blabber and blunder

So long, farewell....

2009-02-10T12:54:00.002-06:00

For those of you reading this...

You'll have to click HERE to keep reading on about this oh so exciting life that I lead...

I've started a new blog now that I'm married... I LOVE the title I came up with! :-)

I'll be posting over there from now on.

In case the link above doesn't work, the new web address for our blog is...

http://themcintyremusings.blogspot.com

It went off without a hitch!

2009-02-01T14:15:00.002-06:00

I am writing to you now as Mrs. McIntyre!!!

Our wedding was better than we ever thought it could be!

We had THE BEST time and the thing that really mattered was that everyone else that attended seemed to have a great time as well.

It was truly one of the best days of our lives!!

We are just lounging around today, as husband and wife! :-)

I'm about to start cleaning, doing laundry and packing - we leave at 3:30 (IN THE MORNING!!!) for Jamaica! I can't wait!

Stay tuned this week...

My friend Jenny might be guest posting about our wedding and putting up a few preliminary pictures!!!

Oh and my blog got some free advertising during the Best Man's speech - love it (and love you guys if you're reading, Zack and Sharon!!! ha!).

I'm baaaack...

2009-01-29T17:32:00.005-06:00

I know I said I wasn't going to blog at all until after we get back...

But I had to sneak on here to share with you what we got in the mail today...

Isn't is fabulous?! I just love it!!! I had seen something similar on Etsy and was thinking about making one...

But now I don't have to!!! I love it!!!

Things are pretty smooth around here. I just finished up with our ceremony programs and went with my mom today to get a manicure and pedicure...

My pedicure is already ruined...go figure...

OH well...

Time for me to relax and do a few other things...

I can't wait for Saturday!!!

Only 2 MORE DAYS!!!

I leave you with this...

2009-01-27T15:15:00.003-06:00

Well, today is my last day blogging until we get back from our Honeymoon.

I'll miss you all! ha!

No offense, but YEAH RIGHT! :-)

We will be traveling to Sunny Jamaica for 5 glorious days.

OH yeah, and we'll be tying the knot! This Saturday!

I leave you with this wonderful, deliscious, mouthwatering picture. Eh, I'll even give you a recipe! I might just have to try this when we get back... Doesn't it look so awesome?!

Unfortunately, I'd have to eat it all by myself (ooh la la!) because my soon to be Husband isn't one for sweets.

Gasp...I know...

source

Chocolate Souffle

the article says the best way to do this is to make it ahead of time and then just pop it in the oven when you're ready for it

2-1/2 T. Unsalted Butter
5-1/2 T. Sugar, divided
1 t. Cornstarch
1/2 cup Milk
1/2 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips
4 Egg Yolks
7 Egg Whites (6 if baking immediately)
Confectioner's Sugar

Chocolate Sauce:
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 heaping tablespoons of chocolate chips

Prep:
Butter a 1-1/2 quart souffle dish. Make a paper collar about 3" high. Butter and sugar it slightly then press to the buttered rim of the souffle pan. Now sprinkel a little sugar coating in the souffle dish.

Base:
In a heavy pan, slowly add milk to cornstarch, stirring constantly until smooth. Keep stirring and bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate, 2 tablespoons butter and 3 tablespoons sugar. Stir until melted. You can put the pan back on low heat if necessary. Remove from heat. Stir in egg yolks one at a time. Cover in plastic wrap. May be kept refrigerated up to two days in advance.

Whites:
Whisk egg whites until soft peaks form. Fold in 2 tablespoons sugar, and beat to stiff shiny peaks. Stir 3 or 4 tablespoons into the base to lighten it, then using a spatula, gently fold (not stir!) the lightened base into the egg whites.
Pour into the prepared souffle dish. Smooth the surface with your spatula. Refrigerate up to six hours. Bring back to room temperature before cooking.

Baking:
Place the souffle on a cookie sheet in the lower third of a preheated 350 degree oven. Make sure it has enough head room to rise! Bake for 25 minutes for a soft center. No peeking! Be sure not to bake more than 30 minutes as an over-baked souffle will fall.

Sauce:
Heat the cream in a heavy pan. When hot (not boiling), add the chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.

Serve:
Serve the souffle straight from the oven. I place my souffle dish on a folded towel to protect my serving plate underneath. Sprinkle with confectioners sugar or cocoa powder as shown. Serve the warm chocolate sauce on the side.

Wedding at Work

2009-01-27T12:00:00.001-06:00

Last Thursday at work, we had our monthly department lunch where everyone makes something and we combine and make a meal out of it.

This past Thursday we had some ohsoyummy chili, soup and salad. It was soooo good!

I went out on my break and came back and spotted a cake on my way back to my desk. I was actually thinking to myself, ugh...cake too...I'm so stuffed already!

Then as I got closer I read it and this is what it said...

I was so caught off guard! It was so sweet!!! I would have never expected it.

I thought it was so thoughtful that they thought of me. I'm not that close to most of them.

This is the display from the top. I still haven't figured out if it's made out of sugar or if it's plaster or something.

I just had to share, I thought it was such a great surprise!

Our Silhouettes

2009-01-26T12:00:00.003-06:00

Because we aren't really in a 'holiday season' right now...I am lacking decor on our end table. I have a three pillar candle holder thingy on there with nothing on it, but that isn't all to decorative.

So...after seeing these on other blogs, I decided to make our own!

I found these two cute frames at Michael's in the clearance aisle for $0.99 each!!! Isn't that lovely?!

Then I took side profile pictures of us. Nothing too fancy just a nice profile!

Then I printed them out on regular printer paper. I ended up coloring them with permanent marker. Two coats to be exact.

I tried painting them at first (on picture paper), but that didn't turn out too good. The paint kept chipping and wiping off. The permanent marker works really well though.

And then just glued them onto a piece of card stock. I LOVE how they turned out and find myself looking at them frequently.

A new DIY decoration

2009-01-23T12:00:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to make something to put right above the stove and under the hood of it. I decided to go through my scrapbooking supplies and see if there was something in there I could use.

I came up with this.

I think it turned out pretty good. I love hanging things with ribbon...I have this new obsession with it. However, I need to invest in some upholstery tacks.

I also kind of wish it was in a smaller frame. This is an 8x10.

So cute...it was actually a clear sticker. I stuck it on some white card stock and then glued it onto black paper. Then I used some punch out corner frames and glued that entire thing onto some more scrap paper and then all that onto a black piece of card stock cut out to 8x10.

Did you get all of that?!

A slight change in plans

2009-01-22T17:55:00.006-06:00

Little Miss Ava (our cute little flower girl and my niece) came over last weekend and decided to try on her flower girl dress.

Good thing. It didn't fit!!!

I didn't freak out or anything and didn't pay much for the dress. I was just worried that I wouldn't be able to find something reasonable that I really liked.

I headed out to Burlington Coat Factory in search, not sure if I'd find what I was looking for.

Well...

I did. and

I FOUND SOMETHING EVEN BETTER!!!

I love it so much and I just can't wait to see Ava in it!!! It even came with a matching little dolls dress! It is so beautiful and it's simpler than the other dress I had. I'm so happy that this happened. It happened for a reason!

What a cute little doll dress!

What will YOU do to make a CHANGE?

2009-01-20T12:00:00.003-06:00

We are thinking about volunteering at a local PADS shelter.

What about you?

Any ideas or suggestions?

p.s. Sorry I haven't been blogging much...I will be back in three weeks (hopefully with some really yummy pictures to show you all!). Until then, you will have to suffer my randomly posted antics :-)

Please Pray

2009-01-17T10:05:00.003-06:00

I'm jumping on the band wagon, but for a good reason.

I met Kelly through her blog maybe a year ago. Even though I don't know her personally, through her blog I have learned that she is just one of the nicest, sweetest, God loving, giving kind of person.

Kelly and her husband Scott have been waiting on a baby for so long. About nine months ago, they were blessed with the knowledge that they would be having a baby.

Little Harper was born last night around 7pm and because of complications has been taken to Tulsa.

Even if you don't know Kelly or her family, please say a small quick prayer for her, Scott and Harper. If anyone deserved a baby, they do. Please pray that their sweet little Harper has a quick recovery and can go home with her mom and dad.

Thank you.

For updates or do visit her blog...go HERE.

Long time no talk

2009-01-13T21:55:00.006-06:00

I know I have been horrible with posting (*ahem, zizi nikki and jordan) but it might just have to be sporadic from here until mid February...sorry peeps (Ava kept saying that yesterday...ha!) but I have a wedding very rapidly approaching.

One I may or may not have had a minor freak out about just tonight.

Any who...I leave you with two pictures from my Bachelorette Party Night. A night that I had so much fun with...it's almost sad that it's over!

Don't worry, we were good. No strippers. Only men dressed as women singing pop songs and dancing choreographed dances. And singing and dancing on a stage. Fun times, maybe even the best of times!

I promise I'll share more about the night very soon. For now...I have other things on my mind...such as I have to refigure the seating chart and have that and money to the reception hall by Saturday.

I know it's really nothing I can't handle. Heck, I'm sure I'd even finish it rather quickly (considering there is a rough draft), but that is how this little mind of mine works. It freaks out over irrational things (i.e. cleaning, dirt, my inbox?!...do you see a problem here?!).

Isn't she lovely...isn't she beautiful! ha! I had a great night and was even all decorated. Bless all my sweet friends.
The group minus Anita - she met us out...so good to see her!

Not to rub it in or anything...just my peace of mind - BUT, three weeks from now at this very moment, me and my husband (love it!) will be in sunny warm Jamaica (knock on wood it doesn't snow us in and keep us here...). I simply can't wait!

T minus 21 days

2009-01-10T00:32:00.004-06:00

I was going through my 'ring shots' and came across this one. I don't know why I didn't post it with the rest. I simply love it. You can tell that it's on a ruff surface. I hate the top of that table...but it gave the picture some character. Hm...me likey!

Now that it is after midnight...we officially have 21 days left until our big day!

I can't wait for the day to come! Now that it is so close, it's almost like...get here already!

Tonight (Saturday - it is past midnight!) is my bachelorette party! Yay! I can't wait...it should be a great time! I'll be sure to post pictures!!!

Hope you are all having a great weekend.

Sorry nothing is all too interesting! :-)

It comes in three's

2009-01-04T12:41:00.006-06:00

Saturday was a fun fun day for me!

I got to have my make up trial for our wedding day. I have to say, I felt kind of weird going out in public with my face all done up! I wear make up usually every day (except for weekends sometimes...), but this was the entire package of make up.

I got it done at O Salon in Mundelein. I have to say - I love that place! It's really cute in there too! The walls are a really dark shade of purple and they have various animal print antique stools and reupholstered chairs! So cute...maybe even a concept for a room in our future house?! I think maybe!

Here I am...

My friend and maid of honor, Jessica went with me for moral support...ha! I like it a lot though. I even bought the lip liner and gloss for touch ups on the day of. I have to say - not used to wearing that all the time, but the color is neutral and very flattering on me if I say so myself! I may even be sporting it outside of the wedding! I just felt so pretty!!!

