Misadventures in my Life

TV show reviews by yours truly.

2011-03-22T18:57:00.001-04:00

I have recently started DVRing more television shows than usual. I love having a collection of shows to watch on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Here is what I've been watching:

Brothers & Sisters
No secret here - I love this show! I am so inspired by the strong, womanly character Sally Fields plays (Nora), and I am secretly jealous of the love and drama that results from their large family. It doesn't fail - every episode nearly brings me to tears and then succeeds to make me laugh.

American Idol

J.Lo and Steven Tyler are pleasantly surprising me this season - almost as much as this round of contestants! I usually skip the results show, and just enjoy the singing on the Wednesday night show. Loves it and wish I could sing. I know my voice is good alone in the car, but for some reason it never sounds good in front of others... ;)

Bethenny Ever After

From Bethenny & Jason's first road trip where they forgot the baby's crib and "breast friend" breastfeeding pillow, to their role playing at the bar while Jason "flaunted" his ability to pick up chicks, I am obsessed with this couple. Although Bethenny is slightly crazy, I cannot get enough of her - she totally cracks me up! I wish I were so effortlessly funny!

Tori & Dean

New season starts April 6th and I just cannot wait! I adore this couple and their precious children. Apparently I love watching attractive, unstable famous women...

Any good shows I'm missing? What are your favorites at the moment?

Images from here, here, here, and here.

longer days ahead.

2011-03-20T16:52:00.001-04:00

I distinctly remember when I was little, every year my dad would say how much he loved when the days started getting longer.

I never understood, because for me it meant going to bed before it was really dark outside. Not fair.

Now, I completely understand.

It is so lovely to leave work when it is still light outside. The days seem so much more productive and I have so much more energy after a long day at the office.

Southern Charm and I took advantage of the weather today with a 4.5 mile run outside.

The sunshine has also made me crave kool-aid. Yes, I'm 24 and I still drink red kool-aid and enjoy sprinkles on my fro-yo.

In addition to running outside and fruity beverages, I am so looking forward to flip-flops, patio dining and keeneland season!

What is your favorite thing about spring?

that's what's up.

2011-02-28T20:26:00.000-05:00

Taking out the trash and washing muffin tins are in the running for worst house chores eva...
House/Apartment hunting is a very time consuming, frustrating {and sometimes creepy} burden...but I'm totally obsessing over it lately.
I attended the most fun Junior League event to date this weekend. It may sound like bragging if I tell you I hung out with Dhani Jones...but I got to hang out with Dhani Jones. {We won't talk about how I didn't know he was a player for the Cincinnati Bengals before this evening, but whatevs...that doesn't make him "un-famous" just because I'm not a huge football fan :) }

I ran 4 miles this weekend {longest run of my lifetime} and it felt good! I'm well on my way to the 10K race I signed up for!
My weekends are not complete without episodes of Brothers & Sisters. There wasn't a new episode this week because of the Oscars. Boo. I'm generally not a humongous awards show fan. So kill me.
I cannot wait to go home this weekendddddd.....hoping the week flies by!

coupon queen

2011-02-17T22:09:00.000-05:00

...dollar diva...stellar saver...

ok, dork status again.

Anyway, let's talk grocery shopping and how to save money.

I've heard a lot of hype around coupon clipping lately, and frankly I could use a few pointers.

This weekend I opened my own Kroger Plus card {broke free from my parent's card} in hopes of receiving these fabulous customized coupons that everyone always raves about.

I came home and promptly registered my card with an email address.

Spent almost an hour piddling around the Kroger website and loading coupons {that I knew I would use, not things that I would buy only because I had a coupon for it}.

Total Savings: $1.35

HELP! I'm pretty sure I could find that much money in our couch cushions - and in under an hour at that!

happy hump day

2011-02-16T21:45:00.001-05:00

At the wise young age of 24, I have a feeling I'm on to something good:

The key to happiness.

For me {at least for right now} it lies in just three simple steps...

Laugh Often,

A good laugh really is the best medicine. Even in stressful or moody times, I think it helps to find the humor in life. I especially love laughing at my embarrassing, clumsy, day-to-day awkwardness.

Be Kind to Others,

Simply put, when I help others I am actually helping myself feel better as well. Happiness is contagious. Spread the love.

and Appreciate the small stuff.

I feel so content this week. I've taken time to appreciate a good workout, to get excited about hearing my favorite song on the way to work, to "sleep in" and catch a glimpse of the Today Show as I'm getting ready, and to stroll into the office at 8:15. I hope that even as I get older and my life changes, I can still appreciate these simple things...while still also balancing a love for the "finer" things, of course! ha ;)

Sorry for vomiting rainbows and butterflies in this post. While I try to focus on these happy things, I also realize that on a bad day positivity is the most annoying message to hear! Hopefully you are having a good day instead of the latter!

valentine "happys"

2011-02-14T20:44:00.000-05:00

I didn't have high expectations for this year's Valentine's Day.

In fact, I may have been quoted saying we should get this holiday over with so that we can focus more on stocking Cadburry Cream Eggs in all the local grocery stores.

However, my day turned out to be pretty nice! Any holiday centered around chocolate & sweets can't be too bad I guess...

...And my day certainly consisted of sweets. In fact, I'm pretty sure the only things I ate today were holiday treats...cookies, hugs&kisses, dove chocolates...you name it.

The highlight of my day, surprisingly, was not food. I came home to a special care package from my very first Valentine. Thanks, mom, for making me feel special and loved today! :)

And yes, those are Cadburry Cream Eggs you see. Literally my favorite types of candy mixed together in one bag of deliciousness {just so happens I had chocolate for dinner, too}!

Plus a new perfume I've been lusting over!

Who knew I'd become the type of girl that gets all excited over new perfume!? But I am!

Hope your Valentine's Day was just as happy!

mid-february already?

2011-02-13T20:41:00.000-05:00

So after being absent for over a month, I feel the need to explain myself.

This can really be done in one word: Work.

I've been working. Working. A. Lot.

But this week was better, and hopefully upcoming weeks will be just as fine.

Now onto the present.

Not to be confused with the presents I will not be receiving for Valentine's Day. It's overrated anyway. Well, at least until I actually have a Valentine. :)

Anyway, the things that are currently consuming my life since work has calmed down are the following:

1. Completely and utterly obsessing over finding a new place to live. And then mentally moving myself in. Imagining new furniture and decorating. Feeling heartbroken when it doesn't work out. And then repeating the cycle.

2. "Training" for a 10K run. I don't exactly have a race to run yet, but I've been "training" for a week now. I ran 3 miles outside today and loved the sunny weather! I'm following Hal Higdon's 10K for the Novice Runner.

3. Thinking about the two aforementioned topics in varying quantities.

thrifty.

2011-01-09T18:37:00.001-05:00

Not to be cocky {pun intended}, but I can be pretty good at finding deals from time to time.

Some could argue that a purchase is not technically a "deal" if it is the wrong size or if it is never used.

Like the $2.88 steal I got on two pairs of shoes at Target. Problem was that one pair was a size 5 1/2 and the other a size 9. I wear a 7. I just couldn't resist such cheap flats, and rationalized that I'd "make them work."

Or the many dirt cheap cotton dresses I have purchased in past years that are way too large and sit in my closet because I feel like a balloon each time I attempt to wear them.

Well, today I happened upon this ~~hideous~~ rooster calendar for only 53 cents!! Who could resist? Not this girl.

At least this bargain will be used - I've already filled in birthdays and holidays.

Not beautiful, but it serves a purpose.

livin' la vida loca.

2011-01-05T22:22:00.000-05:00

If anyone ever doubted I'm a bit crazy, read the below definition and tell me this doesn't describe me perfectly.

anal retentive (adj) // term used conversationally to describe a person who pays such attention to detail that theobsession becomes an annoyance to others, and can be carried out to thedetriment of the anal-retentive person. thanks wikipidia.

"Pays attention to detail" is an understatement.

"Annoyance to others" doesn't justly describe the turmoil I put myself through in my head. :)

I constantly doubt myself and totally over-analyze.

For example, every time I go to the ladies' restroom at work I get panic stricken as I turn the corner because I fear it's the men's room. How terribly horrifying would that be!? However, I'm pretty sure the location of the woman's restroom was all I knew at my job for my first 3 months of working there. This should not be an issue.

Every night when I leave work, I tug on my desk drawer no less than 4 times to make sure I locked it. My desk neighbor does it too, so I'm not the only crazy one in the office.

I count the number of "tasks" required to get ready in the morning and before I go to bed. If I don't complete these 5 steps, I'm pretty sure the world may end. Or I'd end up at work without pants on. Both terrible outcomes.

I know precisely where I've left my belongings. If something is out of place or new in my home I notice it in an instant. As in, the nude Statue of David magnet my roommate "snuck" onto the fridge, the "porno for women" 2011 hunky men calendar that ended up in our kitchen, or the blankets misplaced from our living room.

I think you get the idea.

Luckily, I can laugh at myself about these little "quirks." Everyone has weird habits, right? But perhaps I should lighten up a bit in 2011!? Agree?

I'll add this to my list of New Years' resolutions...along with being more punctual {notice my resolutions being determined on January 5th...not off to a promising start}, packing my lunch three times/week, and flossing daily {I heard it can add 6 years to your life...not sure how?}.

BTW, I hope you readers can sense the sarcasm in this ~~terribly long list of rambles~~ post.

Now off to bed. I'm resolving to get 8 hours of rest each night...

...and hopefully dreaming of something more interesting to write about!

better late than never?

2011-01-03T18:04:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately, I'm sure my tardiness is no surprise...{New Years' Resolution, perhaps?}...

However, I hope everyone had a...

Merry Christmas

and

Happy New Year!

I have been completely spoiled between visiting friends while I was home for the holidays and then coming back to tons of weekend visitors! I will have to remember all our fun times as we all go back to work tomorrow and return to our normal routine.

santa's little helper.

2010-12-24T16:33:00.000-05:00

I'll start eating healthy again after the holidays...

For now, I'm getting everyone in the Christmas spirit with some delicious homemade goodies like Peppermint Bark and Chocolate Fudge...

I'm loving the "Gourmet Food" setting on my new camera, and am awfully proud of my baking skills today. Dad and I have a date to make mini pecan pies later...hope they turn out just as yummy!

I hope everyone is enjoying the holidays - it's wonderful to have time off to relax, enjoy family and lots of good food!

Merry Christmas Eve to all!

sweet secret.

2010-12-09T22:01:00.000-05:00

It is clearly no secret that I may have a little sweet tooth.

And just as clearly, the holidays are a good time to "train" my little sweet tooth. When surrounded by holiday goodies, how can I resist?

But that's not what this story is about.

Well, I guess it explains my territorial behavior, but there's more to this story anyway.

In the spirit of National Brownie Day, a co-worker brought in delicious, gooey fudge brownies topped with icing and crushed peppermint bark yesterday. To die for, no?

He specifically said he made them for me because he knew they were my fav dessert. Therefore, I was put in charge of the brownies {aka they were just sitting on my desk all day testing my self-control}.

So the team enjoyed bites of brownies throughout the work day {because if you eat dessert in a series of "bites" instead of an entire serving, the calories somehow don't count, duh}.

Before leaving, I carefully covered the brownies with tin foil so they wouldn't get stale and set them on the corner of my desk.

