Brick Road of Blessings

Amazing Grace

2010-08-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

How Sweet...How Sweet thy sound....

Sure makes it hard...

2010-07-05T11:56:00.001-05:00

...to get anything done when this is what surrounds you.....

Smith Randle Bailey

2010-05-10T18:56:00.003-05:00

It's a strange feeling to get older. It's just...interesting for lack of better word.

I remember when I was in 10th or 11th grade and watched many of my friends siblings' get married and thought- WOW, I can't believe they are getting married.

I remember friends graduating and still remembering the days we shared in Elementary School.

I am now seeing my sisters friends graduate college- and I can remember when those girls were in Kindergarten!

I remember how crazy it was when Christine and David got married. (they were the first high school classmates that I was aware of uniting in marriage back then). And now they have 2 beautiful daughters.

I remember many many more of my friends, and myself, finding our soul-mates and embarking on the journey of marriage.

And then many of those have gone and had beautiful children who look just like their parents, and it's strange..because they are like mini-me's of my friends...

....and then I saw some of my friends' marriages fail. Divorce. Are we really old enough for that?? I mean, old enough to have been married and then learn it just wouldn't work and then experience divorce? All in the 9 years since we have graduated HIGH SCHOOL ??? My gosh where does the time go.

Each time a "life event" occurs I just sit and reflect on the fact that life is happening around me. Things that I watched "older" people go through are now becoming my reality, my friend realities. My classmates realities. It kind of stops me in my tracks.

You see, I began reading blogs probably 3 years ago...I have no idea how I came across the first one I read, but the first blog I ever read was: Ashley Adam's Journal and it shared the story of this adorable baby who had multiple organ transplants, and shared the story of her ongoing journey. From there, Ashleys mom would link here and there from time to time and share with her readers, other blogs to read. So before I knew it, I had 40+ blogs "bookmarked" to read from wedding planning, to house decorating, to baking, to babies with illness, and then bringing things full circle when I would click on what I thought was a "new blog" in the blogosphere to find that it was actually an acquaintances blog. It's just been a very small world to me- this world of blogging.

I remember reading so many blogs about babies who were born with life threatening diseases, babies who beat the odds, and babies who would ultimately be called Home far before the people on this Earth felt fair. I remember not knowing these mothers or fathers, or babies or anyone in their family in fact- but my heart still ached for them, and I just can't explain how or why my heart would sit and read and read about these miracles and how many hearts they touched in such a short time.

I remember that the "closest to home" that a story of heartache came- was when Sydney Grace came into the world, but would never breathe a breath on this Earth. For this sweet babe would only breathe in the womb. Her mother attended church with me for years, and I can remember looking up to her growing up- and her now-husband being just as awesome as can be "back in the day". I remember reading the posts that Alyssa wrote in the hours and days and weeks and months and years since Sydney's birth and just being in complete shock that someone I knew had experienced the loss of a child. A child that you had prayed for, longed for, prepared for...just...taken from this Earth. I couldn't imagine. I remember 2.5 years ago when Syd was born thinking "man...we [my friends and acquaintances] are all getting older. These events that I remember simply hearing about in my younger years and being so naive to, are suddenly becoming a very close reality.

Well today I have learned that not only are we getting older- but some of my very own classmates, friends my very same age, who I graduated with, acted silly with, and never dreampt in a million years would experience such a jolt, have said goodbye to their little fighter.

Jon and Kori Bailey said goodbye to their precious son, Smith Randle Bailey, today- as he went to be with our Father. Kori carried Smith for 23 weeks and 6 days before she birthed this teeny, tiny precious baby boy.

Smith Randle Bailey
Born April 29th 2010 at 3:14 am
1 lbs. 8 oz.
12.5 in long!

Jon, and Kori and an amazing team of doctors and nurses would fight right along side with Smith for 12 days as this little boy fought for every minute he was given. I encourage you to head over to this website and watched the amazing slideshow that their photographer put together. There is more emotion in this slideshow than I can even begin to explain. Such a tiny tiny miracle that in 12 days has touched more hearts than I very well have in my 27 years.

Please with our without watching the slideshow if you feel comfortable, head over to Jon, Kori, and Smiths Blog and leave them a thought or two.

