I'm sure many of my blog readers have come across MckMama's blog a time or two (or maybe 200 times a day if you are like me...). Anywwwwwaaayyyy- Stellan is in the hospital and is about to be sedated and put on a ventilator due to a very strong case of RSV. The entire McKinney family is amazing, and this woman gives to the world daily through her faith, prose, and outlook on life. I know she would appreciate if we gave back with sending some prayers their way.
Link here:
Man...I think I am behind on some posting. So where we go...
As my last post mentioned, Rob's 27th birthday was on December 18th. On the night before (the 17th, obviously) I had a small surprise party thrown for Rob at the Cheesecake Factory. My parents and sister came, as well as Rob's longtime friend, JP and his wife Toni, as well as our neighbors Phil & Teresa and Rob's Brother and fiance. It was such a nice, fun time- and Rob had NO idea about the party!!!!!
On the actual day of his birthday- he worked and then I think we did something that night, but I can't remember what. Hmmm- maybe this is why I should blog more frequently. I digress.
Then on December 20th, we attended an "Ugly Sweater" party at the home of our friends, Justin and Kathryn. Rob and I made our sweaters, and they were quite the hit.
Rob's was 3 Naked Barbies with the words "Ho Ho Ho" above them. And yes...I will take credit for the idea! I thought of it all myself!
My sweater I also made- complete with a stocking that read "Misteltoe Me", a naked Ken doll, ugly red felt bows (and a HUGE red felt bow on the back which can't be seen) and ornaments hanging off of the neck line. The icing on the cake, would have to be the Christmas Lights that were poked all over the sweater. This picture makes it hard to see them, but they are there =)
On December 22nd, We celebrated my 26th birthday. I managed to wake up sick with a cold the day after the sweater party, so I wasn't really feeling up to a big birthday dinner that evening. Rob asked me to decide what I felt like doing...and I certainly did. Rob came home from work, and we hung out together for a while, just catching up on our day. Then we put on our comfy pajama type clothes and hopped in the Tahoe. We ran by the dry cleaners, and then made our way to Sonic for dinner in the car :) Then it was off to Starbucks for a Grande Caramel Apple Cider for me, and a Coffee for the hubby. We then drove over to Deerfield, and spent the next 2 hours looking at the amazing Christmas lights. I have ALWAYS wanted to grab Starbucks and go look at Christmas lights with Rob- and in the 3 years that we have been together, we haven't done that!!! So it was the PERFECT birthday, and we loved it.
Christmas Eve- Rob's brother Ryan (also my BIL) and his fiance, Kate came over to our home for our Christmas between the 4 of us. We had chili and then opened presents. It was a great time (mmmm, for the most part) and we are so thankful that we both have our families close, so we can spend time together.
On Christmas Day, my parents, sister, and my grandparents all came over to our home and we had Christmas Morning here at the Spencer house!!!! It was a wonderful time, and we are truly SO very thankful for our family. We opened presents, laughed--and enjoyed some Monkey Bread and Fruit Salad which I prepared for Breakfast :)
At around Noon, Rob and I left and went to Christmas Day Brunch with Rob's dad. Kate and Ryan also joined us, and we celebrated Christmas/Birthdays on Wednesday afternoon with Rob's Family.
After Brunch, Rob and I went back to my parents house, for Christmas Dinner! My parents had been out of town in San Diego for the Poinsettia Bowl since my dad officiated that game. They didn't get back home until Christmas Eve, so my grandmother, my sister, and me all prepared dishes for Christmas Dinner. I'm telling you...my family can cook. However my jeans are NOT thanking me today =(
Christmas was VERY full and VERY busy this year, but I wouldn't have it any other way!!!
Now onto the home renovations....as our Christmas Gift to each other- Rob and I decided we would install hardwoods in the entire downstairs. We went and purchased the wood..and Rob spent 3 days STRAIGHT...I mean...12-13 hours a day ripping up carpet, prepping the floors, and installing the hardwoods, as well as laying down new baseboard. The floors look amazing, and I am SO INCREDIBLY thankful and grateful for all of the hard work (and sweat) that Rob put into those floors. It looks gorgeous. While Rob was installing the hardwoods- I was painting the long hallway that we have downstairs. I have a wedding wall that I am in the beginning stages of, so paint was the first step. Done. Painting is done =) I will take pictures of the downstairs just as soon as we have everything complete!!!
I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and will talk with you all soon=)
It's a very special day in our home :) Today is Rob's 27th Birthday!
We celebrated a day early by having a surprise birthday party for him last night at Cheesecake Factory! I had planned it all by myself, and was even further impressed that I kept my mouth shut about it! It was a wonderful time, and we are so lucky to have such wonderful friends and family in our lives.
To my Husband,
It is incredible to share this special day as your wife. I love you beyond words can say and you encourage me daily to be a better person. You make my heart beat fast, and continue to touch the places of my heart I never knew existed.
Love,
Your Wife
Today we celebrate our Two Month Anniversary as The Spencers.
I love you with all of my heart, sweet Rob. Thank you for choosing me.
Love,
Your Wife
Trish...you made my day :)
She has declared my blog (for a reason unbenounced to me!!!) a Hot Blog, and has presented me with this award!!!
I love it!!!! Thank you TRISH for doing this. I truly appreciate it. I have added a counter on my sidebar to see how popular I am to make me feel good to see how much traffic my blog is getting- to entice me to blog more and more. I had so much positive feedback on my post a while back regarding some issues going on with myself. I wasn't sure about opening myself up to the world wide web and blogosphere as I did in that post, but my post did touch some people, and hit home- so that made me feel good.
I'm in the middle of writing a new post that has some awesome information in it, but it's taking me forever because I'm lazy because I'm trying to word it the way it will come across the best. Putting my heart out there.
Anyway....enough of my ramblings. I am supposed to Link Back to Trish's Blog which I have done, should you click on this sentence I just typed!!! as well as nominate some others!!!
So here we go:
1) Click for Trish's Blog Trish has some mad, MAD photography skills. Why oh WHY do all of these precious photographers that I love live so far away???
2) Click for Sydney Grace's Blog Sydney is an adorable little girl who was born directly into the arms of Jesus on November 30, 2007. Sydney's mother and father, Alyssa and Ian- narrate this blog, and it's just real life, raw, nitty gritty, emotions. Full of truth, hope, and of course, Grace. I attended church with Alyssa and Ian back in the day, and I truly miss them. You can link over to their son's blog as well, from Syd's- and I encourage you to read this blog of incredible determination, question, and strength.
3) Click for MckMama's Blog I LOVE this blog!!! MckMama is mommy to 4 precious kiddos, and a wonderful photographer. There is FAR to much that she incorporates into her blog, for me to write any type of short description- so trust me on this one...just go read it. Just do it. Now.
4) Click for Ashley Adams Blog Ashley Kate's blog means a lot to me, because it was the very first blog that I ever read. Her blog is what introduced me to the world of blogging. Ashley's blog is the story of a little 3 year old girl, who has touched more hearts than you can imagine. It is a touching story of her continuous journey through life as a true fighter.
5) Click to Link to Amy's Blog Ugh, another blog of an amazing mommy and photographer who AGAIN....lives far away from me. Amy and Alyssa (from Sydney's blog above) have become best of friends, and I truly admire their friendship. She has some funny tales from her kiddos, as well as some amamzing photos. Check it out!
