faster than the one before.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uGXhDrLopGw/XruI6fkokmI/AAAAAAAAB4E/dDBHLMSw4nEuV56B3Bt30nLrVLOZ6C7GwCEwYBhgLKs0DAL1Ocqw5jKM9oRsT1UesTv0HwBSj5ymlj6gGIRmzMQpKdUaBBgueT_Q4NECfqQSBDU2iRU6cgmueJVN9PHm2o-Jt7r0Gq7san5P3zqs1VWy_AX0EYa-5Gcr6f2GwQRl4TBbj1BGjwzO8ey637WckSESZTUMry3tlVvc1dCaSi_2wPvdj1lU6z0-goxwdiUPM-aZ4BjkFP25WSsHQm9_SkUu_RbnKMcK0ViZaKuiuZkfVbppVEBTlt4tJMJgpi4wNdzCGT87LIq7Ii0zmHSdFQUHREwEORhDu8Xa7s3vtMlGpTrdXriHyBxe03BeHBfPBp6U9IhG3tBNlmQt0fO7b1XGVikfDDMYMLxXq08Oq8konLFAXqmVLGJ3VDUmyFWF0E7wpgvMhp0fFGxBckTXCcwN70g9Uui2wpMagKesmF6Q5cZ73jgcLRp6N7TuHBJTsIXfvHZDiD5mft77xQH3d0u06k3qLjK_6l0MQM2lpVYfiGTZ-SoD44PVZmrPgwTZIdchZGfDdyC_3J2Jq0uCxZay5T0jTcaOOPSsHs0-D9Uql3AOnI7HzRh78RJG-tmG2qJnX1RumQlJHBqFAY_fMTFC4sS1o3sw3XVAfKxQwypzu9QU/s640/IMG_0375.jpg" width="480" /></div><br />I never dreamed I could run a 5k, much less a half marathon, but I did. And believe me, if I can do it, you can too.With God, all things are possible.<br /><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-17324031717049739232020-05-08T06:00:00.000-04:002020-05-08T06:00:02.192-04:00friday favorites: my first in 2020<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday, Sweet Friends!<br /><br />Today I'm linking up with some lovely ladies and sharing my favorites from the week. <br /><br />My azaleas are blooming and my first rose of the season appeared. Red is my absolute favorite.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JWgsn-iOIHs/XrTDBirGnhI/AAAAAAAAB24/GAzRityBuD86u7xmXCw_MXVmtDQ_lkTvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JWgsn-iOIHs/XrTDBirGnhI/AAAAAAAAB24/GAzRityBuD86u7xmXCw_MXVmtDQ_lkTvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0280.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZPS9a6JGSI/XrTC_VXjQCI/AAAAAAAAB20/x842C-J4t40sXvJxWfdCJjxF30tpPDNrACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZPS9a6JGSI/XrTC_VXjQCI/AAAAAAAAB20/x842C-J4t40sXvJxWfdCJjxF30tpPDNrACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0279.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a>After an entire month, my potatoes finally started to peek through the ground. I was so relieved because I was ready to give up on them and start over. My Little Farmers and I did manage to get a few rows of corn and beans planted on Sunday before the rains came. Really hoping we didn't jump the gun - it's supposed to get cold some over the next several days.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzQHwpYhjX8/XrTDLw6pj4I/AAAAAAAAB3Y/51s5uYWdas4ap1LakZa8ZGYbkQPmUerZgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzQHwpYhjX8/XrTDLw6pj4I/AAAAAAAAB3Y/51s5uYWdas4ap1LakZa8ZGYbkQPmUerZgCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_0287.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lySExMs2ABo/XrTC9rz7X2I/AAAAAAAAB3M/AHERqerxSgIy8FdSN3yjKXry4ElcDQrLwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lySExMs2ABo/XrTC9rz7X2I/AAAAAAAAB3M/AHERqerxSgIy8FdSN3yjKXry4ElcDQrLwCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_0286.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />My dentist started seeing patients again this week. So, I put on real clothes and made a trip to town. I wore my mask even though I kept touching it too much. I was relieved that the tooth I thought had been causing me discomfort wasn't the culprit after all. Which meant my dentist started a root canal and didn't have to pull a tooth.Who'd ever think I'd be thankful for a root canal??<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lSpIjPO8etA/XrTDOwYhD0I/AAAAAAAAB3c/90-4a4A9imMG2Q6zs2wtmiK-Vvz57732ACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1158" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lSpIjPO8etA/XrTDOwYhD0I/AAAAAAAAB3c/90-4a4A9imMG2Q6zs2wtmiK-Vvz57732ACEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_0294.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br />It's calving season and sometimes these little babies need a bit of help from Little Farmers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QvXfqNKOg0w/XrTDOIJkL2I/AAAAAAAAB3c/AuOsbM0GjwUV1nAiDfEbiK1HIwKOdrLSQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QvXfqNKOg0w/XrTDOIJkL2I/AAAAAAAAB3c/AuOsbM0GjwUV1nAiDfEbiK1HIwKOdrLSQCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_0292.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />I read this verse during my morning devotional and I picked up on a couple of things I hadn't before. The verse says "according to his will." Lately, I admit I haven't done an awesome job including that piece in my prayers. The verse also says "he heareth us." I realize it doesn't say that He answers us, only that He hears us.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBrytzDuu3c/XrTDY_1dSbI/AAAAAAAAB3g/lQLqWcaYH-o4VrRpZfIHDRxZW1ZJ4VYaQCEwYBhgL/s1600/save-image.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBrytzDuu3c/XrTDY_1dSbI/AAAAAAAAB3g/lQLqWcaYH-o4VrRpZfIHDRxZW1ZJ4VYaQCEwYBhgL/s640/save-image.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We seriously have the best cat ever. Her name is Cricket and she is an expert mouser. She follows my Little Farmers around wherever they go - kind of like a puppy. Since we've been home, we've let her inside some and she loves it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1rlI9U5kXAA/XrTDSvcnZDI/AAAAAAAAB3c/8Bf3oa3TIZkcQ-nxQGGHNM6sanywGDqpgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1rlI9U5kXAA/XrTDSvcnZDI/AAAAAAAAB3c/8Bf3oa3TIZkcQ-nxQGGHNM6sanywGDqpgCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_0312.