Livin' On Love

I've been...

2011-01-08T01:18:00.009-05:00

...playin with my new toy. Got some pics of zoe playing in the snow. I like taking pictures of the family pet. It's amazing how some photos, moments frozen in time, can really speak to the viewer. The everyday moments that you share with another are easily forgotten in life. But a photo helps you remember, helps you to take a second look, helps you to maybe even get to know the subject better. I looked into zoe's eyes in this picture and felt that tug on my heart-strings. Sometimes it takes a photo...that second look frozen in time, to really make you appreciate the joys of life.

Thank you Cantaloupe...

2010-08-11T02:07:00.000-04:00

...and best friends...and God.

Photo via flickr

It's around 2 a.m. and I'm sitting here wanting a snack. I proceed to the fridge and see the half a cantaluope in there. I take a bite.

BAM! I'm thinking."thank you God for this cantaloupe." Then suddenly a flood of thank you's come pouring out of my mind and up to God. I'm totally thankful for everything that happened today.

Thank you for letting me wake up today God, and thank you for the Glee Soundtrack on the way to work...singing "we got the funk, gotta have that funk." Oh, and thank you Lord for the cute kids I got to photograph today at work...what a fun job that is...and thanks God, for that little extra money in the bank account so we could eat dinner tonight....best of all...thanks for placing my best friends on my back porch for me, so I could see them when I got home. Thanks for putting them in my life.

That final little thanks I'm sending is for that Cantaloupe you placed so perfectly in my fridge for me to eat so I could enjoy this moment right now. Thanks God, I love you.

Award?

2010-07-09T14:00:00.000-04:00

So, a friend of mine over at the Teenage Bride blog passed this little blog award over to me. You should definately check her out. I admire her sincere understanding of marriage and how much she truly values God's greatest gift...LOVE! You should also check her out because I designed her blog too!

I'm sure all of you bloggers know what this is by now because it's all over the blog world. The Fabulous Sugar Doll Blogger Award. I tried researching the origin of this award, but found nothing. I know it's just for fun, but I was curious about how it all started so if anybody would care to fill me in, that would be wonderful!

Now I am obliged to share 5 facts about myself, then pass the award on to 5 other devoted bloggers.

1.) I love cheese...all kinds of cheese...

2.) I was just really good friends with my husband for about 2 years before I realized I loved him. I am so glad I let him know how I felt.

3.) I love God more than anything.

4.) I have loved art for as long as I can remember. I was born with the creative genes.

5.) I plan on starting my own little biz someday....soon I hope :)

Ok, I know those were random, but they were the first thoughts that popped into my head...

The 5 lovely bloggers I choose are:

3 o'clock walk

Strumpet's Crumpets

My pen pal k.davis @ Believe It and Be Satisfied

Lizabits Designs

Over the Rainbow

Now go on and spread the love...bye!

San Diego

2010-06-12T12:27:00.000-04:00

I can't stop day dreaming about my recent trip to California. I wish I was still there! A part of me wants to pack up my belongings and call San Diego my new home. But it hasn't even been a year since I moved here, and I can't stand the thought of moving across the country right now! So I will continue to dream...

Coronado Beach

@ Belmont Park in Mission Beach

Beautiful La Jolla

Balboa Park

My sister @ Goldfish Point Cafe in La Jolla

Ordinary Places

2010-05-21T00:43:00.000-04:00

My job requires a lot of driving. And on days like today, I really don't mind it! Today was perfect for a nice drive on a country road. When I get behind the wheel, I let the windows down, jam out to my favorite tunes and enjoy the scenery. My job has allowed me to see new places that I wouldn't have seen otherwise. Granted, they're not places people dream about traveling to, but that's why I like them. The ordinary places where people live, work and play in. Places that you've never really heard of. I enjoy finding beauty in those most ordinary places.

In Pictures: An Ode to Moms

2010-05-09T20:44:00.000-04:00

all images from weheartit.com

Photoshop Love

2010-04-07T17:31:00.000-04:00

Today I want to share with you some photos. I am in no way a professional, but I do enjoy photography as a hobby and I love sharing my photos with friends and family.

Another love I have is photo editing. Photoshop is the most amazing program to me. I feel like there are always new things to learn within this program, and I believe every designer, scrapbooker, photographer, etc. should have themselves a copy! The first time I used PS was probably when I was like 12! My dad always had to have what's new in technology growing up, so I was no stranger to photo editng at a young age! Some of the amazing art I've seen that people create in PS simply blows my mind. I admire those out there who are masters at this! Here is a website I go to often for my computer BG's. There is some amazing stuff on here so enjoy. Here is a peak:

I am also currently obsessed with PS tutorials. I have been searching the internet for fun edits and simple things to do with my photos. It is nothing like what you see above, but still fun to tinker around! That's why I love PS, you can be as extreme or as simple as you like! Below are some of my edited photos. These were all taken in my backyard!

Are there any fun & interesting PS tutorials that you can share with me?
I love learning new tips &tricks!

10 Things I Love About You

2010-04-05T00:14:00.001-04:00

Finishing up a prompt from Shimelle's Blogging for Scrapbookers class. I have been doing the prompts at my leisure. I always do more work when I have someone or something to motivate me to just do it! Her class has been helping me to keep thinking and creating!

10 things I Love about U:

1. Your long hair. 2. The way you love me.

3. Your contagious smile. 4. The way your always thinking.

5 Your caring spirit.

6. Those goofy things you do.

7. Your love for the Lord. 8. Your creativity.

9. Your geekiness!

10. Your attention to detail.

...and that's why I love you!

♥tinamarie

Pittsburgh's Strip District

2010-04-02T18:03:00.000-04:00

Been wanting to get there since the weather started getting warm. Jon and I both had the day off, he suggested we go! Perfect day to be outside & visit this awesome marketplace. It is really hard to resist spending though!

"The Strip” (as we locals know it) has grown into a marketplace of specialty groceries and restaurants, coffee shops, street vendors, a Smithsonian-affiliated museum and unique antique, gift and decorating shops."

