Oh the places I want to go!

Movies

2010-04-10T20:13:00.000-07:00

They seriously for a moment change my life! I just watched Julie and Julia and it make me realize that I've neglected my blog. It also make me realize that I too love to eat.

Another notable movie that changed my life.....The Notebook.

What are some of your favorite movies. You know, the ones that for those few moments after wards you truly feel that so many things are possible!? Or is that just me, I do realize I am a HUGE dork!

Happy Saturday!

Just another reason why I love my sister

2010-03-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

Please refer to this post. Then see below.

On your "About Me" I am just a person who wants to make a different now matter how small. Need to take the "w" out of "now" Love ya, Sis.

Uh....thanks! Love you too Sissy! :)

Also did any one notice it should be difference? There you have it world, me with all my grammatical splendor. Next up I will incorrectly multiple numbers.

My acceptance speech

2010-03-10T20:20:00.000-08:00

I always like imagine the acceptance speech I would make if I ever won a big award, like an Oscar, or possibly a blog award!

(Shocked face).....there are honestly no words to describe how I feel right now! I want to thank the Academy, or Jamie at Jamie Unscripted and Jennifer at Dave and Jennifer Holland, for everything! I couldn't have done it without your support and being two of the five people who read my blog regularly. I feel like I owe a lot to my roots and where I grew up (Mena shout out)!

(Que tears) You have no idea how this award will change my life, how much it means to me. It makes all the hard work, blogging, seem worth it! So thank you, thank you for thinking of me. Thank you for the Sunshine Award! As all things good in life, you should pass them on......and so I will.

So thank you (drum roll, please)

1. Lauren at Under Construction - for always providing wisdom AND laughter.
2. Beautiful sister at Don't Sweat the Small Stuff - well basically thanks for being my sister, but also for posting pictures regularly of the most handsome baby in the WORLD. They always bring a smile to my face!
3. Ana at Knock Off Wood - your amazing and awesome!
4. The Pilot's Wife - L.o.v.e her blog!
5. Janie at How I got out of $26,000 of debt - you're hard work is inspiring.
6. Rachel at Rachel Sloan Photography - I love your love for furbabies.

Ok it was supposed to be 12, but hey I made it halfway. Thanks for the award Jamie and Jennifer!

What brings you joy lately? For me it's that this weekend is Daylight Savings. Massive amounts of sunshine here I come!

Bad Habits

2010-03-08T21:49:00.000-08:00

We all have them. I have a plethora! And one of them is not spell checking my emails! This should be a big no, no. I mean they even made it easy and gave you a spell check button! Oh I use it, but once I see all is clear I usually throw it in drive and race down the road to the next venture.

But guess what? If you tell someone you would like an imagine or two to use for an announcement, they may or may not know what you are talking about. Image that? (HA, get it?) That magic button may catch grammatical errors and misspelled words, but it doesn't catch nonsense! And apparently I'm full of nonsense. Lesson learned........REREAD your stinking emails Jonnie!

I love this kid!

2010-03-08T21:47:00.000-08:00

No, really, I do. I show his picture to everyone I meet! He's the apple of my eye, even from hundreds of miles away! I can't wait to squeeze his sweet cheeks and then kiss 'em!

http://rsasreid.blogspot.com/

Enjoy.

Man, I love these guys!

2010-03-02T08:06:00.000-08:00

Enjoy!

Genius

2010-02-28T20:08:00.000-08:00

http://knockoffwood.blogspot.com/

Yup, this lady is amazing! I can't wait to try and build something of my very own! And I already know just the thing! That's a secret......at least until I get start!

No need to thank me. ;)

I'm seeing stars....

2010-02-25T18:28:00.001-08:00

I think I told you guys that I had an awesome first Mardi Gras experience, but I think I forgot to mention.............................I met CHRIS PAUL!

Now some of you (Jamie and Rachel) might be asking who in the world is Chris Paul? For shame. Well he is an amazing, talented athlete and the point guard for the New Orleans Hornet's! I'm not gonna lie, I was WAY starstruck. Enjoy.

Yet another reason why I love this city!

Wow......

2010-02-23T19:09:00.000-08:00

I am inspired by this story. I know most of you might have already seen this, but man, how amazing.

I think I moved to paradise

2010-02-18T19:02:00.001-08:00

Saints parade and Mardi Gras.....

I love this city, who knew?

I live in the South people

2010-01-21T20:35:00.000-08:00

Yup, I sure do. I live in the South where we drink sweet tea daily, wave at people we don't know, we talk about ya ma and them, we call our grandparents Grandad and Nanny, and have mosquitoes in January!

Man.........I love the South! There is nowhere else I'd rather be.

You call these directions?

2010-01-20T19:17:00.000-08:00

I am by no means a fashionista, or anything close to one. So I am reaching out to my fashion knowledgeable friends. Please don't laugh.

One of the things I used to like about clothes is that you always know how to tend to them, take care of them, keep them CLEAN! Dry clean only, hand wash and line dry, tumble dry low, machine wash warm, use cool iron if necessary. The combination is endless.

So imagine my surprise when I read this: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry in cool place. For best results dry clean.

WHAT?

I feel like if the tag could talk it would say "sure go ahead and try washing your brand new (what I consider nice) pants and line drying them, but when you ruin them you'll realize you should have just dry cleaned them!"

So what do I do....do I attempt to wash them or do I just surrender them to the dry cleaners?

Geez.......

Long time no see

2010-01-07T18:39:00.001-08:00

Sorry about that! I hope to make a somewhat regular appearance in the near future. Anyways....I wanted to show you my first EVER blog prize. Yes, I, indeed win a blog giveaway. And it smelled so nice.

No, it really did.

See.

And I'm pretty sure when this one is gone I will have to order another from dear, sweet Aunt Sadie! In a different scent of course. Thanks Cara, LTHL is the best, and so are you!

My best friends

2009-12-16T19:43:00.000-08:00

This is Jamie.

(this photo was taken by the wonderful and talented Hudson Photography)

She is one of my best friends. We grew up together, went to the same college, and magically ended up with many of the same friends.

This is Rachel.

(again photo by Hudson Photography, they're amazing)

She is my other best friend! Although we didn't grow up together I feel like we did sometimes. We went to the same college and also have many of the same friends (including a best friend, Jamie)!

God must really love me because he gave me two wonderful people to be my best friends! They are both kind, smart, funny, and all around just amazing. I miss them so much everyday but I'm thankful for their continued close friendship and support! They will always be such a big part of my life and I wanted to take this time to make sure they knew, as well as the whole world! I miss you both oh so much and love you with all the love I can give! Thanks for being such great friends!

I can only hope you have such great friends in your life too.....which I'm sure you all do. So make sure to tell them how great they are!

I think this kid's got the right idea

2009-12-14T19:35:00.000-08:00

It doesn't matter if you don't know the words.....sing (and play) your heart out. Enjoy.

Besides, you can make the words up if you have too! ;)

Please, allow me...

2009-12-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

to encourage you to read THIS wonderful blog. You will adore it, I'm sure of it. Please, thank me later, right now hope on over and find out why you will love it.

Happy Monday.

SHUT UP!

2009-12-04T14:19:00.000-08:00

This has become a new staple phrase in my vocabulary. It means: seriously, no way, are you kidding me, I don't believe you, that's amazing, etc. I think you get the idea. Well.....

SHUT UP!! I actually won a giveaway. Christmas miracles do happen. :)

Happy Friday!

Just wanted to say

2009-12-03T16:05:00.000-08:00

Thank you to the 6 or so of you that actually visit my blog.....you are appreciated. Yay for tomorrow being Friday!!!!!

Brrrrrr....and yuck and the Hogs

2009-12-01T10:59:00.000-08:00

It is freezing in our house! FREEZING. I'm sure you are thinking just turn up the heat. Well I would but I live with one of the most frugal men in the world! (I'm over exaggerating a wee bit). But he seriously doesn't like to turn the heat on. Crazy I know. Well we had company this weekend so he finally did, but he won't turn it above 65 degrees. So everyday when he gets home I say, "Babe, it was so cold in the house today!" And he replies with, "Well, did you put on a jacket?" Yes, like it's totally normal to walk around your house with 17 layers of clothes on....silly boy! But I love him anyways.

And it's gross out! It's supposed to rain here for the next few days....boooooo.

So we had guest this weekend (like I mentioned before) and we all got to go the the LSU v. Arkansas game! Wooooohooooooo. I wanted nothing more than for us to win, especially since we now live in LSU land (New Orleans is close enough to be too close). Sadly we did not win, but I do look forward to a great football team next year!

We were all pretty worried about going to the game to say the least. We've experienced (in Little Rock) and heard horrible LSU fan stories. But to our delight, it was SO not the case. Actually it was quite the opposite for the most part, excluding the very angry-looking gentleman who honk at us the entire time he was flipping us the bird. BUT then an amazing thing happened, a car full of LSU fans slowed down, rolled their window down and............offered us a free parking pass. Now for the longest time we debated about whether it was legit or not and decided we might as well find out. Well, it was and it was so close to the stadium. Our original 2 mile walk turned into about 2 blocks! AMAZING! And once inside, many fans asked if we were being treated okay and wanted to stop and talk to us. It made for a very fun experience, except for that who losing in overtime thing!

Yay for 25 days til Christmas!!!

Stock the Shelter 2009

2009-11-29T15:22:00.000-08:00

There is nothing that makes people want to give like the holiday season!! There are so many organizations and wonderful causes to give to and so many people in need. But sometimes we forget the furry guys! And they are in need too! Well my bestie Jamie and my other bestie Rachel team up to help them out.

One day Jamie decided she wanted to do something to help out the all furry animals who don't have a loving, warm home with wonderful humans to feed them, so she and Rachel came up with Stock the Shelter.

Stock the Shelter is a donation drive that benefits Northwest Arkansas Animal Shelter. I think it's a wonderful way to make some furbabies very happy. So please if you are looking for a wonderful cause to donate to consider Stock the Shelter. There are so many ways you can help out.

If you live in the Northwest Arkansas area Jamie or Rachel will come pick up your donation. Don't live in the area but still want to help out, no worries, contact the girls and they can tell you how to donate to directly to the shelter. So get out and give a little this holiday season whether it be your time or money, every little bit helps. And even if Stock the Shelter isn't your cup of tea, spread the word it will be greatly appreciated! Here's a list of items the shelter is always in need of, along with a way to contact Jamie or Rachel!

The donation drive ends December 23 so you have plenty of time.

Call Rachel at (479) 871-2138 or Jamie at (479) 234-2740 for more information, to arrange for pick up or if you have any questions.

Here's a list of items they're in need of:
Pillows
Towels
Sheets
Bleach
Leashes
Blankets
Pet Beds
Cat Litter
Cat Food (Dry and/or wet)
Dog Food (Dry and/or wet)
Pet Shampoo
Dog & Cat Toys
Brushes & Combs
Laundry Detergent
Stainless Steel Bowls
Flea Treatment Products
Pet Carriers
Newspapers
Office Supplies
Paper Towels
Dish Soap
Aluminum cans (by the bag)
Shredded Paper

Sorry it's a long one

2009-11-18T21:53:00.000-08:00

Since the holidays are fast approaching (hello, Thanksgiving next week) and thus a new year right around the corner. So naturally I started thinking about New Year's resolutions. AND this coming year and from here on out I plan on doing something different, more on that in a minute. Right now I want to tell you how I arrived at point right here, right now, writing this blog post. Okay, here we go.

In thinking about New Year's resolutions, I remembered once upon a time (I think I was 15, so about 10 years ago) that I wrote out a list of "Things to Do In My Life". And I know I had kept it because I remembered seeing it about a year ago. Soooooo, I started digging in my boxes upon boxes of pictures and letters and random other items I have felt the need to keep over the years and finally found it. But it's what I didn't expect to find that made me want to write this post. Of course it was in the second to last box I looked in, so I had the chance to look at all kinds of old college and high school pictures and letters! Oh what a good time I had just laughing and smiling all by myself on the floor of the bedroom as I was flooded with memories. And then, then, as I continued to read letters, I started to cry, I cried and cried and cried. It was truly the strangest thing and as I write this I can feel my eyes starting to water. I couldn't for the life of me figure out why I was crying. Then, it hit me. I missed being myself. Now let me explain as some of you might be thinking that I missed the old me, I guess in a way I did, but not in the way that I wanted to go back in time. I missed remembering who I was/am. Still confused? I've been so overwhelmed with the fact that I don't have a job, own a house, etc. I've been so worried for the last few years about the complete WRONG things. I was sad because I was able to become the person I am, in the place where I'm at with the help of most of these people, these people who are just memories for the most part now. These people were all I had at one point and somehow, even with all the moments they helped make in my life, I managed to let my relationship with them fall to way side.

Now at this point you might be thinking we all do that Jonnie, it's just something that happens. Well I'm not okay with that....not anymore. I want to make sure that everybody who means/meant something to me knows it and they know it as often as I can tell them. I will no longer be consumed with the things that won't matter when I leave this world! I will from this day on make an effort to be the best me I can be and part of that is constantly remembering where I can from and those who helped shape me! Sorry, I feel like this is a common issue for me, but this time it really hit me, because I just spend the last twenty minutes on the floor crying like it's nobodies business. We'll continue this conversation at a later point.