Well..I don't have any breaking news to report from our Thanksgiving Holiday, so I am sure that is a good thing! It was pretty low key. Since the grandparents were just here in October for the wedding, and since they will be coming back for Christmas, we decided it would be alright for it to just be a smaller Thanksgiving this year. Not to mention, my dad is officiating the OSU vs OU game today, so he left Friday morning to head to Stillwater.
I stuffed myself full as can be on Thanksgiving, which is half of the fun, right??? Everything was so good!!! I even volunteered to make the dressing, using my grandmothers fantastic recipe! I will admit...for it being my very first time to tackle that recipe, it turned out pretty darn good!! Of course I somehow think that I will be "nominated" to now make the dressing every year, HA! We just spent the day at my parents and my sister was there as well.
Friday I had a chiropractor appointment at 8:30 so I was out with the crowds!! I will admit that I went into Wal-Mart looking for a certain gift for a certain family member, and I was able to find it- so that was a plus!!!! Chiropractor appointment went awesome, and if anyone needs a recommendation for a good Chiropractor in Frisco, I highly recommend Dr Wilson. Anyway, anyway...came back home and Rob and I ran a couple of other small errands...and that was about it. OHHH-- then last night we went to the Holiday in the Square. The light show was awesome, and Rob and I had a great time walking around in the crisp, cool air. We ate at an Italian restaurant in Frisco Square called "Josephine's' and it was really good!!!!
Today has been a lazy day- and I have a pot of Chicken Tortilla Soup simmering on the stove for dinner this evening!
I think we are going to attempt to head over to the Shops at Legacy tomorrow to take our picture for our Christmas Cards...so I'll let you guys know how that turns out!
I hope you all had a very very Happy Thanksgiving- talk to you all soon!
It's more than apparent that when things are tough for me...the blogging is less than mediocre on my blog. Well, it's never anything to jump through hoops over...but the blog sure is a roller coaster ride- as is my life.
I've been being taught a very hard, hard lesson in the last few months. I think the last few months..mmm...probably August-Today have been among the toughest in my life. The one truly magical, wonderful, love-filled, irreplaceable break that I experienced was that of October 6th(ish) - October 20th(ish). The week of our wedding and honeymoon. Those weeks of family and friends, and most importantly my husband and me becoming one- just cannot be topped. Hands down, October 11th was the very.best.day.of.my.life. I became a wife. I married my Prince Charming. I married the man who caused me to stumble and fumble over my words when he walked into my office probably almost 3 years ago to the day. I was lost in him. I still get lost in him. He married me. He chose me. I knew I chose him a very long time ago, and if I'm being very honest, I lived each day wondering if he would continue to choose me. He just seemed....like he deserved more. Like he could get better. I have made mistakes. I have made plenty of mistakes in life. I have so many regrets. More regrets than the tears that fall from my eyes at this very moment. How I wish, in a way, that I could go back and do the years of 2001-2005 over. But, as I sit and think that- I'm also reminded that if I had not done the things that I did (or didn't do)- then who's to say I would end up where I am? Who's to say that Rob would have walked into my office and steal my heart that November day in 2005. I doubt, very seriously doubt, that I would have had that job in 2005- had I done things differently 2001-2005. So it's a double edged sword. I guess I want my cake and I want to eat it too.
But the truth is, I am today- where I am. Continuing to look back is not going to help me move forward. I think it's important to remember how it felt back then...and it's important to realize maybe where you should have done things differently back then- but use those memories to help you soar in the future.
I am down right now. I am stressed, I am sick to my stomach a majority of the time. I feel useless, I feel hopeless, I feel like a failure to my husband. I feel like a failure to myself. He has worked so very hard- harder than I can even put into words, to get where he is in life. To provide the kind of life that he has for him and his life partner. But he has me with my arms and legs wrapped around his leg- like a 2 year old does to their daddy. Keeping us from running forward into life. I'm holding him back. I'm holding us back. There is so much remorse I have. So much guilt. So much frustration with myself. But where is that getting us? Drowning in my thoughts isn't moving forward is it? No, Amy, it requires action. You have to have actions to make a difference.
So yes, times are hard for me right now. And that radiates to the people I love most. How I yearn to be in a better place. In days that I smile more, and cry less. In days where I am at least content with the job I am doing each day.
Even though times are tough, and my emotions are tougher...I absolutely cannot forget that this week is Thanksgiving. And I do have more than enough to be thankful for.
I have an amazing family. A mother who cares for me so deep. A mother that loves me with a love that I will not be able to understand until I have a child of my own. A mother who understands me and loves me regardless. I have a dad who is the most unselfish person I have ever met. He is there regardless. So kind, so gently, so giving. There just aren't many people like my dad. I love him so very much. And my sister. A sister who makes me laugh. Who brings out those hidden child like tendencies in us all. A sister who loves me and looks up to me. A sister who I admire as well.
I have a husband that...I am truly at a loss for words. He loves me. He encourages me. He is the arms that hold me when I just don't know what to do. He is the one who tells me that it WILL be ok. He provides for us, what we need. He always likes to help. He makes me laugh. Oh does he make me laugh. He loves to be silly with me. He is the man of my dreams and he is mine forever.
I have 2 doggies that make me smile each and every day. The love their parents, and they really do bring so much joy (and torn up toys) to this house. If we are gone for 2 minutes or 8 hours- they are just as happy to see us when we return. I love these dogs.
I have a house, a car, a bed, and belongings that I love. That I treasure.
I am making memories and for that I am thankful.
My family and my husband and myself- we all have our health. In a world where there are so many diseases and illnesses that affect people daily- we have our health. Oh how thankful I am for that.
I am thankful that God is in control. That I really do need to give all of this to him, and understand that I am not alone.
I am thankful for my friends. The friends who check on me to make sure I'm staying afloat =). Just an email, or text or phone call- they care.
I do have so many things to be thankful for this season. I truly am blessed. I may be in a valley right now...but the only reason there are valley's is because there are hills as well. I'm in the valley...but the hill is coming.
I hope all of you take a minute and realize all of the things in your life that truly bless you. I hope each of you have a wonderful, short workweek- and enjoy spending time with those that you love this upcoming holiday!
Until next time....
Alright trusty readers....many of you have noticed that I have a button on my sidebar for "Not Me Monday" It links you to an Amazing Blog (you can click on the words "awesome blog" preceeding these parentheses) that MckMama writes, telling the stories of love, laughter, life, lessons, and the like. They just celebrated the arrival of their 4th son- who is no doubt a MckMiracle.
Anyway, I truly encourage all of you to read though her blog (especially her sidebard) to learn about her family, her parenting skills, and handy dandy tips she has for this, that and the other!!!
MckMama is a GLORIOUS photographer, and has actually inspired me to become more interested in photography.
She has a wonderful giveaway going on...dealing with photography and the like..as well as a custom header made for the winner!!!
This family truly is a jewel, and I know reading and learning about their daily lives will encourage and uplift you just as much as it does me!!
So go on...venture over.....CLICK HERE!!!!
My Dear Friends,
With our current economy, Christmas is tight this year. I will be making bedroom slippers for you all as gifts. Please let me know your sizes. You'll most likely agree that it's a splendid idea, and should you wish to do the same, I've included the instructions below.
How to make bedroom slippers out of maxi pads:
You need four maxi pads to make a pair.
Two of them get laid out flat, for the foot part.
The other two wrap around the toe area to form the top.
Tape or glue each side of the top pieces to the bottom of the foot part.