Jon @ Penzey's Spices

Fresh cut flowers.

Deli olives @ The Pennsylvania Macaroni Company

Freshly made gyros!

Me with my goodies!

Locals will tell you that grocery shopping in The Strip isn’t a chore - it’s a cherished Pittsburgh tradition seasoned with the sights, scents, and sounds of Pittsburgh’s ethnic diversity. That is what I love so much about this town. So many deep rooted ethnic communities can be found here, which means there is a plethora of unique goodness!

♥tinamarie

Finished Product!

2010-03-28T18:03:00.001-04:00

Yes, my kitchen cabinets are turquoise! I will have to look around for a "before" picture of my kitchen to prove really just how bad it was in there. Cabinets were dark blue, wallpaper had a horribly drab grape pattern all over it and it was just a shame. The turquoiuse color really shows my personality and since we weren't planning on spending big bucks to renovate the kitchen, painting the cabinets seamed like the best thing to do.

So anyways. I finished the painted frames project I was working on and I really enjoy it! I added a few more colors than I originally intended but I like the way the colors play off eachother. It's pretty simple, I added a few felt stickers to the top frame "eat, eat" and painted some sticky chipboard letters blue "mangia, mangia" for the bottom right frame. Mangia means eat in Italian. Something I always heard my grandparents saying in the kitchen growing up, so it seemed approriate to fit that in somehow!

Mangia, mangia!

♥tinamarie

Always up to Something...

2010-03-25T20:54:00.000-04:00

Well, I am the type of person that always has ideas and plans to do fun and crafty things. Unfortunately, I sometimes tend to move onto a new project before I even finish the last one. I have always been this way, and I have learned to just go with the flow. Now since we just finished painting our kitchen, cabinets included, I am now ready to start adding some fun decor to the room.

I stumbled apon a simple and fun way to add a unique touch to any room using old or inexpensive frames. I went to the dollar store and purchased various sized frames and painted them all white to match the room. Also, white is a good base color if your going to add lots of pattern and colors to any project your working on. So here are the frames I got.

What I plan on doing is simple. Just get some pretty papers and maybe use some chipboard shapes and letters to put inside the frames. Then I will decide how I want to place them on the wall. I will share the finished product when I'm done. In the end, this was a 5 dollar project that will last a long time and make me smile :)

Tell me about your fun DIY home projects!

♥tinamarie

Photo Recap

2010-03-24T00:39:00.003-04:00

This picture says a thousand words...It only speaks to me I'm sure, but that is why I will cherish this image forever. In the parking lot long after classes have ended for the day, I have every intention of getting home to get my homework started, but yet I stayed. Time and time again. To spend time with him, everything else could wait. So there we would sit, talking for hours, about God knows what. I wanted to hear everything he had to say, but he mostly let me talk. He would listen, and truly care about what I had to say. He rememberd even the tiniest of details, things I had even forgotten. It was there in that parking lot, after months of early evening conversations, that our friendship turned into so much more. I was falling in love, and there was no turning back.

It was in that same parking lot that I confessed my love probably a few weeks later. That's a whole nother story though my friends.

tinamarie

Why I'm blogging

2010-03-17T17:56:00.000-04:00

When I first created this blog, it was more of an outlet for me to share my thoughts, didn't really care much if anyone was reading. Since moving back and stubbling upon a plethora of inspiring blogs out there that I really love, I decided that I wanted to slightly change my angle. I will still be sharing my thoughts about life of course, but I also want to share other things too. Things that I create from time to time. Now what would be the point of sharing my creations if nobody's around to share with?? That is why I was so grateful to find out about shimelle.com. She offered a class about blogging for scrapbookers back in October and I am downloading all the materials to start the class myself. I'm sure most of those scrapbook related bloggers out there know about her by now, but in case your reading this and you have not, definately check her out here.

It has been kinda difficult finding crafty friends around my part of town. That has been another reason why I've wanted to make this change. I am trying to make friends with all those other crafty bloggers who share the same love of scrapbooking. I am hoping to inpsire and be inspired through blogging!

♥tinamarie

Clipboard Gallery Project

2010-03-10T23:07:00.004-05:00

I am working on a wall display for my dining room. I bought 4 different sized clipboards and each will be separate but work as one cohesive display when finished. I purchased a rather long decorative curtain rod from Big Lots that extends about 1.5 inches from the wall. I plan on hanging each clipboard with fishing line to achieve the "floating" look. I havn't decided yet on how I will hang them. Jon has done a few sketches for me, and I think I know which one I will choose, but I can't say for sure until the end. Instead of hanging them each separately from the rod, I plan on hanging them from each other as well. I've only finished one clipboard so far and I'm halfway done with the second. I like this project a lot because it allows me to use different elements that I don't usually use in tradtional scrapbooking. Because the clipbaords are more sturdy, I am able to use some chunkier embellishments and more paint! Check out my first clipbaord...

I will share the next clipboard once its finished...Its title will be "Delight in the Lord" and I'm liking the progress I've made so far...stay tuned!

tinamarie♥

Welcome Spring...

2010-03-10T17:26:00.005-05:00

What a wonderful gift that God would give us four seasons. After this past winter, I welcome all things spring. Mud, puddles, rain...bring it on. The last five days or so have been beautiful and the snow has been melting away. There are so many changes in the atmosphere as well as in the way people act. Just today I noticed it all of sudden...spring is in the air! People are driving with thier windows down, the kids are playing in the street again and I can finally sit on my back portch swing...yippee! I love seeing what surfaces beneath the snow in my backyard, I snapped a few shots to capture just that.

What is it that you love most about spring? Please share!