I cannot begin to imagine the heartache, the loneliness, the aching of a mother and father's arms to hold their baby once again. I can't imagine the battle with Faith that I would have if this were my child. But I do know- Jon and Kori have amazing strength as a couple. They will look to the Father for strength, guidance and hope. The days where the will to go on is nowhere in sight, I pray they are given the strength by Him to take another step forward.

Jon and Kori- I am so very sorry for this indescribable loss. Smith was loved by so many, and Smith touched numerous hearts. God's timing and plan are perfect- and I am so glad you got to experience Mother's Day with sweet Smith. The words of Mark Schultz's song play through my head over and over..."You are a child of Mine, born of My own design..."

Going to be doing some "Traveling"...

2010-04-26T20:09:00.002-05:00

...play on words...pun intended...stay tuned. It's been way too long since I've blogged. If any of yall are still out there, I appreciate you checking in :)

All in a day's work...

2010-04-06T18:25:00.002-05:00

...things that I encountered today {just to name a few}...

1) Have an insured named "Let Sei". Only "Let Sei" wasn't driving the vehicle at the time of the accident, it was "Let Boy".

2) Have an insured who's name is: Hung Longh

3) Had an insured who called me LIVID because their vehicle had been repo'd by their lien holder- and demanded I "get it back". When asked if they had been making their payments even their car had been totaled 1.5 month ago and we were still negotiating settlement they replied "NO! I aint's gonna make no currr payments when I aint's gots no curr". {ahem, woman...no car payments=no car...just sayin'}

4) Had an insured who called and filed a comprehensive claim for the theft of their vehicle. Swearing it was "stoled" from their friends apartment. They filed a police report and everything. Upon investigating, it turns out the apartments towed the car for parking illegally. {Here's your sign...}

5) Got called a heffer {again}

6) Came across a claimant who's name is: Dan Colon. Well his wife was driving the car when the accident happened so her name is on the claim too. I learned that she hyphenates her last name so her name is: Linda Loud-Colon. {really woman...REALLY??}

7) Read a police report where the cop stated: Upon arriving to the scene of the accident {where my insured hit 3 cars, and then a home} I saw two Native American men, Blackburn and Tinstar. When talking to Blackburn it was apparent he had been drinking as his breath and person smelled of alcohol. He has slowed and slurred speech while talking to me. In the middle of our conversation, Blackburn began to urinate on himself. When asked why he was urinating, Blackburn responded by saying "I really had to go and I couldn't hold it any longer".

Enough Said......

Zac Smith

2010-03-29T20:01:00.004-05:00

I found myself in a "woe is me" attitude towards the end of my day, during my drive to the gym, while staring at myself in the mirror during spin class, and my entire drive home. I thought to myself "why can't this happen, why can't that happen, where did we go wrong, how do we get from a to b, how how how, why why why" . I felt really sorry for myself. I felt really sorry for us. I'm trying to learn how to dance in this rain...I really think I am. Or am I?? This storm is still my storm, but it could be filled with lightening and hail and become a flood. When I got home, I plopped down on the couch to take a load off, and began checking a blog or two with I can guarantee you- a frown upon my face. A frowned pair of lips and frowned wrinkles between my eyes. The first, and I mean very first blog I read today was a post today by another blog friend who had posted this on her blog.

At first I almost skipped watching this video. Actually, let me rewind {and this is how I know this video was meant for me to watch tonight}. When I clicked on this particular blog, I thought I was going to be reading a post about how her little girl is turning 11 months old. I was going to leave a comment about how I remember her post the night before leaving the hospital, and how I remember the first pictures etc etc...However when I clicked on the link for that post, somehow it's almost as if blogger messed up and that post was no longer available to read. Instead- the post that showed up as the most recent post on her blog was the post regarding the video I am about to post below.

I needed this today. I needed perspective. I needed to know that no matter what I am loved. No matter what, He holds my future, our future, my plan, our plan- and no matter the journey- He is Good.

Please don't do what I did and almost click away from my blog and this post. Please take the 4 minutes to regain some perspective.

The Story of Zac Smith from NewSpring Media on Vimeo.

Must.Have.It.Now....

2010-03-23T18:32:00.004-05:00

So I figured since I didn't have anything too embarrassing, too sad, to thrilling or too boring to talk about, I would post up some of my loves, my favorites, my can't live withouts!.

*Warning* this post will be all over the place. No method to the madness..no rhythm to the beat. It's random, it's all over the place...its probably loony...much like it's author. However, listed below are some of my favorite, favorite things.