Then this morning when I got to work...GONE! Not just the contents, but the entire glass dish! And I felt terrible because now co-worker lost a nice piece of kitchen-ware because of my unrelenting sweet tooth.

Not even 5 minutes later, another co-worker strolls in with an EMPTY brownie dish. He had taken them home to his wife and kids. What? Who gave him permission to do that?

No longer felt bad about "losing" the dish.

All morning people around me kept saying "Gosh, I'm really craving a brownie..."

And the greedy brownie co-worker whined, "Now my wife thinks I should be making brownies since those were so delicious, can I get the recipe?"

He's getting no sympathy from this girl!

magazine miracle.

2010-12-08T18:32:00.000-05:00

I realize not everyone is as ~~crazy psycho OCD~~ organized as me.

Read: Color coded closet with identical shirt hangers.

However, I think this cheap little trick could be handy for anyone.

I always have an issue with keeping the shoes in my closet organized. Particularly boots because they are tall and floppy all over the floor.

So may I suggest zipping up your boots, rolling up an old magazine, and inserting in each shoe.
And just like that my boots are standing straight as soldiers. Problem solved {and for zero dollars, no less}!

Taa daaaa! Now get on wit yo bad self - go do some good old fashioned organizing! You know you want to...

snow bunny.

2010-12-05T19:36:00.000-05:00

What a lazy winter Sunday! All I wanted to do today was snuggle up, relax, and read. Which just so happens to be exactly what I did.

I did make it to the grocery and decided to make Santa Fe Stew for dinner with fresh baked cornbread muffins. It's so funny to me that I was so lazy all day, but when it comes to carrying in groceries I somehow muster up the energy to carry ALL grocery bags at once. Do you all do this? Struggle with a million bags so that you only have to make one trip into the house? Well, I do. And as you'll see by the recipe I'm kindly sharing below, today's grocery trip included LOTS of canned goods. Quite heavy, but I work out. ;)

I think this is a delicious winter meal. Beware that it makes a ton of soup, but it freezes well. I make it when it starts to get cold, then freeze portion size amounts that are easy to warm up throughout the snowy cold winter months. It's pretty yummy!

Santa Fe Stew
1lb lean ground meat (turkey or beef)
1 chopped onion
1/4 tsp minced garlic
1 can black beans
1 can red beands
1 can Great Northern Beans
1 can pinto beans
1 can stewed tomatoes
1 can diced mild green chilies
1 can sliced potatoes
1 can corn
1 can green beans
1 pkg ranch dressing mix
1 pkg taco seasoning

Brown the meat with onion and garlic. Drain. Combine all ingredients, UNDRAINED, in large pot and cook low until warm throughout (about 30mins).

flaws and all.

2010-12-02T20:31:00.000-05:00

I have a confession.

I came to this revelation tonight, but I have a serious issue with commitment.

The first step to fixing a problem is admitting you have one, right?

Whether it be deciding on an apartment to rent, what color sweater to buy, or simply what I would like to do on New Year's Eve {the most recent conundrum), it causes me anxiety. And then I get annoyed.

Perhaps the deeper issue is the fact that I am continuously wondering what my other options are. I don't fear that I am making the wrong decision, just that there may be a better one. And the longer it takes me to commit, the longer I have to conduct an internal debate about other possible solutions.

I need to work on being content and grateful. For example, no matter what color sweater I buy, I'm still getting a new piece of clothing... and everything goes with jeans so any color would work.

No matter what the New Year's plans are, I'll be with friends {and some drinks} which guarantees a good time. Who cares what the other two folks who can't make it are doing, right? I should just focus on what I'm doing and have fun doing it.

Perhaps this character flaw also has something to do with why I am perpetually single??

Bottom-line: Lower standards a smidge and be happy with the opportunities that are given to you.

the little things.

2010-11-30T21:51:00.000-05:00

Recently, I was missing the spontaneity and randomness of college. Just as I was craving little daily surprises, I was pleasantly amused by...

1. FINALLY getting professional wedding photos from my cousin's beautiful wedding...

all images from Kelly Rashka Photography

2. Coming home to a generous "holiday" gift from work {and conveniently instantly having delicious chocolates to indulge on for dessert}.

image here

3. Very unexpected compliments from co-workers. ;)

Despite staying at work until 8:30 tonight I'm feeling pretty happy thanks to the little things in life.

Are you taking time to be thankful for small blessings?

obsession

2010-11-22T22:44:00.038-05:00

I am currently swooning over...

My new Birthday Boots

Chunky Sweaters & Skinny Jeans

The Camera on my Phone that I just discovered and the resulting Picture Mail capability {sorry if I'm annoying you mom and dad :P } & obviously still Starbucks...

Shellac {new nail polish that does NOT come off!}

weekend visitors

2010-11-21T22:35:00.000-05:00

I love these girls and would not be the same without them! Whether for a good laugh, trustworthy advice, a confidence booster or a fun time, these friends have helped make me who I am! I love you all! :)

I had a fun weekend, come visit again soon!

Happy Birthday to ME :)

2010-11-15T21:16:00.001-05:00

Although this season is all about the Turkey, I will admit that my birthday turns me into quite the Ham.

I had the most wonderful birthday weekend. It started with an amazing cranberry mojito, delicious appetizers, and good friends at Palomino's...

...followed by a night of dancing {get it, Kristen}!

My Saturday started with Starbucks {thanks to new giftcards!! :) }, followed by lovely surprise gifts from my mom, lots of shopping, and a yummy meal at Cheesecake Factory. I really enjoyed our mother/daughter day of shopping. Even though mom hates to shop, she was a really good sport on Saturday! And of course we had to get a piece of cheesecake...

I am so very thankful for the way my parents spoil me every year! Perhaps they are the reason I act like such a diva during the month of November! ;)

I am equally thankful for my loving friends. I know I have true friends because they not only put up with me, they support my "all about me" attitude during my birthweek.

All in all, I'm a lucky girl! Thank you so much for all the birthday lovin'!

surprise, surprise.

2010-11-08T21:30:00.000-05:00

So, I was telling myself I would try not to be obnoxious about my birthday this year. 24 is not that exciting after all...BUT JUST 3 MORE DAYS! I am most excited about spending Saturday at lunch and shopping with my mom. For those who know my mom, this is not a gift. It is a birthday miracle.

Some things I've got my eye on include:

These boots {if they don't make me look like a duck in person}.

This sweater dress to wear with said boots.

Hopefully some blouses for layering.

And let's be honest...perhaps a cardigan.

Or two.

Who knows what we'll actually find...but I love having something to look forward to!

life lately.

2010-11-07T19:49:00.000-05:00

Time has been flying by and life carrying on as usual. I've been staying very busy, but I don't want to bore you with the details. Instead, a couple pictures to show you my life as of lately.

Enjoying fall in the bluegrass, cheering on those CATS!

Celebrating the wedding of a beautiful couple {picture sans bride, unfortunately}...

mmmm mexican.

2010-10-11T21:11:00.000-04:00

In general, I do not enjoy Mexican food. Not even a little.

However, the below recipe has become a stable at our place. And I actually develop cravings for it. Try it, you'll see what I'm talking about...

Chicken Burritos

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 cup milk

2 cans chicken (I use frozen chicken cooked on the George Foreman)

1 pkg frozen broccoli, thawed and drained

1 cup cheddar cheese

1 can fried onions (I skip the calories here...)

1 tomato, chopped

3/4 cup sour cream (I use nonfat, and it turns out fine)

1/2 cup scallions

6-8 tortillas

Combine soup, sour cream and milk and set aside.

Combine chicken, broccoli, half of the cheese, half can of fried onions and scallions.

Stir in 3/4 cup of soup mixture, and spoon into tortillas, roll up, place in baking pan.

Put tomatoes into remaining sauce and pour on top of filled burritos.

Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

Top with remaining cheese and onions and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.

Try to avoid eating more than one! :)

so college.

2010-10-10T21:57:00.000-04:00

Sometimes it's fun

to forget about life's stresses...

with friends you'll always remember.

We still know how to have fun...

even though were no longer in college.

faaabulous me.

2010-10-07T09:00:00.004-04:00

I was talking to a "friend" at the gym today {don't be impressed, it's my first time back in the gym after a 3 week "hiatus"} about negotiating a new monthly rate.

Amidst our usual witty banter {read: my charming personality, "friend" graciously putting up with me}, he asked why I deserved a cheaper rate.

Without skipping a beat, I responded, "Because I'm a loyal member...and I'm faaabulous."

To which he replied, "Who says?"

"Well, no one lately," I answered, "but that's what I tell myself."

And then I realized, after having this silly, meaningless conversation, that I should be telling myself things like this more often. There's nothing wrong with me dropping myself the occasional compliment. Toot toot.

Are you a member of your own fan club?

As many women are, I am usually my toughest critic. Take a minute {heck, even an hour...or a day! gasp} to see yourself how others see you.

I certainly have my faults, but today I'm recognizing the good because there really is good in everyone.

"If you put a small value upon yourself, rest assured the world will not raise your price." ~Author Unknown

United Bureau of Surveys

2010-10-06T21:46:00.001-04:00

Ok, I know I've mentioned it before, but I am in love.

With B-105 in the mornings.

They are doing prank calls to telemarketers all week and they are killing me. I die with laughter each morning on the way to work as Chris Carr & Co conducts their "Simple Surveys."

Please listen and find out what I'm talking about... :)

a subtle reminder.

2010-09-26T21:07:00.000-04:00

Feeling terribly sick makes me appreciate my good health even more.

Feeling lonely makes me more thankful for my loving network of friends.

Feeling homesick makes me grateful for a comforting home I can return to.

Feeling lazy and lethargic makes me feel proud of all that I can accomplish when I feel well.

It is easy to take for granted all the blessings in your life, until they are missing. I spent the weekend ill on the couch, hibernating for days. Being sick is a great excuse for taking time to rest and ignore the stresses of the outside world.

Instead of dwelling on the "downs" of this weekend, I am choosing to view them as a reminder of how fortunate I am to know the difference...for some may not even know what it is like to miss the better option.

angie's getting maaaaaried!

2010-09-20T22:48:00.001-04:00

What a fabulous weekend!

We arrived in Scottsdale on Thursday and enjoyed a nice, long stay in a beautiful resort out in the desert completely surrounded by family and ready to celebrate the wedding of my cousin, Angela.

Thursday was spent pampering {aka a 4 hour trip to the nail salon ~ just for me and Ang!} and then rushing to get ready for the rehearsal and dinner. This was the first time I saw the wedding location, and it was stunning.

Proud mother of the bride, Aunt Cathy, with little Austin & Chandler

We then went to celebrate and eat pizza at a local restaurant. I completely chowed down on oneof the most delicious desserts I've ever had - a calzone filled withnutella and topped with ice cream - yummm!

Aunt Cathy, Austin & Cousins (Gina and Christy) with me and Tony

After the rehearsal dinner, I was convinced to go get a spray tan {yes, they re-opened the salon at 10pm for our bridal party}. Just because I was too vain to be the "pasty" bridesmaid, I stripped down and let a woman spray me ~ as I stood there totally naked. So awkward. I cannot believe I actually did that. Despite me totally freaking out, I'm the only one who didn't have trouble with my tan ~ all the other girls suffered from streaking/orange hands/and on an on....I won't say "I told them so..." :)

The boys had a really stressful time the next day...

...while the girls were running around like mad trying to finalize last minute details and deal with stress.