-tinamarie

It was so Amazing I just had to Share

2010-02-27T19:49:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to cook a lot of dinners from home lately and it's been working out great! Not to mention its been saving us a lot of money. I made this recipe because I love pesto and its one of Jon's favorites. It also super easy to make. Here it is:

Pesto-Olive Chicken
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breast halves
1/2 cup prepared pesto
1 or 2 jars (4.5 oz. each) of sliced mushrooms, drained (depending on how much you like mushrooms)
1 can (4.5 oz) of chopped ripe olives
1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Directions:
Flatten chicken slightly. Place in an ungreased baking dish. Spoon the pesto over the chicken then top with the mushrooms and olives. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with the cheese and then bake for 2-5 minutes more. You want the cheese to be nice and melty and make sure the chicken juices run clear.

That's it! You really don't need to know how to cook to make this recipe. As long as you can use a spoon, your good to go. I made this with little red skinned potatoes and McCormick's Potato Steamers! Which are awesome!
Enjoy!

New Blog Layout!

2010-02-22T15:53:00.000-05:00

I figured it was time to change my blog background to something more original. I added some personal touches to it! Purple seems to be one of my favorite colors right now, so I based it around that. Teal is a close second though. I was also in the mood to change it because I've been working on a blog background for a local store that sells fabulous fashions called Original Cin. My husband and I also designed thier website, and I think it came out pretty good considering this was our first one! They're blog is not up and running yet, but when it is, I will share the link for you guys to check out.

peace & love
tinamarie

Why You:

2010-02-14T14:22:00.000-05:00

I am enamoured and intrigued by your personality, and by the incredible pull of your persistent love. I endear and thrive on the little details that fill in the almost unnoticeable places in your daily pattern. The beautiful but slight expressions that don't quite overtake your face, but give you a soft and loving allure. The endless comfort of your eyes calls me to know you, and learn what amazing life you still have inside to share. I am grateful and excited to spend a lifetime in your arms.

I love you.
Happy Valentine's

-Jon

Now that is why my husband is amazing. No hallmark card could ever compete with that. Thank you God, for my perfect Valentine!

tinamarie

Unemployed and it Feels so Good

2009-07-08T19:56:00.000-04:00

I must admit that its kinda nice not having a job. Hopefully I will have a job before the money runs out though. But I'm trying not to think about that yet. Today I did absolutely nothing. It seems like a waste, but every now and then its nice to just do nothing. I napped, surfed the net, played some games, did a little reading and its really been quite nice. Of course, when Jon gets home, he probably won't be too happy that I didn't pack my closet, but I think I can get to it before he gets home...

People may think I'm crazy, but I'm not worried about the job situation just yet. I have prayed about it and I am open to working just about anywhere if need be. I'm thinking about working in the coffee industry again. I think back to when I worked at Caribou and I really did love that job. It was relaxing and fun and I really liked talking to all the regulars that came in. I have to stay positive because it will only make matters worse if I get all worked up about it. I trust God. He has a plan for me, so as long as I am open and grateful for whatever job I get things will fall into place. I'm not saying it will be easy, but it will be a lot easier if I just let God take control.

There's not much I can do now except apply for jobs, which I have been doing. So i am going to enjoy this unemployed status while I can. Before I know it I will be working 2 jobs and going to school again so I think I have a right to just relax while I can.

Since my last day of work, the apartment has been filling up with boxes. I am pleased to say we are just about done. The only thing left is the kitchen and closet. I packed up my scrapbook table and it looks wierd with a bunch of cardboard boxes there instead of the mess of paper scraps. But it won't be long till my table has a new home.

So here's to doing nothing. Its ok if you have a couple days here and there to just chill out. Tomorrow is a new day that will be filled with hand and knee floor scrubing. So with that said, I think I will continue to do nothing for today!

-tina marie

(one quarter) of (1 century) = 25 years

2009-06-30T08:59:00.000-04:00

June 27th was my birthday. I know its cliche to reminisce about the past year on your birthday, but I feel like I really need to this time around. I am making some big changes in my life. This next year is going to be interesting....to say the least, and I feel that maybe taking a glimpse back will help me as I make some big steps forward!

In no way do I feel old. Lets get that straight. But when I was 18 there were times that I thought turning 25 was a loooong ways away. Me and my girlfriends would chat about where we thought we would be when we turn 25 and I never wanted to make any assumptions. I mean, at the time that was 7 years away and I couldn't even guess what I'd be doing the next day, let alone 7 years from then. I have found that its good to have goals but if you try to predict the future you are just setting yourself up for disappointment.

So, now that I am 25, I realized I needed to start making some changes in my life. Everyday I try to be a better person than the day before. I go about my day with a smile on my face so that the people around me will in turn maybe smile back. For a while though, I have felt that the smiles I've been giving were not so sincere. That mostly had to do with me not finding happiness in my job and being so far away from my family. That is what brought about this whole moving thing in the first place. I wanted to go back to school and I didn't want to commit to 4 more years here in Virginia. It made sense for me to move back home and go back to school there, where I had the support and love of my family surrounding me daily. I began researching schools in the Pittsburgh area and found the one that seemed best and I applied. I got accepted and at that point there was no turning back. I am going to become an art teacher.

It did not take me long to realize that I could not be stuck behind a computer screen for 40 hours a week. I want to be involved with people, make a difference in someone's life, show others how art has shaped me and made me a better person. It clicked in my head one day, and I really felt it in my heart that God wanted me to teach...art of course!

I am not afraid, nervous or hesitant. I am willing and ready to work hard to make it happen. I know it won't be easy, and I'm sure it may seem silly to some. Why would I leave the security of my job to chase a dream in these times of recession? The way I look at, there is no better time than now! There has never been a time where money has been over flowing in my bank account, and putting off going to school with the hopes that there might be more money down the line is just rediculous. I cannot and will not let anything stop me.

I am ready to put this plan in motion. In fact, the plan has been moving since September...slowly but surely. It's exciting to me. The hope of a better future where I can actually look forward to waking up and going to work in the morning. I may be naive. Some teachers that I know have warned me of the negative aspects of working in the school system. They do not scare me. I think about my favorite teacher, Mr. Doucette, had him for 7th and 8th grade history. He was the best teacher ever, always imaginitive, funny, and just happy to teach. Not only was he a good teacher, but looking back on it now, he has proven that happiness in your job can be found. I am so excited about sharing the knowledge I have learned with others. I know I can make a difference, and I will, even if its just one person...its worth it.