After that, Jess made us (her bridesmaids...because she is getting married on June 26th! Hence my title of this post...me, my friend Jenny and Jessica are all getting hitched! I'm planning on throwing my bouquet at Katie - another friend almost there - so we can make it four!!! I'm getting off subject here...story of my life...) appointments to try on dresses at David's Bridal.

She was going to pick a color and let us all pick out what dress we wanted to wear. We ended up deciding on two different dresses and the girls could pick which one they wanted to wear.

The first was a strapless dress. I loved it and the material is a cotton - you definitely can't tell from the pictures, but it is SO comfortable!

Then we tried on a strapped version. Of these two, I felt most comfortable in the one below. Which is the one I and two other girls picked! So we get to pick from the above picture and the below picture! Bonus?!...they both have pockets!!! How awesome is that?!

The dresses will be in the color below. Jessica's mom (who is like a mother to me, love her!) took us to TGI Friday's afterwards. What a fun time!!!

My Mister was gone for his show by the time I got home - so I decided to return some things that needed returning and shop for an outfit/top for my bachelorette party that is coming up next weekend! I had much luck while I was out and even found a handful of things for five bucks each on the clearance racks at Target...oh how I love their clearance racks!!! I may have even found my dress for our rehearsal and dinner! Yay! So many tedious shopping things crossed off my list!

Today is a day of relaxing and trying to check some things off the list of to dos.

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Project 365

2009-01-01T19:51:00.003-06:00

I am embarking on a journey today.

And I am making myself stick to it.

I'm even about to make a pretty sign on the computer to hang on our fridge as an every day reminder for my project.

The project I am about to start is called Project 365 (click here for the article). I'm not quite sure where it originated from, but I read about it on this blog.

I will have to take one picture a day (or pick just one) and make it into a book of some sort (scrap, photo, etc).

I was having trouble deciding how I would go about this in order to make sure I know which day is which. I also wanted to be able to write a little something about the photo in order to make it even more memorable.

I originally wanted to make my own scrapbook, but then thought that might take a LONG while to complete. Unless I religiously did it every single (or couple) days. Like that would happen. So, I decided to use Shutterfly because I've been using it recently to create a special somethin' somethin'. I really like how easy it is and I can put more than one picture on each page. Better yet...when the year is over and it is all done...I can order it and have it shipped to me! No scrapping (even though I love doing it) or cutting or deciding what I should use to decorate the page.

I can't wait to see the finished results and hopefully continue to do this every year. It would serve as a nice memento for us and our own little family in the future and even years down the road.

Here we go! It's going to be a great year!

One year ago, on this night

2009-01-01T01:51:00.003-06:00

As I write, it is 2009.

Is it me, or did 2008 just fly past us while we weren't looking?

Is it me, or did I say something similar last year?!?!

One year ago, on this night Ryan and I went out for a dinner. The entire thing was a suprise for me. When we arrived home, there was a special set up and Ryan asked me to marry him.

Last year, on this night, my entire life changed.

In one month, my life with change again. And I wouldn't have asked for any of this to happen any other way.

For the whole story go HERE.

It's my birthday! {by Mason}

2008-12-30T21:20:00.002-06:00

Hey guysh - it's me, Mason! Today is my birthday!!!

After I read Kelly's Blog Post (while my mom was in the other room!) I thought this would be perfect for me - especially since it's my birthday!

I'm three years old today and I got a lot of real food at dinner tonight because of it...mmm!

So anyways, here are six random facts about me...

1) I love to take up a lot of space in my mom and dad's bed. When they disrupt my slumber I growl, moan and give a guilt trip then get into my own bed.

2) I love McDonald's french fries - especially late at night!!!

3) I love going to the dog park - it really puts me in my place. I normally think I'm a big mean dog when I'm on the leash, but once I'm off - I'm really a little mama's boy.

4) I love to do things I shouldn't when my parents are gone. Sometimes I jump up on the forbidden red couch and drink coffee that was left out.

5) Don't tell her - but I love my sister Roxy. I loooove to annoy her!!! I stalk her every time that loud vacuum comes out - she tries to hide from it...

6) My mom tries to put sweaters on me - but I usually don't let her. Sometimes I'll humor her. I heard some talk about boots...get me outta here!!!!!

Good night...I think I have a bone hidden somewhere in this couch!

Dang good chili!

2008-12-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

Last week I decided to make chili one day.

I have no personal recipe that I prefer - I only really know my Dad's chili. His is a pretty simple chili - no frills, just your typical stuff.

I think I'm pretty partial to that kind of chili myself.

I went onto the worldwideweb in search of a good recipe and found a one pot chili, went to the store, got my ingredients and came home hoping it would turn out okay.

Well...I tweaked it a bit and ended up with a dang good bowl of chili. Mmmm...it was delish!

One Pot Chili

2 lbs ground beef
1 onion
salt
pepper
1 big can tomato juice
1 big can diced tomatoes
3 cans dark red kidney beans
chili powder

Brown ground beef along with onions. Season with salt and pepper. Drain. Add tomato juice, diced tomatoes and kidney beans and bring to a light boil. Add chili powder to taste - about 4 tablespoons or just over half of 2.5 ounce bottle. Add a dash of sugar and salt to flavor.

Yields: One big pot

Our yearly tradition - 2008

2008-12-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Ryan and I started a tradition last year - our first Christmas living together.

We decided that each year we would pick out an ornament together and have it mean something pertaining to that year or to us.

Last year was obviously our new apartment together. So we got a Hallmark ornament that was of a home with a key hanging on top. I wrote on the bottom of it the year and what it was.

This year was our last Christmas together as boyfriend and girlfriend. Next year, we begin a new chapter in our lives.

To honor this last Christmas, I found the cutest ornament on eBay at Shadowbox Treasures.

Isn't it cute?

I write the personalization in there myself. I think it's very fitting!

Good tidings and joy

2008-12-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

We went to my Grandma's house for Christmas this year. It was a good time. There were a lot more people there than normal this year.

As we're all getting older, the family is growing. My brother and sil stayed in town this year so it was nice to have them there as well.

Ryan helped out with getting dinner on the table. So did I!

My theory in this was - we would not have to help clean up afterwards! ha!

My sister was also present this year.

Ava was a little ham all day long. She had, by far, the most presents out of anyone! She was so cute! We got her an Easy Bake Oven for Christmas - she didn't even know what it was when she opened it... And I actually got her to smile with her teeth showing! Yay for me! She's missing her two top front ones though - too cute! :-)

I have no idea why - but my Grandma kept calling her sexy all day. She's 6! I kept saying, "not for quite some time!"

I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas or a happy holiday - whatever you celebrate, I hope it was grand!

With this ring - I thee wed

2008-12-26T13:49:00.019-06:00

Let me first off, warn you all that there are A LOT of pictures in this post!

Now that's said...here we go...

I came across a post on Wedding Bee Pro (click here to read it) that gave instructions on how to take amazing engagement and wedding ring photos with a point and shoot camera.

So...along with the millions of other brides I went for it!

I didn't actually go for it until today - after all the Christmas hoopla was over. And guess what else I used to take the pictures?!

Our NEW camera!!! Yay!

Thanks to my future brother and sister-in-law for the great wedding/christmas gift! We absolutely love it!!!

I encourage anyone to read the article and give it a shot. It's really fun and it's fun thinking of stuff you can use.

I love that I did this and I want to keep this post forever to remind me of it.

Here we go!!!!

Ryan ALWAYS has Chapstick in his pocket, so I thought this was very fitting!

I am a lover of pearls!

Perfect! It's Christmas time right before our wedding!

Ryan actually took this picture and I think it's one of my favorite ones. They look so cute and beautiful next to each other, don't you think?!

I want to turn this one into a sephia toned pictures. So rustic!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T09:16:00.002-06:00

Snow makes me nuts...

2008-12-23T13:55:00.002-06:00

First off, I apologize for the lack of posting lately (Zizi Nikki...mostly - because I'm sure you are the only one anxious to read my posts!).

Second off...we got MORE snow! Just when you think it has stopped...we wake up to a whole 'nother go round with it.

It looks like it's stopped for the most part right now, but it's still semi windy which just blows it all around like it's snowing anyways!

Hopefully it'll be done until...well for the rest of the winter?

Is that too much to ask for?

I hope not! :-)

I should be back on the posting band wagon by the weekend...I have a few things to share anyways.

Don't worry...they are nothing all too exciting so don't get your hopes all up high!

Plus, this is like a journal for me. Kind of. I would like to eventually print this out in pieces. Maybe I'll do it by the years.

You know...just as a reminder of how I'm feeling day to day, what we do in this uneventful (I like it that way) life of ours. Just reminders of our every days.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Love,

Bella

Mason's favorite ornament

2008-12-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

Last year we put up this elephant ornament. Mason has since had an obsession with it!

I take that back...he has had an obsession with it since it's been in the closet waiting to come out for it's first Christmas (last year).

Whenever I'd open the closet for something in our 'office' - Mason has stood on his hind legs and begged to the closet. It is the funniest thing I have seen.

I can't say I blame him, she is kinda pretty. Don't you think?!

She even has red glittery heels on. So cute!

Our little boy! ha! He is so funny...he just cracks us up all the time!!!

We find him randomly sitting up staring at Elly (that is what we have named her!) on the tree.

I actually had to move her to my liking on the tree and it is a little bit more out of his sight.

To no avail, he found her!

I think it might be her feathery tutu that attracts him, but we're still undecided on that one...

Cutie Clementines - we're loving them!

2008-12-19T11:20:00.003-06:00

We bought one of those BIG boxes of Clementines last week...the Cutie brand.

Boy oh boy, do we love them!!! The entire box is gone already!!!

These little beauties are SO sweet and SO easy to peel. I think that has got to be one of my favorite parts of them!

Looks like we'll have to go back this weekend for another box... :-)

The one about Santa's Reindeer,,,

2008-12-16T15:29:00.002-06:00

I'm sure you have all seen this one before. It had circulated through forwards. But I thought it was cute and so here I am...sharing it with you on my blog!

According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game,

while both male and femail reindeer grow antlers in the summer each year,

male reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning of winter,

usually late November to mid December.

Femaile reindeer retain their antlers until after they give birth

in the Spring.

Therefore, according to EVERY historical rendition depicting

Santa's Reindeer...

EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM,

from Rudolph to Blitzen,

had to be a girl!

We should've known...

ONLY women would be albe to drag a man's

big butt in a red velvet suit all around the world

in one night

and not get lost!

Merry Christmas!!!

Happy Birthday To Me (and) I Take It Back

2008-12-15T08:00:00.001-06:00

Well...today I am 26 years old. Of course, it doesn't feel any different than any other birthday. Another year...as I've said...I love birthdays! I don't dread them, it's going to happen anyways.

Aging that is.

So I choose to embrace it!

I got the above wonderful, warm Columbia coat from my Mister AND Twilight...the book! I can't wait to start digging into it.

The book that is.

And my coat is so comfy, I only had dressy peacoats. So it'll be wonderful to his this!

And I take back the sad little Charlie Brown tree that we had...

I happened to see this fake (yes, fake) tree at Walgreens yesterday. I wouldn't look twice, but I noticed that is was sale for $19.99!

Yes $19.99!!!

