tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18717798314929906102024-03-05T16:23:57.909-06:00Lindsay's LoungeLindsay's Lounge has changed quite a bit - and so has the girl behind it. Once a single girl, living life in the fast lane as a TV producer.... and now a mom to Reese, a NICU graduate; Ryleigh, our angel in heaven; and wife to Ryan - life looks a little different these days. My Emmy competes for space in the living room with burp cloths, boppy loungers and anything that rattles. Welcome to the lounge!Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.comBlogger394125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-80381962238437791672013-05-19T16:11:00.002-05:002013-05-19T16:11:59.623-05:00Sunday Update!Hi friends! It's been a few weeks since my last post- and what a busy few weeks it has been.<br />
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Sweeps at work. YIKES.<br />
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Little brother graduated from college. Tear.<br />
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More work.<br />
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Doing projects around the house. <br />
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Running & biking.<br />
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My first facial!<br />
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Did I mention work?<br />
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Now that sweeps is winding down, I'm getting into full-on summer mode. Planning lake trips with friends. A beach vacay with the family. A little break from Gamma Phi volunteer projects. Justifying frozen yogurt multiple nights in a row.<br />
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Ah, sweet summer. What used to be my least favorite season, now in the top two!<br />
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I don't have much more to report, except that I'm still here! <br />
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So with that, I'll leave you with my MAY TOP 3 list.<br />
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1) Favorite recipe: <a href="http://www.eatdrinkpretty.com/2013/04/easy-korean-beef-with-kale.html">Korean Beef & Kale</a>. I'm eating tonight, you should too. <br />
2) Favorite song: Come & Get It<br />
3) Favorite book: Divergent series. Just finished book 2, have to wait until OCTOBER for book 3.<br />
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Have a great Sunday evening!Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-35717526291099488612013-04-26T10:28:00.003-05:002013-04-26T10:28:45.416-05:00Gift of HealthHappy Friday!<br />
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This week felt like an eternity! Mainly because I had a full-blown sinus infection all week. I'm just now beginning to smell, hear and taste normally again. Thank goodness for modern medicine!<br />
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Also- "Sweeps" is officially underway in the TV world. That's a big ratings period that happens four times a year. May is a big one. So... work is demanding. Always! But especially so for the next month.<br />
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One of the hardest things about getting sick is putting everything on hold. Your life is trucking along at a good pace- ok, not just good, an insanely busy pace. But then- it comes to a screeching halt so you can do everything it takes to feel better. No errands. Definitely no working out. It took everything I had just to put a newscast on the air every night.<br />
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But, I'm so much better. Now that I can breathe again, I'm going for my first bike ride in a week tomorrow. And it can't come soon enough!<br />
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Just little reminders to slow down. Our bodies can't always keep up with our to-do list!<br />
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Feeling under the weather always reminds me what a gift and privilege health is. I'm so passionate about eating the right foods- not LESS food- the right food. Ones that nourish and keep us strong. I'm passionate about exercise- the physical benefits, and the mental ones too. <br />
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And even though I sit at a desk most of the day- ok, ALL day once I get to work- I love to spend my mornings outdoors. Fresh air, exercise. Good breakfast. <br />
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I really think that living a healthy lifestyle helps you heal faster, too- from sickness, even heartache! <br />
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Good health is a gift- and not one to be taken for granted! <br />
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Hope you have a great weekend- full of lots of fresh air and sunshine!<br />
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Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-89027671141521909562013-04-21T11:32:00.000-05:002013-04-21T11:32:08.372-05:00New Growth<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Sunday! I hope your weekend has been a restful one. What a week. Honestly, this was a draining week to be a human. And especially a human that works in the news business. A lot happened between the blasts at the Boston Marathon Monday morning.... and the capture of the second suspect Friday night.</div>
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We also can't forget the fertilizer plant explosion in Texas... and severe storms Wednesday night that caused damage all across northeastern Oklahoma.</div>
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Whew! I promise this isn't a bad news post. But I feel like I can't not mention those things. I'm struggling with a cold this weekend- surely the result of long hours at work this week. </div>
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But in the midst of it all- it reminds us to appreciate and love one another, love the lives we're living. Give thanks.</div>
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For me, nature is a way of connecting with God. It's so weird to write that sentence- because I always think of myself as a non-outdoors girl. But, I don't think that's true. I love running and biking outdoors. I love sitting outside, soaking in my surroundings. And, I may just have more of a green thumb than I thought.</div>
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A few weekends ago, my beautiful weeping willow in the back yard had to come down. It started falling last fall- and my dad and I built a stand to prop it up. But strong winds knocked it off the stand, and it started falling. Into... power lines.</div>
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So, the handy crew at PSO (electric company) came to take care of business.</div>
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And reduced my beautiful willow... to this. Very sad day. I cried. </div>
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But, as with everything in life, you just go on. Replant, rebuild. I made my first "by myself" trip to the nursery this weekend to select some flowers for the yard. New growth: step one. (Any guesses what my favorite color is?)</div>
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I got to work first on the small planters in the back yard. Cleaning out years of old soil, leaf pile-up, cigarette butts (gross) and even a spare key. Replenishing the planters with new soil. Packing tiny buds of orange, yellow into the new soil. So very gratifying.</div>
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Just step one! Next up: front yard, new tree, salsa garden. </div>
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God gives us a lot of beautiful things in life- especially in the wake of tragedy. Opportunities to start over, rebuild, plant new seeds, experience new growth.</div>
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How can we not embrace and love the outdoors for that reason alone?</div>
<br />Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-42306637845498813522013-04-16T12:47:00.000-05:002013-04-16T12:47:22.250-05:00Better TomorrowHappy Tuesday! I hope your week is off to a good start. <br />
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I know everyone is a little shaken up by what happened in Boston yesterday. Working in news, it's sort of surreal to cover events like that. For 10 or 12 hours, you're in "news" mode- trying to understand the facts, finding ways to tell the story. And then afterwards... the emotion of it all comes crashing in.<br />
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I've always believed that being a good producer means wearing your heart on your sleeve. Some- many- disagree, but the human spirit is always the best story at the end of the day, the one worth telling. And it's against every fiber in my being *not* to wear my heart on my sleeve. It's who I am. So I don't shy away from letting people be people and have their emotions.<br />
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But personally... I set aside some emotions in order to get the job done. So, the emotional "crash" afterwards is tough. The same thing happened after the Sandy Hook shooting.<br />