In my 25 years, I have lived a happy and blessed life, but now I am ready to do and see more. I am going to work for God and do whatever it is he has planned for me. I am going to take more chances, complain less and find happiness in even the smallest of life's blessings. I hope that anyone who might read this think about thier own lives and realize its never too late to make a change. Do what God wants and you will learn to appreciate life more and be willing to take chances.

Poor are those who are afraid of running risks. Because maybe they are never disappointed, never disillusioned, never suffer like those who have a dream to pursue. But when they look back – for we always look back – they will hear their heart saying: “What did you do with the miracles that God sowed for your days? What did you do with the talent that your Master entrusted to you? You buried it deep in a grave because you were afraid to lose it. So this is your inheritance: the certainty that you have wasted your life.”

tinamarieY

My life revolves around weekends

2009-06-24T09:24:00.000-04:00

I am super duper excited for this weekend. Sandstock-A blast from the Past is going on down at the beach from the 26th to the 28th. It's also my birthday on Saturday...and my mom and dad are coming down for vacation. It will be a nice way to spend one of the last weekends we have left here...(sad face).

Not only will there be tributes to Jimi Hendrix, The Who and Santana, there will also be VW "hippie" vans on display. Which I love and plan on owning one someday. I am most excited about Saturday night because there will be a Pink Floyd laser show...ON THE BEACH! You have no idea how excited that makes me. Back in Pittsburgh, we used to go to "Midnight Floyd" at the Carnegie Science Center. Where they would have a laser show in the planetarium to the music of whichever album the audience chose. Usually "Dark Side of the Moon" and it was awesome, and we loved it. There isn't anything like that here in VA (not that I know of anyway) so I was totally stoked to hear about this weekends festivities. Funny thing is...my parents are going to be here...and I think it will be interesting to experience this with them...considering they grew up in that era. In fact, my mom went to see Pink Floyd live when she was around my age, and I am obviously jealous!

Weather you are a fan or not, you at least have to appreciate the music of the 60's...it has helped shape the music we hear today. As I get older, the more I am drawn to music of the past. Some of the crap that's out today is thoughtless, disrespectful and just bad. Call me an old hag, say whatever you want...the music of the 60's could have changed the way we as humans lived. Unfortuately, the hippies took it a little too far and it got out of hand. But they really were a thought provoking bunch, and that's why the music speaks to me. Sometimes I think I was born too late.

Enough rambling, time to get this day over with so I am that much closer to the weekend!

-peace, love and happiness-
Y tina marie

Lightpaintings!

2009-06-12T10:44:00.000-04:00

Have you honestly ever heard of such a thing? I am always trying to keep up with what other artists are doing these days, and it never ceases to amaze me how they can come up with such unique ideas. Ideas are great, I have millions of them running through my mind on the regular...but to be able to execute them well and see them into fruition is a whole different story. Most of my ideas fall by the wayside because I just can't seem to find the means to make it happen. That is why I find such inspiration in what others do, and how they do it. It gives me hope that it can be done, with lots of hard work and determination of course!

Now, Lightpaintings! The Chrysler Museum of Art is showcasing Art of Glass 2, where amazing works of glass blowing are a delight to see. In my opinion, you're born with the skills, you either have it or you don't. Artist Stephen Knapp takes art of glass to a whole nother level with his works. These Lightpaintings have really nothing at all to do with paint...just light, glass and a very imagintive and gifted eye. His "magical lightpaintings are a visual feast" and I am definately going to check this out for myself! You should to.

We need to be inspired. If we're not inspired, then we will never try to achieve greater things. Get out, see, do, touch, smell, listen and interact with all things that God has created for us to enjoy! Much love...

-tina marie Y

DMB in the 'burgh

2009-06-04T09:53:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again! With summer knocking at my door, so too is the 2009 concert season! What sucks the most though, is the fact that how rediculous concert ticket prices can be. I try to look out for the special promos that the venues offer, like "service charge free wednesday's" and sometimes they have tickets on sale for $10 for a limited time only.

I already missed Coldplay because I went out of town around that time. I won't be able to catch the Pittsburgh show because that already went down. I was so verry close to missing the DMB show too, until my sister swooped in and saved the day. I think since she got her new job she has had a little extra money to spend...sooo she bought me and my other sister tickets for actual pavillion seats! That's like 70 bucks a pop. How generous is that? But still, I hadn't asked for the days off and considering I'm leaving in a month, I didn't want to keep asking for time off. I asked my boss anyway, and of course she was cool with it. So now my sister Kelly and I will drive to Pittsburgh for roughly 2.5 days...drive back...then move back a couple weeks after that! There has been too much driving going on lately, geesh! Good thing I got that new ride!

I promised myself, no matter where I go in the world, that I would make it a tradition to go back to Pittsburgh for the DMB show. There's just something so special and fun about spending an everning under the stars with your friends and family listening to your favorite tunes. Life is good!

BTW, the new DMB album is great. I used to be a DMB hater. I think it was because in highschool, all the "preppy rich kids" were all about Dave, and since I wanted to be different, I chose to dislike them without even giving them a chance. But when my sister encouraged me to take a listen, there was no turning back. I realized what I was missing out on. Since then I've convinced a few other people to give DMB a chance and its always been a success. Thier music is poetry, and considerng all the albums they've made in thier 18 year history...there is definately something for everyone. This band has had many powerful things to say through thier music, and people want to hear it. I'm sick of the crap that floods the radios these days, with artists who don't have much to say at all. So when I came across DMB, it was refreshing to hear a band that actual has something interesting to say...and each and every one of us can relate to it in some way. I like how sometimes one song can bring so many different people together and in turn, peace and harmony are born again!

-tina marie Y

I've been doin some stuff...