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />I started blogging again. You can check out my prodigal return post <a href="https://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/05/the-prodigal-blogger-returns.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I also shared <a href="https://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/05/10-books-you-need-to-read.html" target="_blank">10 of my favorite reads</a> from my eighteen month sabbatical.<br /><br />Oh, and I created my first story on Instagram!! If you saw it, keep in mind that I'm a novice - I will get better. I'm trying really hard to have more of a presence on IG and would love it if you'd follow me - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">@theclassychaosblog</a>. <br /><br />Now, I'm looking forward to a quiet weekend with lots of sunshine.<br /><br />Happy Weekend!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Erika </a>| Friday Favorites and <a href="http://www.delladevoted.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Della</a>| High Five for Friday</i></div><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-9231529774553427502020-05-05T06:00:00.001-04:002020-05-15T00:21:37.892-04:0010 books you need to read<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="digital clock" height="426" src="https://cdn.stocksnap.io/img-thumbs/280h/RXY5YRZYUE.jpg" style="max-height: 100%; max-width: 100%;" width="640" /> </div><br />I went on a bit of a binge reading spree while on my <a href="https://www.theclassychaos.com/2020/05/the-prodigal-blogger-returns.html" target="_blank">blogging sabbatical</a>. According to my Goodreads log, I read thirty-nine books during the past year and a half. I swear I feel like I missed a couple, but then again who's counting?<br /><br />Anyway, today I'm sharing my favorite ten of those thirty-nine. None of them received five stars, but all of the ones I've included below I rated a solid four stars.<br /><br />As a point of reference, I have very few books with a five star rating. Five star books are those that I can still remember vividly no matter how much time has passed, and they are typically books that I will read more than once. Four star books are those that I thoroughly enjoyed and would definitely recommend. However, with the passage of time I won't remember much about them nor will they go in the que for a second read.<br /><br />So without further ado, here are ten books (in no particular order) you should add to your reading list if you haven't already.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="more"></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3b5Vdpp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Redemption Collection: Redemption / Remember / Return / Rejoice / Reunion (Baxter Family Drama—Redemption Series)" class="s-image" data-image-index="5" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/816UwG2tPuL._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="height: auto; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; width: auto;" /></a><a href="https://amzn.to/3c841MS" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Where the Crawdads Sing" class="s-image" data-image-index="13" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="320" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81p1FaGL34L._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="height: auto; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; width: auto;" width="213" /></a><a href="https://amzn.to/35AW5kO" target="_blank"><img alt="Between You and Me: A Novel" class="s-image" data-image-index="1" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="200" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71KfHb7NlGL._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%;" width="133" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/35yB4aj" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Woman in Cabin 10" class="s-image" data-image-index="0" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81aHy+ij2uL._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="height: auto; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; width: auto;" /></a><a href="https://amzn.to/2SDrltZ" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society: A Novel" class="s-image" data-image-index="0" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91v6Y-SyDdL._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="height: auto; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; width: auto;" /></a><a href="https://amzn.to/2zfr7lR" target="_blank"><img alt="I Owe You One: A Novel" class="s-image" data-image-index="0" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="200" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71QayBUEJ8L._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%;" width="129" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3bb0Rqp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Twisted Twenty-Six (Stephanie Plum Book 