We went back today to get it. And I just happened to have a $5 off coupone that printed out from the register yesterday. Plus, we bought the cute little gold glittery star topper. All in all, we paid $17 and some change! How awesome is that?!

I thought we wouldn't get much of a good tree for the price that we paid but it is actually pretty nice.

And bonus?

It's pre-lit with white lights!

Love it!!!

I decided to only use certain colored bulbs this year. I chose red, green, silver and gold. I added some red and silver ribbon we had laying around. I want all silver...we shall see...

I love it though!

I also have to add that we started AND finished our Chritmas shopping last night.

I also wrapped all presents today and they are currently decorating our empty space below the tree.

I love the Christmas season!

**written on December 14th - published on December 15th. Don't want to ruin my Silent Sunday now do I?!

Silent Sunday: Ice Storm

2008-12-14T15:23:00.001-06:00

image credit

I've been tagged...again!

2008-12-12T15:18:00.003-06:00

I was tagged by my friend Jenny over at and she's just rambling again...

1. Link to the person that tagged you
2. Post the rules on your blog
3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself
4. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs
5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.

Here are 6 random things about me:

1. I am a clean freak! I don't mean just a little. I mean A BIG CLEAN FREAK! As in...I can't sit down until everything is put away. I spent (and I'm not kidding here - Ryan can verify this) just about 8 hours cleaning just a few short Saturdays ago. I get so overwhelmed while I'm doing it too. I want to be done and relax, but I just. can't. stop. until I'm completely done.

2. I would gladly eat appetizers or snacks (or desserts for that matter) for any meal rather than real food. When my Mister was out of town with his band I had cheese and crackers for dinner one night and then chips and guacamole the next night.

3. I can't NOT have nailpolish on. I don't care if it's clear or colored. It must be on. If it's not on, my nails just feel disgusting to me - kind of like nails on a chalkboard. Ugh...it's making me sick thinking of it.

4. I NEED to have the right amount of cream and sugar in my coffee. If not, I get angry with whoever made it - say...Dunkin Donuts! For the most part they are awesome...but at this one location, they can never get it right? It's not their fault, I know this. I just want my coffee how I want it. That's all...

5. I had surgery when I was 3 years old for two hernias. I remember picking bubble gum gas to put me to sleep and riding home nice and tired in the back of my grandparents car. They also bought me Hungry Hungry Hippos for surviving the surgery. Ha! Just kidding...it was a 'get well' gift I guess!

6. I'm a MAJOR homebody. I would rather sit home any day of the week than go out. I hate dealing with people. I just love the comfort and happiness of home. I love to make little things and just lay around, clean and just be at home!

*I'm super exciting...can't you tell?! :-)

**And I've decided to not tag anyone...if you'd like you can go ahead and tag yourself from my blog. I am mainly just too lazy to go through to each persons blog and tell them. And I'm leaving here (work) in ten minutes and I just don't think there's enough time for that!

My new sisters

2008-12-12T10:00:00.001-06:00

I was just flipping through (okay, technically not flipping) pictures from Thanksgiving and came across this one.

I like it.

These are my sisters.

Sister-in-laws to be exact. But what does that really mean anyways?!

They are some pretty cool girls and I can honestly say that I am glad that I have them in my life.

I can't wait to grow old with them too.

:-)

Tolerance

2008-12-11T21:11:00.002-06:00

I think they secretly love eachother.

At least that's what I like to tell myself.

We have to put Roxy's food on the counter because Mason would eat it.

I was giving them a special treat of soft food (Roxy's fav is Purrfectly Fish by Whiskas) for dinner earlier tonight.

Usually I put her soft food up on the counter near her other food. Today, for some reason, she wouldn't jump up on the counter. So...I put her food on the ground.

Right near Mason.

And they quietly ate dinner together.

I think they secretly love eachother.

I hope to one day be able to capture a picture of them laying in the dog bed together.

I know - that'll only happen in my dreams :-)

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-11T20:44:00.005-06:00

**edited...I dislike Blogger at times. Like now, for example! I had my paragraphs (more like sentences) spaced out. I even edited it to try and make it work again. And what do I get?! smooshed together words...I digress!**

Ah, yes. Isn't she a beaute?!

I even added the picture there on the bottom right.

Just so you could see how miniature our Christmas tree really is... It's slightly pathetic.

I am aware.

We went out last Saturday with full intentions of either getting a real tree at church. And possibly skipping that and going to Ace Hardware (bad decision - should've gone to Walmart or Target) for a fake tree.

I know there has got to be a debate on which is better. I, personally prefer real for the smell and just the realness of it all. I grew up with a real Christmas tree every single year. I do have to admit, the needles are a pain (especially last year when we had NO vacuum cleaner...).

We ended up deciding nay on the tree, period. We are just so busy this month with Christmas, birthdays (3 more days until I hit the big 2-6), the wedding next month. I feel like I have seldom moments when I can sit down, relax and not be thinking/planning something.

So I decorated a small tree decoration that we got from my mom last year. I even put our 'meaningful' ornaments on it along with some mini ornaments we had. I still used the usual tree stand - you know, to give it a little height (ha!) - and the ohsoboring tree skirt. AND I made a HUGE ornament our tree topper! Voila!

It isn't the best tree I've ever had, but it will do.

Just for this year though.

That I promise you.

Silent Sunday

2008-12-07T10:22:00.002-06:00

image credit

*I interupt this Silent Sunday to note that I think I am going to try and do Silent Sunday Bridal pictures leading up to the wedding. I'm thinking of it as inspiration for some photo ops for THE BIG DAY!*

Just a test...

2008-12-05T22:27:00.003-06:00

I am attempting to make a signature.

Just playing around a bit, if you will.

I'll fancy it up later, but I wanted to see if I could master it first.

Now it's time to 'view blog'...

****edited after 'viewing blog'...ugh!!! I don't like the frame around the picture! I think I can change this? I used the same scrap paper as I used for my background and it still doesn't exactly match up. I guess this is when it's best to just have a white one? Or is there a better way around this?

Response cards and a little peak!

2008-12-05T19:53:00.005-06:00

I officially sent out our wedding invitations on Monday.

Come Tuesday, we were hearing from all sorts of folks (ha!) that they had received them already! How exciting! Well, at least it is for me! :-)

We even got THREE response cards on Wednesday!

And two more today!

(can you tell I love exclamation marks?!)

And because we are dorks (mainly me for blogging/remembering purposes) that is us with our very first THREE response cards!

People, I'm only doing this once...I need to keep memories alive!

I made this nifty little response card holder/semi christmas decoration to put our cards in. I don't just want to stash them away...this is all new and exciting to me!

And alas...a bit of detail from my dress. I know it's not all too clear, but you get the idea, right?!

Happy December!!!

2008-12-01T08:24:00.003-06:00

It sure is December!

We got our first big snowfall overnight last night.

Luckily...I got to stay home today so I didn't have to go out and brave the weather. I did, however, clean off the car this morning for my Mister (I know, I'm sweet like that!).

I love December for so many reasons.

The major thing...MY BIRTHDAY!!! As I have mentioned before, I love my birthday and I look forward to it every year. No matter what age!

The snow is also fun! I just love how pretty it is. I'm not a huge fan of driving or going out in it. My perfect day with snow goes something like today.

I don't have anywhere to go. Except the post office to mail our inviations. Still not sure if that's going to happen until the Mister gets home from work.

And then I plan on watching all sorts of recorded shows! Me and Grey's have a little catching up to do.

Oh and to get some pretty fun collages/frames for your pictures go to Picasa. It's a really good program!

Happy December! :-)

Day 30 of 30!!! I bid you adiue

2008-11-30T20:25:00.007-06:00

Not for good though!

You can't get rid of me that easily! ha! I am rather happy that blog posting every single day is over. I get this stupid sense of guilt if I don't post. Just another thing to think of some days! That's why I think I have better posts when not pressured to post!

We had a very productive weekend!

Turkey Day was great! And on Friday we ventured out into the madness of Black Friday.

I have to say...I am not a huge shopper to the point where I would go crazy on that day. I'm not one for crowds.

I started off the morning by going with Jenny to pick up her wedding gown! She looked absolutely beautiful in it!

Below...a snippet of her dress. Can't show the entire thing now. Just in case her future Mister peeks in!

Her dress is so pretty!

I also got an early birthday present from her too! Look...

Isn't it just darling?! I love it! I will be wearing it on my wedding day. Oh the memories! And it came all the way from Europe!!! I am truly blessed to have a friend like Jenny.

The invitations are in the mail!

Or they will be as of tomorrow!!! Ryan and I finished them up today. I am so super excited!!! I also managed to finish all of my Thank Yous last night too! Yay for me!

I hope you all had a nice LOOOOONG weekend! I know I did.

Want to know a secret?

I'm off tomorrow too!

Yay!

Boo for my Mister though...wish he could play hookey with me!

3 more weeks and we will have another nice long weekend!

We interupt this NaBloPoMo

2008-11-30T00:38:00.002-06:00

I have been 'rehabbing' around the site. I hope you will find it very pleasing! ha!

I'm experimenting and learning how to tweak html and make my own layouts! I love it!

Only problem is...now I'm a bit addicted to purchasing digital scrapbooking kits. Darn Pay Pal makes it so easy...

It's beginning to look at lot like Christmas around here too!

Post 29 of 30: Christmas Decor

2008-11-29T20:29:00.006-06:00

First off, I'd like to say that THIS IS MY 300TH POST!!! Can you believe it?!

'Cause I sure can't!

Well, we had a FULL day of cleaning today. I wanted to clean real good and put away fall stuff to make way for Christmas Stuff!!! I almost started last weekend but decided to wait.

I made these cute frames that say JOY. You can't tell but there is a polka dotted scrap paper in the middle background. I think they turned out cute. Those are on display in the living room!

I ended up having leftover fake garland, so I made a little wreath and attempted to make a cute bow. That obviously didn't work out all to well. I had to settle for these red ball things. They are ornaments for the tree. I think it worked out though.

We got our first Christmas card in the mail today. Can you see it?! I am trying this out as a card holder too. It's up high on a wall in between the living room and kitchen. So far, I think I like it. Now, if we could just get some more Christmas cards to put on there...

Here is what I have been scheming in my head for the past year. I have to say, I LOVE how it turned out!

Clearly, this is fake garland. I got some over sized ornaments at Ace Hardware along with some velvety ribbon and voila!

Another little new project. I had two leftover poinsettias from the bridal shower last weekend. I added them to our mantle with a little bit of garland and some of the Christmas decorations from last year... LOVE IT!

I was originally going to put the JOY frames above the mantle (under the clock). I decided that would have been too busy. I think I'm pretty happy how it all turned out!

Now we just need our tree. I have readied the corner and we are good to go! I love Christmas decoration. It's so bright and cheerful. I do have to say I am wiped from cleaning all day long!

When do YOU start decorating for Christmas?!

And when do you take it down? Is it a right after Christmas kind of thing or do you like to let it live on just a little bit longer?

Day 27 of 30: Giving Thanks

2008-11-27T09:54:00.003-06:00

Give thanks to the Lord for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.

Psalms 118:1

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!!

Have a great Turkey Day!

Day 26 of 30: Did you watch?!?!