Okay, now that all that's out, I want to share my list with you...here you go:

See New York at Christmas time
Be a size six (hahah...this makes me laugh, why did I care at 15?)
Take up yoga/kickboxing (I've done it, but I wouldn't say I've taken it up)
Learn to dance
Go to San Franciso
Be a mother
Marry the man of my dreams
Participate in a life changing experience (I love it, isn't everything life changing?)
Volunteer my time
Learn to play the guitar
Learn to speak Thai
Study Astrology
Own a St. Bernard (I really don't have this desire anymore)
Visit Thailand
Meet my Grandma (my mom's mom) (sadly she died before I ever got to do this)
Learn Sign Language
Go on a cruise
Run in a marathon
Learn to play the piano
Have ice cream with my little brother
Have a day with my real dad
Watch a meteor shower
Graduate from college with honors (I'm just glad I finished)
Take up photography
Study aboard in Spain (I missed out on this one too)

Many of these things I still want to accomplish in life and there is much more to add to it. Instead of making New Year's resolutions I plan to just add to my list through out the year and as I accomplish them I will mark them off......my whole life just became a New Year's resolution.

I feel like all this was so random, oh well! Happy Thursday.

Two things

2009-11-17T18:12:00.000-08:00

First, I joined a women's bible study group at church and I'm so pumped! I truly cannot wait to see what is in store. I'll keep you posted.

And two, go here and read THIS......you'll be so glad you did!

Tomorrow marks the middle of the week. Making home that much closer for me! Wooohooo.

A lot of randomness

2009-11-16T16:47:00.000-08:00

I sold something on Craigslist today! Wooohooo.....my first time, but now I have the dilemma of the person picking it up. Now granted I'm pretty sure is in the coast guard, but I'm still leery of one, having a stranger come over to my house and two I would be here by myself (plus dogs of course) because Jake is out of town all week. Just meet in a public place to make the exchange you say. Wonderful idea, except it's a rug we sold and it's too big to fit in my car or for me to pick up by myself!!!!!!!!!!! No worries, I will be safe. I think we all learned about Stranger, Danger a long time ago.

In three days....count 'em, 1-2-3. I will be in the wonderful state of ARKANSAS!!!!!! I don't count today nor the day I will be leaving, so that makes 3. And I can't wait!!

And finally I watch Glee, religiously. I think this makes me a Gleek. I love it. There is no better combination than singing and dancing in one place. Besides they pick great songs! And I particularly LOOOOOVE this one and so I'm sharing it. Enjoy and feel free to dance around, I do. Happy Monday.

So this is Christmas

2009-11-15T16:41:00.001-08:00

Okay, it's not Christmas yet, but my house seems to think so! Since we will be gone the week of Thanksgiving, I had to get the house all Christmas ready for when we returned. Jonnie, why not just decorate when you get back you ask. Well I can't because we will have our very first house guests in town!!!!!! Our good friends from Little Rock, Keli and Abram are coming to visit. So we'll be busy with a fun-filled week and an Arkansas vs. LSU game. (Wooooooo Pig Sooooiie)

I don't mind having to decorate early because I LOVE CHRISTMAS as does my very best friend Jamie. In fact if I were in Fayetteville right now, our time together would be spent riding around singing Christmas songs very LOUDLY and watching Christmas movies. Oh and we would convince our other best friend Rachel that she totally needs to put up her baby tree!

One day I hope to have a HUGE 7 foot tree! A girl can dream, right?! Anyways...I hope you are all preparing for the next best holiday Thanksgiving! I love this day also, just not quite as much. My favorite thing about Thanksgiving is the food induced coma in the middle of the day and Jake and I have a standing tradition of going bowling! We love it, we always invite others to go, but for some reason it always ends up just being us. It's so much fun, because there are only 2 or 3 other groups there! This is something we plan on making a Thanksgiving family tradition! Do you have a special Thanksgiving tradition? I'd love to hear about it. Hope you all have a great Monday oh and hop on over to Sunshinemeg's and give her some love, she is officially a married woman! Congrats again Sunshinemeg.

Pardon the baby gates. Plato won't stay out of the fireplace and we haven't found a fireplace screen we like yet. We also use one to keep them in the kitchen while we clean. AND I need to find stocking hangers.

It's nothing special but it's ours! Didn't mean for the broom to make it in the pic.

Contentment

2009-11-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

Contentment Prayer:

Lord, help me to be grateful for what I have, to remember that I don't need most of what I want, and that joy is found in simplicity and generosity.

Enough by Adam Hamilton

Happy Wednesday!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T16:42:00.001-08:00

I was so proud of my homemade costume this year!!! It cost me less than $5 and about 20 minutes to make and I got a lot of compliments. I felt SOOOOOO special for some reason. Which today makes me laugh because it's just a silly Halloween costume, but it was a fun night none the less.

Jake and I went out to Frenchmen St. with some co-workers of his and had the BEST time. The place was packed from one side to the other. Honestly I had no idea what to expect (mainly because I'm not a fan of crowds) but it truly was a sight to see and a fun time. People everywhere having fun dressed up in random costumes.

Tonight I'm enjoying my extra hour and leaving you all with a photo of my homemade costume. Enjoy!

This is for my friend Brianna!

2009-10-29T15:39:00.000-07:00

I just found out my friend Bri, from high school, reads my blog! Yay for me. That makes me happy. However, she also said she gets bummed when she checks it to see that I haven't made a new post. So Bri, this new post is for you. I know the feeling, I often check some of my regular blogs a million times a day to see if they have new post. Can we say I need a job?

I've come to realize that although I really enjoy the flexibility of subbing......sometimes, I want to rip my hair out. I mean come on people, I wasn't born yesterday nor was I born a million years ago. I haven't even had my ten year reunion. Yet, somehow these kids, I'll call them that because although some of them may be 18 they sure don't act like it, think I'm Stupid with a capital S. Here is some of my day.

Uh, Miss.......Miss.......uh, Miss.......what's your name again? This happens literally a million and one times a day. Know that I write it on the board as big as I can.

Student: Hey teacher what's your name?
Me: It's on the board.
Student: Oh Ms. Horse?
Me: Cute, but that's not an r.
Student: Really?
I look at the white board to realize that someone has changed my n into an r. Clever, no really. Like I've never heard that one before.

I REALLY need to go to the bathroom. All day everyday I hear this at school.

We don't do it that way. I usually answer with, "really, well lucky for you I like to try new things." I find that it really annoys them and I get to smile for a brief moment.

Can I please go to my locker, the gym, the library, where ever else they can think of. And then I say, "Let's play a game. What do you think I'm going to say?" HINT it will probably be NO.

Honestly I can't remember being this way to a substitute teacher. My regular teacher, sure, that person knew me, but not the sub. Maybe I was like that. But I like to remember myself as the girl who really did have to go to the bathroom, or really did forget her notebook in her locker. :)

All in all, I can say that this chance to substitute teach is a blessing because I get to see the sweetest most well behaved children and young adults as well as the horrible, can't even stand to think about reading ones. And it makes me all the more thankful to the teachers that are out there everyday making a brighter future out of them. I'm thankful for the parents who ARE involved and because of that have children who WANT to learn and grow into productive people. And I'm even thankful for the children that can be mean, horrible, and rotten because I know that one day they can be a better, stronger person. When it comes down too it I have learned to really value education.

Oh and I just found out that Jake won Hornet's tickets.............woooohoooo. First home game of the season and we get to go! Pictures to follow.

Just a few things

2009-10-21T11:37:00.000-07:00

Hello blog friends. I only have a few things to share and a question or two.

First things first. I want to share a very important adult lesson I learned. ALWAYS carry cash. If not, this could happen to you. You finish a day of substitute teaching in a suburb you've never been too, you eagerly get in your car ready to see your puppies and change clothes. You turn on your GPS only to realize that it sucks and you may never get home. It finally comes on and leads you towards home, as you take the right to the bridge as your faithful GPS tells you, you realize that there is a toll ahead and no place to turn around. Why do you need to turn around? Because you DON'T have any change or cash to pay the toll. Too late, you're stuck, yup stuck. (Thanks GPS for the heads up.) You pray that some miracle will happen and the person in front of you is feeling gracious enough to pay for the car behind them or that the tollbooth person is feeling extremely nice today..........NOPE! Neither of those fantasies comes true, but what does happen is the very NOT nice tollbooth lady makes you feel stupid and looks at you like you should know better. THEN she tells you that she will have to make all the other booths stop letting people through for a moment so you can turn around. So lesson learned always carry cash!

Now for seconds. I joined a league this week where I get to play basketball every Monday, which I'm very excited about since once upon a time I only lived to play basketball. Now heading to the gym on Monday I had all kinds of thoughts, what if I really suck now, or make a fool out of myself? Worse, what if I pass out from being so out of shape??????? Instead this happened, I didn't suck, well at least not as much as I imagined and I actually found a crossover jump shot that would have been nice to have back in the day. I didn't pass out, but I did feel like puking a time or two. Once the game was over I could tell two things, one, this is going to be fun, two, I may not ever be able to move again. I was sore yesterday but I honestly feel like I can't move at all today. So lesson learned.....it's much harder the day after the next day!

And lastly, at what point do you finally stop getting pimples and/or zits? I mean seriously, what do you have to look forward to in aging if you will forever have to live with these horrors!? Is this a problem for anyone else or were you all blessed with great skin!

Happy Wednesday!!

Sometimes I need to remind myself

2009-10-13T19:30:00.001-07:00

We've all made New Year's resolutions only to let them fall by the wayside a month or two later. Sure there are some we've kept strong for 3 or 4 months, but yes, them they too fall. And of course there are the few, the very, very few that we accomplish and doesn't that make you feel GREAT!

Well recently I've made some goals for myself that are life changing and important, so in hopes of them NOT turning out like many of my past New Year's resolutions I'm beating my attitude to the finish line! I can sense when I'm starting to digress from the path I want to be on, only recently did I discover this sense. But now that I know it, there's no way I'm letting it get the best of me. What I'm a doing to stop it before it gets into full swing?Lists.

I have made two note cards regarding my two most current goals. The first one is labels "5 Reasons I Won't Spend Money". This really wasn't an issue for a while, but now that I'm getting a paycheck again I'm starting to see my old ways. AND the holidays DON'T help because I want to buy decorations or spend more than I allotted for my Christmas budget, because my sister HAS to have this or that. So here are my 5 reasons:

1. I love my future husband (Jake) and want great things for us.
2. I have self-control (I know I do, it's just believing it).
3. There are BILLS to pay (yup, there always are).
4. I have dreams to achieve.
5. I want to see the people I love (you know who you are).

My second note card is in regards to my running. I was doing so well and then I had to go and tell the world about it! Now in my somewhat defense, it has been raining in New Orleans like crazy. Yup, everyday it seems like exactly at 3:00 pm the rain starts. It wouldn't be a big deal but since I needed to make note card #1 I am forgoing a gym and running outside to save money. So here are my "5 Reasons to Work Out":

1. I want to be healthy for my children (my future children and I want to be healthy when I decide to have children as well).
2. I plan on running a 5k.
3. I would love to feel comfortable again with myself (it's a wonderful feeling to not feel self concise in the clothes you are wearing).
4. Two piece swimsuit (that's all I'm saying on that one).
5. I want to be my best me (physically, emotionally, and spiritually).

So there you have it. The plan is to carry these around with my the first on in my wallet taped to my debit card and the second one just actually in my house by the front door. When I get my debit card out to buy something I'll see my list and hopefully think twice about if it's a need or want. When I get home I'll see my card and decide if just feeling "lazy" today is a good enough reason. Let's see how it goes, I'll keep you posted. Have a great Wednesday!

I enjoyed this and hope you do too!

2009-10-08T18:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

Sorry it won't let me embed it, but I promise you want to watch THIS!!!

Public school adventures

2009-10-05T15:48:00.000-07:00

Subbing in New Orleans Public School's is certainly a job, but one that I have been enjoying. It was my second time to sub for this 2nd grade class. I was called in halfway through the day because the original sub failed to show up or call. (Rude). So I get there grab my class from the class next door and as the kiddos are walking in a little girl walks up to me and says.....

"Your hair looks SOOOOOOOO much better than the other day!!! I really like it."

I gave her my sincere thanks and silently thought to myself. "I didn't realized my hair looked sooooo bad the other day." :)

Same class, same day, but later that afternoon, I took a poll about what kind of candy Ms. Honse should pass out at her house for Halloween. The winner was definitely Twix. When we were done a little boy in the front raised his hand and said, "but I don't know where you live!" I thought it was the cutest thing.

I can say wholeheartedly that teachers have a hard job, sure they get the summers off if they want them and a good amount of time off for Christmas and Thanksgiving but that's because they DESERVE it. I can honestly say that from the few days I've subbed. I mean I am exhausted when I get home.

Also did you know that itunes songs are now $1.29?????? When did that happen? Slowly there are less and less things you can get for a dollar! :(

Happy Monday.

Me likey!

2009-10-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the short absence. I have been substitute teaching!! And let me tell you, it's so hard being the sub! I mean I can't personally say that I gave any of my substitute teachers a hard time but I sure do remember some high school boys who did. I have been thinking about getting my teacher certification and I thought getting a taste of what I could possibly be doing wouldn't be a bad idea. Now in New Orleans the school system is strange to me. I grew up in a town where you had one type of school. Public school, and it worked out great for me! Now my boyfriend also went to public school in Little Rock and is a big advocate of public schools, but I'm starting to learn that it really just depends on the place you are living! I have been subbing at public schools so far, but I plan on having a taste of some charter schools and of course private schools. I'm sure they will all be very different and I want to see if I might be able to find a place at any of them!

Moving on.....

I LOVE GLEE! For someone with no cable I sure do find enough time to watch my shows online!! Thank you Internet! If you haven't seen Glee, you must watch it! Especially if you like musicals! (As I do). And a quick note about Grey's. First off, I'm sad to no longer get to have a girls night. Kinda hard to do when you don't have any girlfriends that live in the same town as you. Second, although I did think the season premier was good I think I felt that way just for the fact that I was excited it was back on. I'm much more excited to see Private Practice!