26)" class="s-image" data-image-index="0" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81XmaBzhQTL._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="height: auto; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; width: auto;" /></a><a href="https://amzn.to/2KWLwPk" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Kulti" class="s-image" data-image-index="0" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91nf+fSwNEL._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="height: auto; max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%; width: auto;" /></a><a href="https://amzn.to/2SBiYiF" target="_blank"><img alt="The Kiss Thief" class="s-image" data-image-index="1" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="200" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/816bwiFxN0L._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%;" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2zeCYR6" target="_blank"><img alt="The Friend Zone" class="s-image" data-image-index="2" data-image-latency="s-product-image" data-image-load="" data-image-source-density="1" height="200" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71oqqisvNsL._AC_UY218_.jpg" style="max-height: 80%; max-width: 80%;" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A couple of thoughts on some of the above. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I could not put Between You and Me down. I listened to I Owe You One and wouldn't have enjoyed it nearly as much if I hadn't. Where the Crawdads Sing was excellent - it will be a movie someday. The Woman in Cabin 10 kept me on my toes. The Redemption series is really five books and I find them incredibly humbling and encouraging. I still need to watch The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on Netflix. I've read all twenty-six Stephanie Plum novels and this one was far more enjoyable than the last few. Kulti is really sweet but a whole lot of pages. I can't remember a lot about The Kiss Thief, but I remember wishing it wasn't a stand alone novel. The Friend Zone was a good mix of sweet and funny and would make a great Hallmark movie. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br />What books have you read and loved? I'm always in the market for recommendations.<br /><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-22225844894098555972020-05-02T15:06:00.000-04:002020-05-02T15:06:03.932-04:00the prodigal blogger returns<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-aJnhidKCI/Xq3DPAvR3gI/AAAAAAAAB2A/8xpbq5w-cu8T-wMJDG0mPkaW67N-yFPugCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/StockSnap_QRDLQEQCLI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-aJnhidKCI/Xq3DPAvR3gI/AAAAAAAAB2A/8xpbq5w-cu8T-wMJDG0mPkaW67N-yFPugCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/StockSnap_QRDLQEQCLI.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Hello Sweet Friends!<br /><br />In case you've forgotten, my name is Trista and I've evidently been on sabbatical for the last eighteen months.<br /><br />When I logged in, I was honestly kind of shocked to find my blog still intact. I had forgotten how much I loved the design and the layout. How I had worked tirelessly on getting it just right. Funny how you can work so hard and so long on something and then just walk away from it, huh?<br /><br />In the most simplest of terms, life happened. You can only bare so many burdens and responsibilities and stay afloat for so long without taking stock of what's important to you and consistently balancing and re-balancing. The failure to do so leads to unplanned disappearances from the blogosphere for extended periods of time. This isn't my first offense, and yet I'm still unsure as to whether or not I have learned my lesson. <br /><br />If I'm honest, I'm a little uncertain about being here. The only creative bone in my body is writing and I've missed using it. I suppose you might say I'm testing the waters. For one, are you even still out there?! And two, can I balance the time I put into this little space with everything else vying for my time and attention?<br /><br />I want to. I really do. I have so much to share with you. I mean, I could blog for days - I have 548 days worth of life that I haven't shared. Not to mention, I'm sitting here thinking of so many of you and wondering where life has taken you. So, here's to a reunion and a restart!<br /><br />I hope you'll say hi - your presence would encourage me to continue. And if you have any wise words of advice to share on how you balance it all, bring it on!<br /><br />Happy Saturday!<br /><br /></div>~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4137526812552993910.post-8513062083552512262018-11-30T05:00:00.000-05:002018-11-30T05:00:05.291-05:00friday favorites: wish list of a thirty-something<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday, Friends! In some ways I find it hard to believe it's the last day of November, and in other ways I feel like it should already be the middle of December. Is the timing of Thanksgiving throwing anyone else off kilter? I surely hope I'm not the only one.