Decorate the tops with whatever you desire, silk flowers (this is most
Aesthetically appealing), etc.
These slippers are:
* Soft and Hygienic
* Non-slip grip strips on the soles
* Built in deodorant feature keeps feet smelling fresh
* No more bending over to mop up spills
* Disposable and biodegradable
* Environmentally safe
* Three convenient sizes: (1.) Regular, (2.) Light and (3.) Get out the Sand Bags.
I've attached a photo of the first pair I made so that you can see the
Nifty slippers for yourself.... 
1 down...2.75 to go. I have been meaning to post that I have indulged myself (or my nose) in yet ANOTHER vampire obsession. I am now enjoying the sequel to Twilight which is titled New Moon.
I am loving this vampire more and more. I have sense gotten my sister to read Twilight, and my mom is in line right after. I cannot WAIT for the movie to come out on Friday!!!!
Do I need to tell you readers again??? Read.Them.
You will not be disappointed...
...new header coming soon! Please ignore the clashing of the current header vs the layout :)
So I said to my husband tonight..."YES!!!!! KVIL is playing Christmas music all day everyday. I love it!"
And he said back to his wife: "Ugh, it's not even Thanksgiving".
You would think after being with me for 2 (almost 3) Christmas season's, he would have learned. Hmmmm.
I must try harder.
Maybe tomorrow, I will put up the tree. =)
...on Mountain Bikes we go.....
Alright fellow readers. Brace yourself. I'm about to begin exercising! Rob and I have purchased Mountain Bikes together, and I'm embarking on the mountain bike trail!
No lie, when Rob and I were discussing bikes, I admitted that the last time I was on a bike was probably when I was around 9 or 10 years old. And at that time, it was probably only a ride around the yard. I spent the majority of my childhood fearing kidnappers, so I wasn't to keen on riding a bike around the neighborhood alone.
So--he laughed HARD when I asked him if the brakes worked if I started pushing backwards on the pedals, like you used to on our Huffy and Schwinn bikes.
Hmmm...it appears the breaks are with your hands, and I have to learn GEARS, too??? I highly recommend that we put training wheels on my new bike until I have the whole gears and brakes thing learned.
Because honestly...having to remember HOW to ride, HOW to turn, what gear to be in, switching of the gears, braking...it may just push me over the edge of that mountain bike cliff!!!!
Without further ado, I do want to present to you my gorgeous new friend. (or enemy...ask me after our first ride!)
Alright Mrs. Lauren...JUSSSTTTTT for you this morning, I'm taking a break from my beloved Vampire Novel..and playing a game of Tag!!! (and probably only because you specifically mentioned my name in your post!)
7 Things I Want To Do Before I Die...
1. Work in the healthcare industry in some form or fashion
2. Take a Mediterranean Cruise with Rob
3. Go back to Mexico for vacation
4. Be a mommy to a child (....or 2...or 3 kiddos) hehe
5. Choose a hobby that I love and continue to enjoy that hobby
6. Be able to feel truly accomplished
7. Volunteer with children at Hospitals
7 Things I Can Do...
1. Beat my husband playing bowling on the Wii. Hands.Down.
2. Push Rob's Buttons...
3. Take care of our doggies!!
4. Cook. I love to cook, I just don't enjoy coming up with the recipes!
5. Talk. I can talk. A.Lot.
6. I like to think I can make my hubby smile if he's down
7. Any activity that Rob and I are going together!
7 Things I Can Not Do...
1. Beat Rob at anything other than bowling on the Wii.
2. Sing, although I do all the time whether people like it or not!
3. Eat Sushi with raw stuff in it..other than Crab. I know...I know...what I mean is: I like California Rolls, Louisiana rolls with cooked crawfish, and I like the rolls with Shrimp Tempura and crab..and that's about it!
4. Have the amazing fashion sense that my sister does!
5. Stay caught up with the laundry
6. I can't stand to see anyone in my family sad
7. Run. I have never been a runner, and never will be. Well, at least not on Earth!
7 Things That Attracted Me To My Hubby...
1. Oh man...his pink shirt, black pants, adorable glasses, precious hair and melt-my-heart smile the FIRST TIME I ever laid eyes on him!
2. He is a perfect, perfect gentleman.
3. His drive. He has such a strong, determined drive.
4. Well, his looks are a given!!!
5. The way he makes me feel even on my worst days
6. His desire to succeed in life. It's contagious
7. He always likes to include me in things!
7 Things I Say Most Often
1. Hey baaabbbeeee
2. Sadie....what did you do???
3. Boo Boo...come.
4. I love you.
5. I love you too.
6. Is _____ ok for dinner?
7. Elmo. (yes..it's an inside joke!)
7 Celebrity Crushes ...not a huge "star struck" person so bear with me
1. Brad Pitt. Can't lie here...always has been, always will be.
2. B
3. R
4. A
5. D
6. Pitt
7. Brad Pitt
Alright readers. If you read it...it's time for you to do it. Yes...I'm talking to YOU!!! The one reading these very words =)
Interesting.
I began Twilight at approximately 7:00 PM last evening. I am now on page 200+
I think I'm as infatuated with this book as Bella is with Edward.....
Now if you'll excuse me- I must get back to reading.
I have bitten off a piece of the forbidden fruit =)
Tonight I went out and purchased Twilight and New Moon....
The goal is for myself and my husband to both finish reading the first novel in the series before the movie debuts on the 21st....
I actually love to read, and my problem is knowing the good books TO read. So if yall have some suggestions for me to pick up and read once I conclude this series, please let me know!!!! I'm always up for a good read!
Today we celebrate 2 special occasions.
First, today is the day of my mom's birth "X" amount of years ago :) We love you SO very much mom, and hope you have a wonderful birthday- and will see you over at the house tonight for dinner!!!!
Second, today marks the 1 month anniversary of our marriage. What a blessing being married to Rob is. I truly love him more and more every single day. There have been some events take place in my life the last week or so, that really have me in my lowest of lows...and he is there to catch me, or lift me up no matter what. I love you, Rob- with all of my heart and soul.
It will get better......I believe that.
Parties, entertaining, and one heck of a football game was the majority of our weekend!!! On Friday night, Rob, my sister and me all went to my boss's Halloween party in Uptown. The costume that Rob and I wore was a hit...however we did get some "what in the world" looks if we were talking around WITHOUT each other! We went as a Plug and Outlet =)
My sister is the creative one in the family, and can pull off pretty much anything she attempts. She went as Amy Winehouse complete with the "illegal drugs" hanging out of her back pocket. (aka powdered sugar in our house...but somehow at the Wine"house" I imagine it's the real thing!). Anyway, her costume was perfect, and was a hit!
And all 3 of us...
On Saturday evening, my brother-in-law, Ryan, and his fiance Kate came over and we watched the game, enjoyed some glasses of wine and cooked burgers. They brought their poodle and miniature schnauzer with them, so we had a full house of 4 dogs and 4 adults! It was such a wonderful time, and we are so lucky that we live so close.
Before and after dinner we watched the UT/Tech game--and MY oh MY what a game it was!!!!! Seeing as I went to Tech for 2 years, it isn't hard to know who I was pulling for. And it doesn't hurt to mention that UT and A&M drive me absolutely insane...so to say that I was excited that Tech pulled off this win is probably an understatement!!! Tech played amazingly last night, and they deserved this win, for sure!!!
Wreck 'em Tech!
I hope you all had a wonderful and fun weekend as well!!!!
