Hello September// TAG

I can't read that title without thinking of the Owl City song. 

 "Hello, Seattle, I am a manta ray...."

I know, I'm super late!

 My sweet big ol' sister over at A Grand Adventure tagged me for this one, so I suppose I'd better do it, eh? Can't say no to my eldest sibling, even if I can win in a wrestling match. 

 LaKaysha, what are you rambling about?

ANYWHO....

 R U L E S 

Answer the questions and then nominate at least three other bloggers. Write out at least ten new questions or just copy these. Include the guidelines in your post, use the tag picture, and try to avoid nominating bloggers who have already been nominated.

Q U E S T I O N S

sweaters or hoodies?

hmmm... I think sweaters. In all honesty, I think I own one hoodie that I would actually wear in public (the other one is a work one), and it's pretty boring. Maybe if I had a cute one?

 windy or rainy day?

Rain. When we have windy days around here, it gets pretty scary, as large branches fall and the wind howls at night. 

 I prefer to snuggle on the couch, reading a good book, or maybe drawing, while listening to jazz music as the rain patters outside. Am I the only one who finds rainy days perfect for some relaxing jazz piano?

 favorite fall time drink? 

Hands down, spiced apple cider is my favorite. Or fresh pressed... any kind of cider. <3333

favorite fall color? 

Maybe army green or burnt orange.

what song makes you feel cozy?

Besides jazz, like I just mentioned? lol

 Christmas songs always make me feel cozy. 

Old Time Christmas by Randy Travis 

Till the Season Comes Round Again by Reba 

 favorite part of fall in your state?

The cold, crisp, foggy mornings. Mmmm, exhilarating.

favorite pair of boots? (picture please)

 I'm going to have to break the rules and not post a picture *please don't hate me*
My cowboy boots, unfortunately, are the only boots I own that I actually like. lol 
 They are comfortable and adorable, ok?
  

favorite jacket? (picture please)

 I also have no picture. *oops*
My jean jacket I just recently got from my mom, is super cute and comfy <333

favorite fall memory?

I have a lot of those. 

 If I had to pick one, I guess it would be when we lived further North, and we had a huge tree in the front yard. The leaves that fell from it made the best jumping pile, and we would swing on a hanging branch, before dropping in the soft leaves. 

 That was the same year we made a scarecrow using my dad's old sweatshirt, jeans, and a milk jug. The jolly looking fella sat in the tree and watched our fun. <33

favorite fall pass time?

Either pressing apples from Grandpa's trees into delicious cider or sitting on the swing our front, watching the leaves fall and dreaming. (when I'm not working, that is. I do have a life. lol)

 if you could go anywhere in the USA, just for the fall scenery, where would you go?

 Maybe Maine? 

Oh, definitely Colorado. Have you seen the Rockies in the fall? *sighs* 

And seeing how this month is nearly over, I am not going to tag anyone this time. (no one ever does it anyways. cough cough)

I hope you enjoyed, and I'll see ya'll soon!

                                                                                  LaKaysha

Again and Again

pc: Pinterest

 I have been absent, I know.
 Please, allow me to explain.