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The day *after* a terrible tragedy is always fascinating. It's the day true human goodness comes out. It's like covering a tornado the day after it hits; the sun is always shining.<br />
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So, I'm about to head into work and continue to piece together the events of yesterday. It will be sad and exhausting. And there will be good stories, too- ones of courage and heroism and survival. <br />
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I guess it's a reminder to take the good days with the bad, focus on a better tomorrow. And make every day count!<br />
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Here's a few shots of Boston- we were there just last month.<br />
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Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-56377848784305630562013-04-12T10:10:00.000-05:002013-04-12T10:13:20.926-05:00What I'm Doing to Stay HealthyHappy Friday! I hope you had a great week! Mine seemed a bit slow; for some reason, taking a day off makes the rest of the days drag by! But I have big plans this weekend, including:<br />
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*Getting my car detailed! A treat, since I paid it off last month. <br />
*Wine on the back patio! (Even though my tree is gone; post to come.)<br />
*Long runs & bike rides<br />
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Today is another post in my "What I'm...." series, this time--- "What I'm Doing to Stay Healthy."<br />
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At the beginning of the year, I started having some anxiety. I think it centered around traveling a lot, stress at work, etc. I was one big bundle of nerves & deadlines. <br />
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It made me feel not very good, and question a lot of aspects of my health. I got a bad case of vertigo coming home from Miami that took a couple of weeks to shake off. But nothing was truly wrong with me; I just felt off. In sum, I found myself really appreciating the value of being healthy- and knew I would do whatever I needed to do to feel good again.<br />
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I went to the doctor- a couple of times. I had things checked out, blood drawn. All good. (Although in full disclosure, I do have a blood clot disorder called Factor Five. It's not a big deal, it's not what caused me to feel "off." But it's something good to know down the road!)</div>
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I'm feeling 100% better these days- rest? the comfort of knowing everything is OK? life slowing down?-- but I'm being especially mindful to take good care of my body. Being burnt out, running on fumes is not good. <br />
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I also decided I needed to switch out my "quick and easy foods" (Healthy Choice for dinner every night) for REAL food. Smoothies, Fit & Fresh meals (have you tried those?) I'm also cooking more on the weekends. Eating more fruits & veggies, hummus, eggs, etc. Who knew real food could make you feel so good?!<br />
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It's also odd to report that I am not signed up for one single race right now. Oh, I plan to do a couple this year. But right now, I'm just training on my own timeline, own schedule with no looming race "deadline." And I feel stronger than EVER when it comes to biking. I'm running longer distances than I have in a long time. In this picture, my bike is on a trainer; it helped me learn how to use my clip-on pedals!</div>
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I'm also doing more weights & ab work, drinking water constantly. Exercise is one third of the battle when it comes to feeling healthy; what you put INTO your body is another third, one I neglected for a long time. And- I'd say the final third is all mental. Being in a good place, feeling confident about your health, about your body. </div>
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As I get older, I find the running-on-fumes method of life no longer suites me. Physically, spiritually or mentally. It's harder to recover once I hit "empty." So, I'm making sure my tank always stays full, so to speak! </div>
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I'm kicking off this Friday with a bike ride- and a good breakfast. :) Have a great one!<br />
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Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-36036223525481103152013-04-09T10:21:00.002-05:002013-04-09T10:21:46.790-05:00Building Strong GirlsHappy Tuesday! I hope you're having a great week so far. My "work week" is actually just beginning, after a 3-day weekend. <br />
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Last night, I had the opportunity to visit a Gamma Phi Beta sorority chapter in Stillwater, and give a presentation about "Building Strong Girls." I took the night off work, arrived in Stillwater early, had a nice dinner by myself, and then gave my presentation before heading back to Tulsa.<br />
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I just love having the chance to talk to people about the things I'm passionate about. <br />
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Sometimes, I feel like I know what I'm good at, what my passion and purpose is in life. And other times, I feel like I'm just figuring it out! There are a lot of things I'm passionate about, and I feel like God hasn't quite led me to that "ah-ha!" place yet. I feel like I'm still discovering the best way to mesh and meld all of my loves and interests and passions- into one or many purposes.<br />
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The thing I love about the "building strong girls" presentation I gave is that it means something different to everyone. Spiritual, mental, physical. <br />
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I'm still figuring out what "being a strong girl" means to me. I have a lot of inspiration; last night, I shared my ultimate "strong girl" with the sorority: my mom.<br />
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But, the best part of the presentation- and the message- is that even though we may have work to do when it comes to being the best strong girl we can be, we should embrace who we are right now, at this moment.<br />
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We all have so much to offer! Whether it's in a workplace, at home, among our friends and family, at church- or out in the world.<br />
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I wanted to share my thoughts about strong girls while it's fresh on my mind. :) Do something you love today! Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-9530826332846503982013-04-06T10:17:00.001-05:002013-04-06T10:23:14.335-05:00What I'm WearingAh, the weekend! A Saturday at home... such a rare thing these days! So I'm making the most of it. Heading out the door for a run along the river, followed by errands and a much-needed Girls Night Out tonight!<br />
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But I'm not in a big hurry; I'm perfectly content to sip my coffee a bit longer, and of course write the latest installment in my "What I'm..." series. Not a catchy name for a series, I know, but... it's too the point.<br />
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So, today.... "What I'm Wearing!"<br />
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I bought a grey infinity scarf last year- or mom bought it for me? can't remember- that I absolutely adore and wear everywhere. It's warm and comfy; but I'm trying to tell myself it works for spring, too. It's cold at work?! (Also, I take emo pictures on the airplane every now & then.)</div>
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I'm getting a LOT of wear and tear out of these- my first official pair of bike shoes. I love them! They "clip in" to my bike pedals, which help me push myself faster. Being connected to my bike, and all that.</div>
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Which means I'm also wearing a few more of these.... scraped knees! I've fallen on my bike twice since getting my clip-ins; fortunately, I was at a standstill and just tipped over. <br />
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I lived in Texas for 11 years, and I've been in Oklahoma for 11 years. And yet I just got my first pair of cowboy boots for Christmas. I LOVE them.</div>
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I tried out this look, too; so cute! In fact, I may need a manicure today....<br />
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This tri suit of mine is also getting some good use. I competed in two indoor triathlons- one in January, one in February. I tell ya- it's so nice to jump out of the pool and straight onto the bike, no extra attire needed.</div>
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I'm basically living in leggings these days. These leggings are my favorite; black and gray. My coworker likes to remind me that leggings aren't pants; I beg to differ. Also, my best friend's son took this picture of me. He's so precious.</div>