They say every bride has two major mishaps - I'd say Angie's would have to be the fact that half of her flowers didn't make it past customs {what does that even mean?! They are flowers?! I don't know...} and that Andrew tried to make all the name cards for the reception while "under the influence" and completely destroyed all of them. Luckily, Costco pulled through with rose petals for the flower girls, and I was able to utilize my craftiness to fix the labels. Phew!

And then Saturday ~ the BIG DAY ~ came so soon!

Angie gave us all matching towel wraps to wear as we got our hair and makeup done. I was completely obsessed with my makeup. And my hair.

And Angie looked absolutely stunning. There are no other words. She was just GORGEOUS! And so was the entire wedding.

The ceremony was followed by a cocktail hour and reception. The dessert table {prepared by my cousin (Angie's sister) Christy, who is starting her own business} and the photo booth were a total hit! My mom was absolutely obsessed with the photo booth ~ as in, she missed the cake cutting because she was in there taking pictures. We also have proof of her in there with strangers...and my favorite quote of the evening...

"I love this thing! It's like a video game that you NEVER LOSE!"

Dad getting the little guys ready for a photo booth session...too funny!

I think this is proof that we all had a blast!

I wish my cousin and her new husband an amazing honeymoon in Italy and an even more joyous life together. It is so obvious that Andrew simply adores my cousin. He is so great with my little second cousins, and my uncle is included as one of his very best friends ~ invited on many a weekend guy trips. In short, Andrew is a wonderful addition to our family and we love him dearly!

Congrats Angie & Andrew!

hello from sunny scottsdale!

2010-09-17T16:47:00.001-04:00

I arrived in Phoenix yesterday for a day of pampering and wedding preparation.

gel nails - check
pedicure - check
spray tan - check
drama - check

Our hotel is aaaaaamazing and the wedding location is beyond gorgeous.

Can't wait for the big day tomorrow!

Published with Blogger-droid v1.5.9

friday fun day

2010-09-09T20:45:00.001-04:00

In this judge-free zone called the world wide web, dare I admit that I am looking forward to a day with the crazy "Coney Carnies" tomorrow?!

Free lunch, giveaways, funnel cake, games, rides, and a half day out of the office.

A Friday full of playful games among co-workers is sure to be an ~~awkward~~ good time. It may come as a surprise to many, but the people I work with are darn competitive. I'm on the Trivia Team. And I'm terrified. My worst fear would be if we have to answer questions individually...pray for teamwork...pray for group answers. Amen.

On another good note, I don't have to plan an outfit for tomorrow because we all have matching ~~really short, strange fitting belly~~ t-shirts. 'Nuff said. Go pink team!

May your Friday be fun in its own way as well!

older, wiser...and still have a lot to learn!

2010-09-08T21:42:00.000-04:00

source

I am on a committee at work that welcomes and serves as a resource for new hires at the company.

Tonight we hosted our first event - a rooftop BBQ. The weather was gorgeous, the attendance was great, and the food was delicious.

However, I am shocked that I am now the "mentor" to these new hires.

They all looks so so little. And were so wide-eyed and nervous. Where did the last year go?! That was me just a short time ago!

And yet, at the same time, the event was hosted in a part of town where I have never been. I socialized with more people my age than I have during my entire year of work.

There is so much to offer in this city and I feel like I am just now getting my feet wet. And that is exciting. I'm really starting to enjoy it here.

I can't wait to explore new things with these new friends. And at the same time I am enjoying venturing out with old friends more than ever.

Cheers to great friends - new and old - and memorable experiences!

happiness is...

2010-09-04T00:17:00.000-04:00

...both laughing and crying on the way to work listening to the radio..."Salute a Soldier" testimonies really get to me before 7am...I cry every time I hear them. They make me feel so grateful because I cannot begin to understand the sacrifices military families make.

...Free Yagoot days. Only available to "Yagroopies" - true story.

...Looking forward to a long weekend after really not being able to tolerate one more minute of working.

...Cooler weather. Finally!

...Dewey's Pizza. Enough said...we all known I'd eat pizza for every meal.

...genuine giggling that leads to tears of laughter with good friends. Anthony & Chelsea, you guys are such a beautiful couple. I enjoy being your "third wheel" more than most of the dates I've ever been on. You are so blessed to have found a best friend in each other, and I hope you continue laughing together - it is truly wonderful to be around.

...Cold Stone Creamery. What a pleasant surprise - the strawberry cheesecake ice cream was delicious! Anthony always comes prepared with a gift card {thanks again!!}.

...Getting 8 hours of sleep! So refreshing.

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

wow.

2010-08-29T20:19:00.000-04:00

this too shall pass.

2010-08-25T21:23:00.003-04:00

Stress is not what happens to us.It's our response to what happens. And RESPONSE is something we can choose. ~Maureen Killoran

The time to relax is when you don't have time for it. ~Attributed to both Jim Goodwin and Sydney J. Harris

Thank you for all of the wonderful words of wisdom and advice! :)

Not sure if it was the kind words or the massive amounts of junk I've eaten today {starbucks, cookies, yogurt pretzels, you name it...}, but today was better than yesterday.

Time has an amazing way of healing things!

stress mitigation.

2010-08-24T21:34:00.000-04:00

I could perhaps be described as a "worry wart."

I realize that stress is all relative, and I thought I was getting better about appropriately dealing with the stresses in my life.

However, this week and last have been out of control.

I need tips to deal with these feelings.

{Because I assume losing sleep, making myself sick, and avoiding contact with the outside world is not an appropriate way to cope...}

I try to go to the gym regularly to relieve stress, but am left getting home around 9pm with an overwhelming amount of stuff to finish before the next work day.

I try to get enough rest, but can't fall asleep thinking of all the items looming on my "to-do" list.

So, please help! What helps you deal with the stress in your life? How do you get it all done? And how do you deal with the feelings of failure that accompany not being able to get it all done?

i can't make this stuff up.

2010-08-19T22:06:00.001-04:00

When I started working downtown over a year ago, I put my name on a list for a parking spot through work.

Today, I finally got a call from the parking office. They finally offered me a spot!

I thought for a second if I'd like to change parking spaces since it would be cheaper than where I am parking now. Then I realized...not only am I currently paying for covered parking, but I am also saving money by not joining eHarmony.

This darn parking garage is where all the action happens. If not for the shuttle, I would never have a date. {sigh}

This week has been particularly eventful in the ol' car shed...

this is literally what i ride to work in. classy, eh?

On my 7am ride to work yesterday, I was alone on the shuttle with the driver. We have a cordial relationship - she patiently waits for me when I'm running late in the mornings and waves each evening when I leave - but I believe we have bonded this week. She claims to have found my "soulmate," and for that I eternally owe her...

Apparently, all of the attendants in the garage believe me and "Michael" {from the 8:45am shuttle...} would be an adorable couple.

I've never met this young stallion, but her description of the dream boy: "He's super friendly, looks professional, sometimes wears glasses....and kinda short."

And that may be where Michael falls short in my book.

Hopefully things don't get awkward on the bus because hiking to work in heels is not a viable option for me. I'll keep you posted.

a {few} days late**

2010-08-16T20:08:00.000-04:00

Although this is several days late, I mean it just the same.

My dear friend, Simply MJ, had a birthday last Friday.

Meg is such a genuine, caring young lady. She truly has a heart of gold and would never wish bad things upon anyone.

I'm so glad we all got to be together this weekend, and I hope she had a wonderful birthday weekend! Although we were celebrating a friend's wedding, I hope she knows we were all wishing her a good time as well! :)

I speak for the whole gang when I say "we love you Marge!"

HAPPY {Late} BIRTHDAY!

**Apparently, despite paying my hefty bill each month, TWC doesn't feel any need to guarantee internet service. I have been thinking about this birthday post for nearly a week, but have been unable to get on the internet {that I pay for} since last Wednesday.

My roommate called to make an appointment for them to come fix it {for the fourth time since May} and they apparently made it for "anytime" on Thursday. Awesome. I don't have to work or anything. And even if I did, I'd rather spend my ENTIRE day waiting for someone to show up.

I believe we'll be looking for another service provider. Thanks for being mediocre.

happy birthday k-fulch

2010-08-10T21:48:00.000-04:00

To my "little sister" {with much delta love},

my reliable "date",

my Halloween character,

my "Patsy Todd,"

dancin' fool,

generous, caring, thoughtful friend.

May you have a wonderful 23rd birthday

{WEEK!...because you deserve it}!

cooking fresh

2010-08-09T21:41:00.001-04:00

I was sweating standing still today after work as I was waiting for the shuttle to pick me up and drive me back to the parking garage {note: was waiting for the shuttle because I didn't want to walk and get sweaty. fail.}, and that is when I decided I absolutely can't take this hot hot weather much longer. Ugh.

So, I came home and made a light, fresh dinner in an attempt to "embrace" the August heat.

Now let me share because I think it is delicious...

"EVOO" Pasta

Cook desired amount of pasta - I used whole wheat.

Rinse cooked noodles in cold water to cool.

Spray olive oil over noodles {or pour if you don't have a handy mister like I do - thanks KB}. 

Chop fresh tomato and avocado and add to pasta.

Season with Dried Basil, Oregano, Lemon Pepper {generous amount - I love this stuff}, and sea salt to taste. 

Mangia, mangia!

This pasta dish is so easy, and tastes so light and fresh even in this summer weather.

Try it! I think you'll like it!

hide ya kids, hide yo wife...

2010-08-07T16:04:00.000-04:00

I admit, I'm a wimp. Total baby.

So, when I originally heard the story of a woman waking up to a man IN HER BED about to rape her I was terrified. My worst fear {well, maybe second or third worst fear for those who know me...} come true.

And then I saw THIS breaking news report, and didn't feel so scared. Doesn't look like my neighborhood. This has to be a joke.

And THIS made me laugh even harder...is this for real?!

People are crazy. Maybe I should be scared after all...

fall into me

2010-08-04T20:19:00.000-04:00

It is too hotttttt to function.

I've had enough.

Totally ready for fall. Get at me cooler weather.

Fall and Winter are my favorite times of the year.

I'm really looking forward to this season just right around the corner!

I'm totally craving:

fall football games & tailgating

scarves & cute jackets

my birthday {even though 24 sounds OLD!}, halloween, thanksgiving and then christmas! which, ultimately means time off work and relaxation with family

pumpkin spice chai lattes - heaven in a cup

...this may be a stretch, but I'm even looking forward to outside runs in cool weather!

homeless?

2010-08-02T22:29:00.000-04:00

One thing that caught me off guard immediately when I moved up here - that showed I was in a much bigger city - is the amount of homeless people scattered about.

On my walk to work - check.

Walk to lunch - check.

Walk back to parking garage - check.

Even on the way home from work - in my own neighborhood - check.

It's very sad, but somehow I've just gotten used to it.

However, I was caught even more off guard a couple weeks ago when my roommate and I were driving to the gym and saw a group of 5 of the regular homeless in our part of town hop into a new red Matrix station wagon. What? Who paid for their new car!?

And then again today, I saw a woman that stands by the nail salon set down her sign, walk up towards the shops, take out a cigarette, and then flip open her cell phone! Where do they send this phone bill - she's "homeless" after all?

I am so confused. Even if they aren't "homeless" - I feel bad that these people have given up. They spend their days sitting out in the sun - the 90+ degree sun - when they could be contributing so much more to society.