1) Baby Chandeliers

Why oh why do these precious babies {no pun intended} make my heart so happy?? I may not know quite when we are going to begin trying for little ones of our own {or maybe I do...and I just can't share yet...I'll never tell!!!} and I may not know the sex of our baby{s} and I may not know when or where they will be born or the color scheme of their nursery...but what I DO know is that the room where our sweet babe will one day lay his or her head will will be home to one of these amazing beauties. They are sweet, they are innocent, they are glamorous, they are low lighting, they are sparkles..they are dainty and sweet. Just one of my loves.

2) Diet Coke

Can't explain the love. It's just...there. It was love at first drink. It's become an addiction. I've tried to stop, and I can't. I stare at the can knowing it's filled with absolutely nothing with positive nutritional value and yet I can't wait to pop that top and feel the "carbon burn" as those first ~~two~~, ~~three~~, four gulps head down the hatch...ahhhh there's just nothing like it. Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall...Morning, Noon, Night...Sunday through Saturday..they are my lifeline. {my thighs lifeline too}

3) Mr Clean Magic Erasers

Ok, so I don't know WHAT the secret it to these bad boys {and please don't spoil my innocence and tell me the secret} but these things are seriously the bomb. Did I just say "the bomb" ??? Yes, I did as there is just no other saying to do them justice. Got kids?? They take off everything. Crayon off the walls...markers on the cabinets..they have you covered. I have loved these erasers for years and I use them all of the time when cleaning- but they SERIOUSLY peaked their awesomeness last weekend when I was tackling the shower. I don't know what it is about cleaning the bathroom but yall, I DREAD it. I will clean the ENTIRE rest of the house, walk the dogs, do the laundry, count the number of slats on the blinds before I will tackle the bathroom. So last weekend after I counted slats, stared at the ceiling, trimmed the dogs nails and cleaned out the pantry I decided I had no other option but to clean the stupid room. I did the sink, vanity, toilet, bathtub, floor, etc etc saving the BLASTED shower for last. UGHHH I hate cleaning the shower. Anyway...we have an ceramic tile/glass shower with the exception of the floorplan. Due to the placement of our shower, we were not "allowed" to tile the showerpan {whatever} so it had to be this horrid white showerpan. Well I don't care how well you clean your feet, over time the floorpan had become sort of discolored and just dirty looking. I had {in the past} risked ruining the acrylic on my freshly filled nails *gasp* using brushes, bleach, gloves, comet this and lysol that while on hands and knees trying to get the discoloration off to NO avail and leaving a pissed off Amy, who didn't want to clean the stupid room in the first place. Well this weekend I happened to be using one of the Magic Beauties on the tub and thought I would give it a whirl on the showerpan as I truly had nothing to lose. Scrub, scrub...scrub...scru- wait a minute...scrubscrubscrubscrub..oh my..scrscuscuscuscuscsubbbbb ITS COMING OFF!!!! Yes yall...the dreaded discoloration came off with the help with a little elbow grease and the magic eraser!!! I was sooo excited! I asked Rob to get up off the couch and come look at "something really neat"!!! He politely informed me he was happy where he was, and I said "No babe..really, you have GOT to come see this." So I'm sure he sighed and followed me in the bathroom where I said "SEE!! LOOK!!! I got it off!" He said.."What did you get off??" *Big Huff* "The dirt that was on the shower pan..remember??" He said "Oh..I guess" and smiled and said "great job!" Pssshhh, whatever dude! I was ecstatic. Go buy these yall.

4) Bobbi Brown Corrector & Concealer

Ok so one of the things I wish I didn't have {yet I feel they are hereditary to an extent} would be the dark circles. I have battled concealer after concealer to find one that truly takes the darkness away and as an end result actually has my under eyes looking BRIGHTER than the rest of my face (makeup tip #1). So I asked my sister being the experienced make-up artist/connoisseur that she is- which one she recommended. Trish, Laura Mercier, Mac, Bobbi, Nars...HELP ME!!! So without a moments hesitation she said "Bobbi Brown, hands down". So off to BB I went. Now let me say this..they will CUSTOMIZE colors for you. Mix and match a bottle specifically for you, my dear reader. So I went and got the corrector and concealer. You first apply the corrector (the lighter pod) in order to lighten up the surface so you the darkness is no longer and issue. Then the concealer is applied ontop to even out the skin tone and the creases. It's fantastic yall. The stuff works...it's not greasy and it lasts all day.