Cast of Glee

Cast of Private Practice

And finally.

I am going to run a 5K. Over at Janie out of Debt I'm participating in the last 100 days of the year and it made me think that I should also do something meaningful with my last 100 days of 2009 (besides getting my financial life in order)! So I thought the best thing I could do for myself is get back in a state of good health! I am using the couch to 5K program (you can find it online here). I like it because it eases you into it. I didn't want to say anything until I had proven to myself that I would stick to it. So I figured if I could get through the first week and start on the second that that was a sign of future success. (At least based on my previous attempts). I haven't picked my 5K yet and I might not actually run it until next year, it all just depends on what I can find that fits my schedule. I will make sure to let you know how my progress goes! But now you know so I am now webcountable. He he.

OH! And did you see that Jon Gosselin is halting production of Kate plus 8. I'm sure he's pissed that they wanted to give Kate her own show. Now look, when I watched Jon and Kate Plus 8 I was always on Jon's side, I mean sure he was just being lazy sometimes, but I felt like Kate was so overbearing. NOW it's a whole different story. The man is acting like a 20 year old and I can't stand it! Anyways, the article also said he has halted going through with the divorce for the time being. You can find it here.

2009-09-26T18:57:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you reach a point of no return. Meaning, yes I just spent an hour talking to the cute guy I have a crush on with lipstick all over my front teeth. Oh well, I can't be embarrassed now, nope, not after I worked up the courage to even talk to him and now I can't act like a little lipstick is going to bring me down.

Or sometimes you reach a point where there is no more moving forwards, or climbing up and over, or around (you get my point). No you have reached a dead end, kinda like in a maze where you are sure that that one path is going to take you somewhere, but it doesn't. So what do you do? You back up. Yes you reverse. You go back to the beginning if needed to figure it out. But for some reason this makes people look at you funny. Why? Maybe because they could get through the whole maze without having to start over or take another path. Because they are so certain that the one way they did it was the right way!

I will have to make a very hard choice in the coming days. Which is kinda ironic that it's so hard, because the answer is so clear. Do you ever have those? Yes, it leads to more work or possibly a harder road to take, but the answer is still the best one. I know you want me to just spill it, but I can't, not until I have fully committed to this choice. Which means I owe it a little more thought and processing.

But I just needed to say that going backwards or starting over never makes you less of a person, if anything it makes you a person who is brave. And hopefully those from the outside looking in will see that.

Hope your weekend was better than mine.....the Hogs lost, again! :(

Deep Thoughts

2009-09-23T19:57:00.001-07:00

So I've been applying for jobs like crazy....any job. And the I keep getting the same answer. "We're just not hiring at the moment." Okay that's fine, but I mean hearing that every time is starting to get me down. And then today happened!!!

Yes, what was different about today? Nothing, except I finally realized that I have a great opportunity here. I have the opportunity to be anything! Yes, I have the chance to do it basically all over again (in a sense). I mean I can't get a job, which means that I have the opportunity to try out anything my heart can dream! This is amazing to me. It's a brand new start. Not one person can tell me that I can't do something, or that my idea is stupid, or unachievable. Why? Because my friends I am at the bottom. I have NO WHERE to go but up! I heard on the radio the other day about a famous comedian (who of course I can't think of at the moment) who got into the business because he said he had reached his lowest point. He lost his job, his wife left him, he had nothing, nowhere to go. And he found joy and comfort in laughter and so he said to himself "why not, I have nothing to lose." And he was right. So what if I fail? I'll be right back where I started and I'm okay with that because I can say I tried.

What would you do if you had an opportunity basically do whatever your heart could dream. I mean this with your current situation. For instances you would still have your significant other and kiddos to think of, but for the most part you had no where to go but up. What does your heart desire?

I know I seem to be talking about the serious parts of my life right now which can be a HUGE drag. I promise it will get better! I just want to share my thoughts. I've got to put them somewhere, why not share them with the world. I hope your hump day was great!!

Sometimes I feel like this.....

2009-09-21T17:39:00.001-07:00

For the longest time I did NOT know that this song was a Christian song! I love it and I haven't heard it in a long time until today. Oh yes, while driving around with my poor attitude trying to find a job I stumbled upon this song and it totally made my day! I love the little ways God likes to talk to you. Needless to say I danced around in my car and had a ball turning my frown upside down! I hope you enjoy it too! And I hope your Monday was wonderful.

P.S. I'm already SO excited for Christmas!!!!!! I can't stand it!!!!!

Who knew?

2009-09-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

That I was such a HUGE dork! Yes, I think it's official. Why you may be asking? Well because I've discovered that I LOVE "The Legend Of the Seeker" a TV show based on the series of books by Terry Goodkind's called "Sword of Truth". Why does this make me a dork, because it's based on fantasy, oh yes! Wizards and "Seekers", evil emperors, magic, sword fights, and of course love. It does help that the leading man is a hottie too. Yes people I like magic, apparently. Ha ha. No but all kidding aside I really enjoyed this TV show and I'm so excited that they will be making a second season. I felt very compelled to share this new found wisdom and hope that you can all find you inner love for fantasy! :)

Doesn't this poster make you wanna watch it?

I would almost go so far as to say that I love Richard and Kahlan about as much as I love Jim and Pam. ALMOST! I know that's saying alot. So I hope one day when you're bored and you can't think of anything better to do.....you'll watch an episode or two, but beware, you will like it! You can watch the first season instantly on Netflix and I think you can also watch it on Hulu. (Is that what it's called?)
Hope your weekend was great!

Do you ever

2009-09-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

love a show or certain characters and wish they were together in real life??? I do!!!!!!!!!! My most favorite couple is Jim and Pam. We don't have cable so I have to wait til the new episodes are online, but I'm so excited about the new season! And I wish that Jim (John) and Pam (Jenna) were together and in love in real life, because their TV characters are just SO sweet together! I'm corny I know! Then my very realistic boyfriend points out that it would probably never work for them in real life, because they aren't like their characters....party pooper. Oh well, here's to hoping! And here's to another GREAT season of the office!

Baby Love!!!!!!!

2009-09-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

I love my nephew so much it's hard to imagine the love I will feel for my own children some day. He is the happiest little guy in the whole world! I hate that it will be 3 more months before I see him again (I bet I don't make it that long, I'll crack). He loves his Aunt Jonnie too! Just see for yourself.

Here he is with his proud Momma!

Such a big boy!

Austin all dressed to support those HOGS!

Love him!

See.....told you he was the happiest little guy!

Dinner Spanakopitas

2009-09-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to be participating in my first EVER "Show Us Your Life" over at Kelly's Korner!

I saw this recently on the Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa. I have to admit that her show isn't my favorite BUT I do love her cookbooks. They are great! And so is this recipe if you love spinach. When I saw the recipe I thought it would be too complicated for me, but it's super easy, however you will need to devote a little bit of time to it. Still it's worth it. So enjoy. I am just going to link to the actual recipe for Dinner Spanakopitas to make it easy, but I will upload my pictures and let you know that I substituted slivered almonds for pine nuts. I'm not a big pine nut fan, but thought a little crunch would be nice, so I tried almonds and I probably could have added some more. I actually only ate one of the spanakopitas that I made and froze the rest for a rainy day. I loved the melted feta cheese with the spinach....yummmmmmy! Thanks for stopping by.

Side note, do NOT be afraid of phyllo dough. It was my first time using it and I actually impressed myself! :)

There are two things I learned from writing this post. #1: It's NOT easy to take pictures of food and make it look good enough to eat. #2: #1 might be because I need a better camera!

I can't help it......

2009-09-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

I am IN LOVE with this young man. Someone told me I don't have to feel bad because he's not as young as I think and they were right. He's 21, so now all I need to do is figure out how to get to Hollywood and get rid of Vanessa. Ha ha. Just kidding, but he is a looker! (And he can sing AND dance, a man after my heart).

Taken for granted

2009-09-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

Since moving, I've been doing a lot of thinking and soul searching (as I'm sure you could tell from my last post). And here are a list of things I realized I have taken for granted.

My car. Someone tried to steal my car a little while ago and it was out of commission and cost me $500 to get fixed. I used to constantly complain about how crappy my car was and it was always trashed. Well not anymore, I gave it a good cleaning the other day at my sister's and will keep it that way.

My ability to pay my bills and my job. I kept thinking while I was working in Little Rock about how I needed to find a better job, how I wasn't at a place I envisioned myself being at career wise, when in actuality I was in a great position that had tons of potential. I also used to complain about paying the bills...now I worry I won't be able to pay them.

Dreams. I somewhere, somehow forgot how to dream and set goals for myself. Something that was always going on in my head. I attribute this to my lack of finding a job and just letting myself get down, but no more!

My health. I used to be the most active person AND I enjoyed it. I haven't treated my body very well and that needs to change!

The ability that God gave me to make something of myself. Lately, I have felt lost, without a clue, feeling sorry for myself and as I was driving home today it dawned on me that I used to possess this amazing ability to turn negative or potentially bad situations into good things, opportunities to grow. I haven't done that with my current situation and I'm a little ashamed. I always get so upset when I see people who act or say that they deserve something in life (money, wealth, love). I mean we ALL deserve to live our best lives, but it's also up to us to use what the good Lord gave us, our abilities. And for a last couple of months I've been moping around thinking that I deserved for someone to just give me a job....ahhahaha. Silly me, I guess I forgot what hardwork was too! So I am coming home with a new attitude and I'm ready to embrace the adventure.

Hope you are too!

A quarter century crisis

2009-09-15T22:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, I think that would be an appropriate name for my situation. Forgive now for the random thoughts that are about to follow.

I believe that no one should be with someone if that means changing who they really are. Or if they aren't/can't be their best self. (Disclaimer, this has nothing to do with my relationship, just thoughts I've had recently).

Will I EVER get a stinking job??????????????????? How long can one person be broke?

Is it ever really too late to pursue your dream? No, I don't think so, but does it still apply if your dream is always changing or growing? I still hope the answer is no.

When do you really figure out what you want to do with your life, is it when you finally find it? Or do most people just settle for a job they are content but not happy with? Because this girl won't stop until she finds what really makes her happy.

What's crazy to think about is that almost every feeling or thought that I've had about relationships or love or life in general someone else hundreds of years before me probably had too, just according to the generation they were living in. It blows my mind that once upon a time, Abraham Lincoln thought his heart was so broken that he didn't know if he could bare to take another breath. It equally blows my mind that as much as I will try to prevent these same feelings for my children they will still experience them.

Do you truly think that there is someone out there that has no regrets? I would do my life all over again the exact same way but that still doesn't mean I wouldn't have some regrets!

Do you ladies ever think about adopting kids? Just wondering.

And finally I will sum up my random thoughts with this. I have the best sister, nephew and brother-in-law that any one girl could ask for. I love my sister with all my heart (I know I've mentioned this before). Sometimes I think about feeling sorry for myself because of things (by things I mean feelings and emotions) that I lacked from my parents and I realize that God gave me those "things" through my sister. Someone to laugh with, someone to look up too, someone to support me, someone to tell me that yes boys aren't always nice, but you deserve better, someone to sing me to sleep when I was scared at night. Someone to love me for me. So thank you God so such a wonderful blessing! And thank you sister for being that blessing.

To blog or not to blog, that is the question.

2009-09-01T19:48:00.000-07:00

And the answer is I'm not blogging. :) Not because I don't want to, but I find that being currently unemployed means that any free time I have should be spent writing cover letters and applying for jobs. Endless amounts of jobs! I know that the "economy is bad" and that "times are hard" and that "job opportunities are saturated with applicants". But come on people. I mean I'm not asking you to pay me 6 figures.....just enough so I can live (at least at the moment, I'll take the 6 figures soon though). No, but seriously I've been having a hard time finding a job. It's very trying and can really get a person down, but thankfully I have a wonderful boyfriend and the greatest friends and sister who are all very positive and uplifting when I complain about this. Okay I'm done with that discussion. Moving on.

I get to go home this weekend and have a good stay!!!!!!!!!! Well a week, but I feel like I just won the lottery or something. From the above mentioned statement of being jobless this trip is very much a luxury and I couldn't be more excited. I need a familiar face to laugh with, hug, and sing very loudly with while we ride around in the car. I need to kiss my sweet nephew and eat something that my sister cooked. I want to see cows and see people waving to strangers as they drive (yes, occasionally I mistake this for the bird). I want to be back in the great state of ARKANSAS!!!!!!!!!!!! Having only been in New Orleans for a short 2 months, I already know that no place else will ever really feel like "home". Not like Arkansas does at least. And although I hope to learn new things and experience new adventures here in NOLA, I still wake up everyday and think of all the people, places, and things I love and miss about Arkansas. So in other words.........I'm very eager for Friday to get here so I can hit the road!

I'm sorry but you can't tell me that you wouldn't miss that face too! He's the best thing in the whole wide world.

Every little thing

2009-08-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

It seems like lately I've been thinking of everything. I mean everything random that is.

For instance, today I thought about all the students going back to school and then I thought of all my years of going back to school. I think about all the good times and bad that came with each year and I briefly thought of how I would like to be going back to school too. Note the keyword, briefly. But I think a part of me will always want the feeling of the first day of school and all the things that lead up to it and that come from it. New school supplies and books, new friends and teachers. But I'm sure the feeling will pass and then I'll be glad I don't have a paper due next week, or that group member who can never meet, or those surprise quizzes.

But to all of you teachers and students who are going back to school, I hope it's a wonderful year and good luck!

and now the rest of the story....