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I'm loving curly hair these days, I think because my hair is SO long. My sister and I tried out Dry Bar in Dallas, where they only do blow-outs. It was so luxurious.</div>
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This is me waiting for race results after a triathlon; but I'm wearing my favorite purple Northface jacket that has been worn non-stop the past three months.</div>
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Basically, I'm starting a clothing line of fashionable workout clothes that can transition from working out.... to running errands... to going to work. It will include jackets, leggings, and a variety of shoes. Imagine: bike shoes that can turn into running shoes that can turn into high heels! Who's in?!</div>
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In a doctor's office dress/shirt. Sometimes I take self portraits to make myself less nervous. I was nervous.</div>
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I also went to a sorority conference in Boston, where it was mandatory to take photo booth pictures in crab hats. So, DUH, we did.</div>
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Another thing I'm wearing and LOVING these days? <a href="http://www.alexandani.com/">Alex & Ani bracelets</a>. We discovered them in Boston. ALL of the girls have an armful of these adorable bracelets, that come with different charms. My mom & I hunted down the store and bought ourselves some bling. My collection is starting to grow!</div>
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I'm also loving red lips. I think red lips are a must for black and white outfits, a night out on the town, or catching a Muse concert- as I was shortly after this photo was snapped.</div>
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Are you loving scarves & leggings? Workout attire 24/7? A new cute pair of heels? Cowboy boots?</div>
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Whatever you're wearing- have a perfect Saturday!</div>
Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-45026649688719311732013-04-04T09:50:00.001-05:002013-04-04T09:50:25.119-05:00What I'm Eating & DrinkingSo, yesterday I started a quick "catch-up" series on my life lately. We started with "Where I'm Going." I've had the joy of seeing some really cool places this year; and it's only April!<br />
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And in those cool places... I've had some DELICIOUS meals. And divine drinks. And more clam chowder than one person should really ever eat, ever. Especially in a 3 day span.<br />
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Um, hello! I was in Boston! When in Rome, right?!<br />
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So today, my little series continues with "What I'm Eating/Drinking." It may seem odd to dedicate an entire post to food and drinks; but a healthy breakfast, drinks with friends, a Starbucks on the way to work- those are all "life" moments I'd rather not pass over!<br />
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My favorite breakfast of 2013. Cinnamon toast, Trader Joe's raspberry jam, one egg over easy. Breakfast of champions.</div>
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</a>My "Joy The Baker" smoothie! My co-workers fondly reference this as my "gross green drink." But, it's delicious. <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2012/03/super-spinach-smoothie/">Try it.</a><br />
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More toast. This time with a homemade Matcha tea latte (um, yum!) and the latest issue of This Land Press.</div>
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Moving into the coffee portion of the post! Starbucks fueled me on many of my trips this year. </div>
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Nothing like an iced coffee before a long day producing.</div>
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And.... a coffee to treat myself after an indoor sprint triathlon. I find Maizy & The Pioneer Woman are also a great way to unwind! :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzXPhKo-wC68-AZsgu__jOgFzhRftXh8feKYQX_kHmLylzFqhXxqSCBFks0EbhGgr460EzmVDXKl2ybdH92lMAz_sbtk2GWiYCdHH5UaXV6eS8BU_-fBh-HZhv0vQ5U5runBdekytXKx5/s1600/2013-03-03+12.20.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzXPhKo-wC68-AZsgu__jOgFzhRftXh8feKYQX_kHmLylzFqhXxqSCBFks0EbhGgr460EzmVDXKl2ybdH92lMAz_sbtk2GWiYCdHH5UaXV6eS8BU_-fBh-HZhv0vQ5U5runBdekytXKx5/s320/2013-03-03+12.20.16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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</a>This meal.... I could eat this entire meal again every day of my life. Until I got tired of it, of course. But I always look at this picture, and my mouth starts watering. Clam chowder in Boston; and the "clam casino"... basically a baked clam cake inside of a clam shell with lemon squeezed on top.<br />
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Oh. my. word.</div>
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</a>I followed up that meal with a vanilla birthday cake Georgetown cupcake. <br />
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That place is famous for a reason!</div>
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</a>And of course, happy hour. If Boston is the place to go for clam chowder... Miami is the place to go for a great cocktail. Wine at the hotel....<br />
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</a>..... drinks at the Fountainbleau hotel....<br />
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</a>.... and back to Tulsa, for a beer with friends after work.<br />
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So there you go, my year so far in food and drink! <br />
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Hungry yet?Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-17457221177419691612013-04-03T09:44:00.001-05:002013-04-03T09:44:15.938-05:00Where I'm GoingHey guys! It's been so long since I last blogged.... that I forgot my log-in password. I just went through a series of passwords to get here. Oh well; getting here is half the battle!<br />
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It's been a busy, non-stop, breathless whirlwind of a 2013 so far; and we're only a quarter of the way through! But, somewhere late January- I had a mindset change. Instead of constantly trying to find more balance, stay put more often, and say "no" to more projects (ha, yeah right)- I just embraced the fact that this is the season of life I'm in. It's busy, I'm on the go a lot, I'm on the road a lot. But I want to stop trying to <em>change</em> that- and embrace the madness for a bit.<br />
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Because... to be honest..... I like it that way. There will be a season of my life where I stay put. This is the season of life to <em>go.</em><br />
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And oh, has that mindset change opened windows and doors to me. Now, all I want to do is go! A quick drive to Dallas here, a flight to Boston there, a swing through Stillwater or Norman. Biking, volunteering, staying out too late with friends, waking up too early to do it all again. God has led me to this very point in my life; who am I to try and fight it?<br />
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Having said that, I thought I'd play a little catch-up here on the blog. It's going to be my "Who/What/Where I'm...." series.<br />
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Starting with.... "Where I'm Going."<br />
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I've spent a lot of time.... high above the clouds.....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qHvswhxkTzRRdEIwo9jtbVA4w2BR-TdIFz5mYq3qvLU8f7vOgeT4H0u2hnd9WvcrckJKFaXVAg3jSqG32woqgiPtOU-2Ewks6G7ii-TDoaWK7mXAaqRFktvatPq3gBjezESm8YpHkTO9/s1600/2013-01-27+12.14.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qHvswhxkTzRRdEIwo9jtbVA4w2BR-TdIFz5mYq3qvLU8f7vOgeT4H0u2hnd9WvcrckJKFaXVAg3jSqG32woqgiPtOU-2Ewks6G7ii-TDoaWK7mXAaqRFktvatPq3gBjezESm8YpHkTO9/s320/2013-01-27+12.14.04.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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... landing in dreamy destinations. Like Miami. Where a shrimp salad and a mojito make everything right.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSK9g6cWsMGCCmubHDVy1k6GaP1qzI1IrwY8vDeTLnmNsRcXjkUWR3u18nip5sRIQRDZ0jV_59M-4z_KXqXoTR0WK_8IgsRUrVF4FWVdgt9Rva9LVIX5mnNZZHIskjL_mBKoInZtk9r0Y/s1600/2013-01-27+13.09.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSK9g6cWsMGCCmubHDVy1k6GaP1qzI1IrwY8vDeTLnmNsRcXjkUWR3u18nip5sRIQRDZ0jV_59M-4z_KXqXoTR0WK_8IgsRUrVF4FWVdgt9Rva9LVIX5mnNZZHIskjL_mBKoInZtk9r0Y/s320/2013-01-27+13.09.56.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Oh, and an afternoon on the beach isn't that bad.</div>
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A perfect beach hat is always a must.</div>
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I'm trying to get better at taking "selfies." True story- I kept thinking someone was REALLY close behind me in this picture. But, it was just my reflection in the mirror. It truly scared me multiple times; my sister witnessed this charade.</div>