2009-05-28T17:42:00.000-04:00

I have been quite busy this past week or so. Since last Wednesday to be exact, my life has been jam packed with things to do, and that's just the way I like it sometimes. Jon and I took a trip up to Pittsburgh for his sister's wedding. Which was beautiful. I really had a nice time hanging with his family and meeting some of the people in his life that he talked about before. His sister, Beth, got married at the beautiful Armstrong Farms way out in the sticks. Scott and Beth exchanged vows by a cute little pond on a beautiful warm day. The reception was held inside a re-furbed barn. It was just perfect.

Armstrong Farms in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania

Scott and Beth walking down the aisle after they said "I do"

This trip seemed to seal my fate. Since deciding to move back to Pittsburgh, I have still had this reluctance in my heart. But this particular visit back home, made me realize and thank the good Lord, that there is where He wants us to be right now. One of the biggest hurdles involved with moving is finding a place to live. We had made a bunch of appointments to see some apartments and slept through them all since we were so tired from the drive. So when we went to visit Nana, my aunt Arlene, who lives next door, asked if we were interested in the duplex across the street that her sister owns. Her mother who passed a couple years ago used to live there, and the place has been empty ever since. "Of course we're interested" We took a look at it, and it needs some work, but its really pefect for the two of us. The house sits on a dead end street, and about half of the people that live there are relatives of mine. I will be able to spend lots of time with Nana and Papap, my cousins, and my sister too since she's moving in with my grandparents. We'll have a nice backyard, back porch, 2 bedrooms, and a basement! (something I took for granted, living in Virginia where basements do not exist.) All for $500 a month! We are completely stoked.

Our future home!

I rekindled some friendships from highschool, found a place to live, spent time with my awesome family and realized all the blessings that God has put in my life. It is obvious where God wants us to be.

We got back to Virginia Sunday night, and Monday was a fun filled day with some friends from college who came to visit. I made a yummy spread of food, steak kabobs, hot dogs, pizza bites, buffalo chicken dip, and more. I would have taken some pics, but it was literally gone before I could count to ten! We were hungry! Then on Wednesday, to celebrate our anniversary. I surprised Jon with tickets to see his favorite band, Opeth, in DC. But first we went to the lego store in Tysons Corner Center, where Jon had a field day with all the hard to find lego kits. And I had a field day with my new camera that I finally got my hands on!

The Washington Monument

The lego wall at the Lego store

I have not been this busy in a while, so I'm sure you can tell I was excited about it! I didn't even care about the loads of work I had waiting for me today when I got back. It just helped me to realize that special memories are made with friends and family, not sitting behind a computer screen all day. That has also brought me peace, knowing that jobs will come and go, and I can't worry too much about what kind of job I'll be working when I get back. It will fall into place if I let God take the lead. He's paved the way so far, and I know the dirt path ahead will soon be paved with all the things I need in the future.

Trader Joe's

2009-05-18T17:46:00.000-04:00

They just opened up a Trader Joe's right by where I live. I didn't understand what all the hype was about untill I went there myself and I was quite impressed. They've got all kinds of goodies, from all over the world and most of it is fresh and organic. The fresh stuff, like cheeses, meats, breads, milk are all from somewhat local farms, within our sorrounding states anyways. Which means fresher and better for you! We went on a rainy Sunday afternoon, bad idea, there were like a million people in there! But it wasn't bad, cause they were giving away free samples of food and coffee! Anyway, back to the food, they've got unique cheeses, a huge wine selection, really interesting stuff that you don't see at your everday grocery store. We just kept piling items in our basket, and before we knew it, it was full!

Dired dragon frut, cinnamon almonds, yogurt covered raisins, garlic basil linguini,
spinach artichoke dip, mini pitas, blackberries and berry cumb pie

The spinach artichoke dip was yummy! I cut the pitas in half, drizzled some olive oil over top of them and popped them in the oven for a couple minutes and used them for dipping! Delish! Needless to say, the linguini was fantastic, the noodles are infused with garlic and basil so there is really no need for sauce, but I used some anyways...

Spinach and Artichoke Dip with toasted pitas!

If you have a Trader Joe's near you, be sure to check it out and let me know what goodies you find! I'm going there right now to whip something together for dinner tonight!

-tina marie Y

Puerto Rico or Bust!

2009-05-15T11:55:00.000-04:00

My mom has this friend who a couple years ago, packed up her life here in the U.S., sold her house and headed south...to Puerto Rico! With the money she had, she bought a Bed & Breakfast on an island off of Puerto Rico called Culebra. I admire her for doing that, and I firmly believe I will do the same thing one day. She has been there for roughly 5 years, and I'm guessing she must really love it because she hasn't come back yet!

For those of you who might not know about this little Island called Culebra...it's perfect. Its located 20 miles east of Puerto Rico and 15 miles west of Saint Thomas, its dimensions are about 7 miles long and 4 miles wide! That's it! So when my mom non-chalantly pointed it out to me that she was going there in November, I was like "Not without me, you're not!" She said "Well you can come, you gotta find your own way there." So with that said. I looked up airfare and found that a round trip ticket is about $300 to $400! That's not bad considering the exotic location! We would most likely be staying with my mom's friend, Molly, at her B&B for free! I'd be stupid to pass this opportunity up! Of course I told Jon about it, then my sister and they were quickly on board as well.

It's funny, my mom mentioned that we may not really want to go because "there's nothing really to do there" and I laughed. That's exactly why I want to go...in fact, I need to go. It's a great way to get away from reality, enjoy nature, experience a part of earth that is still somewhat untouched by the complexities of man. No concrete jungles, fast food joints, strip malls...just God's handiwork at my fingertips. I suggest that anybody visit here. Even the cost of staying at one of the many B&B's on the island, it is sill much cheaper than VB oceanfront hotels! I mean its rediculous. Molly's B&B is called Casita Tropical and its just so cute! 80 bucks a night is pretty cheap for such a wonderful time that will be had.

I'm really looking forward to this trip. Even if my mom's plans fall through, I'm still going, no matter what. Truth be told, don't be surprised if I don't come back, because that's really how amazing this place is...see for yourself :

Some pictures of the island.