It's been a rough time for me, personally, this past few months.
 My bank account was getting lower, and lower and lower., until I was becoming quite anxious and overwhelmed, realizing I couldn't keep this up.
 My once-a-week cleaning job wasn't keeping up with my constant needs and bills (gas, phone, eye care, ect.) and, at the possibility of sounding like a vain creature, my wardrobe looks pretty sad.
 It was a struggle to keep gas in my vehicle, and when friends wanted to go out for lunch, I'd always get a sad feeling in the pit of my stomach, because I knew I couldn't.
 I couldn't seem to find anything worthwhile, that would actually pay well, plus be convenient for someone as insecure is me.
 No place I inquired about was hiring. I even asked at my favorite coffee shop, but I'm pretty sure they only hire relatives, so I came up empty there, too.
 I was practically down to my last dollar, and I couldn't take it anymore.
One night I actually broke down, crying and stating I didn't know what I was doing anymore, where I was going from here; why did I even exist?
 Nothing seemed to be going right for me, and all my prayers seemed to be falling on a silent ear.
Down to my last options, I typed on the ALC Facebook page:
 "Looking for a babysitting/cleaning job. Would prefer to work for someone within the church, part-time. If you are interested, or know of someone in need of help, please let me know!"
 I pushed the 'post' button and walked away, doubting I would even get a response.
'O, ye of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?'
 Only a few days later, a woman messaged me about a nanny job, which sounded a little sketchy, but I was considering it, and asked God to show me if that's what he wanted me to do.
 The next day I got another message, from a relative, Myrna Jussila. 
She was moving and needed someone to take over some of her clients, if I would be interested.
 Well, of course I told her I certainly was, as was my sister Daminika, and she filled me on the details. It sounded appealing enough, and I pretty much agreed to give it a try.
 A job at last! My prayers had been answered.
 One kink in the plans, though: We had to buy our own vacuum.
Like the ungrateful, weak creature that I am, I promptly switched my stress from finding a job to figuring out how to buy a vacuum. I mean, they aren't the cheapest item in the store.
 The following Sunday I was seated in church, and instead of listening to the sermon as I ought, I was stressing over where on earth was I going to get the money for a vacuum.
 I prayed that maybe someone had one they no longer wanted and would let us take it, or maybe randomly win one, shoot, maybe even have one fall into my lap.
Anyway possible, Lord, help me find one!
After church, we went home, and I went into my room to change out of my church clothes. A message flashed across my cell phone screen.
 "Hey, girls, I found a vacuum for only $50!"
 No way. 
Another prayer answered.
 This may seem like a little thing to some, but it had been weighing on my mind until I thought I would surely scream from the anxiety, and here one 'falls in my lap.'
I could have cried for joy, but again, my happiness soon gave way to anxiety, as I dreaded the days when I would have to go and meet the owners of the houses I would be cleaning.
 Talking is not my thing. 
The night before we were to meet our first client, I was a nervous wreck, and then this song popped up on my Youtube.

Again, I moved to tears, as I realized my lack of faith, my silly fretting over petty things that were out of my control.
 And so now, as I slowly become adjusted to another new season in my life, I often have to remind myself, 'Over and over, again and again God is faithful.'

I don't know how long this season will last, or how things will go, but the best thing I can do is square my shoulders and just keep moving forward, knowing 'Jesus is with me, so I'll claim the victory.'

On a lighter side, I'm super excited about another upcoming season: Fall!
 I have never been the type to cling to summer, in fact, I always look forward to the changing seasons, because there is always something breathtaking about each one.
 Summer has sunny days, relaxing evenings and river walks, while Winter is full of crackling fires, Christmas trees, snow, and peppermint candies.
 Spring has lush green grass, bright wildflowers and songbirds.
Fall....
 Ah, Autumn.
The last of the harvesting is under way, apples are pressed into cider, leaves are raked into piles perfect for leaping into, rain patters the rooftops and waters the grass that's been bleached and burnt by summer's heat.
 You can see your breath as you snuggle into your jacket and scarf, clutching a steaming mug of spicy tea while listening to the sounds of nature.
 Boots and sweaters.
Thanksgiving and foggy mornings.
 There is so much to love about this coming season!

What life-changing season do you remember the most?

Apple cider or Pumpkin coffee?

                                                            LaKaysha

August Wrap Up// Photo Dump

Hello, all! It's me again. *round of applause. thank you*
 It's already time for another monthly wrap up!
Goodness, this month had flown by, and we're now to September. After September comes, October, and then November... But I'm getting ahead of myself.
 Who else is excited for fall? Show of hands!
No one? Oh well.

 This month has been craaaaazy busy-fun. (Ant-Man reference, there)
A family reunion was one big happening.
 It was nice to see family that I hadn't seen in years, and spend some time with old friends. *sniffs*
My sister Felicity and her hubby Josiah flew out for the reunion and stayed for a while, so I got to spend some sister time with her before they left. <33

 Our county fair was a lot of fun, and I finally went to Tuff Trucks for the first time.
If you don't know what that is, it's basically random people who want to enter, driving cars, vans, jeeps, or trucks as fast as they can through the course without breaking down or crashing.
 It's a really exciting event, and thankfully no one gets hurt often.
The crowd really goes wild when the extremely skilled guys take the big jump.