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Sister love! SO glad she was in Miami with me! Especially because I developed a bad case of vertigo on our way home. She was such a rock star, getting me onto the plane and getting me home.</div>
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About a month later, I traded in the warm beaches of Miami.... for a snowy skyline in Boston!</div>
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After two solid days of conferences for Gamma Phi Beta, my mom & I toured this beautiful, old city. And fell in love.</div>
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They had a FOX station! (And yes, I'm a TV nerd.)</div>
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They also had a tribute to Ducks Crossing! (The little girl "riding" the duck in this picture wouldn't move, ha.)</div>
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So glad my mom came with me on this trip. We had to end our weekend with a glass of wine at Anthem. </div>
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The view from our hotel room. Boston, I will be back.</div>
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Whew! Someone was VERY happy when I finally returned home.</div>
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I also squeezed in a trip to Kansas City (another Gamma Phi conference), a trip to the lake- and multiple trips to Dallas in the last few months. </div>
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And.... even though I'm embracing this busy season.... the fact that I have NO travel plans for a solid month... makes me very happy! :)<br />
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Who I'm seeing, what I'm eating/drinking, what I'm listening to..... all coming up in this little catch-up series of mine. Stay tuned! <br />
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And happy Wednesday!Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-51915150067885200852013-02-19T09:24:00.002-06:002013-02-19T09:24:22.968-06:00Coffee TalkGood morning, friends!<br />
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I hope you're having a sweet February. I always feel like that's a good word for February, <em>sweet.</em> Lots of pinks and purples, warm days, cold days. Cozy nights on the couch, that random short-sleeve day. Warm coffee.<br />
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As I type, I'm drinking a warm cup of coffee and reflecting on the last 19 days. February- like every other month it seems- is flying by in a blur.<br />
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Since the beginning of the month, I've traveled to Kansas City for a Gamma Phi Beta regional leadership conference, my first ever- and definitely my first one to help lead. It was a rewarding and eye-opening experience!<br />
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I also had a nice long visit from my mom- who helped watch my baby while I was away.<br />
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Last weekend, I snuck away to Dallas for a friend's 30th birthday party. (I'm 29 next week; a year to plan how to celebrate the big 3-0!)<br />
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This weekend, I'm staying put. Birthday & going away parties, a sprint triathlon (yep, squeezing in another one) and a pre-birthday massage; happy girl.<br />
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As we slowly make our way into spring, I'm also doing some early "spring-cleaning"- and mainly focusing on my to-do list. I'm really taking time to find the things I'm passionate about and want to spend my time pursuing. The other things, may have to go for a while. <br />
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Sometimes, we say "yes" to fill a void. And now- it's becoming a void I don't want to be filled with busyness anymore.<br />
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I'm sure you know the feeling.<br />
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Hope you're spending this cool morning with warm coffee, too! Have a great week, and get ready for a serious photo dump in the coming days. Instagram has changed my life.<br />
Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-26670163425283083062013-02-04T10:20:00.000-06:002013-02-04T10:20:06.712-06:00Finding BalanceHappy Monday- and happy February!<br />
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I REALLY want to make more time to blog- I really do. For exactly the same reasons it seems to be so hard to blog. Life is so busy right now, full of so much... stuff. But I want to remember this season for exactly what it is! <br />
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That's why I started this blog in the first place; remembering seasons of my life. Sometimes I lose track of that focus a bit. I feel like I can't blog unless I have something life-altering to share with you, or unless I'm posting recipes, or planning a wedding, or talking about my kids, or imparting wisdom on some level.<br />
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That's why Pinterest was created! As for this blog- it's my space to keep track of this crazy life.<br />
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So, just a quick update for today: I'm finally feeling better after spending the past couple of weeks feeling... off. <br />
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Granted, there's been a lot going on. I competed in my first sprint triathlon. I went to Miami with my sister. I'm traveling to Kansas City, Dallas & Boston in the coming weeks. We're in the middle of sweeps (big ratings period) at work.<br />
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Just... a lot. And I'm one of those people that needs consistency in some form- even if it's just my morning routine of reading blogs, catching up on news, drinking hot coffee....<br />
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...... and EXERCISE. My mom said it best yesterday- I get really cranky when I can't exercise. I came home from Miami with a small case of vertigo (yes, it's real) so I had to put running & biking on the back burner for a day or two. A day of rest is one thing, several days... and I go insane.<br />
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All this to say, I had a nice slow recovery weekend. I feel SO much better. And a bit more clear-headed as well. Things I need to work on? Managing anxiety a little better. Making "me" time for that routine of mine. Remembering to take things with a grain of salt, focus on the big picture. <br />
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Life can leave your head spinning- figuratively and literally. Sometimes we spin around a bit before we're set back on our course. It's a wobbly start, but everything straightens out eventually.<br />
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Hope you find your *balance* today! Mine is a work in progress...Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-82306132390476994202013-01-06T20:22:00.001-06:002013-01-06T20:22:36.348-06:00All Fall DownWell, it happened.<br />
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The day I've been dreading, worrying over, and anticipating ever since I started biking.<br />
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I fell down.<br />
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Before you get too worried, let me just say... I fell in my driveway.<br />
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Yep, I was at a complete stop on my bike, and just toppled over. Feet, clipped into my pedals. No way to escape. Stuck to the bike.<br />
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I got new bike shoes for Christmas- along with new pedals. You literally clip your shoes into your pedals, so you're attached to the bike. It takes some getting used to- sort of like water skiing- so I've been practicing all week on my friend Stephen's trainer- an indoor spin session of sorts. And today was my first day out on the open road.<br />
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And it was SO glorious! I loved every second of it. I "clipped-in" easily. I took off. I was faster than ever before. I really felt "one with the bike," if you know what I mean. Everything just clicked. I felt in-sync, fast, capable, strong. I thought to myself- I'll be unstoppable this race season. I breathed in the beautiful cold air, the sunshine, the sparkling water of the Arkansas River. It was just awesome, to sum it up in a word.<br />
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Then, I pulled into my driveway, couldn't "un-clip" fast enough, and- stuck to the bike- just fell over, bike in tow, landing on my right side. Right knee, specifically. I sat in the driveway, holding back tears for a few minutes. I took a good look at my scraped-up knee, made sure my new Northface and running pants didn't get torn in the process.<br />
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And, I promptly called my mom. Because I was hurt, and of course you call your mom when you're hurt!<br />