2009-08-17T18:49:00.001-07:00

So the talk went well. I told Jake that when he was ready sometime that day that I would like to talk to him about something I think is very important. And the result is that I have a plan and a HUGE weight lifting off my shoulders. It's truly amazing.

Okay moving on. I have a recipe to share. I found it in "Family Circle" April 1, 2009 magazine. And really I'm sharing it because my friend Jamie LOVES tortellini as much as me and so I think she will enjoy this and so will you. It's very simple and super fast.

TORTELLINI SOUP:

3 cups vegetable broth
3 cups water
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (in a packet)
1 package (9 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into coins
3 ribs of celery, thinly sliced
3/4 pounds ripe plum tomatoes (about 4), seeded and chopped
1 bag (6 oz) of baby spinach
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

1. In large post, bring broth, water and Italian seasoning to boil. Add tortellini and simmer for 3 mins. Add carrots and celery and simmer additional 4 mins. Stir in tomatoes and spinach ans simmer 2 more mins or until veggies are tender. Serve with Parmesan cheese.

Okay so here's somethings I did different. First off, I accidentally poured in the entire package of Italian seasoning which was (according to the package) 8 1/8 teaspoon servings. However I just added more broth and water and it still turned out wonderful. Because there's no meat, I used a bigger portion of tortellini's. And I used canned tomatoes (the garlic, oregano, and basil seasoned ones). I also added some chopped white onions. I hope you'll give it a try and if you add anything that you feel makes it better....please let me know so I can try it. Sorry by the way that I don't have a picture (I bet you could google it).

Moving on.

I made some curtains for the window that line both sides of our front door. We are trying to save on the electric bill and the light would be blinding in the afternoon once we got home. So here's a before:

And here's an after:

Jake picked the fabric and I didn't like it when we were in the store, but he let's me win on so many things that I thought it was more than time for him to win one. And I had to tell him that once they were up I absolutely loved them! He did a great job.

And lastly, I made up a mantra for myself....is that strange? I felt like I needed one for when life throws me curve balls. So I'm sharing it with you and hoping your shares yours with me, if you have one.

I am young, smart, successful, and financially stable.

I read somewhere that even if your aren't these things currently (financially stable), you should still say it as if it is in the present. Because you want these things to happen now, not in the future. NOW! :)

Happy Monday!

Debt.....how did you find me?

2009-08-15T08:27:00.001-07:00

That question is not true, debt didn't find me, I found it. How? By not truly knowing the value of money. I love you mom and dad, but I can honestly say you didn't help me out in this department. SO, why are my thoughts on debt at this particular moment?

I recently moved to New Orleans with my boyfriend for his job. Which is great, EXCEPT I currently still do not have a job (we've been here a month and a half) and I still have a mountain of student loan and credit card bills to pay. THEN I found inspiration.

Her name: Janie

Her blog: Janie out of debt

Why she's inspiring: Well just read the blog and you'll see. Janie decided to take control of her debt and pay it off before she got married. I relate to this because this is exactly what I want to do. I don't want to come to the next chapter of my life only to bring baggage for my wonderful (hopefully) future husband Jake. Money is a huge part of divorce in this country and I want to give my marriage ever fighting chance!

So if you feel overwhelmed, like you have no clue where to start, or just that you need to know that you can do it, please head over to her website and get inspired like I did. Yesterday I went out and bought a $1 notebook and started answering the questions she presents at the end of each post. Then I wrote down all my debt and today, well today I'm gonna come clean with Jake about it so that he can know I am working on our future. Wish me luck, I'll let you know how it goes!

Happy Saturday!

Good stuff

2009-08-05T18:24:00.000-07:00

So I love to read blogs! I'm sure most of you do too, hence the reason you are here! :) Well I have a few good ones for you to check out if you're interested.

1. I love to cook. Correction: I love to try to cook. I dream of having really elaborate dinner parties for my friends, but since all my friends currently live in another state (the greatest state in the U. S. of A.) I have to settle for cooking for myself and Jake. And so I've recently found some fun recipe blogs, here are some of my favorites.

http://lickthebowlgood.blogspot.com/

http://shelbymaelawstories.blogspot.com/

http://thekitchensinkrecipes.com/

2. I have no fashion sense.....NONE. Never have and hopefully will someday! This lack of fashion sense goes both with clothes and home decor. However to make-up for my lack of fashion sense I have great friends!

http://jenndaveholland.blogspot.com/

http://jennlovesshoes.blogspot.com/

3. Sometimes I feel like God reminds me just when he needs to of his unending love for me. Lately I've been trying to be positive about the job search and move, but it's been hard. I have been praying lately for God to open my eyes and ears to his presence and let me hear and see his love more. And today I read this post. I read this blog off and on (it's Kelly's dad from Kelly's Korner) and it was just what I think I needed.....a reminder! Enjoy.

http://fbcflippin.blogspot.com/

And let me leave you with a picture of a lady who is in love with a very little man!

Giveaway...and it's a good one.

2009-08-03T17:26:00.001-07:00

Hello all, just wanted to let you know about an awesome giveaway over at Classroom Confessions. Just click on the picture below.You should check it out, you never know it might be your lucky month. I would say day, but hey if you're going to be lucky might as well make it a whole month! Hope your Monday was great.

Thank you and a question

2009-08-01T19:28:00.001-07:00

Thanks all you people who read my blog!!!! I now feel like this.......

I hope to make my blog much more enjoyable for you all.

AND

Today Jake and I bought curtains for our bedroom, which we got for a good deal at
JCPenny. We're kinda doing a room makeover. Which is nice. I should have taken a before pic! Whoops. I'll take one tomorrow. BUT my question is when you hang curtains, do they need to hang all the way to the ground (carpet)? I ask this because ours do not and I bought the longest curtains I could find, in the store at least? I don't mind if I'm domestically incorrect at the moment but I would like to get it right at some point. So let me know! Thanks friends.

OH!!! Also I went to a TWO story Target today!!! Needless to say I was super EXCITED. They have escalators to the second story AND an escalator for your CART! Sorry for all the random cap letters but I was seriously amazed. In fact I may go back tomorrow!

I lied!

2009-07-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

Well according to my last post response there are only two of you that read my blog. Thank you, you two....you know who you are. I am crying as I type, while also drinking a beer. I guess some would say I'm drowning my sarrows. Just kidding, I'm just drinking a beer cause I can. Hope you all have a great Friday!!!!

I'm never ceased to be amazed!

2009-07-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

No, really....I'm not only easily entertained, but I'm easily amazed. I don't consider these bad traits by the way, I actually think I enjoy life a little bit more because of these traits. And today I'm amazed at how a song, a smell, an object can make you think of the most random, distant thing, person, or place. I mean isn't that just crazy to think about. Normally it's a song that takes me back to that moment and it never fears to feel like it was yesterday. So here are some of the things that I've thought about lately just because of some simple song.

Unanswered Prayers by Garth Brooks always makes me think of when I was packing for college and I had so many emotions about everything and I just started crying while I was packing when this song came on. I can remember standing in the hallway taping some boxes up.

Since You Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson reminds me of my first time going to Memphis. It was for New Year's and it was a blast. My friend Melissa and I rode together and the whole way there we really wanted to hear this song and NEVER heard it. Amazing considering we listened to every radio station we could. AND the whole way back we NEVER heard it. Melissa drops me off at home and all the sudden I see her hauling butt in reverse. I thought something was wrong, but no.....the song had finally come on. (Sorry for the crappy video, it real video won't let me embed it).

You were mine by the Dixie Chicks reminds me of my sister. She had just moved out of the house and moved all the way to Houston. I missed her so much and she had just bought this CD right before she left. So everytime I heard a song off it I was sad.

I could honestly make a book about all the songs that remind me of good and bad times. I am glad that every now and then I can hear a song on the radio, at the store, or out on the town and think of some of my favorite people and moments. What songs remind you of someone, something or someplace. I'd love to hear. Besides I'm not convinced that I actually have more than 5 people that read this blog. I should work on that.

Good-bye's

2009-07-27T20:07:00.000-07:00

I hate saying good bye!!! Always have.

This weekend I made a quick trip to Little Rock. It was very last minute and it was to help my sister out with the baby while she packed stuff up and got the house ready to sale. Needless to say my sweet baby nephew is SO big and SO wonderful. New pictures to come soon.

While I was there I heard this song below on my sister's play list and wanted to share it. I already loved the song but I really like the way Adele sings it. Enjoy. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend with wonderful friends and family!

2 of 5

2009-07-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

So as of today I am two of five for the five things I wanted to try and incorporate into my daily live! Wooooohoooo! So here you are folks, my second accomplishment. Now don't clap too loudly! :)

Disclaimer: I know you are not impressive with my bed or bedding OR stuff laying on the ground!

Tonight I made Swiss Chicken which I found on Kelly's Korner Recipe Blog! It was yummy, but didn't look so pretty so I passed on the picture taking. I also found all kinds of fun recipe blogs HERE that you should check out if you like to cook.

I have a question. What is your decorating style and what/where do you draw inspiration? I feel like Jake and I still live like we're college kids! Not because we necessarily want to, mainly because we rent and we aren't convinced that making good quality furniture investments is what we need to do right now considering once we finally do settle in our "home" what if things don't fit or we need shelves instead of a bookcase? So I need some advice, how do I make our current home feel more grown up and less college style. I just want to know about decorating styles because I don't have one and I want to get some ideas. Thanks!!!! Have a great Tuesday!

AND one last thing....Plato loves his rope toy (well it's actually Harli's rope toy). He'll go find it and then shake it in Harli's face while making funny noises. It's hilarious to watch.

WaaaaaaaaaLaaaaaaaaaaa!

2009-07-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

Update: The neck is doing better! Still haven't had a good night of sleep, but at least I can turn my head from side to side....even if it is really slow and I look ridiculous! :)

So tonight I accomplished one of my new short term daily goals. I made dinner! I love to cook, however I am not very good at it, which is funny since my mom is a wonderful cook, my sister too! I guess I just didn't get the gene, so I'm trying to teach myself now. Lucky for Jake he gets to be my genie pig and he's very good at it.

On the menu was Shepherd's Pie. I have now made this twice and I think it will be a staple dinner for me, Jake seems to really enjoy it and I have to say I like it myself. I actually look at two different recipes and then make it up as I go. One of the recipes I use is Rachel Ray's. I'm going to try and show a recipe every week of something I made that turned out good.

So I need to work on my presentation. By the way, can anyone tell me why when I try to upload a picture on blogger it always loads them to the very top of my post? It's very hard to get it to where I want it to be, I have to edit in HTML which usually messes something else up! Happy Monday!

I am in some serious pain

2009-07-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

I cannot describe the pain I have been feeling for the last two days.....it's really knocked me down. What is it you are asking? It's a crick in my neck! OH, but not just any ole crick in the neck, this is the mother of all crick's in the neck. I am miserable and have been doing everything I possibly can. I would appreciate any suggestions to help this resolve as soon as possible!

So we meet again....

2009-07-17T20:34:00.000-07:00

Well hello there blog world. Sorry for the quite long vacation. I just haven't had much time between moving to New Orleans, unpacking, spending a week at the beach with all my besties, watching my best friend get married, looking for a job, oh and not having Internet access at our house! But forget all that I'm finally back!!!! Get excited. :)

Today I've been thinking about things I wish I could incorporate into my daily life......so here they are, 5 things that I am going to start doing daily!

1. Walking Harli. (I would Plato, but I tried that once and I thought he was going to pass out. Bulldogs are only supposed to get 20 minutes of exercise and it shouldn't be strenuous.)

2. Making my bed.

3. Wake up early enough to eat breakfast and have plenty of time to get myself to work. (I am a big fan of breakfast, but I usually eat it in my car on my way to work.)

4. Exercise!!!!!

5. Cook dinner. (okay let's be real, this won't happen daily, but that's the goal.)

What 5 things would you wish you could do more of daily or in my case do it daily at all?

And keeps your eyes open for pics of New Orleans life and our house!

Better today

2009-06-23T16:04:00.000-07:00

I am feeling much better today. I admit I woke up this morning still feeling crummy and down, but I did some packing and then headed to my sister's to see Austin. And that made everything better!!!!

So I read yesterday that while you are in between jobs you should volunteer so that there's not any gaps in your resume. And since I don't have a job in New Orleans yet, I believe that that is just what I will do, besides, I love to volunteer and don't do it enough! So I'm also feeling better that I have somewhat of a plan.

Well tomorrow is the halfway point, Jake and I will be halfway to our moving date. So strange! Okay well I hope you are all staying as cool as possible and having a wonderful week so far! Here's a handsome man for you to look at!

I can't sleep

2009-06-22T23:53:00.001-07:00

I can't sleep and I am feeling very low tonight. I keep thinking about moving and leaving my handsome new nephew and my great, great sister and all my wonderful friends! Not to mention the stress of being jobless and all that comes with that. Don't get me wrong I'm very excited for my new adventure, but I've always been emotional when it comes to change, whether it be good or bad. I'm sure I was the only person getting ready to head off to college that cried like baby while she was packing! I mean most people are excited and anxious and ready and I was sad to leave the smell of my house. Don't worry I adjusted just fine and I'm sure I will this time too, they always say that change is inevitable and so I want to embrace it but it can be hard for me, even when I WANT the change. Besides feeling low, I have so much to look forward too, having the opportunity to find a job in a field that I want, my best friend Jamie is getting married on the beach in like 11 days and all the yummy in my tummy food, not to mention amazing culture I will be around. BUT it's gonna be different. I've spent years getting to know the people in my life and I cherish them and I will miss them. Okay enough of me being a sap.

What about the horrible news of Jon and Kate plus 8? Very sad.