2008-11-26T10:10:00.002-06:00

I was just about to settle in last night to watch some recorded shows that I have (yeah, like 4 or 5 episodes of Greys Anatomy...it's a bit overwhelming!).

Then I realized that The Real Housewives of Orange County started again last night!

Had to watch it.

No time for all of you Greys!

The RH of OC is my favorite out of all of The Real Housewives series. New York, their accents annoy me...Atlanta...well it's just not my cup of tea...

I can't tell if I'm going to like the new girl yet or not. Should be fun!!!

Check it out on Bravo, Tuesday nights at 8:00pm central time!

Day 26 of 30: It's Friday!!! Well...it's actually Wednesday...

2008-11-26T09:05:00.003-06:00

Today is the last day at work until we are off for a long holiday weekend. I don't know why, but that just makes me SO happy!

Plus, I took Monday off too! So essentially I have a whole week off from work! ha!

I do have some much needed wedding things that need to get done. Such as...mailing out our invitations!!! How exciting!!!

I have to admit, (side story...we have a countdown on our desktop of our computer counting down days until the wedding is here) I am getting a little stressed out when I see the number on the computer screen.

Not for bad reasons, but I feel like we should have everything done and NOW! I'm like that though. I like to get it done and be done with it.

I wish I wasn't sometimes.

Do you like my rehearsal dinner bouquet? My girlies made it for me at the shower. It definitely have some character!

I'm off to get some work done. Later tonight I get to bake a few things and then tomorrow I plan on eating a lot! ha!

Not too much though...I have another dress fitting coming up on Tuesday!

Day 25 of 30: I can't believe Christmas is ONE MONTH away!!!

2008-11-25T19:27:00.005-06:00

Did I mention we got A LOT of gifts at our shower?!

Well. We did.

I have put off putting them away, but decided to finish tonight. Phew, thank gawd that's over!

Being the neat/clean freak that I am, it is suprising that I even waited a couple of days! It feels good to have it all sorted out. Only now our 'office' is full of clutter.

Have I mentioned I hate clutter?

Well. I do.

We can't wait to use all of the new things!!!

Have I mentioned I LOVE black?

Well. I do.

Our kitchen counters have been pretty bare as of late. Actually you can say as of since we moved in here. With all of the new gifts, our counters are FULL now.

I love this, but it also created a bit of a dilemma for me. I just couldn't get anything in the right spot. I am settled on the above pictures for now to see how it works out. Everything is just different sizes.

I think I found the solution...

We need a bigger kitchen! ha! And a house! :-)

Also...since we got a new couch. We aren't allowing the animals to get up on it. When I sit over there, Mason always wants to come up.

He can't!

So...he lays with his daddy!

He fell asleep all over Ryan's legs the other night. Luckily, I had the camera on the table. He was sound asleep just draped over R's legs. It was too funny.

I must have bothered him though because I got the look above. Woke him up right in the middle of his deep sleep. How dare me?!

Day 24 of 30: It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2008-11-24T13:50:00.002-06:00

When we awoke this morning, Ryan peeked out the window and said it was snowing. I, of course, followed with a, "whaaat?! a lot?!"

He said no and I went about my morning and got into the shower...

Afterwards, I went into the living room and noticed the snow was coming down quite quickly and there was a good coating on the cars in the parking lot.

I have to admit, I am NOT ready for snow to come. I don't think I'm even prepared for winter!

Needless to say, it stopped by about 8:30am, but my ride to work took 10 minutes longer.

Looks like Mr. Winter is really here... I am just waiting for that first big snowfall...I simply can't wait (not the sarcastic tone in my voice if I were really speaking to you!).

**as I am typing the lower part of this post...THE SUN IS OUT!!! YAY!!!

On a cuter note, I found this HERE.

I think I just may have to copy it. Or tweek it and make my own version!

I got out our Christmas decor yesterday. I didn't start putting anything up yet. I had the smallest inkling of putting a few things up, but my Mister is all about waiting until the weekend after Thanksgiving...

looks like I'll be hitting up some stores for new decor...

I also have a really cute idea for the ceiling part of our 'breakfast bar'. I just can't wait!!! I'll post pictures after I start to decorate!

Day 21, 22, 23 of 30: My Bridal Shower!

2008-11-23T13:31:00.002-06:00

My bridal shower is here!!! Well, it's here and gone.

It was a great time though.

My sweet friends threw it for me and were so gracious in preparing everything.

I will admit, I had some anxiety at first. Just about everyone watching me open presents and it being all about me. I would like to think that I quickly overcame that.

We got so many great gifts. Much more than we had expected. It was just so nice to be with friends and family and have both sides of the family meet eachother. What a great day!

A few of us went out for a bit afterwards along with 'the guys'.

I couldn't have asked for a better bridal shower! Thank you everyone for everything!!!

For those of you who weren't present, I missed you!

My sweet future mother in law got these adorable bride and groom chocolate covered pretzels. Aren't they just so cute?! They taste good too! :-)

Day 20 of 30: The Devil's Swimming Pool

2008-11-20T15:06:00.005-06:00

In Zimbabwe, Africa there is this magnificent waterfall called Victoria Falls.

During the months of September and December you can actually swim up close to the edge of the waterfall without falling over. This location is known as "The Devil's Swimming Pool".

Could you ever do this?!

I am almost peein' in my pants looking at the pictures.

You can tell I'm a real risk taker...

Source here.

Day 19 of 30: It's a Monogram Chick Giveaway - you should check it out!

2008-11-19T20:07:00.003-06:00

Monogram Chick has posted her 100th post!!! Hurray!

In honor of that, she is doing a GIVE AWAY!!! Hurray Hurray!

Go here to enter and leave a comment with your favorite Monogram Chick product.

*if you're a blogger you can also leave how many posts you have too

It's so very hard to pick, but I think I love the travel mugs and any of the stamps. Aw, heck, I like ALL THINGS monogrammed so I think I'd be happy with just about anything from her site!

Day 18 of 30: Sneak Peek and a little gift...

2008-11-18T08:09:00.002-06:00

Here is a little bitty sneak peak at the hotel/direction card that I made to go into our wedding invitations.

I think it turned out perfectly!

Although, it did take a bit longer than I had anticipated. I went back and forth with deciding on using the map or not using the map.

I opted not to. Most of our guests are from around here and I just couldn't get it to work right or look right.

So I made an M monogram design with digital scrap paper and voila! I think I like it even better!

Of course this is only one side of the card...the other side is quite boring, all type no decor!

I also got a semi gift from my Zizi (aunt)/Godmother. She happens to keep getting to go to The View and whenever she goes they usually give something away. She got some awesome things last time, but this time...

She got a $150 gift certificate to Ebags. Particularly to THIS type of bag (I think) on Ebags. And guess who she so generously gave it to?!

You guessed right...ME!!!

I can't thank you enough for it, Zizi Nikki!

Stay tuned to see what I get!

Day 17 of 30: Just another manic Monday...

2008-11-17T14:34:00.008-06:00

Aww, look at little Mason! He got a haircut on Saturday and he looks so tiny and scrawny right now! I feel kind of bad because it is getting so cold here now and he has no hair. Looks like that sweater will come in handy! His Daddy doesn't want to be caught dead walking him in it though...

Just a silly (and kind of yucky) picture of us hanging out... Can you tell I didn't shower all day on Sunday?! Shame on me... ha!

And I made my favorite Apple Pancake! Yum-O! Click HERE if you want the recipe! It is serioulsy SO good!

I don't use syrup on this kind of pancake. I just like to sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on it. Oh it's wonderful! And Mason loves it too! :-)

That's about all for the day...

I know, so exciting, isn't it?!

Up tomorrow...

A sneak peak at the direction/hotel/map insert cards for our wedding invitations (that I spent all weekend tweaking and making!).

Silent Sunday

2008-11-16T20:41:00.001-06:00

image credit

Day 16 of 30: I've made an executive decision

2008-11-16T20:37:00.003-06:00

I have decided that I'm going to change the rules of my nablopomo. It will involve not posting on weekends.

Unless I feel like it.

I need some time to be free.

It's not you, it's me.

Hopefully that'll mean that I'll have more to share on Mondays.

I like that idea.

So...stay tuned for tomorrow. A new day to a new week.

Day 14 of 30: My birthday is a month from today and I like dog clothes

2008-11-14T13:53:00.003-06:00

I just realized earlier in the day that my birthday is EXCACTLY one month away! yay!

I'm the kind of person who actually looks forward to their birthday each year.

I don't dread it at all. I don't think of it as getting older because you know what...you're going to age every single year, it's inevitable...so just embrace it!

And I try to rub off my happiness about birthdays to all that surround me! ha!

I'm sure many of you are anti dog clothes. To some point I agree. I don't like dressing them up all the time or putting boots or shoes on them, but I do love looking through dog clothes. They just look so darn cute!

That being said, can you imagine my cute Mason (picture above) in the adorable red sweater (picture below)?!?!

Soon enough you will be able to see a live picture of him in it!

Honestly, I've been eyeing it for more than a year now and had never just bought it. Now I did!!!

Plus, he is getting his hair cut tomorrow, so once it comes he'll look extra cute!!!

Day 13 of 30: Our first meeting with the Pastor

2008-11-13T14:48:00.002-06:00

image credit

As I mentioned in my previous lame-o post, we had our first meeting with Pastor Mark last night. Going into it, I think we were both kind of like, eh do we have to do this?

Neither of us knew what we were entering into as we walked up to the glass doors.

Suprisingly, it was quite fun and created some nice conversation afterwards.

We first met with Pastor and chit chatted a bit. Then he asked us why we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together, what was it about the other person that made us love them.

Then, we had to take a test!!!

Oh no, don't worry, we weren't graded or anything. It was a 115 question 'test' that asked us questions regarding religion, budgeting, children, your future spouse.

We took it seperately, but in the same room. During the entire 'test' I just kept telling myself to remember the question because I thought it would be a fun one to talk about after we left. Of course, my memory fails me quite often...

Pastor is going to compile the results and put 'em in the mail. We can't wait to get them back so we can talk some more. We did realize that we both answered the questions very similarly, go figure.

So that was it. Harmless.

Although, we do have another appointment in a few weeks...

Day 12 of 30: This is a cop out

2008-11-12T22:38:00.003-06:00

I'll be the first to admit.

It's 10:39pm, we had our first meeting with the Pastor and I just haven't really had much time aside from that.

So this is my post. It's just a post.

No one ever said these 'post a day' things would be interesting, did they?! :-)

It was my Dad's birthday today. R and I called and sang to him this morning. I think he liked it.

That's all.

I'm being beckoned by my pillows and warm blankets.

Good night!

Day 11 of 30: We are inviting Barack Obama to our wedding

2008-11-11T19:04:00.002-06:00

Yeah, you read it.

I found this post regarding upcoming weddings that take place after our President Elect Barack Obama is sworn in for Presidency.

You send in your invitation to the White House as if you are inviting Barack and Michele to your wedding. And voila, you get a signed response back!

I think it's pretty neat and a great keepsake, especially since it's just a huge time for our country.

Not to mention, my Mister has been rooting for the President Elect for quite some time.

For all the details go to Celebrity Weddings Blog.

