These Boots are Jinxed!

I ordered these lovely boots last May from the Fort Western in Lincoln. I was told 4-6 weeks. 8+ weeks passed with no boots. After several phone calls I was finally informed they were backordered and would arrive “maybe” in October. WHAT??? It is not ok for you to hold money until at least October, and even worse was that you never called to update me on this change. Epic Fail Fort!

Recently a local feed store in town Lakeside Country Store started carrying boots (thanks for the tip Carol) and I was elated to find the same boots on the shelf! Yipppeee these boots are mine after all (bonus I had Christmas money to spend). I was super excited when only a week later they arrived. I picked them up only to notice parts of the boot were dark like expected and parts were a weird light brown. The salesladies told me they were just dry in those spots and with oil they will be fine. No worries, I’ll just wait while you fix them or I can come back later to pick up if that works better. Nope – I was told to just buy the oil and fix myself. I am sorry but these are brand spanking new $200+ boots. I am not going to “fix” them myself before I even wear them. Guess it was not my destiny to own those boots! I am disappointed in the poor customer service of both the Fort and Lakeside.

Fresh start as I am now determined to find cute new boots. All my country Blogger friends have been raving about Lane Boots. And I am impressed with their selection, plus the turquoise soles make these the Christian Louboutin version of boots.

I am pretty certain I want turquoise in the mix. I have narrowed it down::



I also love these two options (the Blue is Creighton blue and the silver/bronze is just fancy):


I REALLY need input. Any favorites?? Which pair would you get?? Also any discount codes available? I know last week Horses and Heels had one but at that time I thought my dream boots were already en route....Odo I keep trying for the original pair???

My first Pinterest Delight

I love Pinterest!! I have several things I want to DIY, many rooms I would like to copy, and all kinds of yummy recipes saved up. You can follow me here. My first attempt was these delicious Energy Bites.

Found on Pinterest via Smashed Peas and Carrots
I made them last night and must brag a lil and say they turned out pretty darn great!

Here is the recipe in case you want to recreate. Easy peasy and super healthy
No-Bake Energy Bites
(makes 18-20 bites)

1 cup oatmeal
1/2 cup peanut butter (or other nut butter)
1/3 cup honey
1 cup coconut flakes
1/2 cup ground flaxseed
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla

Mix everything above in a medium bowl until thoroughly incorporated. Let chill in the refrigerator for half an hour. Once chilled, roll into balls and enjoy! Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Almost as Good as Country Roads

I live in “the city” ( big city dwellers may debate this fact) but am lucky that I have several great trail systems for running and biking within a few miles of my home.

One is Wabash Trace Nature Trail which I grew up near. Fond memories of soccer practice runs, walks with friends, and Thursday night Taco Rides.

It is still my go-to trail for long runs (although lately the River trail seems to top the list). It sure beats running through town with constant traffic, stop lights, and cat calls.

Luckily yesterday we had a high of around 45 degrees and no rain or snow for a small fraction of the day so I was able to squeeze 9 miles in. The best part was running into two of my close friends and fitness cohorts while out running! Seems everyone was capitalizing on the rare warm January weather.

Old Man Winter Has Arrived

Not so much a pretty white winter wonderland. More just a frigid winter something…

Luckily there is the promise of warmer temps in the next few days.

I do not want my long run to be on a treadmill if I can help it, I have gotten spoiled by the nice weather this winter and the ability for outdoor runs!

My Dream Tractor

Was discovered today on the most addictive site ever – aka Pinterest. Where does one find Pink John Deere? I must know!


*Photos by Justine Russo Photography found via Pinterest

Bison Anyone?

Another installment from the Kreycik Riverview Elk & Buffalo Ranch.

These animals are monsters!

With the craziest curly hair.


If you are in the Niobrara or Verdigree Nebraska area you really need to check this place out and go on a tour!

Positive Graffiti

During a long run Sunday I passed this inspirational message . I realize graffiti is usually not a good thing but in this case it made me smile as such a great message! Hope everyone is loving life this week!

Fallow Deer

A farm in Niobrara, NE (Kreycik Elk and Buffalo Ranch) has the neatest deer.

They are fallow deer which are Eurasian and native to most of Europe.

Essentialy miniature versions of our American Deer with really neat antlers.

Divine Diva

Sunday evening a few of us went to the Max to witness the Divine Diva Show. Amazing!


Some of the costumes, hair, and makeup were out of this world!


It was highly entertaining to say the least. I may be a lil biased but I think “Courtney” was the standout of the evening with her outstanding costumes and performances!!

Closet Envy

Stumbled upon this amazing closet over at Cote De Texas. Hello fun! Loving all the bright bold colors.

I am most envious of her boot collection.


Wowza – can I have even half of those boots please? I would also really like a few of these rings!

All the jewelry is out and almost reminds me of going shopping in a boutique.


How fun would that be every day? I really need to kick myself into gear and finish my kitchen/bedroom/closet transformation I started over a year ago. Right now it’s half done and not that functional. My closets are bursting at the seams and my jewelry is stored in Longaberger baskets. Not overly functional.

*All Photos from Cote de Texas