Molly's B&B, Casita Tropical. Isn't it adorable?

So, maybe I'll see you there?!?!

-tina marie Y

One Year Ago Today

2009-05-11T09:13:00.000-04:00

I can remember the first time I layed eyes on Jon. The first day of school at PTI. Let me tell you, not only was I not interested, I was actually quite scared of him. Ok, so I judged him before I really even got the chance to speak to him. It was hard not too...he had that long hair, dark clothes, long black trench coat, the "goth" look going on, and I was just not into that.

Things quickly changed when we started to become friends. He fascinated me. His kindness was unlike anybody I had ever met before. He always helped others before he helped himself. Anytime I needed help on projects he was my go to guy. I always sat next to him in class and we became like best friends. I told him about my life, he shared a little with me. But, he mostly let me talk! It wasn't until my dear friends Laura and Jess joked with me about how they thought I liked him that I actually realized it myself. Once I began having deeper feelings for him, I knew I had to tell him. We were about to graduate and I was planning my move to Virginia. I couldn't leave without telling him how I felt. The thing was, he had a girfriend at the time and I didn't want to get in the way. When he told me things were getting rocky with her, I knew that was my chance. We spent hours after school talking, and never once did I mention how I felt, until one day, he slowly coaxed it out of me. Right there, in the parking lot of PTI, I blurted it out..."I LOVE YOU" and all he could say was, "I know." He knew all along, in fact, I think he knew even before I knew! He wanted me to tell him on my own. He never forced it out of me, he let things fall into place. And they did. Just like God intended.

The next year we spent countless hours driving back and forth to see each other. It was all worth it. We told his family he was moving to Virginia with me and the rest is history. I knew right away that he was the one I'd be spending forever with. I couldn't imagine being with anybody else. There are not enough words that can explain the closeness that we share and I look forward to all the moments we'll share in the future.

My friends and I stopped in Waynesburg to borrow Jon's video camera before heading to
Va Beach for vacation. This was before we were dating. I giggle when I look at this pic!

When we first started dating I surprised Jon on his birthday, October 2005

-tina marie Y

Baby BOOM!

2009-05-07T01:52:00.000-04:00

There seems to be a lot of people around me lately that are getting pregnant. It really is a blessing and an exciting time in thier lives. It's kinda been giving me the itch. Ya know, going to the store to purchase cute baby clothes is really a sneaky way to brainwash woman into thinking they want to have kids...well I'm not faliing for it...or am I? I think I am finaly beginning to realize why lots of woman "give up on thier appearence" after they have children. Here are my reasons why: a.) there's no time or money left to pamper themselves b.) they're just too darn exhausted to even care, and c.) they're too busy worrying about thier baby looking cute and fab that they forget about what they look like. Let me just say I'm too selfish right now, I like to pamper myself, and I'm not willing to give that up so easily....

Then there's that part of me that says, "now is the best time cause you're young and still somewhat cool" I've always wanted to be a young mom. I thought I'd be ready to have kids by the time I was 25. But I'm not. In fact, I can't see being mentally or financially ready to have a child for at least another 5 years. I'll be 30 by then, that isn't too old to have children is it?...ahhh, who cares. In the end it isn't up to me anyways. When God says its time, then that's when it will happen, whether I'm ready for it or not!

I bet you're wondering what Jon thinks about this. He knows that niether of us are ready for that. But if it were to happen, we would gladly accept our fate and move on with the next chapter. Sometimes I let my mind wonder about what kind of people him and I would make. It's really quite exciting for me to think about it and one day, I can't wait to find out!

The cute little outfit I bought for baby brody!

Kelly bought him his first pair of Jordan's

-tina marie Y

I am lost without my camera

2009-05-04T10:34:00.000-04:00

So I was taking a picture of something the other day. A picture of the yummy dinner I made, and someway, somehow I dropped my darn camera and it landed right on the lens. I picked it up and the lens was all bent and jacked up and I knew at that moment, my camera was dead. I cried. There are very few tangible things in life that I value enough to take extra special care of. One being my car, two, my photographs and three, my camera! Everything else, I could do without. So to lose my camera was a big deal. Especially because I do not have money in the budget to buy a new one.

My sister brought up the fact that dad has his old olympus camera just sitting at the house, not being used. Its not actually old, its just, he never uses it so its old to him. It's a pretty nice camera from the reviews I've been reading on it. When it first came out around 2004, it was one of the best of its kind. I've never had a camera this nice, so I am totally excited and I REALLY need to have it. I called up my mom to ask if dad would give it to me. Even after 25 years of life, I still go through my mom to ask for favors from my dad, for fear he might turn me down. Which is sooo not fair to him, because he always gives to his kids, no mater what we ask of him! So of course my mom had no idea what I was talking about at first, and she was getting the olympus confused with the other camera they have, and it was getting rediculous. so I just said forget it. Well, 5 minutes later she calls me back and says, "You're dad said you can have his camera." I was stoked, and quickly reminded that I should have just went to him in the first place!

So, I'm getting a new camera, and at the rate my parents do things, I don't think they'll ever get around to shipping it to me. So I might have to wait till my next trip up there to get it myself. Which isn't until May 21st. That may not seem like a long time to some people, but to me, that's forever! Plus, I have a very special occasion coming up that I don't want to be without a camera. I like to bring my camera with me everywhere I go because you never know when you might want to snap a few photographs. Either way, I will have to wait. Here is a little pic of the new (to me) camera:

-tina marieY

P.S. If anybody has anything to say about this camera, please do share!

Zero Concentration

2009-04-29T10:42:00.001-04:00

So, as I'm sure you can tell by my blog title, I am totally and completely not with it today. I mean, I get to work and as soon as I sit down, I'm ready to leave. I know everybody has days like this, and usually when I admit it to myself, it just makes the day seem longer. So, instead of working on layouts, and doing stuff I should be doing, I decided to browse the internet for a while. I remembered that I wanted to get a new background wallpaper for my comp. The pittsburgh skyline background was getting old. I could very well come up with something in photoshop on my own, since I'm so adament about not doing work today, I really should. Then I remembered this website from a year ago that I used to get wallpapers from all the time. These artists are skilled...I mean it!