HAPPY FALL!!!!!!!!!
So because our wedding guests were so gracious and kind to get us gifts and the like for our wedding, Rob and I went to Bed Bath & Beyond this weekend, to take advantage of some of our gift cards! Rob is more of the coffee drinker in our house, seeing as I have to add about 1 cup of creamer to every 1/2 cup of coffee and 5 splenda packets, it's really not coffee by the time I get done with it! I digress. At any rate, he is the coffee drinker, thus it was up to him to pick out a coffeemaker that he would enjoy. Rob is heavy into research (always does his research before buying things...) so he has spent some time trying to decide the best way to go. He had it narrowed down to 2 types, and once we got there- we made our decision after weighing the pros and cons of the 2 coffemakers. So now I present to you the newest addition to the family:
Ahhhh- it's no nice. I highly, highly recommend this fine machine. Breakfast blend coffee, Chai Tea Lattes, Cappuccino's, Green Tea, Macchiato's, Hot Chocolate...it does it all! It allows for 3 cup sizes..filtered water, and each person can pick their preference! We also purchased this cute lil carousel that we have in the cabinet above this fine coffeemaker- which houses all of our different selections so they are readily available.
When Rob and I purchased the machine, I kept telling him to pick whichever one "HEEEE" wanted, because I wasn't the coffee drinker! We had have this sweet addition since Sunday--and I have 3 coffee cups in the dishwasher. 2 which held Chai Tea Lattes, and One from hot chocolate =)
Ahhh, finally =)
www.rodbishopphoto.com
customer login: BrysonSpencer
Then on the right hand side you can select Wedding, Reception, Bridals, etc =)
Enjoy!!!!!!
We did it!!!!! We said our "I do's", exchanged rings, danced the night away in love, shared with family friends, and honeymooned a honeymoon perfect for lovers, and we are now back to the life of newlyweds and reality! The dogs are fighting over a toy, the house is messy, 2 LARGE suitcases of sandy clothes await my attention, and my hubby is at the gym. However I wanted to pop on real quick and leave a short update--just to last a couple of days until I can gather more pictures and thoughts to blog about our day, and our honeymoon. Everything was gorgeous and perfect.
To my husband- I am the very happiest girl in the world, and you- my love have made all of my dreams come true. I am truly blessed.
Love,
Your Wife
Well....we have made it. Somehow, someway...we have made it. It's now our wedding weekend. It's about 7:30 on Thursday morning, and I have already been awake for 2 hours. Hmmmm, as I laid down about 11:00 last night to try and get to sleep, I thought to myself...sleep as late as you can tomorrow..so you can be rested for the weekend. Hmm, so at 5:30 this morning my sweet, precious, ADORABLE fiance wakes me up saying "Babe, my dad will be here in an hour and he needs to have the diagram made up for where everyone is going to sit at the Rehearsal Dinner." Hmmm, I digress =) I got up and got going.
Rob and his dad just left for breakfast and then Rob, his dad, my dad and one of my dad's friends are off to play golf this morning, and I will continue wedding preparations =) I'm picking up my dress today at 1:00, and then we are planning on trying to get everyone together for dinner this evening- so we shall see!!!!
Things begin bright and early tomorrow morning...and won't stop until very very early on Saturday/Sunday morning =) Then we are off to Mexico. Ahhhh, sweet release.
Thank you all for your thoughts and encouragement and support through our entire relationship, especially over the last few months. It means so much to us.
We cannot wait to be husband and wife...from this day forward.
This is it....that last ever "I'm Not Married Monday"....
Saturday = our wedding
Sunday = Viva la Mexico!!!!
Peace.Relaxation.No Schedule. No Decision.Drinks.Sun.Sand.Beaches.HUSBAND.
I was talking to my florist a minute ago, giving her final counts for everything...and she said to me "I hope you enjoy your verrrrry last weekend being a single woman, and having the last name of Bryson". HOW FUN IS THAT?!?!?! So awesome. But I must go now...because I am tearing up =)
7 Days.
178 Hours
10,680 Minutes
640,800 Seconds.
Yet it feels an eternity away.
Rob and I will be married. WOW.
Let the craziness of this coming weekend and week begin....and I will spend my last few days as Amy Elizabeth Bryson =)
Just wanted to post a quick thank you to my sweetie, for helping me today with a work assignment. Rob stays so incredibly busy during the day, and I took a chance and emailed something to him, for him to look over- and he was able to help me make a change that needed to be made...and I thought it was so sweet.
It's in the little things....
I love you so much, Rob.
Hmmm...so last night, Rob and I went to pick up my wedding band {insert huge giddy grin}. After much confusion as to which one was the EXACT match for my ring, and after some research on the part of the precious sales associate that actually helped Rob from Day 1 he stepped foor in the store- we FOUND IT!
I tried them both on, and was very emotional the entire time we were in the store. Thoughts about what the wedding band and engagement ring symbolize, thoughts about where I want our relationship to go and the road ahead.
They polished both of my rings up for me, and boxed up the wedding band. I handed the bag to Rob- and he got in his truck to head home, and me in my car. (You see, the band is ALLL nice and shiny, fingerprint and dirt free- and I knew that had I driven home with that ring in my car, it would have been on my finger--because I need to "practice" wearing them, right?!?)
This morning..I went and grabbed the box, untied the ribbon, and proceeded to put the ring on my finger again. Thinking to myself...this can't be my hand. This can't be mine. It is perfect, it is gorgeous. It is me.
May I add- it took ALL of my strength to take that ring off and put it back in the box. I felt like a girl playing dress up, and wanted to prance around with my shiny finger :)
Luckily I put my big girl panties on...and promised myself that I cannot put that ring on and wear it again, until October 11th, at approximately 6:15 PM or so.
I love you, Rob.
From This Day Forward
From this day forward,
You shall not walk alone.
My heart will be your shelter,
And my arms will be your home.
-Author Unknown
29 Days.
This describes me, LOL!!!! I am so ready for this wedding, but so not ready! To be very honest, my first 13 months of wedding planning went great. There were a few setbacks, but that is to be expected, right? Well this last month could be the death of me! There really is only SO much you can do before hand, because some things just have to wait until the last minute; until you have a final headcount and until closer to the time of the wedding.
The last few things on the list include: meeting with the DJ, determining the order of the ceremony, as well as our speeches at the wedding, and putting together the slide show. (oh and food tasting, Bridesmaid dress altering, hotel basket putting together, flowergirl dress fitting and shoe ordering...but I mean...who's really counting, HA!) I know it will all fall into place, but to say these next 4 weeks are going to be busy is more of a understatement than I care to admit too!!!
It will be MORE than worth it on October 11th...and this I know!
I hope to update more...but right now, I know my days will be spent working and my evenings spent wrapping up the loose ends!
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers, and send your best wishes =)
...I am beyond overdue for a post! Maybe that let's a little insight into the business and hecticness (is that a word??? it is today) of our lives lately! In 5 weeks, I will be married at this very minute. Dancing the night away with my husband, our families, and our friends.
I will blog tomorrow....promise!
Today I caught myself sitting on the couch staring at the wall, deep within my thoughts. I somehow pictured myself...my life...my husband. And if/when Rob reads this he will probably take a big gulp and head for a glass of wine...BUT...I was thinking about our first child (YEARS down the road). I was thinking about how amazing it will be to go through the labor and delivery process with Rob by my side. That man, that handsome man will not only be MINE, my husband, but at that point- the father of our unborn child. I got chills, I even thought about Rob holding our child for the first time, and the look I imagine coming across his chiseled face. I smiled the most peaceful, encouraging smile. I cannot wait for that time!