5) 409 Granite and Natural Stone Cleaner

Got granite? Does it streak with other cleaners? Get this..enough said. We have "Absolute Black" granite countertops in the kitchen per the Husband's request {ahem, the one who doesn't clean} and those things are a pain in the butt to keep clean! Water marks, drips, streaks...none of which are a problem with a little swipey swipe of a papertowel and a spray of this 409

6)Fekkai Smooth Hair

This stuff is amazing. You apply it to wet hair before drying it and it will leave it as smooth as silk yall!!! I purchased mine at Bath and Body Works. I have seen it at Target (in their professional hair care section) as well at my salon, but I noticed that B&BW has the best price on it (around $20). A bottle will last your forever! I will tell you this too, it makes your hear really really smooth- just super nice...so if you are planning on doing a tease job or a big poof..you might NOT want to use it for that particular style as you typically want your hair not so silky or it won't tease or poof as well! But on the days where I wear my hear down, you can bet your hairstrands that apply this!

7) Nutella

I want to bathe in this stuff. I want life to be made of Nutella. I want a constant fountain of Nutella {with a side of #2}

8) Hobby Lobby

Pretty much want everything in this store. Even the crap in the 80% off section that's broken, chipped and missing letters..I'll take it. I'll make it work. It will end up beautiful. Love the store..love the sales..love gift cards as well! HA!

9) MAC Studio Fix Mascara

I have been on a search since I began wearing mascara. I have wanted one that doesn't clump, that lengthens and separates. I mean, that's what most women are after in a Mascara, right??? Well I'm pretty sure I found it. MAC has a mascara that is pictured above that is called "Studio Fix". I love it. Absolutely love it. It's been rumored to be quite a competitor with it's opponent Christian Dior. What I can tell you is that it's a wonderful product. Great wand, easy to work with, lasts all day and is very easy to wash off with soap! And at a price of $14.50- seriously- that's awesome!

Ok yall...tell me. Tell me what you can't live without. What do I need?? What MUST I run out and get?!?! Tell me, tell me, tell me!!!!

Scent for Spring....

2010-03-17T20:01:00.002-05:00

.....my choice in perfume this spring involves.....

I love love love this perfume. I actually am very {annoyingly} picky when it comes to perfumes- hence why I normally can find more body washes/creams/sprays that I like so will typically stick with those. However an unused giftcard presented itself {unused gift card?!?! GASP!!} and Rob told me sternly to go get myself something. So who was I to argue??? So I did. I went and purchased this jewel of a scent which I had been longing for, for a few months :) Just crisp enough, just citrusy enough, just clean enough, just right for this spring!!!

Hope Floats Votes!!!!

2010-03-16T20:52:00.004-05:00

Hey Yall!!! I'm coming to ya live here...with a really fun favor!!!!! I'm not sure how many of yall read Kristy Bolte's Blog that can be found here (Waiting for Happy) ...but if there is a woman who I admire for strength, determination, a foundation with her Father who I long to have, and a heart like none other- It's Kristy.

For those not familiar with their story, the Bolte's have 2 sweet precious sons in Heaven, and 2 sons and one daughter here on Earth. After the loss of their first son Isaac, Kristy and Howard tried again. Luke was born as healthy as can be. They then were blessed to deliver a healthy spunk of a son in Benjamin. They became pregnant for the fourth time, and sweet Asher passed away after birth as well. They became pregnant for the fifth time (first time pregnant with a baby girl) and sweet Hope was born with the diagnosis of EB, but the Lord is protecting her from the trauma that this disease can cause as His hand is protecting her sweet body.

Kristy has entered Hope into a contest where the winner will receive a complimentary photo shoot, complimentary adorable Tutu, and $25 towards their portrait purchase. All it takes at ALL to vote is a simple email. That's it yall. No registering, no spam email...just one email.

Kristy and I were emailed recently about how special this opportunity is to her as a mother, because with the diagnosis Hope was given at Birth with EB...having a gorgeous photoshoot to represent the fact that diagnosis don't ultimately define you as a person or the plans that God has for your baby would be such a sweet symbol for this family.

I am asking you guys to do this....yall it's easy...