Day 10 of 30: My very first bloggy award!!!

2008-11-10T18:23:00.003-06:00

First off, I would just like to say that listing the day of the month in my title just makes me notice how quickly this month is going already. It's nuts! Does anybody remember when it was just last year?!

Okay and onto BETTER things...

I received my very first blog award!!! I can't say I haven't been wishing I'd get one.

If I did, I would be lying just a little bit.

The giver of the award was my bestie Jenny. We have been planning our weddings together and it's been fun. We have come to realize now more than ever just how alike we are! You should head on over there and check out some of her ramblings... :-)

You can also check out her other nominees and their fun blogs HERE.

The Uber Amazing Blog Award is given to those blogs who:
- inspire you
- make you smile and laugh
- give amazing information
- are a great read
- have an amazing design
- and any other reason you can think of that makes them uber amazing!

The rules of the Award are:
- put the logo on your blog and/or post
- nominate a minimum of five blogs
- let them know they received this award by commenting on their blog
- share the linky love and link to this post as well as the person's blog that nominated you

And now on to my nominees (drum roll please)...

Kelly's Korner - I don't know her personally, but just by reading her blog you can tell that she is the kindest sweetest person. She is also expecting her first little baby girl!!!

Bless Our Nest - I just LOVE all the decorating ideas I get from Shannon! She has given me some great ideas for decorating!

Acte Gratuit - She is just fun! She tells fun stories and guess where she and her family are living right now...Japan! How fun!!!
Fabulous K - (Another) Kelly (do you see a trend here?!) is another great decor muse for me! Her cute decor in her own place is just so darn cute! Not to mention, she makes great blog designs. If I could, I would have her redecorate our whole place! She is just all kinds of fabulousness! :-)
NieNie - I'm sure you all know Nienie. I, unfortunately, didn't start reading her blog until I heard about their accident. I wish their family all the strength and support in the world as things are slowly getting better. I just have to say that reading the reposts on her blog make me want to be happy all the time and cherish every moment even if its bad, because whats the point in worrying or being mad or what not. Inspirational is a good word that comes to mind.

Well that's all for today. I have to go comment on all the blogs above!!! The Blog World is something different that is not always for everybody, but I am happy that I've found it. It's created so many outlets and ideas for me.

Enough sappiness...

Goodnight.

Day 9 of 30: Winter is quickly approaching

2008-11-09T12:26:00.003-06:00

First snow fall of 2008 - Friday November 7th.

Can you believe it?!

I mean, I know we live in Chicagoland and it's November, but can't you wait until at least December, Mother Nature?!

I do not lie; I was working, sitting at my desk with a window view. I was walking back from the bathroom and I noticed white flakes quickly trying to make their way to the ground, which fortunately was a little to warm for the flakes because upon touching down, they melted immediately. Thankfully.

I don't know about you, but I'm just not ready for the snow. Part of me wishes that we lived somewhere warmer, but the other part of me thinks that Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas without the cold weather. Not to mention, all (or most) of your friends and family are here.

In my perfect world, the weather would be a nice sixty degrees, with leaves on trees matching the beautiful hues of fall weather.

I just love Fall.

I only wish it would stay around consistently for more than a month tops.

It's been flurrying ever since Friday on and off. Still nothing sticking, but it is awfully cold if you're outside for more than, oh 30 seconds. Which makes walking the dog three times a day brutal.

What is your favorite season and why? Do you like snow? Where would you move if you could pick anywhere your little heart desires?

Day 8 of 30: Aladdin

2008-11-08T20:14:00.005-06:00

Today, my sweet Mother-in-law took myself, Ava (my niece) and her granddaughter to see Aladdin at the Lincolnshire Marriott Theater. It was so cute and I actually really enjoyed it!

We went out to lunch with the kiddies afterwards and headed back to my mil's house so the girls could play.

While us girls were talking in the other room, the little girls were playing and I snuck in to take a picture of them sitting on the chair together playing at the computer. As I was about to take the picture Ava put her little arm around S's shoulder. How cute! :-)

Stacey and Little C came over. Ava just ate it up, she just loves babies and little kids. She is going to be a great cousin some day!

It was a great day just getting to hang out with family. I got to see Little T for the first time since I've seen him right after birth. He slept the entire time, but he was still cute. He has grown so much since I've last seem him.

And right about now, I'm blogging (and keeping good on my post-a-day oath thankyouverymuch) and my Mister is napping. Yeah, we know it's 8:24pm, but it's the weekend and, well we're not at the stage in our lives where we have to take care of a kid or go to bed early, so we can do it, right?! :-)

Day 7 of 30: President Elect Obama

2008-11-07T12:00:00.001-06:00

For starters, can I just say I had NO IDEA what President Elect meant until last night, when I asked my Mister (I can't wait until I can just say hubby or huband). I'm no dummy, but I had a hard time figuring it out...

So anywho... I just wanted to say that I hope that you all know that no matter who you voted for, we are all Americans. As Americans, our duty is to support our president. I am also so privelaged to be here and alive while our country makes history, electing our first African American as President. What a great victory to overcome. I am so proud of this country.

And I think you should be too!

Day 6 of 30: And baby boy makes two

2008-11-06T21:30:00.004-06:00

Here I am!

Making good on my promise of making up for yesterday.

Tonight, after work I went over to my girlfriend's house to have dinner with the girls.

And also to meet this handsome, cute little man!

Isn't he just so darn cute?! And so teeny tiny! His name is Owen and he is a little over a week old. What a cutie pie. There were some complications, but baby Owen and his wonderful Mom are okay.

Awww! He was just so cuddly! I forget how tiny babies are when they are newborns.

And of course we can't leave little Audrey out! She is just as cute. She can talk now and is just her own little person.

Day 5 of 30: Extended to the next day - obviously...

2008-11-06T13:33:00.003-06:00

I am such a bad bad blogger! Shame on me!

Honestly, I was remind myself all night last night that I had to do a blog post before we went to bed. Well as you can tell, that didn't happen and let's just say that I remembered it this morning while showering...

However, I did post TWO entries the day prior, so that's got to count for something, right?!

Maybe...just maybe you will get a double dose of blog posts from me today too! Mainly in part that we are going to go see my friend's new little baby boy, Owen. I can't wait...but also because I have a guilty conscience about not posting yesterday!

On another note, our apartment is becoming a home. We inherited some more furniture and I must say, this piece of furniture is way more comfortable than our couch! I love it!

We got it from my brother and sister-in-law. They got some nice swanky leather furniture that looks oh so lovely in their home. I am so grateful for our families.

Day 4 of 30: Expressions

2008-11-04T18:41:00.003-06:00

I am currently searching through ALL of our pictures for more pictures of our wedding party.

You see, my bridal shower invites are out (and received, for that matter) and I haven't even finished our wedding website.

Oh the shame...

I just HAD to post this picture though. I was staring at it and I know what's happening in it.

I am deep in thought trying to articulate it and you can tell Jess is just probably making fun of me, as she usually does! It's all in good fun.

I just thought, for me, this is a classic picture of conversation/banter we have... :-)

Day 4 of 30: Have you voted yet?

2008-11-04T12:09:00.003-06:00

image credit

I thought that little picture they had on the Google Search was so cute! I couldn't resist, sorry!

So...have you? Have you voted yet today?

If not, I highly reccomend that you do. It is such a privilege that we get to be a part of selecting the leader of our country. It's also a right that, as a woman, we have not had in the past.

As much as I am excited about the new President, I am awfully excited about the election season to be OVER!!! All the back and forth, it's driving me nuts!

Not to mention, ALL the news ALL the time. Hallelujah, it'll soon be over. :-)

So...if you haven't voted yet, you still have PLENTY of time. Go, now, get out there and vote!!!

Day 3 of 30: Back to the daily grind

2008-11-03T21:18:00.002-06:00

Have I mentioned that if I had the choice, I wouldn't work?!

Who wouldn't though.

My Mister got in on time yesterday from the airport. He ended up getting on the flight that he was originally booked on. Yay for that!!! It's so nice to have him back home!

He had a big day today! He started at his new job and we got to car pool together to and from work. Just for today though.

Yep, we are working in the same office! We're on opposite sides of the building though so we're not working together. It was fun to carpool today!

On another note, I had my very first dress fitting today. It went really well and I just can't wait for our wedding. I can't wait to be off of work for 2 week and to go to Jamaica for a FULL WEEK. Oh what fun!!!

Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching, can you believe it?! Speaking of which, can I keep my pumpkin stuff up for fall decor still or must I put it away and get something more harvesty out? Help, please?

Thanks!

Day 2 of 30: I've decided

2008-11-02T10:57:00.003-06:00

To start wearing in my 'wedding shoes' today. I think it's about time, don't you?

Don't you just love my cute little zebra sockettes (I think I made that word up!)?!

I don't want my shoes to get sweaty on the inside before the BIG DAY, but I do want them to be broken in. I have a little problem though, they feel a little tight. I think it may be because of the socks, but my logic is that they will stretch a bit while I wear them over the next few months, right?!

On a side note, I'm waiting to go pick up my Mister from the airport. I just received a call from him saying they 'bumped' him off of his connecting flight. They said they were oversold, which me and him know all about from the hotel. So instead of going to get him at 3:30pm, it may be just a bit later... What a bummer, especially for him!

I think I like this post-a-day thing (Zizi Nikki, I'm sure you are thrilled!). And if you're lucky, you may even get two today!

Day 1 of 30: Day one, not so bad?!

2008-11-01T22:23:00.003-05:00

Remember yesterday, when I took on the challenge of posting EVERYSINGLEDAY for the month of November?

What was I thinking?!

I think I may be able to come through this... Day one ain't so shabby because let me tell you...

Do you see this new blog layout that I have?! I ACTUALLY figured out how to make my own layout, background and all!!! Excuse me one moment while I reach around my back and pat myself! :-)

With the help of some digital scrap booking materials and handy dandy Photoshop, well let's just say I'm actually starting to understand it a bit.

What do you think?

Now I can actually add some more things to the side bar. I wasn't too sure if I was going to keep the last layout I had. I have to say, I'm quite pleased!

Now I don't know if this constitutes as a very exciting blog post, but eh it counts as one of my thirty... Hopefully I'll have some better things to post about as the week goes on?

Until tomorrow...

nablopomo

2008-10-31T10:34:00.003-05:00

That's right!!!

NOVEMBER is National Blog Posting Month. And I found this out over on this blog. You should check her out, she's funny and good! She also just moved to Japan - how exciting!

The idea of NOBLOPOMO is to post every single day in the month of November.

I think I'm going to take this as a challenege. I have been short on any sort of material lately. I can't necesarily guarantee that the daily posts will be super exciting...but I'm going to give it a shot!

Here goes...

Stay tuned until tomorrow!

Wish we were still on vacation...

2008-10-30T19:44:00.002-05:00

It's been so hard to be back at work this week, especially the first day back. We weren't even gone super long on vacation, but boy do I wish I could retire! ha!

Not to mention my Mister is gone for the week. It's so lonely when I'm home and he's not. I guess what they say is true...absence does make the heart grow fonder.

Not that I'm not fond of him already.

And guess what...I'm going to see High School Musical 3 on Saturday, jelous?! :-)

We're back...