There is a long way down the road before we are to that point in our lives, but I look forward to it.
I just wanted to document this time and this day for the future. Its just a fun future to look forward to.
This past Saturday was my Bridal Shower. This shower was hosted by my mother's co-workers. I have never, in my life, seen such a beautiful set up. From the pictures throughout the home, to the food, to the cake, to the napkins, to the tulle on the champagne glasses..it was flawless and incredible. They went above and beyond the norm, and I was completely taken back.
Some of my very best friends made it to the shower, including 2 girls I hadn't seen in years, along with one of my friends from Waxahachie!!!! That is some major dedication!!! I am so thankful.
The lady who is making my RB Pillow, FG Dresses and Baskets, as well as our Wedding Favors made my cake- and it was A-MAZ-ING!!!
I received so many gifts off of my registry from the friends who came, and some of those who could not make it, sent their gifts from afar. It was SO much fun, and a shower that I will treasure forever!
I have lots and lots of pictures up on facebook, should any of you want to see more....but I had the most wonderful day--and in less than 7 weeks....I will be Mrs. Spencer!!!! AHHH!!! Fun =)
So...there is this AMAZING shopping center that just opened up within walking distance to/from our home. Within this shopping center, you find an INCREDIBLE sushi lounge (Kotta) a nail salon with like 293040238423 Spa Pedicure Chairs, a hair salon, and an Italian Gelatto place similar to Paciugo. Oh, I failed to mention there is a pastry shop, and a GREAT Italian restaurant, as well as a Wine bar. Finesse.
Ok..so the other day, I am aimlessly staring at the shopping center as I turn into our neighborhood and low and behold something catches my eye(s).
Insert slamming on brakes here....and I whip a fast one into the parking lot. Is it what I saw??? Is this true???? Can it be??? What did I find??? A sign that reads:
Its true...a CUPCAKE store within walking distance to my house.
I wonder if they are publically traded?!?!?
Feel free to visit their site..... www.thecupcakery.com
Be still my beating heart....
For the most part, this blog has been a way for me to share and document the events of our lives. And why I felt that only meant the good and "chocolate covered" events- I am not sure. It's not always a life of daisies and rainbows. There is rain and there are thorns.
I (and in return WE) have been going through some tough times lately. I was recently laid off of my job (yes..2 months before the wedding) and I have just felt a tremendous amount of guilt for the pressure that it has put on myself, but more importantly my precious soon-to-be hubby. He has worked so very hard in this life to get where he is, and I just don't understand why sometimes he chose me. I mess up so much and it brings us down. I am working on these things so very very hard. But sometimes I just wonder what in the world is appealing about me, for Rob to stick around.
A very close friend (and a member of the wedding party) told me the other day.."Amy, how can you be sure the boat will stand tough waters if you have only been in a pond". And he's right. I know that Rob and I are both in this for the long haul. He loves me and I love him. We have found each other, and desire no one but the other. What an incredible feeling. But I am still so very hard on myself...and struggle daily wondering "why he loves me". It seems like I am always screwing something up.
Anyway...I have been job searching like crazy...and hoping that the lights at the end of these tunnels are not trains. I had an interview last Friday, and really enjoyed the company...so we shall see what happens from there! Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers if you don't mind...as this is a very very trying time for us.
In the land of wedding planning--this darn wedding is coming WAY faster than I would prefer right now!!! Why is it when you are 286 days away from the wedding (yes..I have a countdown going on in the kitchen) it seems like I can't update the "new day" quick enough. And now...we are approximately 60 days/2 months/8 weeks from this wedding and I am screaming "SLOW DOWN!!!!!". Oh well, what are you going to do?!?!? We have some last minute ends to tie up..and I know the day is going to be beautiful and perfect.
My bridal shower is this upcoming Saturday (August 16th) and I am so excited for that day!!! I don't think it has sunk in that its my BRIDAL shower...but I'm sure it will when I go to my closet and try to find something to wear, LOL!!!!
So I had a HORRIBLE dream last night....a wedding dream. The DJ didn't show up....we couldn't get a hold of my flower lady (her office phone just kept ringing and ringing) and the family friend doing our cakes said she ran out of flour. The lady who was going to do all of the girls makeup was sick...and my sister (who is doing the girls hair) forgot her hairdryer, curling iron, bobby pins...you name it. So then, I wanted to get away...and I stepped outside and it was pouring ran. And I looked up and who is seeing me in my dress before the wedding??? ROB!!!!!!!!!!! AHHHHH !@#*!@#^!@*!!!!!!
Let me tell you.....I have NEVER been more glad to wake up from a dream/nightmare than I was in the middle of the night last night! I sat straight up and Rob said "Are you ok" and I said..."mmmmm, yeah" and laid back down with my heart pounding!!!
Ok...so I'm job hunting, wedding planning, and life dealing. It's going to get better...but this is also life--and I'm going to live it.
OUR NEW CAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am so in love!!!!! Rob and I had such a wonderful night last night!!!! We went and picked up our new car...which took a couple of hours (the dealership was about 30 minutes away, plus signing the papers) and then we took turns driving it home!!!! It's technically "Rob's" car..as in he will take it to work a majority of the time...and I have my Honda that we got in October of last year.
Anyway...I am just so blessed and grateful that Rob has worked so hard growing up, and dedicated so much of his life to finishing college and getting his Masters degree- so that he would have a job he enjoys, and allows us to live our dreams. I am truly so very lucky and blessed.
Here are some pictures....
.....moving closer and closer to this new vehicle!!!! I swear I'm acting like we're pregnant and we are getting closer to the due date, LOL!!!!!!
Hopefully we will have a pretty shiny thing sitting in our driveway on Saturday!!!!!
I HAVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So...invitations are done. They are in!!!! I am going to go by and pick them up tomorrow!!!! They are going out the beginning of August!!!!!!!!!!
Bachelorette party is in 10 days!!!!!!!! Austin...here we come!!!!!!
And the...my Bridal Shower is August 16th, hosted by my mom's wonderful co-workers....and our 1 year Engagement Anniversary is August 17th.
And our wedding....well our wedding is October 11th.... YIIIPPPEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!
LKAJSHDFKJAHDLFRHE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'M SO EXCITED--I'M SO EXCITED!!!!!
THERE IS TALK IN THE SOON-TO-BE SPENCER HOUSEHOLD OF A NEW VEHICLE!!!!!!
ITS MY DREAMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM SUV.
AND THAT IS ALL I CAN SAY FOR NOW.
AND BESIDES THAT, I AM GIDDY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So real quickly..before I get back to cleaning this house....
In EXACTLY 3 months to the DAY....I will be Mrs. Amy Spencer and will be dancing the night away at my reception with my husband, and our closest family and friends!!!
YAHOOOO!!!! (needless to say, I have a major busy weekend full of wedding planning ahead!)
And Trish...I know girl--I still owe yall the 4th of July post....I'm running about 2 weeks behind in life, LOL!!!!!!!! I'll post it, promise =)
...and update is coming soon, I promise. We had one heck of a 4th of July weekend, so a post about that will be posted at somepoint, hopefully tomorrow evening!
Tonight is another meeting with regards to Wedding Invitations, and then The Bachelorette Finale!!!!
