Frozen Fill In The Blank Friday

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Hello lovely readers. The temperature in Upstate NY has plummeted to a chilly 15 degrees. It is past the point of just cold, and has reached "dangerous to go outside with exposed skin". I spent just long enough outside for Asha to get some exercise, then immediately returned to my couch and a pile of blankets. I am linking up with Lauren at The Little Things We Do for Fill In The Blank Friday. This Friday is all about Christmas; my favorite part of the year. 

Christmas Board on Pinterest

1.  "The best way to spread Christmas cheer is..." "Ok clearly, the answer is singing loud for all to hear. However, for me the best way to spread Christmas cheer is to give presents. I love love love giving people presents. I love the whole picking out process, and seeing their faces when they open the gift. 

2.  The holiday season is _very happy this year. We are settled into our house and seeing both of our families. Lane deploys soon after, but we can forget that for now. 

3.  When it comes to holiday decorating...I am fully in favor. I spent today putting up yards and yards of greenery. I go all out. 

4. The thing I look forward to most about the holidays is seeing my family and getting a Christmas tree. 

Christmas Board on Pinterest

5. My favorite holiday tradition is going to see my grandparents as a kid after we opened presents. I hope to live close enough to our parents to recreate this with our own kids. 

6. This year my Christmas plans include driving to New Jersey to see my family. Lane's uncle has his own plane and is coming to get us for a second trip to Connecticut. I am really glad they we get to see both sides of the family this year. 

7.  My favorite holiday food is plain sugar cookies. There is nothing better than a sugar cookie in the shape of a Christmas tree. 

Happy Holidays to everyone =) 

Pinning It Up

I have seen this link-up floating around, and decided to jump in and participate this week. I am linking up with Stephanie at Beautiful Mess  and Katie at Keep Calm and Carry On  for Saw It, Pinned It, Did It. I want to show off some of my Christmas decoration I got off Pinterest. 

On Pinterest       Original Source

I am obsessed with chalkboards. I have two in my house and would happily add ten more. I think my husband might eventually complain. However, he leaves for deployment in a few months and I am expecting a chalkboard explosion. I was really inspired by the "Baby It's Cold Outside" chalkboard. We have a "No Christmas Stuff Till After Thanksgiving Rule" but I figured this could sneak under the radar. I put it up a few weeks ago and just love it. 

Here is my version 

My handwriting skills are not as good as the Pinterest version, but it still makes me happy. 

I also modified this pin, substituting silver bells for cranberries. I love how the bells coordinate with my "Jingle All The Way" sign. And clearly, I added another chalkboard. 

On Pinterest   Original Source

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On Pinterest    Original Source

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No More Butter Bars

My lovely husband was promoted yesterday. Originally he was going to be promoted last Wednesday, but due to scheduling craziness it was pushed to Monday November 26th. I was a little nervous because it was scheduled for 10:00 and I had to be at work at 11:00. Lane assured me it would only take about fifteen minutes and I would be on my way to work. I should have known better. I show up at 9:45, and immediately find out that it won't start till 10:30, then we hear 10:45. I start to get a little panic-y. I really didn't want to miss it, but I also didn't want to be late for work. This is where the angel of Lane's Team Leader swoops in and saves the day. The power of that oak leaf on your chest clearly means you can move mountains. He got the LTC to agree to promote Lane separately and early so that I could be there. Perfect, all our problems are solved. However, the LTC was about a half mile away. We set off from the Squadron headquarters and trudged through the snow. 

This is chivalry 

In my desire to be cute for Lane's promotion, I wore heels and a dress. Fort Drum winters and heels do not go well together. Lane, being the gentlemen that he is, carried me through the snow. He had a quick promotion ceremony and I was there to put on his new rank. I was really grateful to his Major and Lieutenant Colonel for allowing him to be promoted before the rest of the group.  

I love the stetsons

I am so proud of everything that he has accomplished so far in his army career. It hasn't been that long, but he has excelled at every task presented to him. He made it through Ranger School without recycling. He was chosen to be part of the advising team during deployment. I am so lucky that he married me and I get to be a part of this wonderful adventure. 