And if they are homeless, obviously my heart breaks even more for them. I know it's not my business, but I do want to know more - where do they come from? how did they get to this place in their lives? how can they get back on track? where are their families?

The lonely, tired women I see every day on my drive home are on my heart tonight. Although I have become used to seeing many homeless in my daily routine, it doesn't make me any less sad for them.

Vacay Recap

2010-07-28T22:24:00.000-04:00

Last week I came in to work on Monday still on my "vacation high." Thankfully, I was allowed to work from home a half day Thursday and then all day Friday, so it was technically a short week in the office.

And now, here we are...another week, another slow, full week.

Which is why I thought this would be an appropriate time to share vacation pictures to remind me of the fun we had in Destin.

I loved sharing a week away with some of my closest friends!

We enjoyed dinners in the bay...

...and dinners on the beach.

We went to a FREE happy hour {still not sure what the catch was...totally F-R-E-E!}...

...which led to lots of dancing....

...which, now that I think about it, may have been the motive behind the free drinks...they wanted to see our moves!

All in all, I think the birthday girl - Jesse - had a wonderful time!

In fact, we ALL had a wonderful time - no oil on the beaches and no rain in the sky! Take me back!

Thankful

2010-07-24T09:26:00.000-04:00

I am thankful for good health and positive attitudes. For compassion and laughter, love and thoughtfulness. I am thankful for hard work that makes relaxation even sweeter, and for time away that makes moments together even more special.

Despite the hurt and heartache, perhaps sometimes it takes moments like this to remind us all what we are truly grateful for.

Wedding weekend and vacation updates will be up soon, but there have been other things on my heart for the past week. Stay tuned and give thanks in your life as well.

The Master

2010-07-06T22:10:00.000-04:00

Being that I had no 4th of July plans {unless you consider watching "Leap Year" alone plans...}, I was up bright and early on Monday for a productive day off!

Among several cute summer dresses, I also made some decorative purchases for my bedroom. Ta-da!

I love how spacious my new room is. I love that I have two full closets ~ one for pants and one for tops. I love that it has a bathroom connected, and two big windows to let in sunshine.

I love the way the curtains and the pictures I hung above my bed make the room finally look finished. I really wanted the pictures printed in that "Sephia" color, but Kinkos acted like it was impossible just to print 12x12" in black and white, so I knew that fanciness wasn't going to fly. I may try watercoloring or doing some type of wash, but there's a high chance I will mess that up trying.

I was excited about this vase-type thing I got as well. I am loving the neutral colors ~ khaki and beiges. I guess this is proof that I am my dad's daughter. Their whole darn house is earth tones.

What do you think? Any suggestions on the framed artwork?

Single Ladies

2010-07-05T15:51:00.000-04:00

This weekend I hosted my first "house party."

The adorable Bride-to-be!

The wedding party all stayed at my house to celebrate Shannon's last night out as a single lady.

We had a fabulous dinner followed by "Better than Sex" cake, a couple drinks, presents, and ~~inappropriate~~ games before going out to the bars!

I hope Shan had a wonderful time {as I know I did}. I am looking forward to this Friday when all the wedding festivities officially begin {as I'm sure she is}! =)

Do the Dew

2010-06-30T21:08:00.000-04:00

So, yesterday I was so disappointed at work because no one even acknowledged my one year anniversary. Come on, big deal here people!

BUT, it turns out they were just a little slow.

In honor of my service {a day late}, a co-worker chugged a 2 liter of Mountain Dew in 1 hour and 26 minutes. Foul, right?

source

He did this on my first day last year as part of a team dare, but being the new girl I felt too uncomfortable to laugh or show any emotions back then. Today was "a-whole-nother" {not a word, why do people say this?!} ball game ~ it was hysterical, yet made me feel bloated, shaky, and scared all at the same time.

The saddest part of it all is that two of the guys on my team regularly drink an average of 100-125 ounces of caffeine a day {between coffee, coke zero and diet mountain dews ~ their "drug" of choice}.

I can't even imagine what their teeth are going to look like in several years.

Anyway, here's a Big Dew cheers to 1 year! :)

feels like home

2010-06-29T21:58:00.001-04:00

Although they do not all live close by, I am blessed with some truly wonderful friendships in my life.

I can't describe it, but I just feel "at home" when we're together.

I'm not sure how but you know what I'm thinking before I say it, and how to make me feel happier before I even tell you when something is wrong.

Friendship Quotes

Anddd for good measure...this made me laugh:

Friendship Quotes

It is also important to note that these quotes were made for myspace...explains a lot, huh? Does anyone even do myspace anymore? I think it's creepy.

Work Woes

2010-06-28T22:31:00.000-04:00

I wish I could say I haven't posted in over a week because my life was full of exciting, fun things.

But that is not the case.

Quite the opposite actually. I have been spending a lot of time thinking and wishing I was doing fun things.

Tomorrow marks my 1 year anniversary at work, and I can't help but be bothered by the fact that I am not anywhere near where I thought I would be. I still have hardly any friends in the area, am still exhausted by a week of working, and have yet to get myself on a healthy schedule of eating and working out.

However, tonight was our last "new hire" event at work. We went to the baseball game and it was such a relief to hang out and spend time with a big group of people my age. We laughed and laughed. Drank beer. A lot. And ate even more. The best part was that it was all F-R-E-E.

Tonight served as a reminder that I am still so young. Although it is hard to relate to the group of old married men that I work with, there are definitely people my age going through the same struggles as me at work. What a refreshing thought!

This was also a reminder that I need to continue to put myself in vulnerable positions. Although the walk to the event all alone was completely uncomfortable, I'm so glad I went.

I am going to try to get back my "new girl zeal" and try joining more activities and clubs again ~ from running to Junior League, surely there is someone out there just waiting to meet a friend like me.

Happy Father's Day, Daddy-o!

2010-06-20T19:54:00.000-04:00

Love,

Your wonderful, fabuloso kiddos

awkward.

2010-06-16T22:31:00.000-04:00

I love little awkward moments. They're just so funny.

For example: The Side Hug.

Saying "What?" so many times you just give up ~ and then respond with a completely nonsensical answer.

And, you guessed it, the Who-the-Heck-Are-You? Wave.

This wave says: "Hi? I think?"

You know, when you see someone waving. Wave back hesitantly. And then shamefully realize this stranger wasn't in fact waving to you at all {duh, why would they be?!}. The girl behind you is her BFF. Burn.

The ghetto-fab: "Hey Girl, is that you?"

I always thought that it was awkward being the "middleman" in this situation. However, this morning I was proved wrong. All parties involved can feel equally awkward.

I waved at the security guard as I walked in to work {we are total buds since The Fall}, and some innocent ~~idiot~~ bystander waved at me so awkwardly.

"ohhh, heyyyyyy???"

The look of confusion she gave me made me laugh. And then I felt awkward because she thought I was just an overzealous loser with no friends who just waves at strangers and loves life at all times.

I don't want to be that girl. I have friends. Swear. Friends like the security guard, for example. We're total pals.

sweat, storms, songs & sales!

2010-06-15T21:58:00.001-04:00

With summer on the brain and my butt in the office, here's a look at what's gettin' me by:

I've had two nights of really good workouts. This may or may not be directly related to my new workout clothes! Or the fact that I've left work at 4:30 the past couple days because I've been in trainings. Sweet.
Speaking of sweets, I'm on day 2 of no goodies {unless you count the one, little, tiny spoonful of ice cream I had tonight after dinner. I, obviously, do not.} So far I'm in an ok mood, too ~ we'll see how long that lasts.
Thank to Krista's lead on a good sale, I just purchased an adorable new zipper wallet. I've been looking for a new wallet for ages. Check out the sale at Kate Spade and see what you can find for yourself!
The tornado and thunderstorm warnings that have been happening here the past couple of nights are TERRIFYING! Thank goodness I now have a roommate. And thank goodness we now have a basement {even though it does flood}.
The storms are causing dreadfully humid weather. I hate rain. And I hate humidity. BUT, this song cracks me up, so I'm trying to listen to it's message and become one with nature... ;)

image here.

Daddy's Girl

2010-06-10T20:41:00.000-04:00

There is no one in the world I look up to more than my father.

From our hour long nightly routine as a kid including bathtub games and "Simon Says" on Tony's bed to playing cards in our temporary apartment when we had no friends in a strange new city.

From listening to your random made up goodnight stories to you listening to my daily "ups and downs."

From Friday nights at Red Robin and TGI Fridays with family and friends to regular lunch dates at Panera.

From shopping at JC Penny and Gap where I first established my sense of "fashion" {hello spandex shorts and ugly red and white striped boy tops} to trips to "my" jeweler together and outfit advice before a date {although the outfit advice happens more regularly than the dates}.

From being terribly embarrassed by your singing and dancing in all public places to accompanying you in a terrible green rental jacket at Keeneland.

From the very beginning of my childhood, through awkward teenage years, and through my struggles with young adulthood, you have always been there. Not only that ~ you understand and relate to me at every age.

It amazes me that you somehow manage to always have the best advice or the perfect one-liner to make me smile.

I would not be the person I am today without your guidance, wisdom, and influence.

I love you, Dad. You truly are my best friend.

For all of these reasons and more,

Happy Birthday!

I can't wait to celebrate {all the wonderfulness of YOU} together this weekend!

Got Talent?

2010-06-07T21:39:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is the night ~~you have all~~ I have been waiting for. My big acting debut on America's Got Talent. However, I don't have a talent. And the show isn't all that great.

But...you should still watch.

When we were in NYC back in April, the four of us snagged tickets to the taping of the show. Surprisingly, it was a blast!

After waiting in line for hours and checking all electronics through security - Kari handed over her Garmin, digital camera, and 2 cell phones - we were picked from the crowd of "average looking" folks and taken to the very FRONT ROW directly behind these fools for the taping. Sharon is gorgeous in real life!

image here.

Before the ~~crazies~~ talents started, the producer asked us to do some prompted audience shots ~ 1,2,3 "laugh"....1,2,3 a random guy is sticking a drill up his nose...1,2,3 there are rats crawling on the floor...those kinds of things that really test your acting abilities. I must say ours were superb, but I can't guarantee what they will be showing me laughing at after editing ~ hopefully nothing too inappropriate.

Anyway, half of my face may be on the show in the audience for 0.00032287 seconds, so tune in to NBC tomorrow at 9est!

hey sister, soul sister

2010-06-06T19:29:00.000-04:00

found here.

I love laughs with good girlfriends.

I love that despite time apart, we can pick up where we left off.

I love sharing stories, make-up, and beds.

I love 90s music and dancing.

I love offroading in Asfran's BMW, hearing KB's contagious laugh, Southern Charm's generosity, and Simply MJs "Booty-Do."

I know Monday is going to be exhausting, but I'd do it all over again! Nashville was good to us!

techNOlogy

2010-05-27T21:20:00.000-04:00

While I am grateful for all the benefits that technology has to offer...

there is nothing that drives me more crazy than when it fails us.

Like when I try for an hour to connect to the internet and my laptop continues to say "limited connection" or "try again."

Or when I set a show to record on the DVR, and the TV has other plans for me. Thank goodness for hulu.com!

And chances are, if I'm on the phone with you and our call is dropped or the service is bad I will act pretty upset with you. I know it's not your fault, but it is so annoying to me. Please don't be offended.

It's also frustrating when I can't get pictures to download properly, excel crashes at work, or emails refuse to leave my outbox.