No..no...no...my body doesn't smell. Apparently I stink at updating my bloggy blog. Last night I was babysitting the little sweet precious critters that will be our flowergirl (1 of them) and her brother, who will be our ringbearer. (Insert now, that he told me last night he will be running down the aisle like "Superman" on our wedding day, LOL!!) I don't care what he does really, unless he eats the rings...b/c I really don't want to have to wait 48 hours to get them back =) I digress. Anyway, so their mother and I were talking before the mom and dad left to go to the theatre, and she informed me that I have been VERY bad lately about updating my blog.
Tis true.
Not that I have too many avid followers or readers (seeing as you don't post comments anyway!!!!) I wasn't aware anyone missed my ramblings! And while I am wedding planning these last 3+ months, it will continue to be rambling, because my brain is fried.
I have been working on "working up" in position at work, right here 4 months before the wedding. It's a wonderful opportunity, but of course it is keeping me extremely, extremely busy!! Mexico in 4 months is sounding better and better! I was setting up my new office (with a door) today, and I was writing on my yearly wall calendar "Wedding and Honeymoon" in big dry erase markers so everyone has PLENTY of notice not to freaking bother me while we are gone, HA!!!!
OH- Random, BUTTTT look at the precious frame I bought today!!!
Adorable, isn't it?!?!? I bought it for my bookshelf in my new office!!!!
Andddd....I'm going to go back and get this one, too!!!!
I love them, both!!! Fun, fun.
Ok...I'm exhausted. I know this isn't much of an update, but I do cherish my evenings, so I'm going to go hang out with my doggies =)
4 months to the day, and we will be saying I do.
4 months to the very moment right now, we will be dancing the night away with our closest family and friends at a reception of my dreams.
Cake, champagne, memories, laughs, tears, joy, celebration, and warm wishes- and a husband. Wow.
Ok- so I had a nice moment of sentimental speaking, and now...I'm freaking, HA!
Bridal pictures went great, and the proofs are beautiful. Mom and I are getting together the BM gifts, as well as the gifts I am going to give the girls at my Bachelorette Party.
I have GOT to go this weekend and finish our registry. NO EXCEPTIONS!!! It's got to get done!!!
Work has been crazy with some restructuring going on, but I am hoping in the end, it works out just as I know would benefit us the best.
Rob and I are enjoying watching So You Think You Can Dance, while just finishing a dinner of rice, black beans, tomatoes, and grilled chicken- wrapped in a Sundried Tomato Wrap. Yummy. It was awesome!
I hope all of little blog readers are doing wonderfully, and I promise to begin blogging more often very very soon!
...and I have none.
I want to see my bridal pictures.
I want this wedding to be here.
I want to be a wife =)
I want to have a HUSBAND!!!!!
I want to go on our honeymoon.
I want I want I want.
Ok.....I'm done being greedy! Just so anxious and excited I wanted to get that off my chest!!!!!!
So last weekend, Mom and I went and picked out invitations. This was really special to me, because I saw some invitations back in September when Mom and I attended a bridal show, that I fell in love with. I haven't been able to get them out of my head, but they were never in our budget, so needed to get out of my head. Anyway, fast forward 8 months, to last weekend when mom and I went to look at invitations. We went and met with a lady who owns a store called The Paperstation, in Frisco. She asked what I wanted- and I explained to her that what I wanted was not what was going to be in our budget. She told me to tell her anyway, so I did. Well...after some work, and some calculations and this and that- can you believe that I will be able to have those dream invitations!!!! I am so thrilled. They are so elegant, yet modern, yet traditional- yet fun. I cannot wait to see them! We have another appt. with her this coming Wednesday, so we will get to see the proofs she worked up!!!
So then....on Wednesday of last week, Megan, Mom, and I went over to Carole's house to talk cakes. Well we talked "life" talk, and caught up on people from "back in the day" as well as talked cakes. It turns out that we definitely can have the 2 cakes that Rob and I have picked out, and I am so thrilled for that, too!!!! It is SOOOOO nice to not have to worry ONE BIT about my cakes. Carole does amazing, beautiful, detailed work- that I have been able to witness for years. Man, we have gotten so lucky- and have been so blessed during this whole process.
Then....on Friday of this past week, Megan, Mom, and I headed out to the Arboreteum to meet my photographer, Rod, and his wife, Hannah- for my bridal portraits. So, that day started at 9:30 with my hair appt. Insert major anxiety here. I was stressing about my hair, hoping it came out looking great. Prayer answered. It did. It was fabulous. Makeup at 11:30. Well that was a disaster. I won't get into the details, but I will say things DO happen for a reason, and the girl who ended up doing my makeup was fabulous and a complete God send. I know it. She is a jewel, and will DEFINITELY be doing my makeup for the wedding. Man, I loved her. So then it was off to the Arboreteum. In 97 degree heat. Yes..97 degrees. Now, I don't want to sit here and whine...but I'm going too, a little. The VERY Reason that we chose to do my portraits in May- was to avoid 90+ temperatures like we have June, July, Aug, and sometimes Sept. I need my pictures back by Sept, so I can get one framed- etc.etc....so May it was. I nearly melted. I tried to keep a smile, and sure as heck hope my makeup wasn't running off of my face! Mom and Megan said it wasn't...and they had better be telling the truth! Oh well, that's what picture editing is for, right?!?!? =)
So...now it's Saturday, and Rob and I just came in from spending some time at the pool in our neighborhood. It was a nice time out...and for some odd reason, it was all adults at the pool- so that was even nicer!!!
I hope all of you enjoy your long weekend, and will be back to post more, soon!
I have never, NEVER- been so ready to be a wife- than right now!!! I love Rob with my whole being, and my gosh, I can't wait for him to be ALL mine, and me ALL his!!! How exciting is that?!?!??
Things regarding the wedding are coming together, slowly but surely! Rob's ring is in, and it is beautiful. Perfect, and exactly what he wanted. My garters came in and they are ADORABLE!!!!!!!!!!! My garter is going to be my "something blue". They are so personalized, and so precious.
My veils and shoes are in, and my dress should be finished with it's alterations anyday now. I met with the girl who is doing my hair today, and we have a gameplan on the updo! I hope it turns out as I imagine, because I am super nervous about my hair, LOL!!!
My bridal pictures are next Friday out at the Arboretum, at 1:00 PM. I am praying that the weather is cooperative, and that we can get some gorgeous shots. My mom and sister will be there, along with my photographer, and his wife. It should be a fabulous time!!!
We are meeting with Carole Reid tomorrow night (cakes) and I can't wait to see what she thinks about the cakes we are looking at!!!
Mom and I are headed to look at some jewelery this weekend, as well as looking at a few invitation places as well.
On a SUPER DUPER fun note, my bachelorette party weekend is in the works!!!! The girls and I will be heading to Austin for a long weekend, and have so many fun things planned (from what I hear!!!!) I can't wait!!! I am so blessed to have so many amazing friends.
Ok- I'm going to go relax, while I have time!!!
I just ordered Rob's ring!!! My hands were shaking the whole time. Why?? I have no idea. But I loved every second!!! I just have a giddy, yet grown-up feeling inside because I just ordered my soon-to-be husband's wedding band.
Rob wanted simple. Very traditional. We tried on many, many different metals, styles, brushed, shiny, patterned, etc...and he just loved the traditional, simple band.
So that is what I ordered. 5mm comfort fit domed band.