Holiday Gift Guide- Nerd Part 1

In my next Holiday Gift Guide, I am all about the nerds in your life. I was going to do a general nerd gift guide, but I found so much great stuff for separate categories that I will probably just end up doing multiple. Today is all about Star Wars. I have multiple Star Wars fanatics in my life, and I know some of these would be perfect. 

1. Darth Vader and Son  2. Star Wars Vehicle Prints  3. Personalized I Am Your Father Poster  4. Christmas Yoda Ears  5. R2D2 Hat

I would highly recommend checking out the Etsy Shop with the vehicle prints. They have gorgeous posters for a variety of movies. One of Lane's favorite Christmas gift I have ever given him was the giant Lego TIE fighter that now happily sits in our office. 

Happy day after Thanksgiving. For those of y'all who are shopping, be safe and I hope you get great deals. 

Give Thanks

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American readers. I am happily in Virginia visiting Lane's parents for a few days. Lane's mom has to work today, so our plan is to do our big dinner tomorrow. I wanted to include a few things I am thankful for this week.

1. My family. 

The best thing that ever happened to me was being born the daughter of my parents. I wouldn't be the wife, teacher, or person that I am today without their influence.

2. My husband.

He rocks.

3. My job

Although teaching has some really rough moments, I am really liking the most aspects of my job. I am completely in love with the academic advising aspect of my job. I feel like I make a positive difference in soldiers' lives every day. 

4. Asha

Oh sweet girl. you are such a blessing. You were my constant companion while Lane was gone at NTC. I know with the upcoming deployment it will be exactly the same. You are my favorite cuddle buddy and the cutest alarm clock I could ever wish for. However, with all the excitement of getting to Virginia last night. You basically kept me up all night. I still adore you, but baby girl: I need some sleep.

Happy Thanksgiving =) 

Holiday Gift Guide- For The Walls

I am using this post to include "What I Am Loving Wednesday" and my latest installment of my Holiday Gift Guide. This particular guide is for art, prints, and things to hang up. These are all gorgeous works of art which would make me very happy to find under my tree. 

1. British Love Print.

 I think this would be such a cute addition to any home. I have a deep and abiding love for Great Britain. I went to visit Lane in Scotland while he was going to school there. I also attended Oxford for one term. I am still loving GB and all the wonderful people I met there. Lane and I both hope to make it back and live there for at least a few years. 

2. Three-Letter Wooden Monogram 

This has been on my wish list for a while. I think that it would make the perfect addition to any holiday wreath. I would probably paint it white and use it throughout the year for different holiday displays. 

3. Redbird Ink You & Me Print

I am a massive fan of Redbird Ink. Besides the fact that we are both from Decatur, GA, her work is just incredible. I own the Love and Happiness print. It makes me smile every time I walk up my stairs. I am actually thinking of asking for this print from my parents. A few stores in the Decatur area carry her work and I am dying to add this to my collection. 

4. States United Print

This print has a very special place in my heart. We purchased on last year to use for our guests to sign at the wedding. I FINALLY got it framed a few weeks ago and it is now happily hanging above our bed. 

Ta Da! 

The artist is absolutely incredible. I had such amazing responses from him. He made me a custom order right away. I am not getting any kind of benefit to say this, but I cannot recommend his shop highly enough. The work is absolutely gorgeous and he is a pleasure to work with.  

How amazing would this be for a baby's room?

5. Red Bird Ink Love and Joy Cards

The last thing I am loving this week are these cards, also from Red Bird Ink. We already ordered our cards, but I would consider buying this set of six just to frame a few. I framed a card from this shop, and it looks just as good as some of my actual prints. I know I am a little heavy on the Red Bird Ink, I just really adore her work. 

I hope some of these put a smile on your face, or gave you an idea for a gift for a friend or family member. I am loving so many gorgeous pieces of art this year. My Christmas list is all things for my walls.

I hope all my readers have a wonderful Thanksgiving full of Turkey and time with family. 

Holiday Gift Guide- The Fellas

Our second installment of the MrsMollyP Gift Guide is focused on the menfolk in our lives. Lane and I have been giving each other gifts for almost a decade. In that time I have hit some out of the ballpark, and some have been less than thrilling. I asked for his input to help create this list of gift suggestions for your favorite guy.