Bright note, my mom will be in town on Thursday and I can't wait to beg her to make me all kinds of good Thai food!!!!! YAY Mom....thanks in advance.

It is my honor to introduce you to......

2009-06-21T11:07:00.000-07:00

AUSTIN STEVEN REID!

My handsome and overly loved nephew was born Thursday, June 11, 2009 at 5:16 p.m. He weighed 6 lbs and 13 oz and was 20 in long! He's the most handsome child I have ever met (I'm sure I'm a little biased, but he really is). Here he is world, get ready for all the greatness he brings!

And although I'm so excited he is finally here, I'm also very sad that I have to leave him on Saturday when Jake and I make our move to New Orleans. Watch out frequent flier miles here I come!

Waiting.....

2009-06-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately I was not blessed with the gift of patience. Really that's unfortunate for everyone around me! :)

My sister went into the hospital this morning at 7:00 AM. And I am IMpatiently waiting for her (or just any) phone call at noon with an update on if the baby will be coming today and I can go ahead and make my way to the hospital! So please pray for my sister to have her baby today, a healthy, happy one and for me to find some patience because if he DOES decide to make his debut today, he may not be in any kind of hurry to do so.

Also I didn't really watch American Idol but I did watch the finale and I must say Kris Allen is a cutie and I heard his song on the radio this morning. NICE!

The baby is coming!!!!

2009-06-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

My sister had a doctor's appointment on Monday and found out she was dilated to ONE!!! Wooohooo, the process has begun, well her doctor wanted her to come back on Wednesday (today). I received a call this morning from her with an update. Austin Steven Reid, hopefully will be here tomorrow!!! She is going to the hospital tomorrow to be induced, if by some rare chance nothing happens by 3, she and her doctor will re-evaluate the situation. However the doctor said he will come this week for sure, even if that means a C-section (which my sister would rather not have). Please pray for our family that he comes tomorrow happy and healthy! I can't wait to meet him! And I know she and her husband can't either. I'm so excited I don't know what to do with myself.

Come on people get it together!

2009-06-09T18:35:00.000-07:00

Jon and Kate on Jon and Kate plus 8 that is! I used to love, love, love that show. Now with all the recent controversy and the not talking to each other at all I'm so very sad for them and their future. Lame huh? I'm sad for a family I don't even know.....yup, I sure am. Which leads me to this very random yet fitting point.

Growing up as a child I always thought that there would be ONE prince charming for me. Well I found him (so I thought) my junior year of high school. Oh silly me!!!! After my heart was broken and of course I never thought I would be able to live without him I came to my senses (well I actually went to a small town in Pennsylvania, which I like to call my senses). After this point I found that there were lots of nice boys in my college classes, working beside me at work and just wondering the streets of Fayetteville. Get to the point you say. The point is that there may only be ONE prince charming, or there may be SEVERAL potential prince charming's. I am a firm believer that there are a number of men, boys, guys (whatever you want to call them) that could be "the One". But it all depends on which you find at whatever point in your life that works with what you see in your future. Does that make any sense? For instance sometimes I think about what I think my ideal prince charming would be, well successful duh, financial secure, responsible, outgoing, easygoing, handsome, etc., etc. I think you get the point, we all have an idea. BUT I'm convinced you can't exactly get 100% of that..........at first. You grow to love someone, you love them when they make you angry and when you feel like not loving them, you love them for the quality they don't have AND for the ones they do. My point is yes I believe that fate is part of love as well as what you are willing to sacrifice to find it and timing.

So like we all know......................get off your butt Jon and Kate and work at making your relationship work, you put yourselves in this situation and you can definitely get yourselves out of it!

Hahah, hope you enjoyed the vent session about Jon and Kate as well as the random snippets of how I view relationships.

By the way, I found my prince charming, who is now officially a licensed CPA.

Thoughts for your Thursday!

2009-05-21T07:25:00.000-07:00

I hope you enjoy! Next Thursday I will probably have real life funnies from my real life friends doing something real life dumb! I love them....

My friends Rachel and Neill are getting married this weekend and the festivities begin today. I can't wait. I can't wait to see my friends and I can't wait to watch two of them on one special day.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2009-05-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

No it's really not, but as always....I eagerly look forward to spring when it's winter and summer when it's spring, and so on and so forth! Sorry for that random thought. I have had a busy weekend and the weekends just keep getting busier!

This weekend Jake and I found a house to rent in NOLA! Wooohoooo! I love it and just as soon as we move in I will make sure to post pictures!

On Thursday I get to go to Fayetteville for my friend Rachel's bridal shower! Then on Friday we have a bridesmaid luncheon, Saturday the rehearsal dinner and on Sunday......dant dant da daaaaaaaaa THE WEDDING! I've already informed Rachel I will cry like a baby, thank you cosmetic industry for waterproof mascara!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! Oh, my wonderful friend Jamie apparently thinks I'm awesome and so I she gave me an Awe-summmm award. I will be fulfilling my requirements for that soon! Thanks Jamie, I think you're awesome too!

Thoughts for your Thursday!

2009-05-14T07:54:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share some fun with you! Hope you enjoy.... some of these really do apply to me!

These cartoons crack me up sometimes and I just wanted to share.

On a different note, while I was writing this post my Nanny called....I LOVE my Nanny and Granddad (who aren't even actually related to me). I used to go over to their house every Sunday and beg them to let me watch Annie. They would and my Nanny would always make me a ham and mayo sandwich (I loved them) and sweet tea! I'm going to visit them next month and I can't wait! I love them SO MUCH!

Shout Out Wednesday!!!

2009-05-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

Today I want to make a shout out about a book I absolutely love! I really, really do. Jake asked me the other day why I was reading it again....my reply was because I need to remind myself sometimes that it's important to be a good person, to listen to people and enjoy the little things. (I feel like I talk about this a lot, but I truly feel like it's important to make every effort to live a life you are proud of and to do what you can to make the lives of those around you more enjoyable, however that may be).

What book reminds you of this you may ask? Well, it's Tuesday's with Morrie by Mitch Albom. It's a wonderful story about a student who reunites with his favorite professor after hearing that he is very ill. It's a touching story filled with wonderful quotes, like:

"So many people walk around with a meaningless life. They seem half-asleep, even when they're busy doing things they think are important. This is because they're chasing the wrong things. The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning."

"The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in."

"Death ends a life, not a relationship."

I could honestly go on and on about all the wonderful things in this book. It's an easy read and I encourage you to read it if you haven't. You'll love it, I hope, as much as I do. I cry every time. Again the main reason I love this book is because I like being reminded of the important things in life...family, love, happiness, goodness, treating others with respect, and faith (just to name a few).

So tell me about a book you love, one that just makes you happy, or makes you think, or gives you more things to live for. Whatever it may be I want to know, because I might just need to read it.

I'm back, I'm back!

2009-05-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

Well I am finally back! I can't even remember how long I've been gone, but it felt like forever! I have been so busy and will probably end up taking another small break when we move again next month! Yes I said again.

Let's see what have I done since we last spoke? I went to a super fun bachelorette weekend in Eureka Springs with two wonderful brides to be and a whole bunch of people I love!

Jake and I moved out of our house into a corporate apartment. It's small for our family of four, but nice and only temporary. I also went to Mena on Saturday for a baby shower for my sister. The baby is coming soon. She went to the doctor yesterday and everything is looking good he said! Very excited.

Jake and I will be leaving for New Orleans Thursday night to look for houses and I have a JOB INTERVIEW! So please think of us as I will need some good vibes for my interview and our house hunting!

And I have some questions. As some of you know I usually post on wordpress well I am coming over to blogger and I'm not used to it. Can you write something and then cross it out with a line. I really love that feature and will be so sad if I can't do that with my blogger account. I would appreciate the help!

Check this out!!!

2009-04-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

Hello world! I have a treat for you. My friend Donnally started her own blog and was kind enough to share it with me and I love it and think that as she blogs more you will really appreciate her sense of humor and the wonders of spending her day with 8 and 9 year olds. Not only that but her poetry/writings are very inspiring! She just started so it's early enough to jump on over to her blog and start following her from the beginning! Just click here, Running Stoplights.

Yesterday was a very hard day for me at work. I don't say that very often so that means something. And today will be hard too. My boss will finally be back from her work trip and I will have to tell her when my last day will be. This was my first post college job, so I'm very thankful for her and all she did for me. Now I have more things for you to check out.

Pandora is one of the greatest inventions EVER invented!!! I mean it's great. It's a free service where you can go and make your own radio stations! I have a Garth Brooks station as well as a Reba, cause I need my country fix. I also have a boys II men and Britney Spears. I love it. You can pick a station based on a particular singer or a song and you can add variety. I also have holiday stations so I can always listen to Christmas music ANY time of year!!!!! My friend Jamie will vouch for me. She also loves it and she her blog is uber fun so hop on over and check her out! Jamie's blog.

More fun stuff, my friend Rachel who does pet photography and is AMAZING has fun post where you can win something. You just have to write her a comment answering some fun questions. So while you're hoping to all these other wonderful sites.....stop by hers!
Rachel Sloan Photography.

An update on the move. Jake is still waiting for his official start date, which we anticipate to be in May. I will not be going down til June. I'm very excited still, but I haven't cried yet, which only means one thing. I will cry like a baby on the day I get in my car to leave this great state I call home! I really will. I love it and honestly I know that change is good (most the time) and that it must happen to evolve as a person, but I'm a very nostalgic person and I am always sad to see things change, no matter how good the change is. Most people were excited about college, I cried my eyes out while I packed my room up. I moved 2 and 1/2 hours away from some of my closest friends to a place ( from Fayetteville to Little Rock) where I had my two very best friends, my sister and Jake. Yet I cried like I was never going to see these people again. Who knows why God made me this way, but I will cry if I see someone else crying. It's the strangest thing! So.....I'll be sure to let you know of the exact day I'm leaving so I can get some thoughts thrown my way since I'll need them. I hope you are all having a wonderful day.

By the way, why does spell check not recognize the word blog? That's strange.

It's called stressed people!

2009-03-30T09:24:00.000-07:00

Good Monday morning!!!!! I'm in a great mood! However I'm very stressed! Well, I guess I might as well just say it. We're moving! Yup you heard me, moving. To where you are asking......................to the Big Easy, NOLA, or in normal language New Orleans! Now I've never been to New Orleans and I've heard both good and bad things, but either way, I'm excited. It's a great opportunity for Jake and for myself! It's a chance to learn a new culture and a new style of living.

So now I am a little stressed as well as very excited. Reasons why I'm stressed:

1. Having to find a new job in a new city where I know absolutely no one.
2. Having to pack up my old house.
3. Having to find a new house (again in a city I know very little about, although I've talked to some good people and learned a little).
4. Then having to unpack and settle in in our new house.

These are just a few of the millions of things running through my head! I hope you're Monday is as great as mine is!!! Talk to you soon.

AWOL

2009-03-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Rachel left me a comment today that said, "Are you ever going to write another post?" Yes Rachel, I will write one today just for you. I haven't felt like writing lately. Maybe I've just felt really overwhelmed or it could be that I wasn't feeling creative. Who knows!!!!

Sunday Jake and I went to the races. It was my first time ever and it was really fun to go with him! He told me how to bet and then we would sit there and talk about our picks and why we wanted to pick them. I usually picked based on their name or the name of their jockey. (I know...great way to win money). We ate Reuben's and had a blast. It was tons of fun and I can't wait to go back. I also managed to win $12. (I'm rich I tell ya.) We left early though cause we missed our puppies and had tons to do that day, but we saw that towards the end one of the last races there was a horse named Jake the Snake!!!! Loved it.

Jake has an interview on Friday in New Orleans. Please think about him and send him good vibes. He is probably a great interviewee but I always want him to do well.

I FINALLY got all the baby shower invitations mailed out for my sister's baby shower.....thank goodness. I thought I was going to go crazy trying to get that all done! But now I can't wait to see all the great presents my new nephew will get, if only they would give him a name. Speaking of babies, I feel like tons of people I know are pregnant right now. I guess this is a sign of me growing up. I'm excited about all the new babies, cause I love kids, so this means there will be many for me to play with.

Well I know it wasn't anything special, but at least it was a post.....finally. I promise to do better! Talk to you soon!

Something there....

2009-03-13T13:42:00.000-07:00

There's something sweet
And almost kind
But he was mean and he was coarse and unrefined
But now he's dear, and so unsure
I wonder why I didn't see it there before

In case you don't know what those lyrics are from.......it's Beauty and the Beast! I am in a wonderful mood today because this is my dear, sweet, fantastic boyfriend's birthday weekend. He'll be the big ole 2-6! I tease him about being "old". I couldn't ask for a better boyfriend. He works hard and cares about me so much! He can be hard to take at times, but honestly we all are. For those that know him, they know he's really a great person and I am very blessed that he loves me the way he does.

For his birthday he wants to watch Watchmen or we are doing that on Sunday. He also wanted the book, so I bought that for him a week or two ago (for his birthday) so he could try and read some of it before the movie.

I also bought him an ice cream cake from TCBY because ever year he wants one for his birthday, so this year he gets one! Yummy!

I need to buy him some more presents! I've really slacked this year and honestly I have no idea what he would want right now. He usually drops some hints but he's been working so much lately that we really haven't gotten to talk! Anyway....he'll like whatever it is that he gets!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. And if you live in Fayetteville I know of a great yard sale going on....check it out here.

Sometimes you just have to remember....