When all else fails I guess we should revert to "old times". Just as our landlord did this week with a special "snail mail" delivery...

source

How thoughtful was it of her to send us a cookie bouquet as a housewarming gift? Yummm-o!

weekend warrior

2010-05-24T21:14:00.000-04:00

This weekend was pretty fabulous.

I definitely made use of my time and took full advantage of my days off. I love that feeling.

I got to spend time with family on Saturday ~ so happy to see my grandparents and show them around my new city {I use the term "new" lightly as somehow I've survived here for nearly a YEAR! Wow!}.

My brother succeeded in cracking me up while he was here and my grandma shared the same relentless sweet tooth that I have, thereby convincing the whole family to snag some Graeters. Delish.

Sunday was a perfect, productive, relaxing day. Woke up and the roommate and I ate breakfast on the screened in porch in beautiful weather. Went on an hour long jog. Established a base sunburn. Lunch again on the patio. Pool time. Severe sunburn. Good book. Old lady gossip. New sandals. Dinner out. All followed by a night in freshly laundered sheets.

My Monday was not so fab. My car is now in the shop after driving to and from work with a death grip on the steering wheel.

For some reason the vibrating gas petal, backfiring engine, and flashing emergency lights in my dashboard made me feel as though my life was in danger. And now I'm back to 15 year old status ~ bumming rides and calling for a lift.

The worst part is the price tag of this repair. I already have an $88 bill and that was before they even looked at the car!

Nail Nazi

2010-05-19T23:44:00.001-04:00

Admittedly, I am addicted to acrylic nails.

Ironically, I hate going to the nail salon as it is usually a somewhat painful, awkward, and boring process.

This evening I got my nails filled by an entire cast of Koreans {as usual}. The gentleman at the front desk - name tag: "Kenny G" - escorted me to my seat and brought me water while someone else - "Sweet T." - worked on my nails. And the guy next to our nail station - "Ocho" - carried on a conversation with me throughout my time there.

How does that work? Am I also allowed to go by any random word in the dictionary? How would people at work respond if my nametag read "Sexy B8"?

I also happened to be amongst an entire wedding party ~~with a FULL cooler of wine and beer in tow~~ getting their "nails did." Somehow I let the Bride convince me to get purple nails - for some reason I felt bad telling her she had ~~terrible, awful, tacky~~ dissimilar taste. Instead I stayed silent and came home with ten glowing, lavender fingernails...

That I promptly re-painted. Totally moola well spent, right?

Anyway, the whole night made me yearn for a good laugh. Click and Enjoy!

Saving Days

2010-05-17T22:47:00.001-04:00

I have become quite the hoarder. With my Vacation Days that is.

How pathetic is it that we are forced to schedule fun into our life. And then feel guilty doing it.

For some reason I get all nervous about using my days. Not sure what I'm saving them for, but I just don't want them to be all gone!

So far I have scheduled in all but 3 measly days off. I only have 3 days left to do as I please.

Then I have to remind myself that I have fun fun vacations planned. Get me to the beach asap ~ I need a drink and a tan with some of my best friends!

And trust me ~ I know how to fit in some relaxation ;)

Anyone else this crazy or is it just me?!

Talbot in Training

2010-05-13T22:32:00.001-04:00

This past Saturday I ventured into Talbots to buy my mom's fabuloso Mother's Day gift.

My confidence was already pretty high because I got compliments on my dress ~~that happens to be from last year~~ in Starbucks, Joseph Beth, and a little boutique down the road all prior to my Talbot's experience. However, Talbots made me feel even more like a super model. Literally.

Lilly Pulitzer Marcella Tunic Dress

An adorable 50ish year old lady helped me select the perfect gift for my mom based on all the descriptions I gave her. She even ~~allowed~~ encouraged me to indulge in some jewelry for myself after I was so impressed with the store's new selection. Their stuff was a lot trendier and looks like it is suitable for a much younger audience than I envisioned. It was all what I would describe as perfect work appropriate attire.

However, I snagged these cute jewelry pieces...no work attire here. Instead, I went for totally frivolous items that cannot be worn in the office. Too bad I don't really have a social life.

Cabochon bead ring

Enamel bamboo bracelet

By the end of my time in the store, I received a business card from the store manager and an invitation to "call her for drinks" as well as an invite from the associate who helped me asking if I would be interested in modeling in their store fashion shows. HA!

I had a little laugh to myself as I left the store. Who would have ever thought I'd walk out of there with a ~~potential new career~~ confidence booster? But, I'm totally doing it! The shows are on Saturday's and there are definite incentives...and possibly new friends waiting to meet me!

Then, today in the mail I got a handwritten letter from my new 50 year old associate friend saying what a pleasure it was to meet and work with me. And that she'll be contacting ~~my agent~~ me soon about the fashion show details.

So random but I can't wait! :)

Early Retirement

2010-05-12T23:32:00.000-04:00

Ok, work's been fun, but I'm ready for summer break. Oh wait, I never again get a summer?

Forget that.

I'm ready to "retire" and have kids.

Have I mentioned what an awesome stay-at-home mom I would be? We're talking dinner every night, PTA involvement, and mega carpools.

Maybe I should put out an add since {attractive, honest and driven} single men are getting snatched off the market like crazy these days.

Did I mention I can also scrapbook. And make a mean loaf of chocolate chip banana bread. Any takers?

Unlocked In

2010-05-10T21:41:00.000-04:00

In the 10 days I have been in the new condo, I have somehow managed to put my life in danger multiple times already.

I come home to an empty condo, securely lock the door, do a quick check for anything out of place, and sit {in silence since we don't have cable yet} while waiting for my roommate to get home.

Upon her coming home, she has on multiple occasions, brought my keys in with her as she enters.

Apparently I cannot remember to take them out of the door lock when I come home. Why do I even lock the door? How hypocritical of me!

Happy Mom's Day!

2010-05-09T23:07:00.000-04:00

Today is the 23rd Anniversary of my mom having the most wonderful daughter on earth! =)

Just kidding, mom! Apparently you also have the funniest kids around...

But seriously, you are the best! I hope you had a wonderful Mother'sDay! I hope you enjoyed our weekend together and our fun afternoon atthe movies as much as I did {although I thought I would be making a Mother's Day sacrifice at the movies, I am totally surprised that I loved Iron Man 2}.

I am so grateful to have a mother that is such a great secret keeper. Growing up I always felt so comfortable telling you embarrassing things and knowing that friends and neighbors {or even dad} wouldn't be hearing my issues later. I think this was especially noticeable because many of my friends' parents did not show their children the same respect.

I have such fond memories of days out ~ whether at the toy store with the giant slide entryway, or fun at "Kids Zone" {where Candace instilled a permanent fear of warts in me}, to riding around in the shopping cart at the grocery and always begging for junk from the machines on the way out.

I am so grateful for your unconditional love. I know that no matter what you will support me 100%.

I definitely take after your sense of humor and creativity {and your ability to fall asleep during movies in record time}. You are so smart and the most caring person. It is no surprise to me that you are the only one at your work who makes sure everyone's birthday is recognized at the hospital.

Thank you, Mom, for all you do. I cannot even begin to understand or list all of the many sacrifices you have made for us and I am so grateful.

I love you always,

Bubble

p.s. I know I owe you pictures from today ~ I swear I'll get them to you :)

Reason to Celebrate

2010-05-05T23:21:00.000-04:00

I am officially all settled into the new condo. I love it.

Our older neighbor, Doris, already gave us a tour of her place and welcomed us to the neighborhood with a beautiful pot of flowers. She is nothing short of adorable. And slightly nosy, but that makes her even more cute. If she went to college, I have no doubt she would have been a total sorority girl. She had on a polo sweater yesterday and she can gossip as good as the next.

I also love all the space we have. I have the master bedroom with two closets and an attached bath. Loves it!

And having someone to relax and get my mind off work in the evenings is so enjoyable.

Tonight me, my roommate, and a friend all went to Qdoba for dinner to "celebrate" Cinco de Mayo and then we came home to have dessert on our screened in porch {another thing I am totally loving}.

I'm sure many of you don't realize this, but Cinco de Mayo is not actually celebrated in Mexico. This was told to me by a Mexican at work. And then confirmed by a Venezuelan on my team.

Therefore, it was totally appropriate for us to celebrate this fake Mexican holiday with fake Mexican cuisine. Either way, it was Delish.

Pictures of the new place to come soon...including the ~~AstroTurf~~ adorable patio.

Happy Cinco de Mayo - or Happy Hump Day - whichever is more meaningful to you :)

The Blah Blahs

2010-04-29T21:41:00.002-04:00

It's an inat7outat7comehomeandworkmore kind of week, and I don't see life slowing down any time soon.

Say something to make me laugh ~ I dare ya!

Several things that are making me smile at the moment:

The thought of me walking in to Ann Taylor to return ~~another cardigan~~ something THREE times (on separate days) and changing my mind each time. Indecisive maybe? Those cardigans are so good but so bad all at the same time...
All the posts about our NYC trip on Casey's Blog ~ she can depict the weekend prettier than I can, she's in advertising :)
Knowing that my mom is coming up on Saturday.
Visions of outdoor dining in nice weather.
This hilarious video. Who would ever videotape this and then proceed to post to the internet!? Lord only knows {well, I guess my mom knows too} how I acted when I got my wisdom teeth out. I swear I thought I was being totally normal ~ I was craving a chocolate milkshake afterall...doesn't that sound like me?
These disgust me and make me LOL at the same time.

Ok, this is clearly procrastination at its finest...off to be productive...

Happy Friday Eve to all!

Best. Trip. Ever.

2010-04-27T20:33:00.000-04:00

Made in part by:

The best hosts ever...

Thanks a million, Casey and Todd!!

Who let us act like the biggest tourists ever...

Peace, dorks.

In the best city ever...

Times Square is amazing - just like I imagined!

Full of the BEST food ever...

Does Shake Shack deliver?! Send a canoli {or two} my way as well.

And the prettiest park ever.

Central Park, obviously. We even witnessed a random wedding there.

I will never forget this vacation. Ever.

It's true - there IS an app for that!

2010-04-21T20:58:00.001-04:00

I joined the Android network this past weekend.

And I'm loving every minute of it.

There seriously is an "app" for everything imaginable.

Sprint HTC Hero found here.

So far:

I put the camera feature to use. It has the same megapixels as my digital camera {hmm...hint, hint future gift idea}

My parents and I spent mucho time in awe of "Shazam" ~ the song reader. You hold the phone out while music is playing, the phone listens, and then responds with the song and artist. {I am pathetic at this game, so this app is very helpful for future "iTunes-ing"}.
I am ~~attempting to control my eating by~~ tracking my food and exercise in a "CalorieCounter" app with built in details on thousands of foods ~ much more reliable than my mental math ;)
The "MyCoupon" App continues to feed me discounts in my area ~ 20% off at Macys this weekend? Yes, please!
More along the lines of shopping, the "ShopSavvy" feature allows you to scan a barcode or search any item and it will tell you where to find it for the lowest price.
"Where" gives restaurants, stores, gas stations, etc nearest to your current location ~~even if I have no idea where I am in this city.~~

...And this is only the beginning, there are thousands more free downloads available.

I'm amazed. What WILL they come up with next?!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sidenote: Thank you so much for all the NYC suggestions. Can't wait to put them all to good use!! Have a great weekend whatever you will be doing :)

Ok...now I'm seriously outta here to go pack. I hate packing. But it will all be worth it!