2008-10-26T20:44:00.003-05:00

...and we're that much more excited for our wedding!

We went down (or I should say over) to Myrtle Beach for Kevin (R's brother) and Michele's wedding. It was gorgeous and the day could not have turned out any better for them. Michele was a beautiful bride and the setting was just breathtaking.

We (I play a huge factor in this) were so sad to leave the ocean and our vacation. But we will soon reunite in February for our honeymoon. Until then, Ocean...

There will be plenty more pictures to come...

To me, the ocean is so serene, there is just something about it. Isn't the setting just beautiful?!

Weekend Round~up

2008-10-19T19:42:00.005-05:00

Oh what a wonderful weekend...

I just wish it wasn't over yet! I DO however have a nice short week! Since we are leaving for Myrtle Beach (oh I can't wait!) on Thursday, I only have to work through Wednesday! Yay for that!!! :-)

We kicked off our Friday right with some pizza and a nice warm fire! It is cool enough to have them now and since we (kinda) got lucky with our apartment, we are able to have nice warm fires! It was my Misters last day at his job...and now...WE HAVE WEEKENDS OFF TOGETHER FOREVER!!!

Saturday we went out on a 'date' and ate some yummy steak and mushrooms...mmm!

And then went and saw Joel McHale from The Soup at a local theater. It was so funny and the guy that opened for him had a familiar name. We figured it out on the way home that he was from MTVs Singled Out and The Fifth Wheel (it's an older dating game show?!). He was pretty funny too...his name was, um, oh yeah, Chris Hartwig (forgive me if the spelling is off, please?!). Our seats were actually pretty good. On our way out (since we were right in the last few rows) there was a line forming for signatures and we could have been the second people in line, but opted to skip it. Boring, I know, we are!

The last time I went to the Genesee Theater to see Chelsea with my girlies, we were in the last row in the balcony. This time we were in the last row on the orchestra level...I didn't think there'd be much of a difference, but there definitely was! They looked like little white specks up top, but I could actually make out features down below. Fun times.

Sunday is football day, of course and I have been screwing around with Photoshop, as if you couldn't tell?! ha! How do you like my new header? I am still working on the side bar...that'll come slowly, I"m kind of sick of sitting at the computer.

Hope you all had a great weekend! Here we go again Monday, oh how I despise you.

Under construction

2008-10-18T17:23:00.002-05:00

Please excuse the mess around here.

You see, I am 'experimenting' with Photoshop Elements and I'm actually getting it! Yay for me!!! :-)

Just an FYI...some things may be changing around here so stay tuned...

And yes...it's a pain in the butt, but I have to redo all the widgets that were on my side bar...ick!

Fairytale Housewives

2008-10-16T13:25:00.001-05:00

I'm sure you all have seen this before, at least I have a dozen times via emails. I thought it was cute so I decided to post it.

One week from today!

2008-10-16T13:22:00.004-05:00

One week from today we will be enjoying this beautiful view and the company of family.

We are headed to North Myrtle Beach to celebrate the wedding of Ryan's brother and his future wifey!

I simply can't wait to have this view! Our hotel is right on the beach and oh how I love the ocean! Rejoice!

I have a fear that I will not want to come home...

Once upon a time...

2008-10-13T20:44:00.003-05:00

image credit

...there was a girl who was cleaning up the kitchen after dinner all the while her soontobe husband is relaxing in the living room. He had the right afer all, he made the deliscous meal. After all the dishes were done and the countertops were cleaned, she made her way out to the living room to sit down on the couch. Before she sat down, the girl noticed a white paper like object peeking out behind one of the pillows. She thought it was her handsome young fiance's slip of paper. He was about to leave for the dry cleaners. When the girl reached for the paper, she realized that it was not a simple slip of paper, but a single white envelope containing a love note, better yet a card.

The girl opened the card, which was beautiful in its own right. As she read on, she realized that her mister had something else up his sleeve. You see, the girl had mentioned (weeks earlier) a funny Joel McHale from The Soup was going to be visiting a nearby theater. The young man got tickets for them to go see this comedian!!!

Can I just say the girl was soooooooooooooooo happy and better more, she loved the card.

And they lived happily ever after...

Weekend Round~Up

2008-10-12T19:26:00.002-05:00

Oh what a wonderful weekend...

On Saturday I went over to Jen's house and got to hang out and do some hair. I got kind of 'stuck' on my way over because of a parade, but it was all good!

Jenny so graciously offered to play with my hair for our wedding and it turned out GREAT! I love it SO much!!! So...she offered to do it for the wedding! Thank you so much Jenny!!! You don't even know how much I appreciate it! I can mark the hair part off my list!

After that, me and Ryan picked up my mom and headed over to my cousin Cody's new place! It is so nice...we want to move there! We hung out with my dad and his roommates family. Kind of like a housewarming party!

I put this picture up for you Nonni and Zizi Nikki! Doesn't he look so cute in his little apron?! I just HAD to get a picture of it! :-)

Sunday was Bears day...what a game. Too bad they lost. :-(

Hope all your weekends were wonderful! Back to the daily grind tomorrow... One full week and a three day week and we're off to Myrtle Beach for Ryan's brothers wedding. We can't wait to go!!!

We had a baby boy!

2008-10-09T18:08:00.001-05:00

Just kidding!!! We really didn't! But we made one HERE with our pictures!!! You should go there and try! It's fun!

I was hoping for a little girl, but you get what you have been blessed with, right?! ha! How fun!!!

A missing prince

2008-10-08T20:45:00.003-05:00

I came in from work today and started making my way up the stairs to our apartment. I had to do a double take because on the wooden ledge leading up the stairway...THERE WAS A FROG!!!

I'm not talking toad people, I mean FROG and it wasn't small and cute (well I guess they aren't that cute) like the smaller (average around here) toads. It looked like the one above.

I had to go inside and get a glove to pick it up and move it outside. I took Mason (the dog) out while I was doing that and he was in all his glory! It did the weirdest thing when I went to pick it up though...it moved it's front paws (or webbed feet, I guess) over the top of it's head/eyes. It was so weird!!! I have never seen anything like it!

That was pretty much the excitement in my day! I have a really fun project that I'm working on, but I'm afraid I cannot share as they are going to be Christmas gifts. I can't wait until after the holiday so I can share!!! They are turning out great!

Meet the parents

2008-10-05T19:12:00.005-05:00

We went out to dinner tonight with my parents and Ryan's mom and stepdad. Our moms have met before, but it was the first time for everyone else. We went out for some pizza!

Hmm...this seems to be the same 'ole pic that we always take!

She's such a cutie! I actually got a picture of her smiling WITH her teeth showing!!! Yay! She hates to show her teeth when she smiles, too funny!

I got 'shots' of everyone while they weren't looking...wasn't up for the photo op! :-)

We all had a great time, of course who would have guessed it any other way?!

Do you Photoshop?

2008-10-02T20:52:00.002-05:00

photo credit

I do. Well, kind of. Not really. Thank you (SO much) to Mike and Stacey (fbil & fsil) ten times over for letting us download it! Now, if I only knew how to use it...

I've come across many a blog with instructions for little projects, I do still have those to go off of, but unless you really know what you're doing, it's kind of confusing.

So...I had the mister go out and grab me a Photoshop Elements for Dummies book. I've paged through it, but I think I've discovered that I will actually have to read the entire book if I really wanted to understand. I will get it, I just need some time...

I do have a little project that I'm going to start working on with it tomorrow night. I'm going to make inserts for my bridal shower invitations (no I'm not sending them out!) with the information where we are registered at. Wish me luck!

P.S. Any suggestions?!

Freebies

2008-10-01T20:22:00.003-05:00

Look what I got?! And it was for a whopping $3.13. And that was only the shipping and handling!

Something I've learned from this world of blogging...you can find so many giveaways and freebies, coupons and discounts. I just love it! I have never heard of this line before, but while reading Money Saving Mom, I stumbled upon this post. So...I thought I would give it a try! It even arrived in like 3 business days! I love getting packages FAST! There are also so many other tips and coupon alerts on there...they gain money some of the times! I haven't tried the make up yet, but I will give feedback once I do.

Hope

2008-09-30T14:08:00.000-05:00

Helloooo Lover!

2008-09-29T11:18:00.002-05:00

A couple girlfriends and I had a movie night on Saturday and watched Sex and the City THE MOVIE!!! Now, this has been long awaited. We had all tried to get together when it was in the theaters and one of us was unable to do the date that all the others could do. We still didn't have everybody on Saturday, but it came out and I wanted to see it!!!

I must say, it wasn't as great/grand/spectacular as I thought it would be, but it was still good and I wouldn't miss it for the world.

Have you seen this movie? Did you like the series? What did you like/dislike about the movie?

I thought that it didn't have that true spunk that the series had. I also wish that they would stop playing silly little games. I'm not going to ruin it and say anything, in case any of you reading haven't seen it yet, but they are in their 40s plus... Come on!

Other than that....loved it! haha! :-)

Homecoming

2008-09-28T00:47:00.004-05:00

It's time for Homecoming! You know that time of year when you look forward to the big football game, the fun parade, the school spirit.

I get the pleasure (and I'm serious about that) of doing my sister Jordan's hair every year for dances. Today was the day! I'd like to think it turned out great!

This is Jordy, isn't she so cute?! She is ten years younger than me! Now, I know I am not old by any stretch of the imagination, but she's a junior in high school AND getting her drivers license! I still remember when she was a little tiny baby :-) (love you Jordan!)

Not to mention, she is already like five feet taller than me! ha! I feel like I look like a 'little person' in this picture! I could really go for a growth spurt right about now! I had a fun time hanging out today Jordan! Hope you had a good time at the dance! (She is a frequent {yes?} visitor of my blog!)

Got TV?

2008-09-25T15:04:00.006-05:00

I am in tv overload right now and I am just lovin' it! Lipstick Jungle premiered last night (for the second season) and it just reinforced how much I love that show!!! If you don't watch it...YOU SHOULD!!! :-)

Tonight is an exciting night with the premieres of The Office. I can't wait to see what happens on that show. I sometimes wonder if they have any material left. It was a little slow starting last season, but they pulled through in the end. I like either way though! It's such odd yet hysterical humor.

And....(drumroll please...)...Grey's Anatomy!!! I just can't wait!!! I have seen some commercials for it and I hope hope hope that what I heard someone say is not true!

**SPOILER ALERT**

**SPOILER ALERT**

**SPOILER ALERT**

****

***

**

*

Okay, so remember last season, in the season finale, at the end when Meredith set up candles to signify their house on the lot of land that McDreamy owned? Meaning, she wanted to move in with him and start a life with him? And remember how he had to leave to go break up with Rose, just to make things right? Well, on the commercial, there was a scene shown where Rose was talking to I don't know who and she said, "I am pregnant with your child."!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Um, hello?!?! That can't happen!!! And I don't necesarily know if this is a spoiler, for all we know it could be someone elses, right?! I sure hope so! I guess we'll have to find out tonight...

And I simply can't wait!

{long} weekend round up

2008-09-23T18:12:00.009-05:00

As I previously mentioned, I had a great start to my weekend...

