Encyclopedia of Me: A

I saw this idea on Emilie's blog. Emilie got this idea from her friend, Emily, who got the idea from someone else out there in blogland. Regardless, it is such a wonderful idea that I thought I, too, would try it out.

It's called the Encyclopedia of Me.

In a series of 26 posts, I'll list some things about me for each letter of the alphabet. Some letters will be harder than others (can't wait for those!), and I'll do this over time - hopefully by this time next year I can compile these into a neat little scrapbook or mini book.

Let me know if you decide to try this, or if you're already doing it!

First up... A.

1. Not available, 2. 66/365: take a breather, 3. Color Me!, 4. Little Luxuries #3, 5. Cup of Tea?, 6. The Magic of Autumn

Asthma: I was diagnosed with exercise-induced asthma when I was in my early twenties. In my teens, I was convinced that I suffered from asthma, although I was never officially diagnosed. I always had trouble running or doing anything too strenuous for a long period of time. Finally, I decided to make an official appointment to figure it out once and for all, and lo and behold, wouldn't you know - I indeed suffer from asthma. I have an inhaler that I use prior to strenuous activity or exercise. I've only had one full blown asthma attack that was not exercised-induced. Of course, it was the one time my inhaler had run out. I wasn't able to get to the doctor's office for a refill until later in the day, so my doctor suggested I drink a lot of coffee in the meantime to help fight the attack. Who would have known?

Art: I adore art in many different forms - paintings, drawings, fabric, cards, scrapbook pages, interior design, etc. I love being inspired by various artists out there. I also like to create art, though others might not consider it art! I enjoy scrapbooking, card-making, and making jewelry and buttons. I also dabble in drawing from time to time. Art to me equals creativity, and there are so many ways for one to be creative, and one person's creative art may be entirely different from the person next to them. That's part of what makes art so inspiring!

Apricot Scrub: St. Ives Apricot Scrub - I use this every day, and have been doing so for probably 7 or so years. I love giving my face a "clean slate" by exfoliating, and this scrub does the trick, while at the same time being gentle to my sensitive skin.

Antiques: I love antiques. They tell such a wonderful story from our past. I love to peruse antique and thrift stores, and have a few purchased antiques in my home. I'm a sucker for old tea cups and saucers. We also have an old pirate ship model. I get so excited when I see something that reminds me of my grandmother (not to say she is antique) - usually something she herself had at one time. Antique furniture is another favorite - I love the design and structure of old furniture.

Autumn: Autumn is probably my favorite of the four seasons. Spring and summer tie for second place, and winter would come in last. Autumn to me means sweater weather, bonfires, snuggling up in a blanket on the porch with a mug of hot apple cider (sometimes with a dash of rum), apple-picking and apple-cider donuts (yum!), planning for our annual Halloween party, Thanksgiving, and who could forget the gorgeous, brilliant colors the leaves turn? I'm honestly surprised I have not been in an accident from leaf-peeping while driving. My only complaint about autumn? I wish it lasted longer.