The Big Apple

2010-04-20T21:07:00.001-04:00

I am getting so excited I cannot contain myself!

On Thursday I leave with KariMac for my first trip to

NEW YORK CITY.

View of the Midtown Manhattan skyline, looking north from the Empire State Building

All images from Wikipedia

The best part of it all ~ we found flights for $38 (!!!) and we are staying with one of Kari's gracious friends who is lucky enough to live in the city. I can't wait to meet her and her hubby in person ~~after possibly stalking and being completely jealous of her blog~~.

Visiting this city has seriously always been on my "bucket list." Dad grew up in the Bronx, and I have always wanted to see more of his 'hood.

So far, we have a tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island scheduled {so cool because I think my grandparents came through Ellis Island from Italy}, tickets to the Broadway musical "In the Heights," a possible bus tour in the works, a visit to Amy Poehler's comedy club {I secretly LOVE comedy shows ~ and we may or may not be wishing for a surprise guest appearance by the owner}, and many many wonderful food joints in mind.

I will be sure to take lots of pictures.

If any of you have been to NYC and have recommendations for while I'm there, please do share!

For now, I'm working working working like crazy to get things finished so I can catch my flight in just two short days!

Off my Rocker

2010-04-15T22:58:00.000-04:00

I feel like things are totally out of control in my life.

I haven't been to the gym once this week. That may be a record.

Today as I was packing up to leave work, I realized I left something important in the conference room we were in all day yesterday. I never do this. In school I was known for counting the number of items I removed from my backpack and then making sure, one by one, each item was returned. Every class.

Until tonight I hadn't really cleaned my apartment in over 2 weeks. Gross. I saw mold forming in my toilet. Absolutely gross. This is so unlike me, totally against what I stand for ;)

Tonight I got online to check the status of my tax return that was filed in FEBRUARY and the IRS by internet and phone said they had no record of my forms. Turbo Tax charged $170 for their services and no services were provided. Good thing I checked. Normally I would have been so crazy and stressed about ensuring my taxes were properly taken care of. This year I decided to calm down and look what happened...we officially became the last minute slackers at the USPS right before midnight.

This is proof I'm meant to be a crazy, obsessive perfectionist. I thrive on my OCD {and on chocolate, but I've yet to actually prove this}.

At least I haven't lost my ability to be a total ~~drama queen~~ diva.

Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday. I need sleep.

Happy 100th Post!!!

2010-04-14T22:42:00.000-04:00

And on a totally unrelated note...

Thank goodness I signed a new lease for a condo down the road.

Apparently a pack of wild wolves moved in next door.

Ok, technically they are across the hall. And technically they are dogs, not wolves. But nonetheless, they bark. A lot. At all hours.

And it just so happens that on the other side of the wall where I've parked my bed is the {cement} ~~echo-chamber~~ stairwell out to the dog park.

Sweet. I love animals {said in a very sarcastic voice for those who don't know me well}.

Happy Birthday Buckwheat!

2010-04-12T20:22:00.001-04:00

I am in shock - my little brother turns 21 today!

This little munchkin is officially legal!

I am so thankful that in him I had a nonstop buddy growing up.

I am thankful that my tutu-wearing dance partner and easy bake oven chef did not turn out totally scarred from too much "girl time."

I am thankful for the many nights of trampoline dodgeball and "nightgames" we enjoyed together.

And for the laughs I got from him running around the house naked whenever we had a babysitter {I have no doubt we were the most difficult children to watch. ever.}

I love his subtle sense of humor that always surprises me and totally cracks me up.

Even as a kid he was hilarious ~ When riding in public elevators, Tony would collapse to the ground when the elevator stopped at a certain floor. The shock on the innocent bystanders' faces was priceless. And so was the look of embarrassment on my mother's :)

Iadmire his athleticism ~ from rollerblading down our ~~big, steep~~driveway to impressing everyone on his snowboard at the age of 4 to being a total soccer stud throughout high school and college, Tonyhas always had the sports gene {apparently this gene totally missed me}.

I am thankful for the friendship we had in each other during difficult moves and big life changes.

I love that he respects my opinion and comes to me for advice.

I enjoy watching him grow and mature. He is capable of so much more than he realizes, and it is fun to watch him find his own strengths.

I find comfort knowing that this boy would do anything for me, and I would do the same in an instant. Just thinking of him suffering breaks my heart because I wish him a life full of happiness.

Although our lives are constantly changing, I will always be your lifelong friend and protective older sister. I love you. You deserve the best.

Happy 21st Birthday, Tony!!! :)

Of course I'll pray for you...

2010-04-07T23:56:00.001-04:00

Check out this song. It totally cracks me up!

What a nice way to be totally jealous and mean.

Now meet the singer/funny-man, Jamon:

{totally cute boy found here}

He's not ugly...Where are these boys in real life?!? :)

The more I look at this picture the more I fall in love. Seriously.

Workin' for the Weekends

2010-04-06T22:31:00.000-04:00

Welp, I've kept my face off the lobby floor so far this week, so not much exciting to report here except...

I had a fabulous long weekend - patio "lunching" with a friend {and also alone on Sunday}, sleepovers {two!}, Keeneland, and even some shopping.
I spent the night at a friend's house on Friday night. We woke up bright and early {we're talking before 7:30 on a Saturday!} to try a well-known breakfast joint in her hometown. It. was. to. die. for.

I love me some pancakes, and I don't eat them often enough!

Here we are waiting outside the restaurant because we got there before it opened. Oh hiiii, dorks! :)

I thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful scenery around our neighborhood. I think the trees that line our streets are simply gorgeous.

The Easter bunny did good as always ~ so excited about new makeup and LOTS of candy! :) At work, we've reached the consensus that Easter baskets {and other childish holiday traditions} are acceptable from my parents until I am married...which at this rate, could be a while...
I cannot contain my excitement for this upcoming weekend ~ Dad comes in town! Tony turns the big 2-1! College alumnae reunion at Keeneland! Celebration on Saturday night! My first Crossfit Experience! Bahhh so much to look forward to!
A new season of "Tori and Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood" started last night...freakin' love this show. I would marry Dean. But I also love Tori, so I won't do that to my girl.

{presh pic found here}

I began packing my lunch this week...well, today. So far, so good. We'll see how long this habit lasts.
With plans every night this week, it is going by pretty fast so far ~ hopefully we don't get drowned out of the baseball game tomorrow night!

I warned you this would be a boring post...but now off to bed. Here's to hoping I only "snooze" 35 minutes in the morning. Baby steps. Nighty night!

Snooze you Lose

2010-04-02T15:57:00.001-04:00

I "snooze" no less than 40 minutes {ok, honestly ~ closer to an hour} in the mornings.

Image found here.

I so desperately want to be a morning person, but I cannot get my butt out of bed.

This has resulted in me setting my alarm for 5am to prevent me being severely late to work every day.

I just feel like that last hour is the most precious hour of sleep I get all night. Like I know that morning is almost upon me, so I have to indulge and completely enjoy every last minute of shut-eye.

What is wrong with me? Why am I so so tired?

Andmost importantly, why do they give nap time in preschool but not atwork? I'm sure adults would appreciate this precious time much morethan those little rascals do!

Friday (Observed)

2010-03-31T21:44:00.000-04:00

I have a three day weekend coming up....so that technically makes tomorrow FRIDAY (observed)!

No complaints here!

And the weather is supposed to be B-E-A-utiful! {Tangent: When is it appropriate to begin wearing a skirt without tights?! Lots of women in the office are already doing it, but I feel like it's still too early!}

I'm hoping to have a productive Friday with some errands, a ~~dreaded~~ free trip to the dentist {hooray for sweet benefits}, and {hopefully} doing lunch with a friend.

Friday night I'm going to spend the night at this girl's parent's house...gotta love some home cookin'

Saturday I'll be heading back home for Keeneland, spending time with friends, and Easter with the fam ~ dying to see my leetle brother and live vicariously through his spring break stories.

And to have dinner with my momma! Hoping the Easter Bunny {am I too old for this silly bunny?} will bring me some Cadburry Eggs. Or possibly Mr. Hoppity will understand that I'm getting older and more mature, and now like new lipgloss in my Easter basket instead of coloring books...

Can't wait!

P.S. Please excuse the use of very old pictures in an attempt to make this "fluffy" post somewhat entertaining! I really need to get out more...thus have more to take photos of...thus fueling my beloved scrapbooking hobby...and providing for a more "lively" blog...but I will stop there with my rambling for your sake.

Good Vibes & Random Quotes

2010-03-30T20:58:00.002-04:00

Once you go through something you think will kill you and it doesn’t, every day is like a present.
~Elissa B. Terris 

Others all around us are going through such awful things - illness,death, abuse, and the list goes on. In the grand scheme of things, I am atruly lucky girl.

In that context, I feel so selfish and silly to admit that it took me a long time ~~and possibly a bout of minor depression~~to get to this place. But I am a happy, thankful person as of lately.Each day I am choosing joy. If nothing else, I hope to bring a smile to another person's face each day.

Life is what we make it, always has been, always will be.
~Grandma Moses

Life is in fact what you make it, and I am trying to be more proactive in making choices that will bring me happiness and wonderful memories ~ partly because living alone has put me more in touch with what makes me feel accomplished and satisfied.

I have gotten a better balance in my life between work and personal time. I've done some successful apartment shopping {more on that later}. I have so many unbelievable friends {despite them not all being here in the city}. I have a loving family. I am proud of my independence and all that I have learned in the previous months. And I have learned to laugh at myself during not so proud moments ~ truly a gift at times!

To find in ourselves what makes life worth living is risky business, for it means that once we know, we must seek it.
~Marsha Sinetar

Although I am still uncertain about many things, I have learned so much and am becoming much more comfortable with my new life. I have a better appreciation for the relationships in my life {old and new} and the wonderful memories and experiences I have been so lucky to have. I am beyond blessed. And thank you to each of you reading for being a major contributor to my overflowing joy!

The Fat Girl Fall

2010-03-29T22:50:00.000-04:00

Today it was raining really hard on my way in to work. I hate the rain.

The lobby was therefore very wet {and apparently very slippery}.

I made a grand entrance by sliding across the tile face first.

Even the security guard {who normally does not even return my polite "goodmornings"} came to tell me I should go see the nurse.

The worst part is I was walking with a guy on my team. Totally have to see him everyday.

Although my knee is severely bruised, I didn't spill my latte. Totally saved the precious cargo ~ thereby making this a "Fat Girl Fall."

So graceful. So terribly embarrassing. And quite painful.

Forgive me Wildcat, for I have sinned.

2010-03-28T22:34:00.000-04:00

For UK fans everywhere, last night was a BIG game. Also a BIG disappointment.

Please forgive me for accepting an invitation to dinner with a boy on this same evening. I did request we go to a restaurant with many TVs. And that our table be directly in front of one. Perhaps I was being a ~~major pain in the rear~~ little bit difficult.

This year's basketball team was just so lovable. So fun to watch. Although they didn't play like they wanted to win last night, I truly believe they are the best team this year.

However, hearing "I think you are adorable" after shedding a couple of tears on a first date helped ease the pain of the loss a bit {though I still can't believe we lost}.