From our brewing experience. 15 gallons of beer 

1. Brew Your Own Beer.

This was one of the best gift ideas ever. I actually heard about it from a former roommate of mine. Sadly, I was 19 when I found out and knew I would have to put that idea on ice for at least two years. It made the perfect gift for Lane's 21st birthday. I recently found out that the amazing brew pup we went to brew our own beer, Shenandoah Brewing Company, closed. If you can find a brewing company near you, I highly recommend this as a fantastic gift. It also makes a great date.

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2. Leatherman Multi-Tool.

I actually bought this for Lane as a wedding/ranger school gift.I liked the idea of writing a sweet note like "Throughout our lives I hope I can take care of you and everything you need. For anything I can't do, this should do the trick"

Buy at Lodge Skillets

3. Mini Guitar Skillet 

If your man likes to cook and/or play guitar, this would be an awesome gift. They aren't too big, but would be perfect for omelettes. Also, Lodge makes awesome cast iron skillets. 

Cabela's Shearling Elk Moccasins

4. Cabela's Moccasins 

Y'all, I can't even explain how comfortable these are. Lane's feet might 5 sizes bigger than mine, but I still snag these to walk around the house. Your man, and his feet, will thank you. Fair warning, Lane thinks they run a little narrow so this might be a gift that he can go try on first. 

Colonel Littleton Leather and Canvas Shave Kit

5. This gorgeous shave kit is on the pricier side, but it is absolutely gorgeous. The leather is beautiful and this would be perfect for your manly man. This has been on Lane's wish list for a while, and I am certain many of y'alls' men would love it too. 

Thanks for checking in for Part 2 of my lovely gift guide. I plan to include a few more for your nerdier loved ones, a little guide for the ladies, and something for the parents. I love creating these guides. I hope they give you some ideas and help out with holiday shopping.

Holiday Gift Guide- Dogs

I have decided to do a gift guide for the holiday season. I loving seeing suggestions for gifts, and hope that maybe some of these will inspire you with a little holiday cheer. 

First up, gifts for the puppies. My baby girl will have her own stocking and stack of gifts. For those of y'all that are equally enamored of your dogs, here are some fun gift suggestions. 

1. Bow tie collar for your favorite pooch. This Etsy Shop has the most amazing collars and leashes for your preppy puppy. This would make a perfect gift if you know someone who has a male dog. Also, if you are getting married and your dog is attending, this would be perfection. 

Great Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe- Pinterest
Original Source

2. . Homemade dog biscuits. I have seen loads of recipes for these, but I like the looks of Cesar Milan's Apple Crunch recipe. You can find it here. 

Apple Crunch Pupcakes

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups water

• ¼ cup applesauce (unsweetened)

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1/8 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 medium egg

• 4 cups whole wheat flour 

• 1 cup dried apple chips (unsweetened)

• 1 tbsp baking powder

2. Mix water, applesauce, honey, egg, and vanilla together in a bowl

3. Add remaining ingredients and mix until well blended

4. Pour into lightly greased muffin pans

5. Bake 1 ¼ hours

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Mix water, applesauce, honey, egg, and vanilla together in a bowl

3. Add remaining ingredients and mix until well blended

4. Pour into lightly greased muffin pans

5. Bake 1 ¼ hours

I plan to make a whole load of dog treats for all of Asha'a dog park friends. 

All From Petco's Holiday Collection

3.  I will definitely be getting a few Christmas themed toys for Asha. These are a relatively cheap and cute way to incorporate your pets into opening gifts on Christmas day. 

I plan on doing a few more themed guides before Christmas is upon us. I hope that all my wonderful readers have a fantastic weekend. 

Two Post Friday

I made a spur of the moment decision to do a second blog post today. I am linking up with Lauren at The Little Things We Do for Fill In The Blank Friday. 

1.  My best quality is that I have a truly intense work ethic. I know  that I will get stuff done and work my booty off till it’s finished.

2.  One of my less flattering qualities that I interrupt. It isn't even because I want to talk about myself, I just get so excited over a connection or shared experience that I start talking too soon. I really don’t like this about myself and I have been working on it.  

On Pinterest

3.  I'd rather be in Rome drinking cappuccino and pretending to be Italian.

4. Something I have been challenged with lately is getting myself ready for Lane’s deployment. I want to be in the best place possibly physically, mentally and secure in our marriage before he leaves.