I am so jealous/amazed/bewildered and totally smitten over these beautiful works of art. They are called Desktopography (nature's design on your desktop) and these designers have skills that are unmatched. Since I do not have any windows near me to look outside at this gorgeous day, I try to decorate my cubicle with bright colors and fun trinkets to try and overshadow these drab gray walls. (btw, not having a window by your work space should be illegal, does anyone agree?) So of course I'm going to have a cool, totally awesome wallpaper for my computer. On top of that, what we see everyday really does effect our life, the way we feel, and the way we treat others. In my mind its very important to surround yourself with objects that inspire you, whatever your craft is...sooooo I chose this one...

Tittled Little World, from Exhibition 4 2008

I really had a hard time deciding, so I will just switch it up every 2 weeks or whenever I feel like it! I could only dream to posses the skills that these designers have. Tell me which is your favorite, and don't forget to surround yourself with the beauty of nature everyday!

-tinamarieY

Out with the Old, in with the New

2009-04-22T09:36:00.000-04:00

I recently got a new car. This one is special first of all, because God made it possible, and second of all, its the first big purchase Jon and I have made together! I must say though, I am missing the Lancer terribly. That's not to say I don't love the Jetta, because I do, its just I guess I'm still getting used to it. I do feel somewhat silly for letting myself become so attached to this particular earthly treasure, but me and Lance...we've been through a lot!

The new car: 2003 VW Jetta 1.8 Turbo

I really feel as though she was my one true love, as far as vehicles I will own in my lifetime is concerned. She never broke down, never gave up, kept on pushing on, even after all the traveling I did with her. Lance was my first car, she was with me during my college years, my trips to Va Beach (before I moved here). She was with me for the move, early morning drives to Caribou Coffee for a 5a.m. shift. She kept me cool when I was warm, and warm when I was cool. She was there through all the moments Jon and I shared when we first fell in love. We spent lots of time in that car together, hanging out after school. Listening to our music bumping from the speakers. For stock speakers, they really were awesome! Lance helped me through many snow storms, rain storms, and life storms. She never failed, she was there for me always.

Me and Lance, just before saying goodbye.

When you think about the tangible things we posses on earth, some of us can't possibly imagine what we would do without these objects. Of course we tend to forget that one day when we're dead, they really arn't going to matter anymore, so why do we try so hard to keep our prized possesions from slipping away? Is it because we pay good money for these things, and we don't want to see that money go to waste? Or is it because these things make us feel a certain way; i.e. manly, beautiful, or noticed? Well for me, its always been the memories that have tied me so tightly to the things I posses. But I always fail to realize, that no matter what happens to the possesions that we hold near and dear, the memories will always be there.

Now, back to my new car, everyday I love it more and more. She runs beautifully and really is a decent car. Besides the fact that there is no middle console to put all my junk, and the cup holders are in a really inconvenient spot (they pop out from the dash right in front of the CD player), she's just right. Now I'm looking toward the future, imagining the new memories to be made, such as the loads of art supplies that will be hauled around there in the next four years, moving back to PA, new memories with old and hopefully new friends, moments shared with my husband, and maybe even the thought of hauling our children around in it. Nah, maybe that'll have to wait until the next car...

-tina marie Y

P.S. I'd like to know what objects you hold near and dear to your heart. Please share with me your memories!

Purpose

2009-04-21T09:52:00.000-04:00

Dear God, If I was a star, I'd like to be a very bright one. I thank God for making me unique. I praise God for giving me special abilities. When I use my talent to do something with my heart and soul, I feel good. I know God is pleased. I feel like a bright shining star reflecting God's love to the world!

Its been weighing heavily on my mind lately. We're all born in God's image, and he has already set forth our purpose. The hard part is finding out what that purpose is. I feel I have found my purpose, as far as my life's work is concerned. But most importantly, I feel all humans in general have one main purpose. That is to serve the Lord, by spreading God's love all around. If we don't realize that is our main purpose, then we will not reap the benefits from the other plans God has set forth. Once that is clear, God has made it obvious that each and every one of us is unique, and has something special and amazing to share with the world. What's sad is that sometimes people give up to easily if they can't figure out their purpose right away, or if they choose to ignore the signs because its not what they want. I have observed this, and I have one question. Who ever said that God has just one plan for you? After all, Jesus was more than just a carpenter during his days on earth! Maybe God wants you to serve in the Army for five years, then go become a architect. Maybe he wants you to be a professional athlete for the first half of your life, then become an accountant. I understand the cost of schooling forces us to only choose one career path, but in all honesty, if God gave you the skills to be more than one person in life, then he will lead the way for you to achieve what he has set forth. All you have to do is have 100% faith in Him, and he will make even your most outrageous dreams come true.

Another human trait I have observed is that lots of people feel they need to do "big things" in order to have a happy life. Have a big job, a big house, a big car, big money. But what about the the things that are small, that our society has torn down and deemed inadequate. Like, swinging on the swings on a warm day, or a hot cup of coffee in the morning (I thank God everyday for that!) or even something as simple as brushing your teeth at night. Why is it that we have to have a high-powered job to make us feel like we're doing something in life? I look at my family, and for the most part, they live a simple life (minus my dad's obsession with his DVD collection) I would say they have both been given a special gift in life. My dad worked in the steal mill, then when he got layed-off, he found his calling to become a wood worker and has been doing that ever since. My mom, on the other hand, has always dealt in customer service for health care. Hearing sad stories of the people who are calling to handle insurance issues of a deceased loved one, or the angry person who no matter what, is always right. She has done this for a long time now, and I am so amazed at her ability to just be content with what she has. A million co-workers have come and gone, and she has stuck with it. Both mom and dad, do not have high paying jobs, they don't care about status, and they don't surround their lives around money. I look at them with pride knowing all they have done in their lives, simply by loving, sharing, caring, teaching (and so much more) all of which are FREE gifts from God. When all is said and done, the best things in life really are free.

