I am a horrible blogger. I blame it on the fact that I talk way too much in real life and cannot sit down long enough to gather a coherent thought. But anyway, I thought it would be good to update those of you who do happen to read this and wonder how and where I've been. I started a new job! It's the story of my life, but I think I may actually keep this one awhile. Haha. I am now the music and art teacher at a private school. Just call me, Mrs. Robinson. ;) It's been so great. I loved my old job at Eagle Eye and wouldn't have left it for any other job except this one. Teaching music and art doesn't even feel like work, but more like a passion. I teach a 7th grade music class every day. And 3 year olds - 6th grade classes once a week for music and art. :)

I am also finishing up my last semester of college. I take two afternoon theology classes on Tuesday and Thursdays - Problems in Philosophy and the Life of Paul. I found out today that I won't have a paper due in either of those classes... so I am praising the Lord for this! I can't wait to learn more. This is one of the great things about attending bible college - learning is fun, because it's more than just growing mentally, but spiritually as well.

Let's see... what else is new with me? Oh yes, my little sister is getting married this year! So I plan on spending lots of time helping her prepare for the big day on June 18th. Via the el Skyp-o. She lives four hours away. Boo to that.

That's pretty much it. I have enjoyed these past couple years living in Alabama. The culture is a little bit different, but a good change. I think I am like that reptile (wait, let me google it)... a chameleon, yes... that changes colors to adapt to its environment. I find I adapt, and even enjoy, change. And like someone pointed out to me the other day, teaching will be a good job for me... because I'll get a new group of students every year!

'Tis the 3rd year of Christmas married to my husband 'Tis the 2nd year of Christmas abiding here in Dothan 'Tis the 1st year of Christmas in our very own abode 'Tis a very, merry Christmas at the Robinson home!

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So, I spent some time today reading this post on Beth Moore's blog. And basically starved myself. She had her readers each reply with one of their favorite holiday dishes, including the recipe on how to make it. There were lots of delicious meals suggested! I am spending this Thanksgiving with my husband and in-laws in South Carolina. Some holiday traditions have changed since marriage, but my mother-in-love has been sweet enough to allow me to include my favorite thanksgiving meal in our food repertoire. After reading the multitude of recipes on Beth's blog, I decided to share my favorite holiday recipe for all of you: Sweet Potato Casserole! It was one of my favorite dishes my mom made, and I taste a little bit of home whenever I make it now. :)

Sweet Potato Casserole (w/ mini marshmallows!)

3 ½ to 4 pounds fresh sweet potatoes ¼ cup light brown sugar ¼ cup evaporated milk 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature 2 tablespoons orange juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg Pinch ground cloves ¼ cup finely chopped toasted pecan 3 cups miniature marshmallows

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil.

Bake the sweet potatoes on the foil-lined baking sheet until a thin, pointy knife inserted in the center meets no resistance, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Set aside until cool enough to handle.

Once cooled, remove the skins and mash until smooth. In a large bowl combine the potatoes, sugar, evaporated milk, butter, orange juice, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves and beat until smooth. Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan and sprinkle with the chopped pecans. Arrange the marshmallows in an even layer over the top and bake until the marshmallows are lightly browned, 35 to 45 minutes. This can be made a day ahead (that's what I plan to do!), covered, and refrigerated, then returned to room temperature and baked 35 to 45 minutes before serving.

Super easy! I'm sure you all have your favorite dishes as well. Feel free to post them here if you'd like! Happy Thanksgiving!