And I had an even better end to it! ha! It was 3 1/2 days long...I just love long weekends. The only bad thing...I never want to go back to work by the end! I just wish I could be a stay at home fiance! haha! :-)

I wanted to share some craftiness that I created on my own...with a little help from my blog friends though!

I made this cute little autumn candle deal with a leftover vase from some cute flowers, a smaller class tea light holder (on the inside) and some fake-o leaves that I found in the dollar bin at Target! Put them together and...voila!

As posted before, I got this neat little 'table' which I planned on turning into a night stand AND REPAINTING! That was so ick! The people at the shop were asking me if it was for my niece's room (they obviously didn't know she wasn't my daughter, does that happen to any of you?! Kind of annoying!) since she was with me.

BEFORE...

DURING...

AND AFTER!!!

Don't you just love it?! I especially like the cute little lamp that I picked out from Target! I just love the beads hanging off of it! I want to cute a cute little smaller picture frame, but had to put something there for the time being. It was too blank! And I want to decorate the outside of a clear candle (similar to that one) with some jewels to match or go along with the ends of the lamp. I simply love it!

I added some textured scrapbook paper to the inside of the drawer as a sort of liner, it turned out pretty cute!

I also got to watch this little cutie...COLIN while his Dad and Uncle went to the store. He was so cute and loved playing with our remote!

Isn't he just so darn cute?! He is our ring bearer!!!

Bear down, Chicago Bears...

2008-09-22T10:30:00.016-05:00

Yesterday...Sunday September 21st was

MY FIRST CHICAGO BEARS GAME!!!

Well it was my first real football game too! We had a great day. It stinks that they lost, but I had a fun experience! I thought it was going to be a little bit cooler, but au contraire, it was pretty stinkin' hot out. Not to mention we were in the endzone in the direct sunlight! By the time we left, my hair felt like I had taken a shower (um, yeah, it was full of sweat!). I did get some much needed sun, although my sunglasses did a great job of giving me a raccoon sunburn on my face. :-)

I decided to put up all the pictures that we had so here you go...

Sit back, relax and put your feet up! Oh and these are for you guys, Mike and Stacey so go on and save picture as!

The beginning of our journey

I love this picture!

This is from our seats, not too shabby, eh? Thanks Doug for the tickets!

Kind of dark...

Everything looks so different when you're watching it live and not on the tv. It's kind of hard to tell where the ball is.

My Mister :-)

Can you tell I'm extremely hot?!

Love my sunburn?!

Exciting News!

2008-09-20T23:05:00.003-05:00

I have some exciting news...

I interviewed for and have accepted a new position at work!!!

I am so excited and looking forward to the change, and did I mention I get to work normal working hours rather than a schedule of 1030-700pm every day? Oh I didn't, well...I do! How awesome is that?!

Coloring and Trash or Treasure?

2008-09-20T22:40:00.004-05:00

I just have to say, my weekend started out right! I ended up taking a half day at work and getting out just after noon! That's a great way to start the weekend if I may say so myself! :-)

I got to hang out with Ava on Saturday and spent some quality time with my bestie Jenny. It was a fun time.

We all colored and talked plenty about wedding stuff, since both of our weddings are coming just around the corner we like to call 'winter'.

En route to drop the little Miss off to my mom, we had some time to kill so I decided to take a jaunt into this little trash/treasure~ish store. After being in this blog world, I have realized that possibilities are often found in rare places. The store was called Whatnot and looked kind of like a junk yardish type store. I thought that I must be able to find something that I could redo and use. You bet I did!!!

I've been looking for a smaller nightstand for my side of the bed. I've always wanted one and would hope to have matching ones, but have learned that they don't always have to match. I found this cute little thing (which, don't worry, I'm repainting it brown!!!) and thought it would be perfect.

Tall enough, yet perfect in size. I started to sand it before painting, when paper like pieces came off of the top. Turns out it was wallpaper or something of the sort, weird! I decided to try spraypaint in lue of regular 'ole paint brush and bucket route. I have to say...I LOVE IT!!! Yet another great tip I have learned through the blog-o-sphere! I got the cutest lamp from Target to go on it...I'll post AFTER pictures when I'm completely finished.

Another fun find...a wooden rocking chair! I have been wanting one for the living room, just as a side chair. I plan on repainting this black to go with the living room. Love it! I have to add that I only spent $50 on both of these. I wish it were a little bit less, but I can at least say that I love both things I got, so it was a happy fifty dollars spent. The weekend is just going to get better with my first Chicago Bears Game!!! Hopefully I'll get some decent pics... Hope all of your weekends are wonderful!

Jon & Kate plus Eight!

2008-09-17T21:31:00.002-05:00

I'm sure most of you have seen Jon and Kate plus Eight? I was a late starter to this show, but let me tell you, I just can't get enough of it!

I'm talkin', they usually play a bunch of reruns on Monday nights along with the new episode and I dvr every one that I have not yet seen!

It's just amazing how they juggle EIGHT kids! I myself would be in the looney bin by now! Truly amazing. Another thing that warms my heart (ha!) is how in the opening introduction they admit that it's a crazy life and they aren't always perfect, but they are in it together. I just think that's wonderful to hear. They know it's not easy.

I do have to say, Kate reminds me of my Zizi Nikki (aunt)...sorry Zizi Nikki, but it's not a bad thing in any way! I think her accent, since they are from the East Coast, reminds me of yours!

So is anyone else addicted?

What is your all time favorite show?

Weekend round~up

2008-09-15T20:30:00.004-05:00

I'd like to think we had a good weekend! We started it out right with our regular PIZZA FRIDAY. It was pretty rainy all weekend so I got to lounge around all day Saturday.

I worked on some wedding stuff on Saturday night while my Mister was at his show. I did some cute things! I don't really want to share on here though because I want it to be a surprise, kind of. I guess it really doesn't matter, but whatever.

During my 'crafting' I looked down and noticed my knuckle was blackish/greyish/bluish. I kind of freaked out, I was home alone! I called R and then my mom. It's still a shade of blueish/purple, but man it was weird! I still don't know what I did!

We went and hung out with Mike & Stacey (future bil/sil) on Sunday to watch the Bears. They lost, so that was a bummer. Mason got to see his girlfriend/cousin (ha!) so he was pretty happy. You wouldn't believe the things they do...

Meet Bella!!! We are going to have the same exact name in a little over four months! :-)

A cute shot of the lovebirds playing tonsil hockey! Mason slept like a baby when we got home, I love when that happens.

Thoughtful Inspiration

2008-09-15T12:11:00.002-05:00

If you don't know Nie Nie, you should. If you don't know how, you can click here.

I read a post today that had been reposted from earlier this year. And it gave me great inspiration to do good for other people. I might just go ahead and recreate it on my own. What a great way to really bring joy to others.

Nie and her kids make little strips of paper that have an extra tab sticking off of them that say READ ME. They went around their town and stuck them in places where people would see them. Each one had something on it along the lines of; you are special, you are beautiful, God loves you, someone loves you, etc.

Isn't that just wonderful? Wouldn't you like to be the one standing there watching that persons face as they pick it up and read it? And doesn't that just send such a great message to the kids who are doing it? I just think it's wonderful!

I'll let you know what happens if I do it!

source

Tagged...

2008-09-15T11:22:00.002-05:00

I wasn't necesarily tagged, but a blog that I read was tagged and, well, she tagged anyone who was reading...so I thought I'd do the same. I'm at a loss at the moment for blog material (or at least until I get home and have some pics) so I'm going forward with this! So...if you are reading this and you want to do it...I TAG YOU!

3 JOYS

My wonderful wonderful future husband. I truly do believe I have found the one. We just get along so well. I've never had to not work at something for it to be good and this just is.
My MOM. She is a true blessing. She is more like my friend than my mother and I am so thankful for her! I can tell her anything...sometimes she tells me more than I want to hear! ha!
Sweet stuff. I love snacks and goodies a little bit too much...

3 FEARS

Darkness. Seriously, when I walk Mason at night by myself, I get so scared. Daytime? No problem...the light seems to change everything!
Losing my lover (R). I know, I know, I'm not going to, but it is just an irrational fear that I have.
Me not being able to have babies. You never know until you start trying. I, obviously have never tried yet, but I worry that when I do, I will be unable to.

3 GOALS

I want to start eating better.
I want to tone up my body.
I want to do better. I want to be a better person.

3 OBSESSIONS

Cooking, baking, making things. A lot of the times, I will bake something, eat one piece of it and be done with it! I just like to make things!
New clothes, shoes, purses. Although I don't always splurge on them, I do eye a lot of them and debate in my head a million times over if I a) really need it, or b) really want to spend the money on it. I'm so bad at that!
Reality TV. Love to hate it.

3 RANDOM SURPRISES

Sometimes, when I'm home alone at night, I will check behind every single door, look in all the closets, etc to make sure that no one has snuck in! I'm a scaredy cat!
I wish I owned an animal shelter!
I don't think I've worn shorts one time this summer!

Fall TV Line Up

2008-09-13T12:00:00.002-05:00

I've been meaning to do this for some time now. I am a freak and need to see, written down, my shows that I like to watch and what nights they are on. With the blog, you all get to benefit from it too! Sorry if I leave some shows off, but you can always click the link to get them all! Here goes... (oh and p.s. these are going to be in central standard time!)

NBC
Tuesday
The Biggest Loser (9/16) 7:00 - 8:30
Kath & Kim (10/9) 8:30 - 9:00

Wednesday
Lipstick Jungle (9/24) 9:00 - 10:00

Thursday
The Office (9/25) 8:00 - 8:30...one hour season premier...woo hoo!
ER (9/25) 9:00 - 10:00

ABC
Monday
Dancing with the Starts (9/22) 7:00 - 8:30
Samantha Who (10/6) 8:30 - 9:00

Tuesday
Dancing with the Stars Results Show (9/23) 8:00 - 9:00

Wednesday
Private Practice (10/1) 8:00 - 9:00

Thursday
Greys Anatomy (9/25) 8:00 - 9:00

Friday
Wife Swap (10/3) 7:00 - 8:00

Sunday
Desperate Housewives (9/28) 8:00 - 9:00

FOX
Thursday
Kitchen Nightmares (9/4) 8:00 - 9:00

That's it for now...

I'm getting a little bit impatient toggling back and forth here... Hope it helps out some! :-)

Are you ready for some football?!

2008-09-13T10:39:00.005-05:00

That's right, it's officially FOOTBALL SEASON!!!

I have to admit, I was never one for football, but with my Mister being an avid Bears fan, I thought that I should participate and get into the game. So...I went out and got myself a Football for Dummies book. I made it part way through, skimming some pages. After reading that and watching a few games (and asking plenty of questions), I got the just of it. I still don't know certain technicalities, but I can watch a game and get excited!

And guess what?!?! I'm going to my first Bears game, let alone my first official football game next Sunday! Even better? It's the home opener at Soldier Field! Pretty cool, huh?! Added bonus? I'm going with my Mister and my soon-to-be brother and sister in law! I'm positive it will be a wonderful day!

GO BEARS!!!

My ode to Candy Corn!

2008-09-11T18:36:00.002-05:00

I know it's not a favorite of everyones, but I LOVE me some candy corn!