Shantelle came to visit me *hugs* and we spent some happy times together, walking through antique shops, talking over a smoothie, and enjoying each others company. <3

me at antique stores

 Marita, Marissa, Daminika and I decided it was time we went up to see what the Tri-City fair was like, so Friday afternoon we packed up the car and headed out to the open road.
 It was a long drive, with lots of music, laughing and *ahem* over-tired squealing.
By the time we got to Kirsten's house, I was thoroughly worn-out, but we insisted on watching State Fair to put us in the right mood.

 The next day was Fair day!
We had a wonderful time walking through the fairgrounds, visiting the horses, goats and other animals, stuffing ourselves with ice cream, elephant ears and other carnival foods.
 I always said I would wait for my boyfriend before I went on a ferris wheel, but the guy is taking way too long, you know?
 So I finally agreed to join the girls for a ride, and it was a blast...after I got over my panic attack and was actually able to open my eyes. I'm afraid of heights, ok?
 But I would definitely go on it again. <3
The rodeo is connected to the fair, so around six we headed over to the grandstands to get seats, and it was already packed. Thankfully we are all sat together with no problems.
 The cowboys (and cowgirls) did a great job, and it rekindled my love for the rodeo.... also reminded me how lonely I am for a horse of my own. hehe
 All in all, it was an amazing weekend that I wish could have gone on and on forever.
Unfortunately, I didn't take too many photos on that trip...I was too busy having fun. I do apologize for your sakes, but, hey, I don't want to live my life through a camera lens.
 Don't be angry.

My baby sister turned fourteen this month, and my baby (and only) bro turned seventeen.... Goodness, I'm getting old. *winks*
 They're both growing into wonderful adults, and I just love them to pieces.

And now! The moment we've all been waiting for:

run around town with the family

always, always include a smoothie photo

family gatherings are the best <3

Trip to the zoo

they have the strangest looking fries, but they were delicious 

These things are delish, ok?

family reunion

what a view <3

when you tell your sister's dog to smile... priceless

late night sketching

the County Fair! <3

Tuff Trucks. Oh yeah *sunglasses*

fresh picked blackberries make the best pies

antique shopping

this dress made me think of 'Tuck Everlasting'

playing around with Banana-Grams tiles

Did I even spell it right?

My old home.... <3 *sigh*

"Out on the open roaaaaad!"

The next morning, all ready for the fair

Kaaren Sue <3

pic 'stolen' from my Auntie  A

the next day we had Chinese for lunch

and strolled the streets before we had to say goodbye to Kirsten

always adding to my music collection

"On the road again..."

And that's that! Very dull, short photo dump. So sorry ;P

Moments:

Daminika: "I mean you don't have to like, Bing Crosby or Perry Como, but you've got love Ricky Nelson."
Me: "uh........Perry Como is pretty important, too."
Daminika: "I only love Perry Como's..... face."

Walking down the old road to see my old home from years ago... bittersweet <3

When your at the Tuff Trucks and they start playing Footloose and Danger Zone

Coffee date with Shantelle, sipping on a mango smoothie and opening our hearts.
 I just love that girl <3

Liquid silver is amazing stuff, guys. I put it in my eyes to soothe them when my allergies are acting up.
 Well..... I mistook a bottle of essential oils for my bottle of silver. OUCH
Peppermint oil, tea tree, ect. It hurt BAD and I was worried it would do permanent damage, but thankfully I rinsed it out fast enough.
 I do not recommend that, ya'll.

 After going to the rodeo, you get up the next morning and your cousin makes you follow the cowboys on Instagram. *shrugs* #cowboylifeforever

Watched Avengers: Infinity War
*deep sad silence*
I don't even know what to say about this movie..... sniff.
 I can't without spoilers.
Marvel fans, if you're interested in a movie review, let me know in the comments!

just because we love Cap

When you go to a stand at the fair and all five of you order a big pickle.
I was the fourth one in line and the guy was already amused, so when I got up to order, I grinned, "A pickle."
"Another big pickle?!"
By the time the last of us ordered, the man said, "You've wiped us out. We only have two left."
 What can I say? We love pickles.

'Vlogging' as you walk down the streets, and a whole restaurant of people stare out the window at you, like you have two heads.... I pretend I'm a vlogger anyways.

And that wraps up August!
 I hope I didn't bore you too terribly.

 What was the most exciting thing that happened this month?

Have you watched Infinity War?

And now I'm off to cook supper. Catch ya'll later.

                                                                                    LaKaysha