I know I am beginning to ramble, but my point is this: Whatever it is that God intended for us to do in life, accept it, thank him for it, be content with it and live your life! If you can't find out what it is that the Lord has planned for you, I'm sorry but I don't have the answer. But I know how you can find out, give up your independence and surrender your life to God. Ask him, and truly mean it, what it is that he wants you to do. If you you walk in faith with him, your questions will be answered and you will find your purpose. It really is that simple. That's not to say there won't be bumps along the way. God has to test us somehow so he knows we're on the right path, but don't give up...your happiness is within reach. And if you let God in, you'll ultimately get what you want out of this life.

-tina marie Y

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and HE will make your paths straight. -Proverbs 3: 5-6

Mmmmmm, food

2009-04-19T11:22:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I love food. In my family, food=love. There are many memories shared around our dinner table. So I thought that I would share the interesting recipes that I find over time. I recently had my first go at making Lasagna, and it was such a success that I'm all about cooking now. I made sour cream and chive turkey burgers, and they were fantastic! Most recently, I made Italian baked chicken and Pastina. I changed the recipe a bit because I couldn't find any pastina, but since "pastina" literally means "tiny pasta" any small pasta will do. I used conchiglie, aka the small conch shell shaped noodles. I also left out the onions, because I am not a fan. But here is the recipe with all original ingrediants for your tasting adventure!

Ingredients:
• 1 cup pastina past (or any small pasta)
• 2 tablespoons of Olive Oil
• 1/2 cup of cubed chicken breast (or more if you'd like!)
• 1/2 cub diced onion
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 14.5 can of diced tomatoes in juice
• 1 cup of shredded mozarella (or more if you're a cheese lover)
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
• 1/4 cup of italian bread crumbs (or any bread crumbs)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 1 tablespoon of butter plus more for buttering the baking dsh

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until just tender, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Drain pasta into a large mixing bowl.

Meanwhile, put the olive oil in a medium saute pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes. Add the onions and garlic, stirring to combine, and cook until the onions are soft and the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes more. Put the chicken mixture into the bowl with the cooked pasta. Add the canned tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Place the mixture in a buttered 8 by 8 by 2-inch baking dish. In a small bowl mix together the bread crumbs and the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the top of the pasta mixture. Dot the top with small bits of butter. Bake until the top is golden brown, about 30 minutes.

-tinamarieY

Home, Roots and Great Blessings

2009-04-17T11:36:00.001-04:00

This week has been going by slowly. I've worked three days this week, but still it seems to be dragging on. I have a couple ideas as to why I've really been feeling this slow drag. 1. I just got back from visiting my family and friends in Pittsburgh for Easter, and 2. I have a lot of stuff on my mind that mostly has to do with my future plans. Future plans which consist of me leaving Virginia, and moving back to PA.

I have felt the sting of lonliness for a while now. I have Jon and my sister, and of course God to keep me company, but its been hard not having my family around when I need them. These past three years have just flown by and at the same time it seems like its taken forever. I feel like I'm missing out on things back home. Whether it be major, or minor events, I feel out of the loop and I can't go back and make my self present in all the moments that have gone by without me. I don't want to leave Virginia, but I don't want to stay either. I do not want to miss out on anymore moments.

I am really blessed that I got to go back and visit for Easter. During such a joyous time of year, I was super excited that I got to spend it with my family. My cousin Shellyn with her husband Dan, baptized their baby on Easter. This Catholic tradition, which everyone in my family is, was actually a very wonderful, exciting day for the baby. He smiled the whole time, and actually loved having the holy water poured over his head! The other baby was just crying the whole time, but Jake was really lovin it. I felt God so strongly in that church that day. He really blessed me and my family all these years, and to have a new member in the family is just awesome. Especially because Nana and Papap are great grandparents now. What an amazing gift that is. To be able to see your childrens children, having children! Have you ever stopped to think how crazy that is? Can you imagine living that long to be able to experience that? I'm only 24, so it's quite difficult for me to imagine that at this stage of my life.

My family's roots are deep. I have a strong relationship with them and I just can't stay away any longer. I know I will miss the beach, I'm sure I will cry a lot when its time to say goodbye. But something tells me I will be back. Maybe not to Virginia Beach, but some beach, somewhere in the world. In fact, I'm sure of it.

-tinamarieY

Let Me Begin

2009-04-15T15:57:00.000-04:00

Livin' on love. What does that mean to you? I believe, we humans really can't survive without it. Most importantly, its God's love that we need more than anything. If we have that, then it just keeps flowing. Our relationships are the only things that matter on this earth, and if we can't learn to love eachother, then what's the point of living? I know sometimes, I don't always love all people, all the time. But I must try my hardest to make sure I at least make the effort to love, without any barriers, no matter how hard it may seem at times.

I am doing this blog for me. I have been feeling the need to write lately. I could easily do so in a private journal, but I am excited about the idea of others hearing what I have to say. I want to hear what you have to say too! This blog isn't going to be all serious business all the time. I've got a lot more to say that doesn't only have to do with love. I will complain, I will share knowledge, I will gossip, I will spread the good word. But the core of it all will be based on love.

Let's see where this goes. I hope to meet some interesting folks on here. Get into deep conversations about life, which I find not a lot of people have "time" for anymore. All people care about now-a-days is money, power and status. A lot of people don't care about the things that really matter in life such as: building a relationship with God, building relationships with others, and finding out the true meaning of why we are here. Each of us is unique which means each of us has a different purpose. I want to meet new people, discuss these topics, learn, and share the knowledge with others. Are there any people out there that feel the same? I invite you to take a glimpse into my little world. Its not all that interesting, but you might find I have a few good things to say, or you might hate what I have to say. Either way, I look forward to exploring other people's blogs, and maybe making a friend or two along the way.

-tinamarie Y
Wake up and Live, don't forget to Laugh and always remember to Love.