Actually, I LOVE me A LOT of candy corn! Even though those sugary cones of goodness hurt my teeth after a few, I could eat bags of them!

So, in honor of my sweet friendly treat, here are some fun facts about the candy!

~Did you know that October 30th is National Candy Corn Day?! (I must celebrate this year! ha!)
~1 serving of candy corn contains only 140 calories...very good to know!
~More than 35 million pounds of candy corn will be produced this year!
~The different flavored candy corns do not have a different flavoring, it's just the coloring (hmm...it still tastes different to me!)

So what about you...what is YOUR favorite holiday candy?

source

A little bit of randomness...

2008-09-10T18:47:00.004-05:00

This is going to be kind of a random post and now that I look at the pictures I have, well they don't look all too pretty or anything...

I have begun to order wedding 'stuff' and it is all starting to be delivered. I needed a space to put this stuff without it laying around on the ground and getting all dusty, so I borrowed my brother and sister in law's card table and set up camp in our 'office' aka spare bedroom!

Here is an oh so hot shot of it all! Yep, this is where all the action takes place! ha!

I also went to Ace Hardware in search of some Rubbermaid bins to store stuff in so it doesn't get dusty...I mean, we do have 4 month left here people, stuff will be sitting around! :-)

But I came up with this clear and blue one because it was a little bit cheaper and then this cute little cloth bin that I can reuse after the wedding too!

I totally (kind of) forgot that I ordered this. It's a birdcage cardholder! I was going to spray paint it black, but I think I'm going to keep it white and put a black bow on it or something like that! I think it's cute...I love the little hearts on it! I could even reuse this somehow as decor for the home afterwards!

And GUESS WHAT?!?! Our wedding invitations are here! I am so excited! It was so fun and exciting to look through everything!

I thought I'd share!

Happy Birthday {again!}

2008-09-08T15:56:00.008-05:00

Yesterday we had some of my family over for Ava's Family Birthday Party.

This, of course, sent me into a cleaning frenzy ALL DAY LONG on Saturday. So much so that when I woke up on Sunday morning, the tops of my thighs (not sure what that muscle group is called) were sore, yes...sore from cleaning! You could imagine my delight in knowing that I didn't feel bad working out at all over the weekend! I did it while cleaning, right?! ha!

I had to do something special for her! She's my little mini me! I got her a happy birthday decoration and she LOVES Hannah Montana, so I got those decorations hanging there too! She took those home with her to hang up in her room!

Of course there were presents!

And plenty of Barbies! Including one that feeds little doggies bottles and those little doggies piddle after (actually I'm sure while) drinking their bottles...good luck with that one Mom and Dad! :-)

Per Ava's request, Grandma made her a cheesecake for her birthday. I got her a number candle, for some reason she loves those?! And I also got some trick candles! Only one of them worked, but she got a kick out of it!

Our camera was acting up again...dang thing! Some of the pics are a little bit blurry...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AVA!!!

Feeling Fall

2008-09-06T23:00:00.006-05:00

Okay, so first off, I have to show you what I got! I went to the trusty 'ole Wal-Mart last night to get a cake for Ava's family birthday party tomorrow (that we are hosting) and started browsing through the fall section (more to come on that in a moment!) and the curtain section.

Look what I found?!

I had something like this in mind to make the apartment seem a little more cozy and these were on clearance! I cleaned them out of the last two packages they had!

I love the red and it goes with our living room. Also, I'm sure you noticed I didn't get a long enough rod...I know, bummer. We'll have to go back and get a little bit longer one. I could take down the blinds, but since we're renting, we'd have to put them back up and, oh what a pain that would be!

But they totally fit in with my fall decor theme that I'm trying to get going?! Look what I found to add to my collection while I was there...

This cute fall colored bow that I put on the knob to our entertainment center (yes, those are still Christmas present from last year hidden in there).

This little scarecrow man is hiding out in the plant in the corner of the room!

And I got this candle holder (hello, reusable!) and some $1.00 pumpkins and stuck them on there, placed it on our mantle and voila! Pretty good so far, huh?! I thought so! Now I just have to go dig out my fall door wreath... I'm going to put together a little happy birthday/hannah montana suprise decoartions for Ava tomorrow, I'm sure she will love it!

Fall is in the air

2008-09-05T14:51:00.007-05:00

"Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns." ~George Eliot

Fall is my absolute FAVORITE season of all time! I love that it's not too hot but it's not too cold either and if it is a little cold, well then I welcome it! I love that crisp feeling in the air and wearing jeans and sweaters! I love having all of our windows open and snuggling up on the couch with a blanket!

Oh I could just go on and on about all of the things that I love about fall!

Ryan and I went to Hobby Lobby the other day in search of all things fall (well mostly I dragged Ryan to Hobby Lobby in search of all things fall!). I wanted to get some new decorations, but when I was there, I was just at a loss as to what I could create. It bums me out when that happens. I want to make some things, but I just can't seem to think of anything. And if I do see something cute I always come up with an excuse of I have no place to put it! Argh! What to do?

What are some of your favorite fall decorations? (Zizi Nikki...what should I do?! Any suggestions for our place?)

Please ignore that ugly wire down there, it's for the cable! I got that cute little white pumpkin on the top shelf of the lamp, I think I love white pumpkins now! Of course, I had to break out my Yankee Candle in Macintosh, my favorite fall candle scent! I also got the little vase/bowl on the bottom at HL and filled it with what was supposed to vanilla scented decorative potpourri (yeah, it didn't smell like much!).

This is a close up of the bowl...didn't come out all too clear (hello new camera?!)

Here is that white little pumpkin that I think is so darn cute! I got it, along with the orange little one below at Walgreens for $0.99!

These are some of my other finds. I got that cute little orange pumpkin from Walgreens (ninetynine cents...woo hoo! ha!) and then that wirey pumpkin thing on the right from Hobby Lobby, I like how rustic it looks. I got some yummy smelling cinnamon candles to go in it. Pretty cute!

And of course you HAVE to have candy corn!!! Those things hurt my teeth so bad, but I love them! Clearly its Bears Season, so we had to break out the Chicago Bears Glass Dish! GO BEARS!!! We will be going to the home opener two Sundays from this coming Sunday, we just can't wait! Are any of you all football fans? I wasn't until I entered into the McIntyre clan...those boys are Bears fanatics! It's kind of fun, something to look forward to doing every Sunday in the fall!

Fab Find

2008-09-04T14:38:00.003-05:00

This is mostly for me and I heard about it here, but you can purchase some here!

I want to have luscous thick lashes (ha!) for my wedding day but I'm not too keen on fake lashed, they annoy me! Maybe I'll try some of this? It's not too expensive and the reviews are pretty good!

It's rainy and gross here today, but it's nice and crisp outside...Fall is arriving and I just can't wait for it! I love Fall!!!

Our day at the zoo

2008-09-03T20:47:00.024-05:00

These pictures have been a long time comin'!

We went to the Lincoln Park Zoo on Saturday. And by we I mean, Jordan (my sistah!), Ava and me! It was a very hot day out and the zoo was kind of crowded, but we all had a good day!

I warn you now, do not read on if you are bored easily! ha! No, but seriously, there are A LOT of pictures, so I don't blame you if you decide to hope on over to Mrs. Dub instead of look through my pictures of our day at the zoo (she is much more wittier than I)! I know Zizi Nikki will be happy that they are finally up! :-)

Without further adieu ~

The girls on their day out
Jordan likes her some elephant

We always seemed to have the animals butts in our faces when we were trying to look or take a picture...hmmm...

Ava rode this train, which wasn't on a track, but made of attached golf cart like cars, I think she like it though?!

This is hysterical, the face is priceless! I don't even think she was mad or upset, I think I just caught a genuine expression! ha!

Me and Jordy

We had to set the camera timer up to get a pic of us...ugh, this building was like a sauna...

Hammin' it up for the camera!

If you look to the right of Ava, there is a little wallaby, cute!

Ava was even so brave to pet a snake! I stayed out of that room!

This was cute, there were two monkies or gorillas or whatever they were just sitting there with their backs up agains the windows, stripping the leaves and outer layer off of some branches. They were literally right up against the window, I was hoping this one would turn his head around and look at us. I always feel so bad for all these animals, stuck inside of glass watching people watch them all day, I just want to free them and take them all home with me!

Our 'human' hands

If you look in the back, you can see there are different species of apes and their hand prints.

Jordy and Ava

They're just monkeying around! ha!

I hope you enjoyed! I have been out of the blogging loop, at least I feel like it. You'd think the laptop would produce more posts, oh contraire!

*Two more days and the weekend is here!

blabber and blunder

So long, farewell....

It went off without a hitch!

I'm baaaack...

I leave you with this...

Wedding at Work

Our Silhouettes

A new DIY decoration

A slight change in plans

What will YOU do to make a CHANGE?

Please Pray

Long time no talk

T minus 21 days

It comes in three's

Project 365

One year ago, on this night

It's my birthday! {by Mason}

Dang good chili!

Our yearly tradition - 2008

Good tidings and joy

With this ring - I thee wed

Merry Christmas

Snow makes me nuts...

Mason's favorite ornament

Cutie Clementines - we're loving them!

The one about Santa's Reindeer,,,

Happy Birthday To Me (and) I Take It Back

Silent Sunday: Ice Storm

I've been tagged...again!

My new sisters

Tolerance

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

Silent Sunday

Just a test...

Response cards and a little peak!

Happy December!!!

Day 30 of 30!!! I bid you adiue

**We interupt this NaBloPoMo**

Post 29 of 30: Christmas Decor

Day 27 of 30: Giving Thanks

Day 26 of 30: Did you watch?!?!

Day 26 of 30: It's Friday!!! Well...it's actually Wednesday...

Day 25 of 30: I can't believe Christmas is ONE MONTH away!!!

Day 24 of 30: It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Day 21, 22, 23 of 30: My Bridal Shower!

Day 20 of 30: The Devil's Swimming Pool

Day 19 of 30: It's a Monogram Chick Giveaway - you should check it out!

Day 18 of 30: Sneak Peek and a little gift...

Day 17 of 30: Just another manic Monday...

Silent Sunday

Day 16 of 30: I've made an executive decision

Day 14 of 30: My birthday is a month from today and I like dog clothes

Day 13 of 30: Our first meeting with the Pastor

Day 12 of 30: This is a cop out

Day 11 of 30: We are inviting Barack Obama to our wedding

Day 10 of 30: My very first bloggy award!!!

Day 9 of 30: Winter is quickly approaching

Day 8 of 30: Aladdin

Day 7 of 30: President Elect Obama

Day 6 of 30: And baby boy makes two

Day 5 of 30: Extended to the next day - obviously...

Day 4 of 30: Expressions

Day 4 of 30: Have you voted yet?

Day 3 of 30: Back to the daily grind

Day 2 of 30: I've decided

Day 1 of 30: Day one, not so bad?!

nablopomo

Wish we were still on vacation...

We're back...

Weekend Round~up

Under construction

Fairytale Housewives

One week from today!

Once upon a time...

Weekend Round~Up

We had a baby boy!

A missing prince

Meet the parents

Do you Photoshop?

Freebies

We interupt this NaBloPoMo