My 27th Birthday

 At the end of March Adam and I took our annual day trip to one of my favorite hidden gems in Arkansas, Eureka Springs! It's a very small town with a big personality. Eureka Springs, Arkansas, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s when it was discovered for its natural springs believed to have therapeutic properties. In 1879, the town was officially incorporated, and it quickly became a popular destination for health seekers and tourists. Its unique architecture, featuring Victorian-style homes and buildings, reflects the wealth generated from tourism, especially during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town's scenic beauty and vibrant arts scene continue to attract visitors today, making it a cherished spot in the Ozark Mountains. The quincke charm and mystery of this town are captured in the architecture that is seamlessly built into the mountainside it is built upon. With The Cresant Hotal at the very top. The Crescent Hotel is often referred to as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel.” Built-in 1886 as a luxury resort for wealthy travelers, the hotel boasts stunning Victorian architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding Ozarks. Originally intended as a college for young women, it later served as a hospital during World War II. The Crescent Hotel has gained a reputation for its ghostly residents and paranormal activity, making it a fascinating attraction for both history enthusiasts and those curious about the supernatural. Its rich history and enchanting atmosphere continue to draw visitors year-round, including Adam and me. It feels like we owe it to the past to make the trek to the top and overlook the town and valley below as a sign of respect for what once was. 

Our day began with a long car ride full of energy drinks and podcasts with lots of excitement and nervousness about my health. I haven't been on much pain management but was bringing the medications my doctor had given me for when things get back as well as my trusty cane for the day of walking ahead. I knew with the hills and limestone sidewalks I'd be needing all the help I could get. The year before we had gone with friends and I struggled through immense pain and left feeling unsatisfied with the trip so Adam and I were determined to have fun even if I was a bit loopy from the medications. 

We started at Sweet Spring our go-to parking spot in front of a cute art store. They had a bubble machine going which always added to the whimsical atmosphere of the town. We went from shop to shop talking with new faces and bumping into a few of our favorite owners along the way. A new favorite location is a small bead store where we spent probably over an hour picking our vibrant beads for various projects. Adam collected natural materials to make a windchime for his car and my ADHD self was picking beads for two different bookmarks and multiple sets of beads and charms for hair clips. 

As we made our way down the mountain roads, we stopped at our favorite coffee shop for a much-needed chia latte and some people-watching.

We took a moment to catch our breath and savor our drinks. I had been using my cane throughout the entire adventure, and although I was still feeling sore and moving slowly, Adam never minded. In fact, it only encouraged us to take our day moment by moment, being present and aware.

As we zigzagged through the town staying mostly on the main drag we stopped to admire one store that offered old-timey dress-up photography I was pointing and showing Adam the ones I would love to do together someday just for the fun of it when an older couple passed us on the street with the women beaming with a smile and said: "You two should definitely do it!" I laughed and called back "That's what I told him!" We all had a passing laugh when I turned back I noticed the very large sign that read "Marriages performed daily." ...I looked at Adam with both amusement and bewilderment we locked as eyes and laughed out "I didn't even see that! But I think that's what she was talking about" Adam agreed and we had a fun laugh about it. We had talked about marriage lately and it seemed like an amusing sign from the universe. 

Our day was winding down as we retraced our steps and entered a few more shops on our way back up the hillside to the car. At this point my need to rest was constant and it took us longer than usual to make it. When we were reunited with the car I could sit and truly relax when Adam checked in to make sure I still wanted to pay our visit to the Cresant Hotal. Of course, I did. It was redbud season in Arkansas and I wanted to see the blooms around the valley from the lookout balcony. It's a beautiful and magical spot with amazing views that can only be truly experienced in person.

To see the breeze rustle through every branch as far as the eye can see with the ground meeting the sky like motionless waves of green, brown, and purple. The whole day had been fairly quiet and we had the lookout to ourselves and very rare acruance. While enjoying the view mesmerized by the bright patches of fuchsia. Adam asked me to close my eyes. Hearing the wind and birds I felt Adam hold my hand and place a small soft box into it. My heart skipped a beat. "Open" In my hand was a small pink box with a ribbon tied into a bow on top. "Happy birthday" With shaking hands, confusion, excited I carefully opened the box very aware of my butter fingers. Inside a single golden ban made of leaves and gemstones. "It's a promise ring. I will marry you someday. This ring represents us right now." The ring was two vining branches reaching together and wrapped around my finger with alternating stones. Our birthstones. Perfect. Breath-taking and oh so us. 

It was a wonderful end to a wonderful day with a wonderful person. I couldn't stop smiling. I felt so loved and seen. I knew and have known for a long time we wanted to be together for the rest of our lives but to have such a thoughtful gift made my heart sing. Being 27 is looking pretty good. 

