Our Thanksgiving

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!

Being Predictable..and Thankful

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....

MckMega Giveaway!!!!!!

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!!!!

Trouble!!!!!

I came across this ladies blog today....and I am going to be in trouble!!!!

Please Read...

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....

Half Moon, Full Moon, NEW MOON

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...

Caution Tape

...new header coming soon! Please ignore the clashing of the current header vs the layout :)

Did I Marry a Scrooge???

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. =)

........

"I sought the Lord; he heard me and delivered me from my fears."
-Psalms 34:4

Over the River and Through the Woods...

...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!)

Game of Tag, anyone???

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 =)

Speaking of Biting....

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 fell....I caved...

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!

Anniversadays

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.

Repeat

Here we go.....again.

Electricity, Amy Winehouse, Wine at Our House and Wreck 'Em Tech

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!!!!!!!!!