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Being the girly-girl that I am, I wanted to cry. My heart was racing. A part of my brain said, OUCH, this hurts, back away. And the other part of me- the budding athlete, the girl that wants so badly to be a fierce competitor- was sort of proud. My first "bike injury." <br />
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Even though I was literally going.... zero miles per hour.<br />
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Falling down, getting back up. Getting back in the saddle. It's just like riding a bike. All of the cliches are, of course, running through my head.<br />
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And the writer in me can't help but say- yes, of course. This is the perfect way to segue into something that's been on my heart. A feeling that's been rattling around in my head as we gear up, pedal into 2013.<br />
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We all fall down. And our bruises and scars make us who we are; make us stronger and better. Sometimes we're on top of the world, smooth sailing, taking in every little and big detail around us. And other times, we're on the ground, eating dirt. Leaves stuck to our new purple Northface.<br />
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My goal this year isn't to just get back up. I felt like I did a lot of falling- and rising- in 2012. I know I'll keep pushing on, no matter what.<br />
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No, my goal in 2013 is to simply enjoy the view. <br />
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Because even the view from the ground looking up is pretty good.<br />
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Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-73744046930827059652013-01-01T10:52:00.001-06:002013-01-01T10:52:19.010-06:002013! It's Here!Well, here we are- 2013! I think I'm already off to a good start in the blogging department. Last day of 2012 AND first day of 2013! Maybe this whole "don't make any specific resolutions" will actually make me more intentional about the things I care about/want to change/enjoy? HMM... food for thought.<br />
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In fact... I gave up soda in September with full disclosure I could start drinking coke again anytime I wanted to.<br />
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But I haven't.<br />
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So, the KEY must be... don't make your goals a "must happen." Just see how they go, and don't beat yourself up if you don't succeed!<br />
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Now that I've given you these pearls of wisdom, you can turn off the TV, stop scouring the Internet for resolution advice, and just be with your friends and family on New Year's Day.<br />
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Actually... keep the TV on. FOX23 specifically. Especially if you live in Tulsa. Some of us have to work today!<br />
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I saw this quick little questionnaire over at <a href="http://www.kellyskornerblog.com/2012/12/2012-questionnaire.html">Kelly's Korner</a>- and thought I'd go ahead and answer the questions. Pass it along! Or just answer them to yourself. <br />
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OK, I promise I'll stop bossing you around now.<br />
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<strong>1. What are you most thankful for?</strong><br />
Oh boy, starting with a big one. My family's health & safety. My friendships. Renewing friendships. Work. My house. My cat. My health. Exercise. Jesus. Coffee. Seasons. <br /><br /><strong>2. What were the highlights of 2012 for you?</strong><br />
January: <a href="http://www.lounginwithlindsay.blogspot.com/2012/02/true-blue-pilot-debut.html">The True Blue premiere</a>; February: <a href="http://www.lounginwithlindsay.blogspot.com/2012/03/auction-cold-birthday-awards-show-week.html">My birthday/date auction</a> fun; May: <a href="http://www.lounginwithlindsay.blogspot.com/2012/05/another-new-normal.html">New job beginnings</a> (and <a href="http://www.lounginwithlindsay.blogspot.com/2012/05/year-from-now.html">tent camping for the first time</a>!); June: <a href="http://www.lounginwithlindsay.blogspot.com/2012/06/summer-lovin.html">Hilary's wedding</a>; September: <a href="http://www.lounginwithlindsay.blogspot.com/2012/09/bumps-bruises-bikes-blogs.html">Tri Tulsa; longest race yet</a>!; November: Thanksgiving with the family; December: Gamma Phi Beta weekend in Denver; Christmas; seeing old friends!<br /><br /><strong>3. What are you hoping for in 2013?</strong><br />More opportunities to travel; pursuit of writing & producing in a variety of creative mediums; finding a church home; completing an Olympic distance triathlon. Just a few. See yesterday's post about no specific resolutions! :) <br />
<br /><strong>4. What were some of your favorites of 2012? (Clothes, movies, songs, TV shows, )</strong><br />
Favorite musicians: Carrie Underwood, Florence + The Machine, Jason Aldean<br />
Favorite clothes: leggings, boots, dresses, scarves, funky rings<br />
Favorite TV shows: Castle, Rizzoli & Isles, Chicago Fire, Nashville, Parenthood, New Girl, Modern Family, Parks & Rec, Covert Affairs, Sons of Anarchy, The Walking Dead<br /><br /><strong>5. Who was God to you in 2012?</strong><br />Source of refuge, strength. Safe place. Someone I'm seeking more of in 2013.Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-3194336461863763212012-12-31T10:48:00.000-06:002012-12-31T10:48:02.767-06:00ReflectionsHappy New Year's Eve, everyone!<br />
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Wow... where did December go? Where did this year go? It's so amazing to me how time can go so slowly, and so quickly, all at once.<br />
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I've had such a busy, whirlwind December. And, I probably need to dedicate a post just to December alone. There are a million pictures to share- especially since I became a member of Instagram. (Follow me @ lindsaypics!)<br />
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But for today, I'm just basking in that one special day a year when you can really wipe the slate clean. Begin again. Start fresh.<br />
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2012 for me can probably be summed up in one word: closure.<br />
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I thought, initially, I would describe it as a year of change. Because it certainly has been. But along with all of that change has come an amazing sense of closure in a lot of areas in my life. <br />
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I have spent a lot of hours in my house, on the river, on the road, reflecting on some of those areas of change and closure.<br />
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<strong>Relationships.</strong> I realized perception isn't everything, and sometimes people do change. Some for the worse, and some for the much, much better. I've learned to let my guard down and raise my standards, all at once. I've found closure and healing and hope, all at once.<br />
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<strong>Jobs.</strong> I've had two this year. I started the year with a company where I built so much- both professionally and personally. And I'm ending the year with a job that has a very bright future for me. Both, incredible blessings. Again, closure- one door shutting, another bright window opening.<br />
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<strong>Faith.</strong> God has opened my eyes to <em>myself</em> this year. I've looked some big insecurities right in the face- and overcome them. Growing, learning, some days on top of the world, and others so very, very humbled. <br />
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In years past, I've done a series of blog posts about my resolutions for 2013. And this year, instead of making another "to-do" list, I'm just keeping it generic. There are certainly some goals I would like to achieve this year- but I also am so looking forward to seeing where 2013 takes me. I have a feeling it's going to be a great, big year- and I just want to go along for the ride.<br />
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2012; a year of change, closure, growth.<br />
2013: a year to see where all of that change, closure and growth leads.<br />
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Have a wonderful New Year's Eve! <br />
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Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-53155506828486715132012-12-09T20:52:00.002-06:002012-12-09T20:52:34.207-06:00Don't Cry Because It's Over<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Trying not to cry that the weekend is already over.</div>
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I was so looking forward to this weekend! And it flew by.</div>
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But, I got a ton of stuff done. Don't you feel better about Monday morning when you've had a productive weekend?</div>
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Sheets? Washed.</div>
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Laundry? Done.</div>