Cane Hill Kite Festival 2025

Adam and I set off on an adventurous journey to Can Hill, Arkansas, for their annual kite festival, a cherished event that has been taking place for an impressive 24 years. The festival is organized by a prominent local figure and hosted on their sprawling ranch, just a stone's throw from the quaint downtown of Cane Hill. As we drove over an enchanting little creek, a slight sense of anticipation bubbled within me, even though the overcast sky hung low and the recent windstorms had left a trail of fallen trees and a damaged chicken run in their wake. Our energy was low, but I was determined to make the most of the day. Navigating the gravel road that wound between large boulders and downed trees was a bit nerve-wracking; I couldn’t shake the worry that we might get stuck, causing a traffic jam for the line of cars inching behind us. Thankfully, as we crested the last hill, we were greeted by an astonishing sight: sweeping, lush fields brimming with cheerful faces, and above us, kites of all shapes and colors danced like ethereal creatures against the gray sky.

The entry fee was a mere $2 per person, and we were delighted to find an collection of kites for sale at surprisingly reasonable prices. After paying for our tickets, Adam and I eagerly entered the raffle for "The Big One." An extra large nylon kite. Our afternoon of childlike wonder was just beginning. It had been well over a decade since Adam and I last flew kites, and a wave of nostalgia washed over us as we recalled how our parents had shared that same tradition of gifting kites during Easter. I could vividly picture myself in a frilly yellow Easter dress, while Adam sported a tiny bow tie, his chubby cheeks endearingly rosy from the chilly air and the lingering breeze of the previous night's gusts.

I selected a bright red panda kite, symbolizing gentleness, wisdom, and patience—traits I would need to embody while juggling the challenges of flying a kite in a field that lacked solid winds, surrounded by unfamiliar faces, and managing my asthma and fibromyalgia.

Adam, ever the optimist, picked out two kites, encouraged by a friendly kite enthusiast who told us that lightweight kites had a better chance of taking off that day. Yet, true to his passion, he was adamant about trying out his dream kite.

Despite the less-than-ideal winds, the subdued skies, and the fatigue tugging at our bodies, our day was filled with unforgettable moments, laughter, and dreams for the future. If you ever find yourself at the Cane Hill Kite Festival, I have a few recommendations to enhance your experience:

• 1. **Bring a partner in silliness.** Flying kites might seem childish to many, and yes, that's exactly the point. Embracing the joy and wonder of childhood is a beautiful gift we can give ourselves.
• 2. **Pack a picnic.** Our visit happened to fall on a backup day due to inclement weather the weekend prior. While there was some food available in the hospitality tent, we both agreed that a packed lunch would have upgraded our experience.
• 3. **Bring a blanket, chairs, or both.** There’s going to be plenty of running involved as you try to boost your kite into the perfect air stream, but you’ll also want a comfortable spot to relax and soak in the sights of the magnificent kites soaring above you.
• 4. **Make friends.** We encountered a few devoted kite enthusiasts who could launch their kites into the sky with hardly a breath of wind, and they were more than willing to share tips and tricks.
• 5. **Most importantly, have fun.** This delightful experience is sure to become a tradition for Adam and me, as the festival takes place each March, right before my birthday, pairing perfectly with our annual trip to the Arkansas Apple Festival for Adam's birthday.

WELCOM to THE MOSHPIT

 Welcome to the "Wholesome Moshpit of Emotions," or perhaps we'll discover a new name for this community as we grow together. I'm Alice, and I’ll be your narrator and guide on this journey through life—specifically, my life. I'm about to turn 27 years old, an interesting transition for me as I've moved away from social media but still feel the desire to create and share my experiences with others. I hope to make a difference and leave a piece of my soul in everything I do.

Indigo

    At 27 years old, I've been struggling with chronic pain my entire life, but it became a significant struggle when I was 21 and nearly lost the ability to walk. After countless doctor visits and moving across the country, I finally received a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, which I am learning more about every day, and how it affects everyone differently and can vary from day to day. I also recently discovered that I have ADHD and am on the autism spectrum, plus I have PTSD.

Casca

 

       Despite these challenges, I do my best to stay active through my love of nature. I find immense peace in working with plants and animals, embracing the beauty of simplicity. I hope to share tips, tricks, and failures with you. But don't worry, there will also be lots of cute pictures of my animals. 

Matt Damon
Yes, that's his name    

Alice and Lucy

     My goals for this blog are straightforward: I want to express my thoughts. I aim to build a community of people who want to share life's simple joys and encourage each other to be "punk rock" in the most loving and positive ways.

    You can expect to hear my opinions, thoughts, recipes, and cute pictures of my pets, along with plenty of "fail" moments as I navigate backyard homesteading, work full-time as a librarian, and manage my health and now this blog. 

     Now that you know me, I want to know you! I have a Discord channel that I hope to utilize to foster a greater community and connect with like-minded people. Join the channel or follow my journey in whichever way you prefer.

      I am so excited to embark on this new path to create, communicate, and share. Thank you for being here, and I hope our paths continue to cross for as long as it benefits you and your peace.

March 14th 2025