<br /><br />Well, I managed to craft an update this past weekend and shared our <a href="http://www.theclassychaos.com/2018/11/long-time-no-post.html" target="_blank">life lately chaos</a> on Monday. Be sure to stop over and see what we've been up to. Since the week has been a pretty quiet one, instead of the normal favorites, I'm going to share what I've been crushing on lately. I hope to find one of these lovelies underneath my Christmas tree. Bonus, these will serve as great gifts for the ladies in your life if you're still in need of ideas.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="640" id="id_9ae4_7b9d_c7d4_caf" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ogDAme7UfJc/XACx3Gm4DGI/AAAAAAAAByw/xvoOK4x493clAOBjoq-QDHtKgaTwNWukQCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2E5ZH3d" target="_blank">The North Face Women's Cable Knit Mitt</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2RoM5Tw" target="_blank">iRobot Roomba 690 Robot Vacuum</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2Q1Tqft" target="_blank">Under Armor Women's Favorite Fleece Pullover</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2QpFpaM" target="_blank">NutriBullet Blender-Mixer System</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2Q1u3dv" target="_blank">Lucky Brand Women's Tulayne Ankle Bootie</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2TXCNjd" target="_blank">Bearpaw Women's Trista Slipper</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2rbFK2B" target="_blank">The North Face Women's Denali Jacket</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2E56lqn" target="_blank">Hunter Women's Original Short Rain Boot</a> / <a href="https://amzn.to/2TXDpp1" target="_blank">Under Armor Women's Tech Short</a></div><br /><a name='more'></a>My thoughts on these lovelies... <br /><br />If I could have only one of these items, my first choice would be the gloves. I already have the matching beanie, and gloves were the one thing I desperately wished I'd had when I ran the Turkey Trot last week. Every other part of me stayed warm except my hands.<br /><br />My Littlest Farmer is still in the phase where he picks up everything he finds in the floor and tastes to learn what things are. With two older brothers running amuck, the floor always needs vacuumed and I'm often scrambling to get it done before whatever ends up in my Littlest Farmer's mouth. This robot vacuum will change my life and reduce my stress level. I just know it.<br /><br />I love the color of this Under Armor sweatshirt. And fleece just sounds so warm and cozy right now. It's a bit colder than normal for November Kentucky weather and I'm struggling to get warm.<br /><br />My friend embarked on the journey of being a Beachbody coach. She loves the Shakeology drinks and I have a packet to try. What I don't have is a blender. How is that even possible?<br /><br />I'm getting old, and flats aren't cutting it anymore in the cold. I'm not comfortable wearing tall boots to work, I just can't bring myself to accept them as professional, but these booties would be. And my ankles and feet would be much warmer if I had them this winter.<br /><br />I'm terrible about never wearing socks, inside or outside. So, slippers for the house are a must. Who could pass up these cozy ones that have Trista in the name of their style? They were made just for me, clearly.<br /><br />I've been crushing on North Face jackets, and I just love this yellow. One of the folks that cuts our grass at the office always wore this bright yellow rain jacket and I've wanted yellow ever since. I really think it'll complement the red Hunter boots, don't you? I need these boots to keep my booties and flats from getting wet and dirty.<br /><br />I came across the Under Armor shorts while perusing and thought they'd be a nice addition to the rotation. Plus, they'd match the sweatshirt. I need to be warm and look good while I run, right? (insert eye roll here).<br /><br />Which of these is your favorite? What's on your wish list?<br /><br />Hope your weekends are phenomenal! We've got a packed one ahead. Basketball games, a trip to see Santa, Jack the Elf should return from the North Pole, and my Oldest Little Farmer and I are heading to A Christmas Carol performance at our local theater.<br /><br />Until next time... stay classy through the chaos!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Linking up with <a href="http://www.smidgeofthis.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">April</a>| Five on Friday, <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/search/label/Friday%20Favorites" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Erika </a>| Friday Favorites, and <a href="http://www.delladevoted.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Della</a>| High Five for Friday</i></div><br />~Trista~ <br /><br />Don't miss a post! Follow along: <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/classy-chaos-14381347" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theclassychaosblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theclassychaosblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/theclassychaos" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=4137526812552993910" target="_blank">Google Friend Connect</a>, <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TheClassyChaos&loc=en_US" target="_blank">Email Subscribe</a>.</div>Trista @ The Classy Chaoshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07306623633904550080noreply@blogger.com7