And of course, I had the inside engraved =)
Ring.....check.
Yes...yes I am still around =) Man, I tell you what. Wedding planning is fun...but have I ever mentioned HOW GLAD I will be when it is over?!?!? I never have been one to enjoy making decisions. Therefore, spending 14 months making decisions after decision after decision is taking it's toll on me! Will this go with that?? Will this look good or that look better? How much...what color..is this enough?? Is that too much?? What to do for this, what to get for that??? American or French Bustle?? Hair up or down?? Shoes closed toed or open?? OHHHHHHH MY GOOOOODNEESSSS **breathe, Amy**!!!!!
Yes, this wedding is quickly creeping up on me!! Does anyone know where April went? I swear it was just the beginning of April!!! Somehow it is nearly May, which means it is about 5 months until I have to have all of this wedding stuff wrapped up! That is my goal. Have everything wrapped up and ready to go by October 1st. October will have enough stress in itself..just with life in general, so having the first 10 days of October to not have to wrap up anything last minute would be fantastic.
A dream. And probably only a dream...but it would be fantastic!!!
Good news- we have decided the when and where and what with the Bridesmaid Luncheon!! I am so excited for the Bridesmaid luncheon, and being able to show these 6 ladies just how VERY much I appreciate them standing beside me as I become Rob's wife. Rob's wife. My husband. Rob will have a wife, and I will have a husband. Man, somewhere I blinked and grew up!!!!
But I couldn't be happier. We are both so ready to be married, we can hardly stand it!!!
We also figured out what we are doing for the wedding favors, and they will be adorable! My dress is being altered, and my bridal portraits are on May 23rd! Coming up here really soon!!! I'm soooooo excited!!!
All in all it's moving along just great! I think I'm at least close to being on schedule!!!
On another note- Rob's brother, Ryan, got engaged last week!!!!! I love Ryan and Kate both, dearly. They are precious together, and I really am so very glad they found each other. They will be getting married April 25, 2009!!!
Rob is traveling quite a bit these days...in fact, he has 3 trips this week, alone! So the 2 dog and I are getting to have some MAJOR bonding time. (someone, please help me!!!)
Rob and I are going out of town for the weekend next weekend, to Oklahoma. We are taking the motorcycles and headed out to Broken Bow for a week of camping with about 30 of our other friends. We are so excited, and we both are in need of a semi-vacation!!!!
I will post pictures when we return!!!
.....for a post. I know. Shame Amy..shame. I'll make sure to update tomorrow when I'm supposed to be working- hehehehehehe. For now...it's on to watch the Bachelor. I have no idea why...I can't stand the idea behind this show, but I can't make myself not watch it! HA!
I cannot, CANNOT wait to be here with my husband.....in a little less than 7 months. I can do this. I can hang on until then, right??? I sure hope so. Heaven on Earth awaits this newly married couple.....
YIIIPPPEEEEEEEE!!!!!! SUPER EXCITED!!!! I contacted my long-time friend's mom today...to touch base about our cakes for the wedding...and since she has her album back, I get to run by her house tonight and pick up the album so I can start cake hunting!!!!!! OHHHHHHHH MANNNNNNNNNNNNNN I can hardly contain my excitement!!!! My WEDDING CAKE!!!! I have dreampt, dreampt, dreampt of Carole doing my wedding cake for YEARS. I can remember Lauren and I being at her bakery, and me just sitting in awe of her skill, and delicate touch, which led to beautiful cakes!!! I can remember telling Carole that she would have to promise to do my cake when I got married...this was back when we were like 13/14 years old! She's the best promise-keeper!!!
Thank you Carole!!!!
I cannot wait to marry the most amazing, precious, caring, patient, giving, and loving man that you could ever meet. Oh how very much I love him. One day...I might be able to find the words to say it just perfectly. Until then...I am going to try each day to show him how very much he means to me and our future.
7 months from tomorrow we will become husband and wife. Happily ever after.....
I love you Rob, and I miss you tonight =) We are thinking about you!!!!
So...I was mentioning to Rob the other day that we would soon need to begin registering for our wedding. Nonchalantly mentioned it to him...one of those "I'm giving you a warning..mental note" kinda things that women do for men =)
Anyway, Rob was so sweet and mentioned today over lunch, that we should run to Super Target and begin registering. Who am I to argue!?!? A female going to Target on a "Shopping Spree". You betcha, I'm there. Luckily, the other night, I went online and created registries for us at Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, Crate & Barrel, and Williams Sonoma. Not sure if we would end up actually registering at all said places, but nevertheless, if we did register at those stores, then I was already one step ahead of the gang.
So we went to Super Target and put a few things on our registry there. Then, we went to Crate & Barrel. Holy help me!!!!! I had a blast!!! Rob even had fun, too!!! He was so cute finding "guy necessities" and scanning them =) So cute. He particularly enjoyed the wine glass/highball/margarita/scotch on the rocks area...I wonder why?? He acts like I drive him to drink, LOL. But really...we had a wonderful, wonderful time together- and I just can't believe this is all happening!!!!! He was so patient and sweet, and we have agreed on all aspects.....except flatware :) We haven't found flatware (yet) that we both loved...but we still have to check WS and BB&B.
Registering has to be one of the best parts of wedding planning! Getting out and building your wish list is so much fun! I love new things =)
T-Minus 7 months until we get married!!!!! We are halfway through our engagement!!!!!!
So yesterday, I get home and there is a box on the front porch. Nothing new really, Rob is constantly ordering new parts for our motorcycles...so I just assumed it was another motorcycle part. I picked up the box, and carried it upstairs and put it on the kitchen table, as I always do. Rob was traveling yesterday, and returned home from Atlanta around 7:00 PM or so. We sat and talked for a bit..and unfortunately, I was upset over a few things. I was crying...and of course, he was listening and we were working through what was bothering me. So--after wiping a few of my tears, he said...why don't you go open the box that is on the kitchen table...I think it will make it better.
So....I said "Huh?!?!?!" And he said...just go do it!!!!
I go into the kitchen, and open brown box...and inside is a white box...and what is inside the white box????
A MACBOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My sweet, sweet precious fiancee got me the cutest White Macbook ever. I am so in love!!! (With him and the computer!!!) I am so excited because I have been wanting to start doing some photo editing, and making some small slideshow things- regarding the planning of our wedding, as well as the events of the wedding!!!
I am so excited, and it was completely unexpected. I love him so so so very much, and he certainly made this an amazing Valentines Day!!!
OH - MY - GOODNESS!!!! Let's quickly re-cap. When Rob and I got engaged, it was August 17th. We decided on our wedding date about a week or so later. Long, deep..breaths...no worries here. You are going to have a 14 month engagement. "Sterotypical" engagements are 12 month. You have longer than the majority. Amy thinks she will plan the wedding in a couple of months, and sit back and it will be smooooooth sailing from here. *Slap* *Slap*. Wake up Amy...get back to reality. Ok, reality is- my wedding planning experience has been nothing short of a PERFECT BLESSING, and has gone smoother than I EVER anticipated. My parents have been A-M-A-Z-I-N-G, and are working so hard to make this wedding one of my most wildest dreams! Mom and I are one the same page with things, and I can honestly say we haven't had even ONE disagreement! Our venue is perfect, my wedding coordinator at the club is precious, my dress is GORGEOUS (not to mention, fits!) God answered a major prayer when it came to my florist, and she is a doll. The bridesmaid dresses are flattering, the flower girl dresses are so innocent and cute. My engagement ring is to die for, and my wedding band put together with this ring takes my breath away. Is this really my hand??? I long-time friend's mother will be doing our cakes, and they are going to be gorgeous, I just know it. We have a very good friend who is going to be doing our video for the wedding, and I cannot wait to see all of those pieces come together. The DJ is phenomenal, and I can't wait for our detail meeting here in a few months. Everything has been so amazing.