2009-03-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

and I usually enjoy it! Today I wanted to attempt to make more headway in our office, specifically my side. (Which is a MESS). Well there's been a box sitting in our office for, well since we moved in. So tonight I went through it and got to look through three picture albums and some great CDs. All of the pictures were from high school, which is always fun. I got to thinking about two things! First, I loved at the end of the school year when the yearbook peeps would sale all the random pics they had taken throughout the school year!!!!!! I found some hilarious pictures that I had bought of my friends. I also loved being a part of the yearbook staff. And second, I really enjoyed my childhood and teenage years!!!! I don't think I could have asked for anything more!!!!! I truly feel blessed for all of it!

NOW....I also found some of my senior pictures, and I got a little sad, well sad isn't the right word but I can't think of it right now. Not because I miss it (living it once was good enough) I'm not one who wants to go back, but who is just glad for the memories. I was sad (for lack of a better word) because the person in those pictures was excited about who she was, sometimes I feel like I'm a 14 year old girl again who is so unsure of herself. I'm sure you always keep some of that with you, but I need to start believing in myself again. Where did that go? I'm going to take a stab at it and say that growing up, bills, work, responsibility and all that comes with it has kinda crippled me. Which is absurd. If anything I should be ten times more sure of who I am since that day years ago when that picture was taken, but I can said that I'm not. But I can also say that it's for no good reason. So ...... I think it's time I stopped trying to control every little thing that is out of my reach and just let it flow. Of course we all want to quote the classic serenity prayer:

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference

which is so so so so true!

I also think this one is fitting for me right now:

They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.
(Andy Warhol)

I like this one because time didn't change me, I changed because of the way I reacted to the things that were happening around me. So I'm sure we've all felt "not like ourself" from time to time....and that's all I'm feeling today. (Sorry if the post was kinda a downer). But hey I would appreciate hearing the things you might do to get back to feeling like you again.

On a brighter note I found my Waiting to Exhale soundtrack, which I'm pumped about!!!!! Listening to it right now :)

And I want to leave you with some fun pictures....(I promise for a more upbeat me tomorrow)!

[caption id="attachment_176" align="alignnone" width="450" caption="I love this picture of my friend Allison"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_175" align="alignnone" width="450" caption="Just some girls I miss!"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_178" align="alignnone" width="321" caption="Sweet sweet Bavery"][/caption]

Why does it seem so easy?

2009-03-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

To do take the easy way out? I mean for the past 6 years I have managed to take change my life into a life of convenience. And it amazes me. What happen to drive, motivation, inspiration, dedication, focus, want? Where o where did it all go? The first thing I did today when I got home wasn't change my clothes and grab the puppies for a walk, or jump in the car to head to the gym. Nope I took a shower?????? A shower? Really? I mean I already showered once today! I continue to make excuses as to why I can't eat right or can't make it to the gym or get a work out in at home. Oh I've got to run errands at during lunch today, so I'll grab something fast. Oh I really need to do laundry, clean the house, etc. But the only real good excuse I have is that if I'm not going to go to the gym or get a workout in, then I better be doing my school work!!!! That is the only GOOD/REAL excuse that I have, but too bad that I don't do that either. So let's see what I can do to get my life self started. I'll check back in tomorrow with the list I've come up with to start out with some small changes.

Singing in the rain

2009-03-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

Just singing in the rain, what a glorious feeling...I'm haaaaaaaappy again!

It's smelled like rain all day, I love the smell of rain.

I have loved musicals my entire life! And I have always wanted my life to be a musical! Seriously. I want people to bust out in song randomly and everybody just happen to know all the words and all the same dance moves! I mean you have to admit that would be pretty cool.

But sadly my life is not a musical and instead it is real with the ability for me to be as great as I want to and not have to know all the right moves to join in the fun. I am encouraged by my friends and their actions. I'm hopeful and happy for the bold and brave moves that they are about to make in their lives and I wish them luck and good fortune. But I also want to them to know they don't need it because they will be just fine. Their actions (taking a chance to pursue their own business ventures) has got me thinking about my life. What bold or brave moves have I made to give myself the chance to succeed? NONE. So I think I need to re-evaluate my options to better my career. And I want to hear what bold, brave, or chances you have taken to further your career or life? Everyone needs a little inspiration, so please share it so others can be encouraged. I hope you're all wonderful!

How did I arrive here?

2009-03-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

Welcome and thanks for stopping by. I have officially decided to make this blog a record about my journey to make life changes. Mostly changes regarding weight and my personal health but also my journey to be a better me and how I can do my part to help anyone and everyone. I want to be happy again, truly, blissfully happy. I felt like I was once that way and I miss it, I know if I apply the right attitude to my life, I can do great things and find that happiness. Oh don't get me wrong, I have a very blessed life. I have two wonderful puppies who love me, a house to live in, a job, food to eat, the best friends a girl could ask for, my very first nephew on the way, a very trying but wonderful family, and of course the best part of all I have a wonderful boyfriend to share it all with. But I'm not doing any of them justice. I'm not being that great friend for them, or that wonderful girlfriend, aunt, sister, daughter, employee......why? Because I don't feel comfortable in my own skin. I don't feel like the person I envision myself to be. And because of that, I haven't been living up to my potential.....pretty lame excuse huh? But I by no means want a body like this........

More like I want this person/body back........

I know it's not a body shot, but it's happiness all the way.

The reason I named my blog "But she has a great personality" is because it never fails that when a friend (my mine necessarily) is asked to describe the big girl friend, it ends with "but she has a great personality". So there you go. I look forward to hearing from you as I venture on this journey!

So I hope you will join me as I try to conquer myself!

Breakfast

2009-03-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

Can lunchables be considered breakfast? I hope so! Cause I had one just now. I know that eating breakfast is a very important part of the day...and I've always been a big breakfast eater so I'm fine with eating it. My problem comes into what to eat for breakfast! I mean I eat cereal and oatmeal (sometimes I eat oatmeal). I also sometimes eat breakfast bars and breakfast drink mixes, but that gets so old especially since I 80% of the time just eat cereal. I know most of you are thinking eat some fruit, well I do that too!!!! So any suggestions/recipes/thoughts would be appreciated! (Which should be interesting because I'm pretty sure no one reads this blog :)

I haven't gone to the gym in 2 weeks....what's my problem? Well there are a number of problems but the most logically one which really doesn't make any sense, is that I'm afraid I won't be able to lose the weight or keep up with my habit changes. So I guess basically I'm a scaredy cat! Anyways....not much to share. Hope everyone has a GREAT weekend.

Yay for Mondays!

2009-03-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Well I said I would let you know how Saturday went and so I am!! IT WAS GREAT! It really was, I thought that getting up at the butt crack of dawn8 would be horrible on a Saturday, but it was nothing! I found the Habitat house just fine and of course everyone was so super nice. I spent the morning putting up external solid ventilation to make sure the house was energy effecient according to Energy Star. It was an adventure considering that we got half way finished and the supervisor informed us that we needed to make sure all the boards had a 2-2 1/1 inches gap from the roof (which they didn't). So we climbed up there took them all down and then had to re-cut them all and then get the screws going again so that it was easier once we got up on the ladder.............what does all that equal? Laughs and a good time that's what. Not to mention it was amazing to see the nice house (not elaborate like on Extreme Home Make-over) going up.

I left the Habitat site a little early because I needed to run home and eat some lunch before I ventured to an elementary basketball game. Which is in the "ghetto", at least that's what I've been told. To be honest with you I thought about not going. I mean I could've just said I couldn't find it. Why was I not going to go watch my precious little cheer? Because I was of ghetto a part of Little Rock that I haven't been too before.....then I remembered that I thought that was ridiculous and went anyways. Boy am I glad, because it was a good time!!!!! Shamaria was a WONDERFUL little cheer leader and it was fun to watch the kids play basketball and cheer! So much fun that I clapped and cheered for the Terry Tigers, of which I didn't know one single child who played. I've also been wanting to sing this ALL weekend.

Yyyyy-ee-l-l, (bit faster) yyy-ee-l-l, everybody YELL for the Tigers, whoooo, for the Tigers, whooooo!

[caption id="attachment_166" align="alignnone" width="214" caption="Go Tigers!"][/caption]

From Friday's post I learned about a wonderful recipe blog....visit it here, and borrowed from her ideas. Kristy, (we had Spanish together in HS) who is a wonderfully busy mommy of two, plans her meals out for the month, yes the MONTH! I, in a million years couldn't stick to that so I start out smaller with 2 weeks, give or take a few days (for going out to eat, girls night, etc.). So here is my 2 week menu! (I also have a wonderful recipe we cooked last night to share later.)

(No certain order)
1. Talapia with pesto pasta
2. Sloppy Joes with sweet potato fries
3. Chicken Piccata
4. Breakfast for Dinner
5. Sheperds Pie
6. King Ranch Chicken
7. French Dip Sandwiches (we're having this one tonight so I'll let you all know how it goes)
8. Turkey Burgers (on the grill)
9. Meat Loaf
10. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Tomato Soup

I made a list of 16 and let Jake pick 10. It worked out well I think, but I will keep you posted.

Also from Friday, Jennifer offered to go shopping with me next time she was in Little Rock, I'm very excited about this....(she said even if I don't buy anything) because she has wonderful taste and even has her own blog about fashion. (find it here)

And lastly....Jamie and Rachel. I miss you girls and can't wait to hang out with you both again! And I am seriously thinking about starting a weight loss blog, I've been able to find some great inspiration. And I think it will assist in holding me accountable. Let me know what you think? Hope you're Monday is wonderful!

Random thoughts Friday!

2009-03-06T07:51:00.000-08:00

TGIF!!! I'm sure every single person in the world is thankful for Fridays! Even if they don't work......I mean how could you NOT love Fridays. I'm especially excited about today because tonight Jake and I will be going out to eat dinner with our friends Keli and Abram. It's not often that Jake willingly agrees to go out to eat. He is a man who LOVES home cooked meals which means eventually I will have to learn to cook! Having said that, I have made cooking my newest hobby but it's usually 50/50 on the final product! Still learning.

Tomorrow I will be getting up at 7 (yes on a Saturday) to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. I'm excited because I'm going to get to do stuff I probably never in a million year would have. For exampleI will be helping take down siding or maybe it's put up siding. All I know is that is has to do with siding! I'll let you all know how it goes.

I LOVE getting mail, one whole summer between 7th grade and 8th grade, a friend and I didn't call each other on the phone instead we wrote each other letters the WHOLE summer. It was a lot of fun. Too bad the only mail I usually get now is in the form of bills.....YUCK! However, yesterday I got home to see two packages sitting in front of the door. One of them was Jake's birthday present which he wanted early (Watchmen graphic novel). Jake has a love for comics and Star Wars. The other one was my bridesmaid dress for Jamie and Joe's wedding!!!! I was very excited! Having the dresses now for both of my best friends weddings (Rachel and Jamie) makes it all so real AND not so far away. I can't wait!

By the way I called this post random thought Fridaybecause my mind was filled with them and they needed to be let out. So here are some things currently swirling around in my head. I'm thinking about starting a blog that focuses on me getting back in shape/healthy/losing weight, however you want to put it, I would like to find some really good recipes if you know a blog or know of any yourself, I learned yesterday that the average working person is supposed to spend save 75% of each paycheck!!!!!!! And that you are supposed to have enough money in your savings to be able to live off of for 3-6 months. (I need to work on this). I have to figure out a way to get a better sense of fashion! I need a tan. Harli needs a bath. And last but not least........I'm ready for lunch!

Thank you for reading the most random post ever! I appreciate it. I hope your weekend is wonderful!

Where are you Spring?

2009-03-04T12:21:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to save money! Well because I need it. But today I went and got some to go from FuLin's (a wonderful Chinese place here in Little Rock). A little history about FuLin's:

Jake and I had been hanging out for a little while but it was still in the in between stage of being considered his girlfriend and still just dating, when he decided to take me out to eat at.....you guessed it, FuLin's. It was a lot of fun and of course very special to me because it was our first "date" type outing. Well we got our fortune cookies and of course I always want everyone to read them out loud! I of course really wanted Jake to, especially after the face he had made once he opened his. (It was a look of humor and embarrassment.) It took literally ten minutes to get him to read it to me and actually I can't remember if he actually read it to me or if I took it and read it. But the point is that it had the BEST fortune in it ever! His fortune said: Your true love is sitting beside you!!!!!!!!!!! How's that for great!

Well today in my fortune cookie I was surprise with not one but TWO fortunes. I consider myself lucky!!!!!! The first one said that "Your short term goal will soon be realized" and the second one said "Time makes one wise. Ask advice from someone older than you".

Now okay fine with the second one, but now I have to figure out which of my short term goals will be realized and who will be realizing it?!

Moving on. I have to say that I did not really watch The Bachelor this season, I was too busy watching quality TV (Toddlers and Tiaras and Jon & Kate plus 8), but I normally do watch it and I am with the rest of the country.......Jason, you my dear, are a scumbag with absolutely NO class.

Lately I've been feeling like I'm missing something and I think I finally figured out what it was. 70 degree weather! Yes, I am ready for Spring! Please, please come Spring. So I thought I would write Spring a letter of encouragement.

Dear Spring:

I feel like it's been ages since we've seen each other. Once, a few weeks ago I thought I saw you, but then it ended up snowing.....must not have been you! I just wanted to let you know that I miss you terribly. It's so hard to do even the smallest things without you around. For example, walk the dogs.....I only like to do it when you're here with me. I feel like the sun stays out longer and the cold is scared of you, so it's usually nice out. It's also hard for me to look cute in my clothes without your assistance. I mean you always bring all kinds of fun patterns and new designs when you come around. And although I love the holidays (Christmas is my favorite) once Valentine's day comes around I find myself feeling depressed and down because I long for your warmth and the extra light you add to my day! Spring, you mean so much to me. I hate that we have to wait so long to see each other ever year......so I was thinking that maybe you could surprise me this year and come a little bit early! I talked to the groundhog and he said he doubted that you would, but I'm still crossing my fingers, because honestly I don't know how much longer I can make it around here without you! So I can't wait to see you and all the wonderful things that you always bring with you.