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Floors? Cleaned.</div>
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Pantry cupboard? Stocked.</div>
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It all started Friday... with a little Starbucks, a little blogging and Facebooking and tweeting.</div>
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Then, a party at my best friend's parents' house Saturday night. Lots of good food, wine. Friends for 10 years... and counting!</div>
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And naturally, there was some couch time. Maizy is a remote hog.</div>
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Plus, a little coffee- and a dash of Bailey's--- for an afternoon snack.</div>
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Productive weekend. Quick, but productive.</div>
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And there's no time to slow down! I leave for Denver on Friday for a sorority training weekend. Then... it's my Christmas week with the family!</div>
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Despite the busy, hectic & frazzle- I'm trying to remember the reason for the season and soak it all in before I wake up and it's 2013!</div>
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Have a great week!</div>
<br />Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-34668301312136553322012-12-07T10:32:00.002-06:002012-12-07T10:32:55.744-06:00Enjoy Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Friday!</div>
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I hope you've had a great week. Mine has been a touch long, a tad stressful, and a teensy bit.... expensive. (Yes, the water heater. What we pay for hot water, good grief.)</div>
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But--- it's Friday! And this weekend, I have one major goal: enjoy home.</div>
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I know that probably sounds weird. But this is the last weekend before Christmas- and one of the last weekends in December- I will actually be in Tulsa. I'm heading to Denver next weekend with my sorority, then I'll be out of town celebrating Christmas with the family.</div>
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Well, "Early Christmas" is what we're calling it. I'll be working Christmas Eve/Day!</div>
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Anyway, enjoy home. That's what I want to do this weekend. Play catch-up, make the house clean, spend time with Maizy, run & bike on my trails. Have a little too much wine with my best friend. Just enjoy home.</div>
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Also- do you Instagram? I'm a new fan--- and I snapped a few pictures this week.</div>
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Runner Girl. I will rock my pink "lake" sunglasses as long as possible.</div>
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Perfect weather, perfect Oklahoma sunsets. One of my favorite things about this state.</div>
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A trouble-maker and "helper." I'm about to buy my second iPhone power cord this WEEK because she keeps chewing them up.</div>
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Friday bliss. Blogs, coffee, email, Facebook, more coffee. <br />
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Enjoy home.<br />
<br />Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-51986275021935300482012-12-04T09:56:00.001-06:002012-12-04T09:56:18.675-06:00Cold ShowersI've had to take two freezing cold showers in the past two days.<br />
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My water heater pilot light went out. And after numerous attempts on my end to fix it- and my dad patiently walking his OCD daughter through the steps a thousand times to ensure my house didn't explode- still, no cigar.<br />
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I know people say it's part of owning a house. It's part of being an adult. This is what we do! We work hard and earn a paycheck so we can pay our bills... and fix things. And sometimes squeeze in a little bit of fun.<br />
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Lately, it seems like that "fun" is replaced with one grown-up, adult to-do item after another. The water heater is last- but certainly not THE last- in a long line of fix-its this year including four tires, brake pads, a dead mouse removal... and a partridge in a pear tree?!<br />
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So, naturally, I've thrown the ultimate pity party. There are days it seems hard and daunting and overwhelming to be "on your own"- even though I have tons of friends and an amazing family who is always there to help.<br />
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And some days, I can't believe it have to DO IT ALL. Like, pay the bills AND get an oil change AND make an appetizer for a party AND do the laundry/clean the house/call the insurance agent AND work all day, like, full-time?! <br />
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Pity party, table for 1.<br />
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The reality is- I'm a grown-up who still needs to throw an occasional temper tantrum.<br />
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And then, once that temper tantrum is over, I'm overwhelmed with a new sensation- how lucky, how blessed am I that these are my troubles?<br />
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That usually quiets the whine pretty fast.<br />
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Because the truth is, I'm blessed beyond measure. Everything always works out. I have a support system that is unmatched.<br />
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In fact- the only thing I'm missing? A hot shower.<br />
Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-679090559923762802012-11-29T10:03:00.004-06:002012-11-29T10:03:58.699-06:00Christmas SpiritHello readers! Are you getting into the Christmas spirit? It seems to arrive earlier and earlier every year- but I don't mind. We only get to celebrate the season for a quick month; let it begin as early as possible!<br />
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I've been so terrible about updating my blog this year. There are so many times I sit down to write, and it seems like there's either too much to say, or not enough. Do you ever feel that way? But- I decided to stop feeling *guilty* about not updating it, too.<br />
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In fact, the last couple of months, I've worked on letting go of a lot of guilt and worry. I am the QUEEN at both of those things. I constantly worry. And the worrying constantly leads to some sort of guilt on my end. Am I a good enough friend, daughter, Christian? Am I doing a good job at work? And that's just scratching the surface!<br />
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We all feel it to some degree. But I've had to really focus on letting go of a lot of that. Because, at a certain point, you freeze up. It's hard to make decisions, or even enjoy what's happening around you, because of what <em>could</em> happen.<br />
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Enough of that. And the good news- I have a savior who *wants to take on all of my doubts, fears and worries. Thank goodness for that! And what an amazing gift, to know we aren't in this alone. That my worries don't add a single day to my life. That there is a big picture I need to have complete faith in. <br />
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Giving it all up- allows me to enjoy my life. The world seems a bit more beautiful. I take a little more time to soak it in while I'm driving (often, these days) or biking, or running. I enjoy my family and friends more, my work more. And I'm easier on myself, which is a good thing.<br />
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Even though it's 70 degrees in Oklahoma, let's bring on the Christmas music and decorations and cheer! <br />
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It's never too early to celebrate the greatest gift of all.Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-53232665629626254802012-11-18T18:01:00.000-06:002012-11-18T18:01:51.084-06:00Many ThanksI think November is quickly taking the place of October as my favorite month. November means the heater and warm socks come on at night, and the short sleeves can come out- at least for an hour or two- during the day. November means my tree in front is a vibrant, beautiful red. November means family, friends, turkey. November means swapping iced coffee for almond amaretto latte at Quiktrip, sweet white wine for red.<br />
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November is a good month.<br />
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And, if you know much about the inner-workings of TV, that's saying a lot. Because November is also one of the most stressful months in television! It's a ratings month, or "sweeps." Meaning... every viewer counts. Meaning... every story has to be perfect. Meaning... long hours, lots of pressure.<br />