My finacee is just incredible. How I became to incredibly lucky to have found him??? I will never know. That's one thing I will be asking God about one day in Heaven. Why me?? What am I offering him?? What about me, makes his heart beat a little bit faster?? Those things, I am really not sure. What I do know, is that I love him more than words will ever be able to say...and our life before us, excites me to no end. Our vacations, our daily routines, the ups...the downs, the laughs and cries, our future children...our opportunities. I anxiously await them ALL. He is such a blessing in my life and in my heart. I love that man so very much. He is making all of my dreams come true.
So basically, I have been blessed with an amazing fiancee, an amazing family, and friendships that I hope everyone gets to experience sometime in their lives.
So now...it's Crunch time =) We are just under 8 months until our big day..and I suppose it's about time to finalize all the details! Flowers have been finalized. Engagement pictures are March 30th. Bridal portraits are May 23rd. I have the appointment set to meet with my alteration lady in late April, for my first set of alterations. I need to determine cakes, and begin to look at wedding invitations. Rob and I will go to the Club and determine the menu, sometime this summer. I need to find some fabric for the flower girl dresses, and determine the who's and what's and where's for the guy's tuxes. Hmmmm.
Anyway, things are going wonderfully. I think for the most part, they are right on track. I do need to determine table linens too. I need to call them. Ok- onto bigger and better things- ROB BOOKED OUR HONEYMOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! I DEFINITELY cannot WAIT for that week!!!! How fun it will be to be there, just the 2 of us- spending the first week, of the rest of our lives together!!!!!!
What else has been going on....this past weekend, Rob had a friend come to Dallas. So...Rob had a guys weekend and Amy had a girls weekend! It was a fun, and much needed time for the both of us!!! I know we enjoyed our time with our friends, and I very much enjoyed hanging out with my future Hubby on Sunday afternoon!!
The doggies are doing well..just as crazy as always. I am still beating Rob miserably when we play bowling on the Wii--so that always gives me a boost if I ever need one (hehehehe). You have to understand...Rob beats me at EVERYTHING. The guy can even carve a pumpkin better than I can. I'm serious. So to find something that I can usually have victory in- is quite the accomplishment!!!
I hope everyone has a wonderful week!!!
I know, I know....I'm a horrible blogger. It's time for an update, but I'm really exhausted tonight to write it all down!
Wedding planning is going wonderfully..and decently on track! Save the Dates were mailed out today...and my dress was absolutely gorgeous.
We ordered my veils and petticoat...and I'll go back in March for my first set of alterations!!!
I promise I will be back soon for more updates, but worked wiped me out today...so it's time to relax :)
No no no no...the dress in the picture is not my dress. But what it is...is the designer of my dress. My dress that is SITTING AT LENZ BOUTIQUE WAITING FOR ME TO GO TRY IT ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes..my dress came in, FINALLY after 4, long, long months!!!! My mom, sister, and one of my bridesmaids are coming with me on Saturday for my first try-on!!!
I have decided how I am going to wear my hair..so I should be able to determine what my veil(s) will be as well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
p.
I am so so so so so thrilled!!!!!!!!!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rob keeps asking to see a picture of the dress. Could someone PLEASE reiterate to him..how this works?!?!?!?!?!
PS- Rob bought a Nintendo Wii the other night. The games on that console will WEAR YOU OUT!!!!!!!!! I am actually sore today from the boxing game! Yup. How pathetic is that!!!! I highly recommend the Wii. "Wii" have had so much fun playing with it, and "Wii" are both competitive, so it's a great way to duke it out with each other ;)
No...not BOOGER...but BUGGER.
Mrs.Lauren Neaves has informed me that I need to update. Yep...let's go ahead and add this to my "To-Do" list and we will go ahead and cross it off as well!!! It seems these days, that anything, and I mean ANYTHING I can cross off a list, is a welcomed blessing!
Have I mentioned how very glad I am to only be planning 1 wedding in my lifetime?!?!? I love planning my wedding, don't get me wrong. However- I simply mean I will not be pursuing a career as a wedding planner...or anything having to do with weddings, LOL. And in all honesty...my wedding planning hasn't been a nightmare. Not even close. It is just tedious. Well, maybe that's due to a 14 month engagement...but then again- it could be due to the fact that I am SO very ready to be married :)
As far as wedding business goes....my dress ships in a little over a week!!!!! I can't wait!!!! I think I have found the hairstyle for the big day, as well as determined my veil fiasco..and whether I was going to wear it ontop of my hair, or have it coming out from below. How did I solve this, you ask??? I suppose you will have to attend the big day, to find out ;) I'm very very excited about my conclusion, and think it will work out perfectly!!!!!
Lets see...Rob and I bought all of the scrapbook/cardstock paper we needed for our Save the Date invites! YAHOO!! We went last weekend out to the Gaylord, and took the picture for them as well! Now, I just need to find 98239813 sheets of Vellum, and find some ribbon...and then we can put them together and mail them out!
I need to pick out Flower Girl Dresses
I/We need to determine what kind of Tux's the guys will wear...
I need to meet with Laurens mom, and determine our cakes :)
And all of the smaller- minute yet MASSIVE details :)
The diet is progressing lovely. We have majorly cut back on things, and have begun eating much healthier. Even hitting the gym as well!!! I sure hope to see some results, soon!!
Rob and I have a small, quaint Engagement Party this Saturday night. Just a few close people, who are in town. It's a Mexican Theme/Margarita party..so it should be lots of fun :)
Work is going fabulous...and I love my job!
The Dogs are still nuts...that will never change :)
Alright...it's short but sweet...and I won't wait another 2 weeks before updating again :)
....Time to buckle down on LOTS of things! Diets (seriously this year), Exercise (With my new Buff Brides DVD), and WEDDING PLANNING!!!!!! Our wedding is creeping up on me in just 9 short months! I remember when it was 14 months until the wedding, and everyone was saying "Oh wow, you have SOOOO much time". Hmmmm...where the hell did these last 5 months go, LOL. But, I do remember saying back to them: "Yes,it's still a ways away, but we have the holidays coming up, and before you know it, we will be in 2008."
Hmmm....well, we're here. January 1st, 2008. Wow. Time flies in life. Somehow I blinked and I am now 25, getting married in 9 months. It's amazing.
We are starting diets today. Serious diets. First thing to cut back on = Cokes. (Diet Cokes, Sprite, Regular Cokes, etc....) I have GOT to ween myself off of having so many a day. I would ideally like to never drink them again, but I'm not sure if that will happen, so I am going to take baby steps and see where I get. Today...I will start with 1 coke max a day. And MUCH more water. (YUCK) Everyone who knows me, KNOWS, how much I HATE water. Give me anything but water! LOL.
Time to pick back up with wedding planning as well!!! Yes, I have the big things done, but there are still small things! Rob and I will be doing the Save The Dates here in the next couple of weeks, so that is very exciting!
I hope everyone had a very Happy and Safe Holiday season, and I hope 2008 will be a wonderful year for everyone!