Sincerely yours,

Jonnie L. Honse

Crazy 8's

2009-02-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been reading this book from my very dear friend Joe called "How to live your best life now" by Joel Osteen (?). I decided to read it because for the last few months I haven't exactly been feeling 100% like myself. Okay well if you haven't heard of Joel Osteen, he's a pastor at some huge church in TX. Anyways.....when Joe first gave it to me I thought it was going to be something that I didn't really care for, but I LOVE it. Why? Because it reincorporates positive thinking for me, which I always think I need to be reminded of, BUT it also tells you about how God wants you to have the best things in life, or basically God wants you to be happy. I like it because it's not pushy.......it's just positive. Anyways, I wanted to share something relating to what I read last night.

"When you think positive, excellent thoughts, you will be propelled towards greatness"

Okay my example that I'm about to give you is going to make me sound like a crazy lady. Okay today I was at the bank drive though and I looked around my car and thought of how embarrassed I was at how it's ALWAYS dirty! And worse the bank guy can see every single thing!!! Horrible. So I thought to myself, "When I get a new car, I'll take better care of it". Well it make me think of some of the issues that my book talks about. I will only get better things out of my life if I change my thinking NOW, not when things get "better". Why? Because they won't get better unless I think better of them (or myself or situation). So I decided I was thankful for even having a car and that I would appreciate and cherish it and treat it like it was brand new. So today when I get off work I plan on cleaning it all out and giving it a bath, even if it does rain!

Okay moving on (sorry if that was just completely random, it happens!) Habitat for Humanity finally called back and I get to volunteer with them in March! Very exciting! Also I finally got ALL the bachelorette party invitations mailed out, signed up for my absolute last class, and finally made it to Wal-Mart to buy more candles for the house. Whoa, such impressive things, I know. :)

Now I'm going to steal my school friend Caroline's post and post my list of 8's (*side note: I love Caroline, she's a "school" friend, meaning I we had classes together and such. She was always so nice to me and we always shared a laugh or two!) Check out Caroline's blog....she's absolutely beautiful and one of the nicest persons I've ever met!

My list of 8's:

8 TV shows I watch:

1. Grey Anatomy, (but I'm with Caroline and the rest of the world....it needs to get better SOON or I'm out)
2. Private Practice (it's like my new Grey's)
3. Top Chef (it's over as of last night and I really want Stefan to win)
4. Jon and Kate plus 8 (I seriously can't get enough of them. Those kids are adorable!)
5. The Office (Jake and I record this so we can watch them together, I heart Jim and Pam, but it's Dwight that keeps me coming back!)
6. The Biggest Loser (I know....I blame Michelle, she got me hooked)
7. Hm........I'm running out of shows. Oh! Geez, I'm super ashamed and embarrassed to say. Toddlers and Tiaras. I orignally watched it to see how crazy the moms were, but now I can't stop!!!!!! It's horrible, I know.
8. And I guess anything on HGTV.

Favorite Restaurants (random order):

1. Whoa....this is already hard and it's the first one. Okay The Flying Saucer. We eat there sometimes when we have some good beer!
2. HOME! I've been trying to eat at home as much as possible! Save money and it's better for you!
3. Papa Pablono's (good ole Mena!!)
4. Cruizzer's (spelling? Also Mena!)
5. Suree's (long gone, but lucky for me it was my mom's restaurant so I can still eat some of its goodness)
6. The Italian Couple (Little Rock)
7. FuLin's (that's also one of Jake's favorite places!!)
8. Anywhere with good sushi!

Things that happened to me today:

1. Almost got slammed into by a car that had way too much crap in thier backseat and therefore couldn't see me!
2. Found Megan's check for the beach house.
3. My sister just called me complaining about the color of her new phone (yes, amazingly we're related).
4. Picked up poop on my lunch break (yeah I know, sounds like fun)
5. Went home and make a turkey sandwich and played with puppies
6. Mailed invitation out for bachelorette weekend.
7. Avoided the majority of work I needed to do today........AND
8. Created a Britney Spears station on pandora!!!!

Things I look forward to:

1. 4:45 pm (when I get off work)
2. Getting a big sponsory for the Our House Dinner on the Grounds event! (I believe if I keep at it, it will happen)
3. Rachel's wedding
4. My very first nephew!!!!!!
5. Jamie's wedding
6. Andrea's very first baby!
7. ALWAYS I look forward to Christmas! ALWAYS!
8. My own eventual wedding to my very best friend, Anthony Jacob Phillips! (this could be in like 10 years.)
I could honestly go on with this category for a long time!!

Things I wish for:

1. For me to get all my student loans paid off (I wish the same for all my friends!!!)
2. Happiness for the world (that's my Miss America pagnent answer)
3. A house, one of my very own!! (well I'd share it with Jake of course)
4. To be the best possible person I can be
5. To know what our future holds, meaning to know what's going to happen with Jake and work, are we moving are we not?
6. For healthy babies in 2009 (Andrea and my sister, and anyone else expecting)
7. A better sense of style!!!!!
8. To be in shape like I was when I was a Junior in HS....this will happen, so I guess I should have put it on my Looking forward too list!

Okay so what's your List of 8's. If you post one on your blog, let me know, I'd LOVE to check it out!

Lesson learned

2009-02-18T21:39:00.000-08:00

Honesty has always been a very important value to me. Looking back there were times that I felt hurt by honesty but then realized that it actually turned out well. Yes there is the old saying that the truth hurts, well up until today I would have considered myself an honest person. Sure when I was younger of course there were times I lied, but to the people who really mean something to me, I've ALWAYS tried to be as honest as possibly, regardless of if it hurt. Well no more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm calling it quits on honesty. Why? Because being honest doesn't really help everyone! I mean it may help me be able to sleep at night, but I'd much rather lose sleep and let the ones I love go about their lives in happiness.

Strange? I don't really think so. I think that most people would agree that ignorance is bliss......but maybe not!!! Either way, I have decided as of 11:29 pm on February 18, 2009 that I will no longer be an honest person. At least not in all situations. I'm sure most of you need a good reason why I've made this decision. Well, the biggest and best reasons I can think of is that I don't want to hurt people AND when you are honest you rarely get rewarded or acknowledged for it! For example (a very trivial example) a boy tells a girl she has lip stick on her teeth, she probably won't say thank you, instead she'll be embarrassed.

Please share your wisdom..........don't you think that there are times you should keep it to yourself?

Changing the bad into good!

2009-02-17T20:24:00.000-08:00

I'm sure many of you find yourself in a bad mood from time to time or really irritated with someone or something!!!!!!! Well when I get that way I find that the best way to get out of that bad mood or stop being irritated with that something or someone is to give. Yes, I love to give!!!! I love to give hugs, I love to give smiles and I especially love to give back! Now I don't always need a bad mood or irritation to make me want to give......actually giving back is a hobby of mine, more so a passion.

When I was 20 (so old I know) I felt like I was going through a really hard time! So I got out of my comfort zone and I did something I would normally would never do I decided to work at a summer camp where I didn't know a soul who would be working there!!!! And guess what it was the one of the best times of my life!!! I would do it every summer if I could. There were two things I realized when I returned from that adventure that I am very blessed and that because I am very blessed I want to make sure to return those blessings in some form or fashion.

Finally after having said all that.....I have been looking for my next volunteer project and today I was ready Arkansas Business Magazine and they had features of companies and executives, blah, blah, blah that won awards this year. Well one of the features nonprofit companies was the Arkansas Food Bank and I new what I wanted to do!!!!! So I am starting a food drive as well as volunteering at the actual bank! I'm so excited and I hope that I can get as much participation as possible!!!!!!!! I can't wait. I have many ideas stirring in my head!!!!!!! I look forward to getting to share the future events with you all.

So what makes you happy, how do you give back!? Everybody can give back in their own way, by just doing a kind deed occasionally or getting out of your comfort zone when you see someone in need of a smile or a door held for them. It can be anything! I know we are all in need....I mean I like to blame it on the economy (that's my joke), sorry I was late for work this morning.....the economy's got me down! :) But honestly I think about it and if I'm in need, then I know there are others out there in greater need and I'm blessed to have what I have! I have a great boyfriend, wonderful friends, a new nephew on the way, and some fun loving pups! I have a job, a roof over my head, clothes to wear, and food eat. I know there are others out there that can't say the same. So my way of saying thank you to everyone who has made my life as wonderful as it is to give back. I want to help people and I'm so excited about my new endeavors!

Okay enough of that. I'm almost finished planning a fun bachelorette weekend for my friends. We're going to Eureka Springs!!! I can't wait. We're going to the spa and shopping! I do need to decide on where we're going to eat out for dinner on the big night so if anyone has favorite place or even know of a good place in Eureka please share the wealth. I've had a lot of fun making invitations for this and I have been trying to take some pictures of them but I can't get a good one to save my life. I'll keep working on it though!

[caption id="attachment_147" align="alignnone" width="550" caption="Here are a few"][/caption]

I hope you are all great, can't wait to hear from you!

And I haven't posted a Plato picture lately......this little man now weighs 23.8 lbs! Whoa!

[caption id="attachment_152" align="alignnone" width="550" caption="Our little boy"][/caption]

Some of you may think that we don't love our first child Harli, we do! But it's hard to get a good picture of her. My friend Rachel with Four Legs Photography took some great pictures of her. I'll find out if her album can still be accessed.

This is maybe

2009-02-16T14:09:00.000-08:00

I am thinking of switching from wordpress to blogger, but wanted to try it out!!! So I set up an account and I am now messing around with it trying to decide what to do! Like most things or times I have to make a decision I'm indecisive so I thought a few test runs would help me decide!!!

Happy Birthday Rachel Starr!!!

2009-02-11T07:41:00.000-08:00

Today is my great friend Rachel's birthday! Her and Jamie share the same birthday month, which is fun!!!! Rachel's future husband and my boyfriend also share the same birthday month. Rachel has a wedding coming up in May that I am fortunate enough to be a part of. I've said it before but I'll say it again. One of the hardest things in my life currently has been having to be away from some of my closest friends. Yes, I do have close friends in Little Rock, but that doesn't mean I don't miss the ones who live in Fayetteville. Also I have to mention how extremely talented Rachel is if you have furbabies and love him like they were children then you have to visit her website and see all her amazing pictures....yup Rachel specializes in pet photography and she is GREAT!!!! www.fourlegsphotograpy.com

I am blessed with wonderful people in my life from my family and friends to the people I work with. Rachel is one of those blessings and I want to wish her the BEST birthday EVER! I can't wait to get to be a part of all the wonderful things that are happening in your life.

So here's to you Rachel, to wedding planning, a new husband, and the rest of your life as Mrs. Rachel Sloan.

[caption id="attachment_109" align="alignnone" width="450" caption="Rachel and Neill"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_110" align="alignnone" width="335" caption="My beautiful friend Rachel!!"][/caption]

Happy Birthday Jamie Gray!!!

2009-02-05T09:14:00.000-08:00

One of the hardest things for me in my life right now is being away from some of my closest friends (you know who you are). Although I have some of my close friends here with me in Little Rock, I have to admit I enjoyed it more when we were all together in one town! But that's just a part of life.

So since I can't be with Jamie on her birthday I will make her a birthday blog. (I stole the idea to add a card to my blog from my very dear and creative friend Rachel at Four Legs Photography, you need to check out her site, she does wonderful work!)

Here's to you Jamie, and to lower car insurance, getting married, and enjoying being halfway to 50! Love you so much and I know you will have the best day EVER!!!

Click HERE to view the ecard I sent her. I would post it to the blog, but I can't figure it out! I swear I used to be more computer savvy. I guess I'm just not blog savvy!

[caption id="attachment_101" align="alignnone" width="401" caption="My wonderful friend Jamie!"][/caption]

This is me

2009-02-04T09:06:00.000-08:00

I read this blog by a fellow hometown gal. The Adventures of a SAHM. It's a wonderful blog, filled with humor. (WARNING, she is very opinionated and could care less if you like her or not, which is why I like her!!!) Anyways....she encouraged others to post some strange or unknown things about themselves after sharing her own strange and unknowns. So here it goes...some of it's not really that strange, but enjoy.

1. I do not, will not eat English peas!!!! They are gross to me and I absolutely hate them. As a child I would make my mom make me fried rice without peas......which annoyed her because that meant she had to make two different batches! (Thanks Mom)

2. My parents owned a small restaurant in Mena for almost 20 years. I miss it and in High School would sneak me and my friends in to drink and eat chicken strips! Until one day some idiot stuck their peeled off beer label on the frig.....parents not happy.

3. I am technically an only child even though I consider myself to have 3 sisters and 2 brothers. It's way to complicated to explain.

4. I also don't like bananas, which people find weird, because I will eat banana chips! I think it's the texture.

5. I once had bright blue highlights.

6. In high school I had to wash my face before playing every basketball game. I seriously did, it was part of my routine.

7. I am a horrible speller and also very bad at math.

8. I once won my 5th grade class spelling bee by spelling one word right (which makes #7 funny) because I was the lunch monitor the week of the spelling bee so when everyone else was participating I was in the cafeteria...so I only had one day to participate and I just so happen to get the word right! Sadly I didn't even make it through the first round of the school spelling bee. :) Good stuff.

9. I prefer my hair short!

10. I once had a 1991 Dodge Shadow convertible with a broken gas gauge and one window that didn't work......so cool to be sitting on the side of the road because you didn't know you were almost out of gas AND with the top down and one window up!

