10&10

Okay. I'll admit it. I just squealed in pleasure when I realized that I was number 9 on "Thoughts of an Oxymoron"s 10&10 (a little bit of love). I mean, wow. A shout out from a smart lady who I adore. What's better than that? I realize I saw this almost a week late, but it's midterm week.  I shouldn't be taking the time to even write this, but I will anyway, because I deserve it.

Ten Things I Like:

1. Chuck Taylors. They have been ingrained as part of my identity since I was 14. I'm not giving them up until I'm 74.
2. Books. New books, old books, I'm not picky. The smell of the library or a bookstore. It's like... paper. And knowledge. Both of which are fantastic.
3. Diet root beer. I used to be an avid hater of all diet sodas, however, diet root beer tastes much like the regular thing, has 0 calories, and helps erase (some of) the guilt from drinking soda. I'm even getting used to diet Mountian Dew.
4. Waffles. Both the breakfast food and my best friend on four legs. My dog is the only one in my life who thinks I'm a saint, never holds grudges, and always thinks I have the answer. 
5. Music. I don't think I could live without a rhythm of some sort pulsing through my veins. I often has one in mind even when no music surrounds me. 
6. A bargain. A super-cute top on clearance for $3.99 at Old Navy? Gets me every time. 
7. HGTV. What is better than fantasizing about houses in tropical locales or half-a-million-dollar houses I'll never afford on my future teacher's salary? Or decorating ideas that I can incorporate into my own apartment? Nothing. And it's pretty easy to keep on in the background while doing homework. (And doesn't make me eat non-stop like my Food Network obsession did.)
8. Movies. I love curling up under a blanket on the couch with my dog and hubby watching a movie or tv or whatever. (It's really really REALLY cozy with all of us on the couch.)
9. Ice cream. I realize this is the third food-related item on this list, but really... ice cream is something I always associate with my Papa, my mom's father. He is an amazing man and to him a night just isn't a night to him unless it comes complete with ice cream. I have to say I agree. It's like that sweet treat at the end of the day. Though now, I eat a lot of frozen yogurt. It's basically the same thing, right?
10. My family. They are everything to me. My family also now includes a wonderful husband (and his family. I am blessed with awesome in-laws). He hasn't been given a proper introduction yet, but he will. :-)

And now for 10 blogs you should follow, besides me *shameless self-promotion*: (Wait... you are following me, right?)

• Thoughts of an Oxymoron-- Inspiration for today's post and a woman with a LOT going on. All of it fun to read!
• the silver lining-- Positive thoughts and lots of organization. Also my fellow 2010 bride!
• We Three Kings-- I can't say enough good things about Lele. She has an adorable son and plenty to talk about. So you should go check it out.
• domestic daredevils-- A relatively new blog, but worth mentioning for this bread post alone! I look forward to more recipes and kitchen tips!
• (I forgot to put bread on my 10 things I like. So consider bread #11!)
• Confessions of a Shieldmaiden-- I think some of you know of the Shieldmaiden challenge I mentioned over on Twitter to Get Fitter, but this is Scarlett. She is amazing. I love her. And her awesome, geeky exercise idea that I'm currently failing at. But that's not the point... 
• Rachel Vincent-- My favorite fantasy writer. (Yes, I love her stuff more than Twilight! *gasp*) You guys should check out her stuff, seriously. I know I plug it a lot. So DO IT! 
• Hyperbole and a Half-- A blog I've recently discovered, but her illustrations and stories and scenarios are absolutely hilarious. You just have to check it out. 
• The Seam Rippers-- They make me jealous with all their awesome crafty-goodness. I tried to sew when I was young. It's a good idea in theory, but I don't have the patience. :-( So I look at their shiny projects in awe. 
• Mommy Wants Vodka-- Firstly, who doesn't want vodka? Secondly, you had me at John C. Mayer. I was wondering what happened to wittiness and why it wasn't on my Twitter feed anymore! Also, I can't wait to see more of what she writes.
• For number 10, I'm pulling an Erin. Please follow the other blogs I do. :-)

And now, enough procrastination. It's time to get back to homework!