5. I am looking forward to Christmas. I can’t wait to see my family and introduce them to Asha.

6. A super random factoid about me I dream in French on a regular basis.

7.  I want my students to do better on this second test. The first one was a catastrophe, but I am hoping this second one will be better. 

Happy Friday To All 

Three Years Ago

Three Years ago this weekend I attended Ring Figure with my then-boyfriend. Virginia Military Institute has a massive dance and whole weekend of events surrounding Ring Figure and the boys getting their class rings. You wear a gorgeous white dress and hope beyond hope that you don't drop the ring. I have loved seeing all the pictures on Instagram of all the girls getting all dressed up for the various events. 

If any VMI girlfriends happen to stumble across my blog; I hope that Ring Figure is a really fun experience. I had an absolute blast and love looking back at all the pictures. I loved all the fun formal events at VMI. I loved getting dressed up and seeing Lane in his uniform. I feel the same way now about military balls and other formal events. I am so excited for the Brigade Ball and another chance to see my gorgeous husband in his dress blues. 

Wednesday Loves 11/14

This doesn't really relate to my week. I just find it hilarious
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We woke up to a frosty world today, but still no snow. Due to some scheduling craziness, I have today off. I plan to spend most of it in my pajamas. I am currently curled up on the couch with coffee and my puppy. I am linking up with Jaime at This Kind of Love for What I Am Loving Wednesday. 

1. I am loving that I finished and ordered my Christmas Cards. I feel enormously accomplished. My goal is to have them ready to mail out as soon as we get back from Thanksgiving. I am hoping that I will love Shutterfly as much as everyone else seems to. 

2. I am loving the encouragement from my husband. Y'all, teaching is hard. I really love my students, but it is sometimes really rough. I feel responsible when they don't do well on assignments. I know this is not my fault, and I really try to give them as many chances as possible to show me that they have learned the material. He is the best at making me feel better. 

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3. During our day in Syracuse we made a pit stop at Hobby Lobby and spent a while looking at Christmas ornaments. We didn't end up purchasing any, but it was a nice mini-Christmas experience. I absolutely love buying ornaments to signify events from the year. This year I am planning on getting a husky ornament, a Fort Drum ornament, a "First Home" ornament, and possibly 

4. This little cuddly girl. 

I hope everyone has a wonderful week. I am excited for my day off today and then powering through the last two days of the week. 

A Very Paleo Thanksgiving

We have started to think about our Thanksgiving menu. We will be at my in-law's house, but I want to make sure that we are contributing to the meal.

Picture From A Couple Cooks
My recipe is a little different, but their's looks very tasty 

1. Roasted Root Vegetables

This is one of my seasonal favorites. Just cut up sweet potato, carrots, sweet onion, parsnips, and red apple with the peel still on. Coat in olive oil and season with rosemary and sage. I usually roast them at 300 for about two hours. I stir them ever 45 minutes or so.

2. Paleo Cheese Cake

Lane made this recipe a few months ago. It is one of the tastiest paleo desserts I have ever had. I adore cheesecake, and the fact that the only added sugar is honey makes it even better.

From my go-to paleo website Food Lovers Kitchen

3. Mashed Parsnips

I made these to go with some short ribs last week. They are delicious, but kind of a pain to make. I highly recommend this recipe for anyone not going strict paleo. I modified it slightly for my version. I roasted the parsnips instead of boiling them, but would probably do both next time. I am thinking that I will boil them until half way done, and then roast them till soft all the way through. The roasting gets such awesome flavor that I hate to give it up all the way. 

Thanksgiving is one of the easiest meals to make paleo-friendly. However, I do miss the wonderful tastiness that is Pillsbury Crescent Rolls. 

Christmas Card Pictures

We had such a good time taking pictures. Here are some of my favorites, but just didn't make the cut to be used for our card. Asha sometimes wasn't cooperating, but I love her sweet face in every one of these. 

I think I am going to get a printed out 5 x 7 of this one for our wall. 

I love taking pictures with my little family. Shockingly, it was almost 70 degrees in the North Country on Sunday. There were countless other families out taking pictures on Sunday too. I am so excited to get our cards made and send them out to our family and friends.