11. And lastly, even though my parents owned a restaurant, which I worked in for a long time, I can't cook Thai food. I know people are always disappointed. I guess I just wasn't paying any attention!

So have some fun today and share something we don't know about yourself! Have a great day!!!

My nephew

2009-02-03T10:21:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that I am expecting my first every nephew! Needless to say I am very excited. I am also very excited because my very dear friend Andrea is expecting her first child also a month after my nephew should be here. I plan on making the two babies great friends. :)

I wanted to share some things about my future nephew. My sister was kind enough to email everyone pics of the baby so here he is. They haven't decided on a name yet and honestly even if they had, I doubt they would tell anyone. Keeping it fresh, that's their style.

[caption id="attachment_94" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="My nephew!"][/caption]

And the theme for his room is going to be monkeys! Which I think is really cute! I'm sure his room will be adorable because my sister has great taste! Here are some of the monkeys he has already accumulated.

[caption id="attachment_95" align="alignnone" width="449" caption="Monkeys"][/caption]

I can't wait for all the babies to get here! This upcoming spring and summer are filled with so many exciting things that I will get to be a part of and I can't wait! It makes me so thankful for everything and everyone I have in my life! I hope the summer and spring bring you wonderful things as well.

Potty training....or not

2009-01-29T07:58:00.000-08:00

So most of you who visit my blog know that we have a fairly new member of the family, Plato Phillips, our English bulldog puppy! We just love him, he's spunky and playful and EXTREMELY cute! However, like most new additions to a family, they come with a lot of work. Work that prior to their arrival you are ALL about. Because in my case, I don't remember it being that hard with Harli, my first furbaby child. "It" referring to...dunh dunh dunnnnnnnn....potty training. For some reason when I think back to when I was potty training Harli it was a piece of cake! (Yeah, I'm sure it was.) However easy I remember it being it is NOT so easy for me this time around. Plato could care less if he has to sit in his kennel covered in pee until mommy gets home to discover him. I mean I know he's a baby still, but the vet said he should be showing signs of understanding, which he kinda is. For instance when we open his kennel door he comes bounding out and runs directly over to the door. And when you open the door he knows exactly where he's going and what he's doing! So for these new developments I am so excited and thankful.

But I still don't know what to do to help him not pee during the night or day when we're gone. I promise you I have read every web page and magazine that could possibly help you potty train your new puppy. I make sure to let him out right when he wakes up and after he eats and plays. I don't let him drink water after a certain time at night and I always make it home within the same time period for lunch. He goes as soon as I get home for lunch and before I leave......yet somehow he always manages to pee in his crate. It's gotten to the point that we don't even know what to put in there for him to lay on because it won't make it a day. And we can't bath him everyday it's horrible for his little puppy skin, but we can't very well just let him run around with pee all dried to him. So basically I am asking if any of you have any advice. I know he will get it eventually, but if you know of anything I can be doing better or more often or at all.............PLEASE, PLEASE share it with me.

Pictures to come later today to show you how much he has grown!

I'm so thankful for......

2009-01-26T21:07:00.000-08:00

Life! I woke up today feeling like I was on top of the world!!! And as I'm winding down tonight, I think about so many things that have happened in my day and I am thankful! I meet with my "little" today for the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and I'm thankful for the opportunity to give back to this little girl in a positive way, the same way many people gave to me!!! I read this blog about a baby girl named Harper and I see the outpouring of love and hope and encouragement for her and her family from friends, family, and complete strangers and I'm thankful this world still has those kind of people in it. I'm also thankful for the amazing faith in God that her parents show! I talked to my friend Jamie today and she told me about her future plans and goals and how she is going to achieve them, and I'm thankful that I'm blessed with such a wonderful, motivated best friend. I called my sister today and asked how the baby was growing and I'm thankful that some wonderful little boy will get to have the greatest mom EVER! I asked my dad today what color he painted the somewhat expensive birdhouse I bought him for Christmas and when he told me the many colors I laughed and I'm thankful that I have such a funny man for a father!!! I talked to my friend Andrea today who found out this weekend she is having a little girl and I'm thankful that I will be able to buy little boys clothes AND little girls clothes. I'm currently sitting on my couch listening to my dogs play and watching HGTV and I'm thankful that I have a house, a warm bed and my wonderful boyfriend working in home office.

I am thankful that everything don't always go my way, that sometimes the lights always turn red when I get there, that I sometimes spill my breakfast on me in the car while I'm rushing to work, that for some reason our new puppy can't play with his toys unless you're playing with them too, and I'm thankful that I have people who actually read this blog.........

I'm thankful for the opportunity to BE thankful! I sometimes forget how blessed I am to be surrounded on a daily basis by such amazing things, people and moments that I encounter. I'm thankful that I have someone to thank for my life!!! I think you get the point. I haven't been feeling like myself lately and today I woke up remember what it was like to feel that again and I'm thankful.

I hope you can stop from time to time and remember while your thankful, you'll enjoy it, I promise.

Long overdue.....a vacation

2009-01-21T21:44:00.000-08:00

First I want to start by asking you all to visit this blog and pray for this sweet family and their little girl. They need your prayers and their faith and story is very touching.

Okay, now onward. I have to say I've become addicted to reading people's blogs. My friends, strangers, random people I know....they're all great!!! Which makes me think of how freaking boring mine are! I mean honestly, mine aren't funny, they don't teach you anything or show off my trade (you wouldn't want to see it). Nothing...my blog offers you me, whatever mood that may be. So this is just a note to self and to you, I will try to be more entertaining!! Please bare with me as that might be a while.

My boyfriend, Jake, is a wonderful man who also happens to be very busy around this time of year. Why? Because he is an accountant....correction an auditor. Which means that he is in what they call "busy" season. Busy season breaks down like this, boyfriend works entirely too much and too late so you sit at home bored but can usually get a lot done, on days when there isn't too much to do you're just bored, you have plenty of time to be alone or spend time with your girlfriends, but basically you're single for about 3 months AND the best part is that after busy season we usually get to go on some fun vacation!!

Our latest vacation which was in May was spent at a place close to my home of Mena. Yes we were in the big, huge town of Glenwood! Whoa, exciting vacation I know. But the thing is that it was exciting. We rented a cabin which was really nice, it had a dipping pool and big deck. We cooked some great meals and watched some horrible movies. And best of all we went canoing on the one day it decided to rain like crazy!! SWEET! So we bought some poncho's at the Dollar store and had to literally convince the man to let us canoe since the water had risen 2 feet above it's normal level. The man running the place asked if we were experienced. So finally he's convinced and shuttles us to where we are going to put in....I have to tell you once I saw how fast the water was running compared to a normal canoe trip, I almost backed out, but nope in we went. So since we were the ONLY people on the river that day we had the whole thing to ourselves and we had a blast!!! The few people hanging out on their porches that day thought we were probably the craziest people around. Nope, we just like an adventure. So, here are some pictures of our vacation adventure. I hope you enjoy!

[gallery]

It's a Monday and it's a boy!

2009-01-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

Well it's Monday and so starts another week! Surprisingly I am thrilled. I'm in a wonderful mood today, besides feeling guilty about just eating some chocolate cake. I'm not worried.... the feeling will pass. My friend Rachel emailed me a picture of her wedding dress and it's BEAUTIFUL. I'm so very excited to share in her big day with her and her future husband! In fact the next few months will be spent preparing for my upcoming busy summer. Let's see, bachelorette party, 2 babyshowers, wedding, new baby nephew coming, beach wedding.......I think that about covers it, but granted all this will happen in a span of 3-4 months. So there will be plenty to do in the next few months!!!

IT'S A BOY!!! My sister is having a baby boy, they just found out today and I couldn't be more thrilled. Yes, it's true I was secretly hoping for a little girl that I could buy cute clothes for and tell her all the things that I wish someone would have told me. For example, Cinderella and Prince Charming did live happily ever after, but it wasn't without a lot of hard work and a few unhappy moments. BUT I am just a happy to have a nephew. It will be a new experience for our family since my parents had two girls! My mom is VERY excited, she told me the other day that she wanted it to be a boy! So let the baby buying begin!!!

So our little chubby monkey had his first play date on Saturday. We visited our friends Keli and Abram who recently married. They have a westie named Barkly who was very excited to play with Plato. It was funny to watch because Barkly is the first dog besides his sister Harli that Plato has been around! Then on Sunday he met Jake's boss's cat, Steve, who was also willing to play with him. He had a big weekend. Now if only he could get his own sister to play with him. Our vet, Dr. Winters, told us it could be up to 2 months before Harli wants anything to do with him. So we will keep waiting. Anways....I hope you all had wonderful weekends!! And of course here is a picture of Plato courtesy of our friend Keli.

[caption id="attachment_75" align="alignnone" width="130" caption="His face is too cute to resist!"][/caption]

I have GREAT friends!!

2009-01-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

Okay so since I didn't (note the past tense) blog enough, I have a lot of catching up to do. So I will make this blog about how great my friends are......ALL of them!! I thank God often for loving me so much and surrounding me with such great people. People you love me, laugh with me, lift me up when I am down, and are always there for me. So thank you, in case I don't say it enough.

Speaking of great friends, my friends Jamie and Rachel threw me a graduation party and following are some of those pictures:

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And of course I must post some more pictures of the baby. He had kennel cough and we were very worried about him because he looked like he had lost weight. Apparently we were wrong, the little guy has gained 2.5 pounds in only 6 days. Talk about a chubby monkey (I often call him this). He is acting like he feels much better and we had a very good visit with Dr. Winters today! So here is the chubby moneky:

[caption id="attachment_66" align="alignnone" width="450" caption="Our chubby monkey"][/caption]

I can't figure out why it's posting his picture twice, but oh well here he is.

New Year Resolutions

2009-01-05T20:53:00.000-08:00

I think that writing things down make them more real, more meaningful and more tangible. So I am here to present you with 2009 New Year Resolutions...dandt dandt dana da. Impressive I know. So without further ado and in no particular order here we go:

1. Blog more (which I am doing are you can see)
2. Be healthier and I mean this in a complete sense, metally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually
3. Be more ambitious
4. Try to work out at least twice a month in the morning ( I mean I used to be able to get up at 5:45 AM or 6:00 AM 5 days a week)
5. Take it back to the old days ( I realize that this is vague, but I will give you insight. Send letters and cards, write thank you notes, etc.)
6. Worry more about me so that I can eventually worry more about others
7. Volunteer more ( I have an interview with Big Brothers Big Sisters on the 20th)
8. Take more pictures ( I only this one life on this earth, might as well document it.
9. Read more
10. Take the steps to accomplish my goals ( because they won 't get accomplished on their own!)

So there you have it. Very exciting I know!! So let me end it with a few photos, some which are long overdue and some which are brand new. More pictures to come.

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Whatda ya think?

2008-10-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

My friend Rachel created my new blog header! Isn't it awesome! She's very creative, she is also a pet photographer and has an amazing eye. You can check out her work at fourlegsphotography.com!

Well life has for the most part been uneventful. I am struggling staying motivated, but picked up a few sparks from my long time friend Sam who has been able to make great changes with her life! Keep it up Sam! Jake and I will be attending our good friends wedding this weekend in Pine Bluff. It'll be my first time to go to Pine Bluff I heard it smells bad because of the paper mill. Which means it smells like Ashdown........which to me smells like brussel sprouts!

I am also lending a hand to my friend Patrick Wright to help him stuff goodie bags today after work. I believe in karma so when your friends are in need why not help if you can?! Karma is also a reason why I try to participate in surveys, that and I feel like it will end up benefiting more people if the company/product knows what's wrong or what people are looking for!

I might have some exciting news coming up.....but you'll have to wait til Halloween to find out. Not too much further!

OH!!! And I would like to wish Dr. Roark a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! I hope you're having the best day ever!

Fall is in the Air

2008-10-08T09:12:00.000-07:00

Or like my friend Jamie likes to say, "Christmas is almost here!" Which it is! I'm very excited! Well I've kinda slacked this week with working out and it's only going to get harder for me to keep it up. I have 2 classes to maintain and shortly I will be starting a part-time job at William Sonoma. I'm super excited about the extra money and all the good Christmas gift everyone will be getting, but not excited about how I'm going to work a gym workout in.

I'm really missing Fayetteville lately, or I guess just my friends! Maybe both! But change is coming soon for Jake and I and I'm ready for it!

Plan on working out today at the "Glovin up" class. I really enjoy it, although we have a new teacher, not sure what happened to the old one. But I like the new one, last week though I could barely move the next day! Such a great feeling! I hope everyone is doing great!!!

5 lbs!!!

2008-10-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

So since I missed my normal weigh in day yesterday, I weighed in today! And I have offically lost 5 lbs since I started working out on August 6. It doesn't sound like alot and I would love for it to be more, but I'll take it and I'll keep working!!!! The hardest part for me isn't work out, it's eating right!! I just need to learn to not over endulge for one and to try and make the healthier choice, I know it won't always happen, but I should still try! Hope you have a good weekend!

Living in Little Rock

2008-06-04T15:26:00.000-07:00

Hey ladies!!! I decided I would start blogging, well actually Rachel suggested it and I thought it was a good idea. Forgive me for spelling words wrong, as you all know I can't spell at all. I am loving living with Jake!!! He is so sweet to me. I just love him so much. I am very discouraged about the job hunting but I am going to keep trying. I currently work at Miss Selma's. I have four year olds, who are a handfull. I will have to take a pic of my kids and post it. Well, I have many things to do, but this I think will be a great way to keep everyone up to date with my life!!! I love you and miss you all like crazy!

Jonnie