Although the wildcats didn't score enough points to win, the boy scored several points in my book ~ he was successful in making me laugh, made me feel really comfortable, very attractive, and it didn't hurt that he opened the car door for me every time I got in. :)

Apartment Advice

2010-03-24T21:29:00.001-04:00

I got a notice yesterday that my lease is almost up. ~~Got really stressed out.~~ And now it's decision time.

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

Who knew this would even be a debate a year ago when I was living it up in the sorority house with 45(!!!) roommates!? I *gasp* am actually enjoying the independence of living on my own. My how times have changed...

I thought it best to make a list of pros and cons, and possibly get some advice from others.

To stay:

Ok, to start, there is the obvious little fact that I am a complete neat freak. Slightly obsessive compulsive. Possibly a little difficult to live with. No big deal.
I thoroughly enjoy lounging around in the comfort of my own apartment in my "nightie" without fear of offending any roommates.
I have settled into a good routine ~ this is the only time in my life where it's all about ME, right?
I LOVE the location of my place ~ close to the grocery, target, restaurants, shopping, surrounded by "youngins" {who I wish wanted to talk to me a bit more}, in a safe neighborhood {I may or may not be a total wimp}, less than a 10 minute drive to work...thank you again to my BFF's family for helping me find this little gem :)
The thought of moving all of my belongings {couch, bed, washer/dryer, etc} ~~gives me a major panic attack~~ sounds inconvenient.
Living in an apartment complex offers many perks...think free maintenance, pool in the summertime, parking garage, etc, etc

To move:

It is lonely coming home to an empty place on Friday nights...and waking up alone on the weekends...a roommate may be nice...{but I'm not completely sold on this yet...}.
I could save money at another location.
I would ~~probably~~ eat healthier if I lived with someone and we could cook good meals together...cooking for one is HARD! Not to mention I can't get motivation beyond throwing together a salad or heating a baked potato.
I wish I had a patio to enjoy nice spring/summer weather. And a little more space would be nice.

I can't decide! Any thoughts or words of wisdom!?

P.S. Congrats to KB on passing her second CPA exam!! You're halfway there! :)

Packed House

2010-03-23T20:50:00.000-04:00

Ok, off topic but I need to get something off my chest. What is Miley doing on Idol!? She is 17. She isn't even old enough to vote. And she is on here to give advice to each contestant? I like a little "Party in the USA" as much as the next girl, but I am a little shocked she is the "icon" they've brought on this week...shouldn't she earn some credibility first...maybe reach her 21st birthday...I'm just sayin'...

And now...speaking of Party in the USA...let's talk about this past weekend.

Three of my best friends {since high school ~ surprising how long ago that was, time flies!} came up to visit me. The apartment is definitely not made to house this many people, but I LOVE constantly being surrounded by friends. We made it work and had a blast {thank you girls, for being so flexible with your sleeping arrangements}!

Notice the skinny jeans I'm wearing...what a good "investment" :)

On Friday night we went to dinner with Cincinnati friends and then out for a while. I never go out anymore, and it was so much fun to dance the night away like old times! Thank goodness we found a bar with rap music. I was worried the night was taking a turn for the worst when my friends explicitly stated they wanted to "twirk it" and we were listening to a live band play OAR songs on repeat.

But, alas, we found a bar that offered rap music galore {as well as the occasional stripper pole ~ why are they so common in the bars in this town!?}

Ha! Look how uncomfortable I look in my cardigan. The cardigan collector strikes again. Note to self: Cardigans should not be worn in the bar. While attempting to get jiggy with it. And ~~heaven forbid~~ while hoping to have some sex appeal.

Saturday was spent relaxing, shopping, and celebrating a UK win. A gracious friend from HS and his wife invited us over for pizza and the game. What a great game and what a great couple. Thanks again for having all of us!

It is always bitter-sweet when my weekend guests leave. I am left feeling so lucky to have such amazing friends, yet so sad that I don't get to spend time with them more often. For this reason, I choose to believe the old saying that "distance makes the heart grow fonder."

Refuse to Lose

2010-03-21T14:41:00.002-04:00

I have more to come about this unbelievable weekend that is coming to an end...but I believe it is important to first pay tribute to the CATS after an amazing game last night {Kansas - not so lucky - WOW!}.

Image & Recap here from NCAA website

We had a high school reunion of sorts last night and I got to enjoy watching the UK Game with three of the largest fans {Mags, AJ, and B} in all of the Big Blue Nation. I know I'm not on their level and I don't claim to be, but they have opened my eyes to the following items.

I completely adore this year's team. If you haven't read this touching story about what a fun-loving group of boys this is, you must check it out.

The "Freshman Quartet" are the sweetest group of friends {and pretty good at playing ball ;) }. The close relationship between Bledsoe, Cousins and Wall tugs at my heartstrings. There is nothing like feeling so comfortable with each other and getting along together so well on and off the court. What a college experience. You must watch this video ~ I'm obsessed with their "swagger."

For me, the final heartthrob on the team is Mr. Krebs ~ UK Senior who doesn't get much play time, but whose positive attitude and lightheartedness are loved by all. His final 3 point shot {to blow Wake Forest out of the water by 30 points} brought happy tears to my eyes. He sounds very thankful to be a part of the tradition that is Kentucky Basketball, and he brings humor to the bench. Check out this hilarious impression of his teammates {you MUST wait until 1:04 of this clip ~ you'll die laughing. I did. About 12 times already}. Who knew this quiet student in my business classes had such humor!?

Don't even get me started on our coach. Cal is so eloquent with his words. Completely on top of his game. Love him.

Image from old Sports Illustrated article here.

GO CATS! Continue to Refuse to Lose!

Cardi Hardy

2010-03-18T23:00:00.000-04:00

Do NOT let me buy one more cardigan!

Current Cardi Count: 29

And this does not include "sweaters" of a similar fashion excluding the buttons. Nor does it include light jackets {also used for layering}.

This obsession is officially OOC.

Please contact the fashion police with the next offense.

Spring's Simple Pleasures

2010-03-17T20:03:00.002-04:00

Today I am completely indulging in the fact that:

The ~~days~~ nights seem much longer. I've done laundry, gone to the grocery, eaten dinner, and watched some DVR and it is STILL light outside. Can't beat that.

While I enjoy the coziness of winter and the beauty of a fresh layer ofsnow, I realize all do not share this same opinion. Now others are finally coming out of hibernation!

My sunglasses now have a purpose in life.

Ice Cream is officially in season.

Diet Coke has a certain refreshing, crispness about it that isintensified when sipped in the car with the windows down and sunroofopen.

Happy Hours will begin to occur more frequently.

Patio seating is now available at a restaurant near you.

{Green Beer} Cheers to Spring's Arrival!

Random Ramblings

2010-03-16T22:00:00.001-04:00

It was brought to my attention this weekend that I suffer from a tragic disease of sorts. An undeniable, unrelenting sweet tooth. I believe it's hereditary {from my Mom's side of the family}, but seriously how on earth do I cure it!? I cannot resist sweets, especially around all this delicious Easter candy {in particular ~ Cadberry Cream Eggs and Starburst Jelly Beans}, frozen yogurt, and Girl Scout Cookies. Yummmm-yum!

{Image Here}

Also on the topic of food, I know this is gross, but my apartment smells like vegetables constantly {funny because I know I eat more chocolate than I do veggies}. Does anyone have any tips on how to make my disposal stop smelling funny?! Suggestions seriously needed.
Tomorrow is St. Patty's day ~ I'm guessing it's unacceptable to pinch the Prez if he forgets to wear green ;)

{Image of the Chicago River on St. Patrick's Day found on Wikipedia. How cool is this?!}

I'm getting very annoyed with my DVR lately. Although I have series of shows set to record {eh-em, Desperate Housewives I love you}, it is not working and I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong. Have any of you had this issue? It literally has an "X" through the show recording and won't give me any other options.
Since I can't watch DVR, I've been forced to watch part of American Idol tonight. How do you all feel about Ellen as a judge this season? I haven't watched this season much because the show just doesn't do it for me like it used to, but I do adore Ellen.
Have you filled out your NCAA bracket? Obvi, I'm betting UK all the way!

Go cats!

I finally broke down and invested in my first pair of ~~skinny~~ straight leg jeans and I cannot get enough of them. They are the most comfortable pair of jeans I own now and I feel so stylish. How did I not come across these things sooner!?

{Citizens of Humanity "Amber" found online here.}

Last week I was invited to a "game night" with some friends in the area. I haven't laughed as hard as I did that night in a very, very long time. It was hilarious and all week I have been wishing I could go again, but it is hosted every other Thursday night so I will have to wait. Although I completely embarrassed myself by failing to describe "Larry Bird" and "Shawn White," I would definitely feel comfortable showing my face in front of these people again because they were the most welcoming, accepting group of people I've met in the city.
And finally, I am looking forward to hopefully seeing my BFF while she is home this week and spending a weekend with some beloved high school friends. So cool that we are all such good friends despite the very different paths our lives our leading us in at the moment.

Dixie Land Delight

2010-03-15T21:41:00.000-04:00

The past several days, I spent a wonderful long weekend {SB oh10, if you will} in Gatlinburg with some of my best friends.

{Thanks to Southern Charm for kindly opening her lake house for us!}

I came home with loads of outlet goodies (and therefore much less money), but nada one photo...double oops!

Our THREE day weekend can basically be summed up by:

Driving, driving, driving.

Eating, Eating, {and more} Eating.

Basketball {Win!}, Basketball {Win!}, Basketball {Win!}.

Shopping, Shopping, Shopping.

Girl talk, Gossip, Giggling.

And in true tourist fashion, we spent a night at the Dixie Stampede in Dollywood!

{Image from here.}

Yes, folks....we ate an entire 3 course meal with our paws while watching random farm animals run in circles. And it was very entertaining.

Now back to the grind...Daylight savings sure makes for a difficult start to the work week! Shew I was tired today!

Scariest Thing about Living Alone

2010-03-04T21:23:00.001-05:00

I used to think it was falling asleep {I swear I can sometimes hear people messing with my deadbolt}. Or showering {think rapist ripping back the curtain and you're left there completely exposed}.

But, alas. The scariest thing to do when living alone is to vacuum.

{Image found Here.}

The boogie man comes out when the vacuum is on. Especially when it's dark outside. And no one can hear you scream for help.

I hate how loud they are.

But I survived another round of it tonight. I'm alive to vacuum another day.

And now I'm getting in the shower. At night. Wish me luck.

Cherry-licious

2010-03-03T21:12:00.001-05:00

A little birdie told me a new Starbucks drink hits the streets tomorrow.

Now introducing:

the Dark Cherry Mocha

I already have a date set with the coworkers for a coffee break at 3. Sounds ahhh-mazing!

In other breaking news: I dropped my electric bill in the mail without a stamp today. Wonder what will happen next.

