I am crushing

Over the last few months I've developed a couple of special relationships. Sadly these men will never know it, as I have never actually spoken with any of them in person. But, in my mind, they are fantastic. Also, I feel like I'm becoming a more mature woman because my selections have moved away from the "teeny-bopper" favorites and now include men that are well into their 40's. Allow me introduce you.

This is Robert. He's probably one of my more temporary friends but I just keep thinking about his performance in Iron Man and couldn't leave him out.

Jason Bateman. The picture doesn't really do him justice but he makes me laugh.

Finally, Brad. He's been "on my list" for a while and will be for a while. I've always thought he was attractive and then I saw A River Runs Through It. Attractive old and young -wow. And he has a lot of kids. And does a lot of good things for other people. I think that makes hime my favorite.

It just came to mind

I'm a culprit of ignoring lyrics, poems, and even just regular text that people post. Anything that requires my attention for longer than about 30 or so seconds is difficult for me, especially on the internet. I guess its different when it comes to songs that mean something to me...

We sung this song in A cappella my senior year (my only year, but so fun) and I grew to really like it. At that time all I really noticed were a few harmonies and a couple of neat phrases (of words, not music). Yesterday, one phrase in particular came to mind when I was thinking about the events that have transpired in the last few months and the important events coming up for me. After reading the lyrics to the whole song, I was touched by the poetic way the author was able to state how I, and I'm sure so many other people feel about Our Shepherd. So, its here if you want to read ... the third verse is my favorite.

My Shepherd Will Supply My Need

Isaac Watts 1719

My Shepherd will supply my need:Jehovah is His Name;In pastures fresh He makes me feed,Beside the living stream.He brings my wandering spirit backWhen I forsake His ways,And leads me, for His mercy’s sake,In paths of truth and grace.

When I walk through the shades of deathThy presence is my stay;One word of Thy supporting breathDrives all my fears away.Thy hand, in sight of all my foes,Doth still my table spread;My cup with blessings overflows,Thine oil anoints my head.

The sure provisions of my GodAttend me all my days;O may Thy house be my abode,And all my work be praise.There would I find a settled rest,While others go and come;No more a stranger, nor a guest,But like a child at home.

Clainey why are you wearing a wig?

These were Gabe's words when he first saw my new do. But folks, its not a wig! Its the real deal! On Thursday I started the trek back to my natural dark hair color. The goal is that it will fade into my natural color before the mish. We'll see how it all works out!

For now its a fun change and I'm enjoying being surprised whenever I see my reflection in the mirror. Also, I like getting the complements from my little brother Gabe. After he realized that I wasn't wearing a wig, he said " Clainey you look prettier with your black hair more than your blond hair". He also reassured me that my "black hair" is fancier, cooler, and more beautiful than my blond hair. How lucky I am to have such a sweet little bro. I guess thats what you get when you have three older sisters!

In the car on the way to the salon saying goodbye to my blond hair for a couple of years. till we meet again!

Meet the new Maclaine

P.S. Thanks to Dev and Rub for putting up with my vain picture-taking sessions.

So simple, so grand

Do I officially enter into the Mormon-lady-blog-world when I post a recipe? I really don't want to do this ... but I can't keep it to myself. I need to share. I've learned how to make a really, really great smoothie.

Easy step one: take any type of fruit you like ( I usually go with oranges but they're getting a little "gamy" right now, so fresh or frozen strawberries are my 2nd option)

Easy step two: choose a yoplait light yogurt that has a similar flavor to the fruit (orange creamsicle yogurt is my favorite! When I do strawberries I usually use berries and cream instead of strawberry yogurt)

Easy step three: Blend

Easy step four: Add a couple of handfuls of ice

Easy step five: Enjoy your delectable, and may I add healthy and refreshing summer dessert!

Really try it. Its delicious.