So Long 2013...

This time last year everyone was talking about 2013 being a lucky year, trying to counteract the superstition surrounding the number “13”. I wish I could say 2013 was a lucky year for me. Rather it was one challenge after the next. Tackling 2^nd year, the end of a relationship, losing my grandfather and both my puppies, and learning some important things about myself the difficult way are but a few of these challenges I faced.

I’m not really one to make New Year’s Resolutions, as I can never stick to them for very long. However, this year I have decided on just one thing, and that is to make the year 2014 my own, make it amazing, and make up for the terrible 2013. I don’t regret or wish this year didn’t happen because, I feel, it was necessary for me to grow and discover who I am and where I’m headed in life. This year has shown me the importance of the people who want to be in my life, and those who just aren’t worth all my efforts.

I am incredibly keen to welcome in the New Year tonight, and all that it brings with it. A few things I have to look forward to this year include my 21^st Birthday, completing my undergraduate degree, bettering my music skills, and surrounding myself with incredible people.

My prayer for you this New Year’s Eve is that 2014 be all you could wish for and bless you abundantly.

Party hard and be safe!

<3 Nicole_Kayley

Return.

It has been rather a long time since I last blogged, and I can honestly say I have missed it so much! I‘ve had so many ideas I've wanted to write about, but the universe simply did not agree with that. Over the past six months I've endured heartache like no other, gone through a massive break-up, lost my most amazing Grandfather, battled through the second semester of 2^nd year, and began the process of rediscovering myself.

I finished exams a week ago and already have a mile-long list of things to do, however my mind is so all-over-the-place that I don’t know where to even begin. One thing I have managed to do without a problem is watch the first season of Revenge. And OH MY GOODNESS!! What a show! I guess you could say I’m hooked, and yes, I have started to watch season 2 already. I have also started to watch How I Met Your Mother, although halfway through season 1, I’m not entirely sure if I’m enjoying it.

I have various other projects planned for the next 3 months, and I have the intention to complete all of them. My blog is one of those projects and I’m planning on documenting all the others on here. I can’t explain how excited I am for things to come.

I think for the first time this year, I am truly happy and content with where I am and more importantly with who and what I’ve become. I’ve reached a turning point in my life where I’ve come to realise what is and what isn't important. I’ve come to realise the real importance of family and through the tough times of the past year who the true friends are in my life. I could not be more grateful. Things are looking up. On the positive side, I reached my goal weight this year (cue: cheers). Now it is just a matter of staying there over the festive season (cringe!).

I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my life, with the most positive attitude I can have.

Here’s to new beginnings!

Until next time, (sooner rather than later)

<3 Nicole_Kayley

Be A Lamb...

Quick update on life: I wrote 3 exams last week (Stats, Psychology and Media), so it’s safe to say I came close to what I imagine hell would be like. But I made it through, and now to anxiously await the results! I write my final paper (Research Design) next Monday, then hello 5 week winter holiday! I cannot wait!

Secondly, even in between all the exam hype, I’ve been thinking up new ideas to add to my blog, and I’m super excited to see them come together. They may even include some reader participation... so find your Sheldon Cooper-style thinking caps!

And now to the real business of this post...

So the title was inspired by none other than one of my favourites Rajesh Koothrappali of The Big Bang Theory. (I may be somewhat of an addict of the sitcom.) In one episode, Sheldon decides in order to live longer, he must stay in his bedroom away from any life-threatening dangers, and so creates a robotic version of himself. A problem arises when he can’t open his office door. Leonard, finding it rather amusing, refuses to help him. Sheldon then turns to Raj and says:”Raj, be a lamb, and open my door” to which Raj responds in Sheldon’s favour, ands says: “I’m a lamb”.

For some reason, I found that moment hilarious!

But on a serious note, this post is actually about lamb, and not BBT.

A while ago my mom decided to buy a whole lamb from a colleague’s friend, who breeds organic lamb, and sells it in bulk at a lower price. So about a month ago we received our lamb that has taken up the majority of our already tiny freezer. In the past few weeks we have been having lamb chops, every second or third day and on the odd occasion a lamb-neck stew, or leg of lamb. I’m not complaining because I absolutely love lamb! Which is why I thought I’d share with you my secret for delicious lamb chops. Okay, not so much of a secret since I got it from a cooking show on TV. It’s a really simple marinade and works perfectly every time. Plus it’s really simple!

Firstly rub some chopped garlic over the chops. Place them in a sealable container and pour over some soy sauce and balsamic vinegar, not too much, just enough to coat the chops. Rub in the sauces until the chops are completely coated. Toss a few rosemary sprigs on top, seal the container and toss them around a little and set aside for about 15-30 minutes. Simply throw them on the braai or grill until cooked. And Voila!!

I know I’ll be enjoying my lamb tonight!\

Keep smiling!

Much love,

<3 Nicole_ Kayley