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Throw in three apartment fires, two meth lab busts, an election- and a partridge in a pear tree!- and it's almost too much to handle.<br />
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Almost. Good thing everything else about November balances it out!<br />
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So, needless to say, it's been a busy month. It's been a busy year! For everyone, it seems. But as we inch closer to Thanksgiving, my heart is bursting with thanks and blessings and gratitude.<br />
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Thankful for my family, my friends. Thankful for health. Thankful for a job that I enjoy- that pays my bills, and allows me to get a new iPhone when I drop mine and it shatters into a bazillion pieces on the driveway. :) Thankful for a wild cat who keeps me on my toes, a home that keeps me safe, a car that's almost paid off. A heavenly father who fills all the open places when it seems like something might be missing. <br />
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Thankful for a mom who bugs me to update my blog. :)<br />
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Lots of thanks this week! Turkey day... hurry up!<br />
Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-45788840641667402082012-11-06T11:14:00.000-06:002012-11-06T11:14:09.115-06:00October In Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
October was a busy month! I was out of town about as much as I was in town.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEzUmHFsWRi-zWxSc5qeOwxN94fItYHffXOT8-9FflLzwBSnrlyMDKTgYaxTlyqCBdUBaXjl9XBgeTehQr5EE1KyLLpBNlbvrpsBfw5881XeA49JGuXBwyeXDmz7hL7KkQHVkUVWMW0vV/s1600/2012-10-20+15.17.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEzUmHFsWRi-zWxSc5qeOwxN94fItYHffXOT8-9FflLzwBSnrlyMDKTgYaxTlyqCBdUBaXjl9XBgeTehQr5EE1KyLLpBNlbvrpsBfw5881XeA49JGuXBwyeXDmz7hL7KkQHVkUVWMW0vV/s320/2012-10-20+15.17.15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I met up with (most of) my family in Norman for Homecoming. I'm not sure why, but I love this picture of my sister and I. I sort of think it describes us perfectly! We're probably concerned about the grass at the moment. Always concerned.</div>
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But always ready to smile!</div>
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My friend Lauren at I at our 10 year high school reunion! Time flies! SO thankful for friends who I still love and cherish 10 years later. (That includes a few favorites who couldn't make it to the reunion!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOCrADsoBdtXGXD0KLmuHU5VuVmQPTjB2LNmOhlzK2Swqi5zd411Wl50T6dWYxiPgfagY2W1fFdzuVY6WryZKV1k9oLG7hS2DqUMs8Zo7g8aLrT5xzEWButfbOM3MJ3PuCHdyFjosYzB5w/s1600/2012-11-01+11.17.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOCrADsoBdtXGXD0KLmuHU5VuVmQPTjB2LNmOhlzK2Swqi5zd411Wl50T6dWYxiPgfagY2W1fFdzuVY6WryZKV1k9oLG7hS2DqUMs8Zo7g8aLrT5xzEWButfbOM3MJ3PuCHdyFjosYzB5w/s320/2012-11-01+11.17.23.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I love this picture. First of all- that pillow! My favorite. Second, Maizy. She is so big and sassy these days. Her face says it all.</div>
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My friend Micah and I tried out a new bar Friday night- Valkyrie. SO good! This chalkboard was full of weird, amazing drinks. Micah and I decided we will visit once a month to try new drinks on the board.</div>
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Her mint julep (left), my Final Ward. My drink was bourbon... a maraschino cherry... and that's all I can remember. GOOD.</div>
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Maizy, again. Her favorite blanket, her favorite toy. Again with the attitude. This girl loves pictures.</div>
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The Churchill Room, White Lion. It's a British pub here in town- and you have to reserve The Churchill Room. Which we did. It was lovely. We ate dinner (chicken & mushroom pot pie, known here as The Devonshire) followed by a few blissful hours in cozy chairs, drinking wine. </div>
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I'm trying to take more pictures these days... but I still have an iPhone with NO flash. Can you believe it? :)</div>
<br />Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-75398942679918616742012-11-04T10:05:00.000-06:002012-11-04T10:05:05.420-06:00Quest for ClarityHappy November, everyone! Honestly, it's a little weird logging on, sitting down to write. It's been SO long. Blogging really seemed to take a back seat this year. So much going on! But it's more than just being busy.<br />
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I've said it before, this has been such a year of growth for me. But the past few months have certainly stretched me in new ways. I've had a restless heart. I've done a lot of thinking and praying and wondering and searching about what's "next" for me. And, when the answers don't come quickly or easily- I get frustrated. <br />
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So, it's hard to put that into words. It's hard to sit down and write about my day, my thoughts, my hopes & dreams- when it all seems a little confusing. <br />
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And the irony of that! I write words for other people for a living. But sometimes I struggle so much putting my own words to paper.<br />
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But I've started to have a bit more clarity lately. And, what the heck- even when I don't have clarity, I need to write it out. That's just part of my make-up. <br />
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At my high school reunion last weekend (um, yeah- 10 years!) my friend Lauren said to me... "God is so much bigger than your situation." Or something like that. :) The point being... God is big enough to work<strong> on</strong> me,<strong> in</strong> me, in my current set of circumstances. That was so powerful to me- and quieted a voice nagging at me for quite some time, wondering if I was in the right place in life... physically. <br />
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And then I realized, I was at the right place emotionally and spiritually too. Not perfect, not full of clarity. Just at the right spot. With just enough clarity to keep searching and seeking. <br />
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So, that's me- today, in November of 2012! I love my life. I know I'm where I'm supposed to be- physically, mentally, spiritually. The road is not clear, the answers are not always forthcoming. But I know I need to keep moving forward, keep my heart and eyes open. And just live for today. <br />
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I don't have it all figured out. And I'm learning to be OK with that. Now, I just have to assume you guys are OK with that, too!<br />
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Then maybe the words will come a bit more freely. :)<br />
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Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-5401718938797326332012-10-12T10:01:00.001-05:002012-10-12T10:01:32.755-05:00Life UpdateHappy Friday! It's been a few minutes since I posted- but it's been a busy week and a half!<br />
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Last weekend, I spent a much needed two days in Plano. I sat around and talked with my parents, laughed with my sister, ate good food (Whiskey Cake in Plano? New favorite...) and ran around the neighborhood a few times. So relaxing. The only thing missing? My brothers! They are both home this weekend for OU/TX. Hate missing them, but we'll be in Norman in a few weeks.<br />
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A few weeks- when it's November! I've said it a million times in 2012- and I'll resolve not to say it as much in 2013- but where did this year go?! It flew by. But I'm so ready for the holiday season. Ready to be with my family & friends and bask in the blessings of the year.<br />
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Blessings of the year- they've been heavy on my heart this week. My brother learned devastating news about a good friend of his. She lost half of her family in a plane crash. Her dad and two brothers, leaving just the girls- her sister and mother- alive. My brother has grieved for her all week. And, in turn, we all have too. It's too close for comfort when something like that happens- and it's such a tragedy, it just shocks your system. I've cried for people I don't know- and for the fear of losing people I love most. That's where faith is so crucial, right? Here's a <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mobileprotection#!/pages/Pray-For-The-Ledets/291023624344573?fref=ts">link to their Facebook page</a>- if you want to read more about it.<br />
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Read more about it- that seems to be the news motto. I can officially say I'm once again fully immersed in the world of TV news. I left for four years- and it took about six months to get it's hooks back in me. I watch, read, scroll- whatever you want to call it- news every day. I consume it like I consume coffee. And I'm starting to take ownership of "my" show. It's not the show I inherited anymore, or the one I jumped into after a bad layoff. It's mine. Back off. :)<br />
