Over the past month or so, I've discovered a new love.

Traditional, gospel, blues and country songs. 

For example, I just heard this one this morning, and loved it.



Actually, this really all got started with the songs I heard in Oh Brother, Where Art Thou.

Like this one:



this one:



and this one:



I love it when I discover new things that I really enjoy.  It's like I am a mystery, and I unfold new little pieces of myself all the time.

home.

I am home for Christmas.

It was stressful getting here, but now that I'm here, it's actually quite lovely.  This morning I slept in until a little after 9am, then I went on a run in the fantastic fifty degree weather (compared to Utah snow and freezing temps, I am happy as a clam :)).  It was a little drizzly and overcast, but the air smells fresh and chilly and perfect.

When I got back, the house was still quiet (everyone was either gone or still sleeping), and so I took a long shower, and then put on some music and raided the kitchen for breakfast.  My mom has developed a habit of buying healthier, organic food of late, and I can't help but LOVE it.  I scrambled two large brown eggs, with organic milk, salt and pepper, and then threw in some cheese, and fresh salsa from the local Tacoma Boys (an indoor farmer's market, selling local, fresh food). I ate that with two slices of whole wheat toast with butter, and an orange, while catching up on some blog reading and looking out the window onto this scene.

Now I'm wrapping up the gifts I purchased, to put under the tree.

Mmmm.  It really is nice to have a break, and to be home in beautiful Washington.

Of Things That Matter Most.

This is my favorite talk from our most recent General Conference.  Well, one of my favorites at least.  Watch it below, or read it here.

Either way, you've really got to listen to at least a little chunk of this video.  He has the most endearing little German accent.

something delicious.

Guys. This is the best granola recipe in the history of eternity.  Thank heavens for my lovely roommate Brooke who found the recipe and has made this delectable goodness for us on multiple occasions. She was kind enough to direct me to the recipe.  And warn me that you can't just set the timer and leave. You have to keep an eye on it, and it will likely be done much sooner than expected.

I made myself a double batch of it today, and now my kitchen smells amazing. And I can't even begin to tell you how extremely content my belly is.

photo from recipe page itself: http://thekitchensinkrecipes.com/2008/01/04/homemade-granola-im-warning-you/

12.1.2010