{image from here}

Random Ramblings

2010-03-02T22:00:00.001-05:00

I don't have anything exciting or important enough to deserve an entire post, so instead here are some random thoughts currently on my mind:

I am excited that I have nearly influenced four friends to start blogging. Probably not completely my doing, but still...I'm excited and I love reading them.
Speaking of reading...I want to start reading for pleasure again. Really, I want to find hobbies in general. I need something I look forward to and really enjoy doing. {Besides watching TV....oops on the next bullet...}
I am ashamed to admit I'm pumped about watching Kate Gosselin on Dancing with the Stars...I've never watched this show before, but she has piqued my interest.
It is extremely cheap of me, but I have been sleeping bundled in a sweatshirt {or my "sleep sweater"...for those who are familiar with that ratty thing ;) } and socks instead of turning on the heat in my apartment.
The gym has been easier to go to now that I am not working 5329487 hours a day AND that there is a cute trainer that comes to talk to me each time I go...although I feel like he's totally judging my workouts. Maybe if I increase the flirting I'll get some free training tips.
I'm already stressing out about my spring wardrobe. That season confuses the heck out of me...probably because it's confused. The weather can never decide if it wants to be warm, cool, rainy or not. Do you all have the same issue?
I've been here about 8 months and still have less than 5 friends in the area. Sad. Therefore, I'm thinking about joining Junior League {after being inspired by a particular friend}, and I'm trying to think of other ways to meet new people. Dad suggested bowling league...probably because both groups have the word "league" in the title. I'm terrible at bowling.
I am dying to get dressed up and go on a date. Probably not in my foreseeable future. Wah wahh...
It seems I have a lot of money on the line if I can recreate my curly bob 'do...I haven't given up and I'll definitely keep you updated. I have your bets in writing, afterall ;)

I think that's all I will bore you with today. Now I'm going to catch up on some DVR. Hope everyone is having a great week....tomorrow is the halfway mark already! yayyy.

New Hair Did

2010-02-24T22:22:00.003-05:00

Warning: I'm about to be transformed into one of those creepy bloggers that takes photos of themselves and posts them like people actually care. Let's assume this is another outcome of me living alone.

I got my haircut after work today by my adorable hairdresser {thanks for the reco, Southern Charm}. I usually have such a difficult time finding someone who can ~~control my unbelievably thick hair and work a straightener through my curly locks~~ cut and style my hair the way I like, but Monica has definitely won me over.

She is one of those stylists you can go in and list things you don't like about yourself/your hair and she somehow creates a way to minimize those flaws...aka read my mind.

For fun, she showed me how to style my hair in a "flirty" new way.

{Here they come...my first narcissistic blog photos....}

{...but for real, I think the curls are presh!}

With my confidence running high, I decided to hit up "single's night" at Kroger. {What an exciting night...bet you're getting jealous by this point...ha!}

There is a rumor around town {that I admit is silly, but secretly wish it would materialize for me} that the grocery by my house is the best place for singles to pick up a date.

Everyone agrees on this.

However, no one can agree on which night of the week is "Single's Night"...I've heard Tuesday AND Wednesday.

And there are conflicting messages about the "Single Signal." By either putting Diet Cokes OR Canteloupe {both equally random and neither has worked for me yet} in your cart, you're apparently giving off "the vibe" and inviting others to ask you on a date.

This week I covered all bases...went to the grocery two nights in a row, and loaded my cart with the aforementioned goods. No Luck Tonight...

No, No! Don't worry. It's nothing wrong with me. It's all these mixed messages around the event. Once the grocery gets this cleared up, I'm sure my social calendar will be exploding.

Until then, I am choosing to distract myself by baking Chocolate Chip Banana Bread to bring in to work tomorrow. At least I'm the favorite employee among the 50 somethings I work with! :)

Tribute to my "Twin"

2010-02-23T21:49:00.004-05:00

Today marks a very important day.

For 23 years ago, a very special person was born...

She is very attractive ~ what a compliment that people continue to get us confused...

{So annoying...but you know I was obligated to mention the twin thing...}

Her silly and outgoing personality continues to make everyone around her smile ~ she is quite often the life of any party!

{Other pictures depicting her as "life of the party" could be considered blackmail...let's just say I have fond memories of walks home with gigantic boxes of MadMush, GoonBay, and Thursday nights galore}

Always up for an adventure...from Canada Formals to the Big Apple...I love that she is open to trying new & exciting things.

Her family is just as welcoming, entertaining, and kind as she is...

{The door to her home...and her aunt's, grandma's, etc...is always so graciously open}

As much fun as she is, she is just as smart. I greatly admire her ambition and amazing intuition.

{...Also jealous of her expertise in Excel and her ability to find amazing deals on everything!}

Life just wouldn't be the same with out you...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KARIMAC!!!

You deserve the best today and always!

Be Inspired.

2010-02-22T21:25:00.001-05:00

Today at work we had a 2 hour session on balancing work and home life {whatever that means for me right now...insert work/life balance issue here}.

What an awesome way to spend my afternoon ~ this session was extremely entertaining, funny, and very insightful! The free lunch was nice too.

I cannot wait to put to use some of the tips and words of wisdom that were shared.

The recommendation that hit me the hardest was creating a "bucket list" of 100 things to do before you die. I know it sounds cliche, but the things this guy has crossed of his list were amazing! From running marathons to riding 50 foot whale sharks to visiting over 100 countries in his lifetime.

I want to do these things. I need to stop putting things off and waiting for my life to start.

My life is now.

Work is a part of my life, but not all of it.

I'm beginning my "100 List" tonight. It's not a quick exercise or a permanent commitment. Instead, this list is meant to be an ongoing reminder of the bigger picture. As life changes, substitute new dreams and goals so that the list still fits you.

By crossing off at least two items per year, think of how many unique experiences you could accomplish in your lifetime.

Don't let life pass you by. Make a conscious effort to live your fullest life possible - whatever that means for you personally.

Where Am I?

2010-02-17T22:23:00.002-05:00

Directions: Try THIS, and then read below.

Ever since I started working, I've been ~~a little~~ self-conscious of my geography skills. Fellow co-workers talk about crazy countries that I didn't even know existed, what beaches in Turkey are the nicest, why Brussels {is that a country? or a city?} is an "easy" place to live, etc...

And I smile {it's what I do best} politely. Until I can google what the heck they're talking about.

Then my grandmother sent me this above link. And lowered my confidence another couple of points.

I guess before I attempt to conquer the world {in terms of geography, that is}, I first need to start on common ground...I scored a whopping 82% on this "Know Your States" quiz...pretty low for living in the same country my entire life.

New England States...a total blur.

I swear, Tennessee was to the right of Kentucky last time I referenced a map. Aren't they both in the "deep south" ;)

And the worst part...I placed Ohio left of Illinois. I cannot get in my head where this silly state is supposed to be amongst the vast Land of Liberty.

Where am I? I'm not exactly sure, but please come visit if you can find me.

So, how do you compare? Are you smarter than a 5th grader? Could you pass elementary school Geography?!

All the single ladies...

2010-02-14T16:42:00.000-05:00

All the single ladies...put your hands up! {I know I'm a dork, you don't have to tell me.}

Happy Valentine's Day, readers!

Thank goodness my momma knows where to buy boxes of chocolates.

And thank you to my brother for breaking up with his girlfriend prior to V-Day so that he could invite me to dinner and a movie. He is totally adorable. {I wonder how many people will mistake us as a couple...}

Vancouver 2010

2010-02-10T21:19:00.003-05:00

I'm excited for the Winter Olympics to begin on Friday.

Winter Olympics > Summer Olympics. Obvi.

I have fond memories of watching figure skating as a little girl. Me and my best friend would lay on the carpet in our sleeping bags for hours watching Brian Boitano, Nancy Kerrigan, Kristi Yamaguchi and others. This sport sure saw some drama in the 90s...

Ski Jumping, Speed Skating, and Snowboarding amaze me as well because I realize how many times I've been skiing and am still terrible!

Olympians have so much discipline. It is so impressive.

What is your favorite event in the Olympics?!

{check out the Vancouver 2010 website here}

Getting My Life Back....One Day at a Time

2010-02-09T19:23:00.000-05:00

I left work yesterday at 6:15 ~ which is essentially like me taking a half day. As I was saying bye to my coworkers, my boss said "You're looking guilty."

Yeah, probably because slaves aren't ever allowed to stop working. Guilty.

Then today I left at 5:45. Total rebel status.

The irony is that the rest of the world has been totally against me.

Yesterday, all power in my town was off from about 6-10pm. Sweet. I got off the exit by my house and thought the world was ending and no one had warned me. Police were directing traffic at every intersection, the gym was closed {I may or may not have celebrated at the sight of this}, and people were acting like maniacs.

Today, I wanted to get my nails done after work, but apparently the entire nail salon took a "snow day." That's funny ~ I didn't get a snow day. And I'm stronger because of it.

Oh well, nothing wrong with having some time to relax while the town shuts down.

Please do not mistake this post as any form of complaining.

To My Best Friend:

2010-02-08T22:23:00.001-05:00

May you have a wonderful Birthday full of love, laughter, and fun {presents are good too}!

I wish we could be together, but I am thinking of you and wishing you a very happy day!!

In honor of YOU today, here are the top 23 reasons why I love you to pieces:

It feels like we've been friends forever - we just "get" each other.
You are such a considerate person.
You always maintain a positive outlook on life.
Your laugh is contagious.
Said laugh makes me feel hilarious at all times.
You are so generous and never jealous.
You are driven.
Between surprise notes and setting the coffee pot each night, you make the best roommate any girl could ask for.
After setting the coffee pot, you make better lattes than Starbucks {and you're kind enough to share your tricks with me}.
You are good at pretending to enjoy watching movies and Friends episodes ~~for less than two minutes until I fall asleep~~ with me.
You understand and comply with my OCD habits.
When ~~on occasion~~ these habits get in the way of me living a normal life, you quickly bring me back to reality.
You are a blast to vacation with ~ from the Florida Keys to cruises to taking on Chicago.
You are such a sneaky "spy" {hint: Florida}
We share a LOVE for pizza {any kind, althoughBBQ chicken would most likely be the top choice if we were given anoption}. The more I think about it...we don't really discriminate against any type of food...
You are an understanding listener.
You are fun to go out with
...and to stay in with.
You are so smart and level-headed, and I have so much respect for you because of it.
You give the world's best compliments, when in fact you deserve the praise.
Your voice is beautiful ~ whether it be singing while getting ready or during recruitment, I envy that you can carry a tune.
I miss you so much {ready for you to move back home}, but when we are together we still have so much to talk about.
I love that you love me back ~ and your family welcomes me as their own.

Happy, Happy Birthday Krista!!!!

The Bare Essentials

2010-02-07T18:36:00.000-05:00

There has been a major struggle going on between my inner germaphobe and my {recent} tighwad instinct.

Everyday as I literally scratch my face with the dirty, worn out bristles of my makeup brush {see below}, I think to myself: "Hey OCD, you might want to splurge on new brushes soon."

And the cheapster thinks back: "Are you serious?! Brushes are so expensive for no reason."

{Ew. Sick. Sick. This is the exact same brush - old stiff one on left, new luxurious beauty on right}

Well this weekend I gave in. I went to the Bare Minerals store only for new foundation, and left with much more. I made a new "friend" with the sales associate, and {as I usually do when someone lets me out into public} started making small talk with her. She quickly informed me I've been using incorrect makeup brushes all along...

Apparently, my blush brush is supposed to be angled...my foundation brush is only suitable for "light" coverage...you're supposed to have a separate brush blush and warmth brush, mixing is a sin....and on and on...

I decided then and there I needed to whip my makeup routine into shape. However, I must have given off a chincy vibe because my friend gave me $10 off for no reason and she gave me 2 weeks worth of samples of a primer for my foundation! She just said she liked me! {Add her to the list of friends found here}

Folks, get yourself some fresh brushes if you haven't done so in a while. My morning routine was exceptionally enjoyable today!

And needless to say, I will also be splurging for brush cleaner more often as well.