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So I thought I was going to back off from training for a while. I thought wrong. And I should have known better. How can I not run, when it's beautiful and 60 degrees outside?! My bike and running shoes have been calling my name. So maybe I'm not training for a big race- but I'm still hitting the pavement daily. I guess it's just what I need- and love.<br />
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So there's a <strike>quick</strike> novel update for you! Busy, busy, busy- but I wouldn't have it any other way.<br />
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Have a fantastic Friday! And BOOMER SOONER!Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-38943639435895790812012-10-02T09:59:00.003-05:002012-10-02T09:59:57.087-05:00Adventure GirlOh boy, do I need an adventure.<br />
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After reading "Wild" (see previous blog post)- it seems that every travel, fitness, sport <em>everything</em> is calling out to me.<br />
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The travel books on my shelf- Spain, Africa, Germany- seem to be leaping out at me.<br />
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My "Backroads" catalog- beckoning me to pick a trip, bike through Austin, hike through Alaska, canoe through Argentina.<br />
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I don't know if they canoe in Argentina; I was just going with the alliteration.<br />
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In fact- I was on a political website yesterday and "Backroads" was the sponsor!<br />
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Not a coincidence. A full-blown sign.<br />
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Every now and then, I feel the strongest urge to pack up everything I own and set off on the greatest adventure of all. Move to Spain and write a novel, blog for Compassion International, start a traveling production company, see the world.<br />
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I think it's more than an adventure I need. I think I'm still figuring out what God's calling me to do. And- it's a hard sensation to grapple with. Because on one hand, I love my life so fully. I'm content and happy and I know I'm where I'm supposed to be.<br />
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But lately, I know there's something <em>else.</em> I feel like I'm on the edge of a big change. And whether it's physically going somewhere or not, I know it's coming.<br />
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In the meantime, those travel books beckon. Those adventure catalogs keep coming in the mail. I keep applying to blog on a Compassion trip, and I am constantly crunching plane ticket prices- to anywhere.<br />
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I'm also living in the present, right here in Tulsa, Oklahoma- in the walls of this house I love so much.<br />
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I've read enough fairy tales to know sometimes the adventure is a world away; and sometimes it's right in your own back yard.<br />
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I guess I need to be ready for both!Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-71663265192889663202012-09-30T14:25:00.000-05:002012-09-30T14:25:26.850-05:00Wild<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm a voracious reader. And when I pick up a book that I like, and get immersed in, I will typically read it in 24 hours. Or, a long weekend, if it's a particularly long book.</div>
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That's kind of how I felt about "Wild"- although that wasn't initially the case.</div>
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I downloaded a sample of the book on my iPad weeks ago, after seeing it on the New York Times top 10 list for a while. And reading just the sample made my heart hurt and made me cry. It hit a little too close to home- and so I decided I didn't want to read it. I reached the final sample page, where it prompts you to "buy"- and I said no thank you. Book, shut.</div>
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But every time I looked at my library, I saw this boot. And every time I looked at the NYT list, I saw "Wild." And finally- I'm embarrassed to say- the camel that broke the straw's back: Reese Witherspoon is going to make it into a movie.</div>
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OK. Sold.</div>
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I returned to that "buy" page- and buy I did.</div>
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That was Friday; it's now Sunday, and the book is shut, because I finished it. I devoured it. I went to church today with puffy eyes from crying. </div>
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In my opinion, books fall into levels. There are the mindless reads. There are the books that you keep coming back to, because you love the characters- like catching up with an old friend. There are the books you never touch again- because they impacted you in such a strong way, you can never relive them. There are the books that find their way to Half Price books, and the ones that will collect dust on your bookshelf for eternity, never to be parted with.</div>
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This is one of my favorite books to date. It's a memoir; it's hilarious at times, at gut-wrenching at others. And today, I woke up with questions in my head, images from scenes I read. A secret wish that the author was still hiking the trail that the book centers around- even though she isn't.</div>
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I'm a sucker for the journey, for adventure, for heartache, for the need to be alone and the need to be surrounded by loved ones. And sometimes, someone else's words and experiences speak so closely to your heart, that you just absorb all of them.</div>
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I'd tell you to read this book, but not because it's easy. If you're like me, you'll find yourself in front of a mirror with a few challenges for yourself.</div>
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So, that's my review! Take it or leave it. Sample, or "buy." I had to share my thoughts on it while it's fresh on the brain! :)</div>
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Any other good books out there to devour? </div>
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Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871779831492990610.post-4585299945095853002012-09-26T10:03:00.002-05:002012-09-26T10:03:21.522-05:00EncouragementObviously, I'm a lover of words. I love writing them, I love speaking them, I love reading them.<br />
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And- I feel like what we say to people- whether we're writing them or texting them or talking to them- is SO important. It makes such a big difference.<br />
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I work in a stressful business. And I find that sometimes, it's easier to find the "what's wrong" than point out the "what went right." <br />
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Isn't that true in life, too? It seems easier to give someone "constructive criticism" than encouragement. It's easier to tell your loved one what you <em>need </em>from them, instead of what you can give. It's easier to complain, than initiate real change.<br />
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I'm trying to be aware of that these days. Giving encouragement. Because everyone needs to know what they're doing <em>right</em>. I think we're all too aware of our faults.<br />
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Sometimes- being the one to encourage means you're left a little empty. You need someone to do the encouraging right back- and that doesn't always happen right away.<br />
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But then you read something- a blog post, a passage- and you feel encouraged. Your dreams feel validated. The things you're patiently waiting for- that just seem a bit far away- feel a little closer to reality. <br />
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You spend a little time in prayer, and you find fulfillment and encouragement that is lasting. And you hold onto it, really tightly.<br />
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You go for a run or a bike ride and remember that you're strong, that you've got it together (most days, ha!) and give thanks that you're healthy.<br />
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Encouragement comes in a lot of different forms.<br />
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For me, I'm going to keep handing out those positive words. There's a bit of a shortage; and I plan to make up for it in my little corner of the world.<br />
Lindsay O'Donnell Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06983704498864048916noreply@blogger.com0