1) Send an email to this email address: katiemihalakcontests@gmail.com
2) In the subject write: Babies and One Year Olds
3) In the body of the email write: I would like to vote for Hope Bolte

THAT's IT!!!!! Easy as Pie!!!!!

You can vote until this Friday...and if you vote, will you please leave me a comment??? I might just have something up my sleeve for one of my commenters who votes, and leaves me a comment telling me so!!!

Seriously...you know this baby is p-r-e-c-i-o-u-s!! So VOTE!!! Will you?!?!?

{Don't Forget To Leave Me a Comment if you Vote...and you can vote once per email address...but if you have more than one email address..you can vote from all email addresses *wink*}

In the near future-

2010-03-08T07:20:00.002-06:00

So my goal in the near future is to share with you guys the following {in no particular order}...

More musings regarding the conversations/scenarios that I encounter at work
Our current battle with our HOA regarding our flooded garage/gameroom closet and how I will fight 'til the death for them to cover ever penny of our loss...
The renovation projects I have taken on in Rob's study, completely with some before/after photos and some "we are building this for in the room" photos as well
My current love of a new blog involving lots 'o projects I have added to our "to do list"
And anything else hilarious that happen between now and then....

I'll leave it for you to decide...

2010-03-02T21:08:00.002-06:00

..I may or may not have eaten an entire box of Samoas in one sitting while reading my Fitness magazine....again- may or may not.

Not for the Sensitive Stomachs....

2010-02-24T18:52:00.002-06:00

....puhhhhllleeaassseeeee what am I saying??? Who am I to say ANYTHING in regards to who I think can stomach a certain situation/video/or recovery room!!!!!

Today Rob went and had the stints, stitches, and cast removed from his nose. I saved Rob the trouble of even having to ask me to attend the appointment with him, and immediately informed him that I would NOT be attending this shindig as the bruise on the top of my foot from falling ~~once~~ twice is still sore and I probably should just "take it easy" {ahem, or something like that!}

I mean, really, I probably should have a post-op/post fall/post recovery appointment as well, but I consider myself pretty tough and strong {stop laughing} so I'll just save that copay *wink*

Ok so I'm about to post the video below showing the removal of one of Rob's stints. I actually thought it was going to be much worse seeing how Rob forced me into watching YOUTUBE videos of rhinoplasty stint removal {and I'm the idiot who obliged} and it made looking like birthing sextuplets without any medications like a piece of cake!!! Ok...so the video is below...

When I called Rob after his appointment, I laughed and asked him if he made sure to tell Dr Rohn about my "episodes" in the recovery area. Rob laughed back and said "Oh no...not at all, he said he already knew all about it".

Nice.Classic.ThankYouVeryMuch

While I fainted to the floor, the nurse asked if I was pregnant...

2010-02-20T10:57:00.007-06:00

You know, in some aspects I like to consider myself a strong person. I can lift a decent amount of weight at the gym in both my legs and my arms. I am as stubborn and hard headed as they come. I will be there for people through times when others might bail. I can help you move into an apartment when it involves moving couches, beds, washers/dryers, etc as we can get it done- just the two of us. I can hold your hand while you have an IV put in. I am strong....

....or I thought I was until I came thisclose to passing out not once, but TWICE people while my HUSBAND was in recovery.

Yes, you read that correctly.

How about I embarrass myself completely {as if I haven't already with the show I put on at the hospital on Thursday} and tell you all about it! Shall we??? Here we go......

As you most likely read below, Rob's surgery ended up lasting about 4.5 hours- much longer than anticipated. So after the 3 hour mark passed, I grew anxious and more nervous and scared with each passing minute. I was "fine" {whatever "fine" means when your husband is laying on a metal operating table, intubated, while the doctor hammers and chisels away at your husbands face and later says "it's like working under the hood of a car, the way we lift the nose skin up"}. Anyway, I was "fine" the first 3 hours of the surgery because I knew it was going to be 3 hours. But when his original OR nurse came out and told me that A) Her shift was over and she was leaving and B) That Rob's nose was completely jacked up and the doctor was having to make on-the-spot decision about how in the world to put him back together and had no idea how much longer it would be because the doctor was so focused he wasn't talking, I became ridiculously nervous. So much so- that I was 100% ready thrust my arm at the OR nurse's face (elbow pit side up) and demand that she provide me with an IV with a Xanax drip, I kid you not. So what did I do instead?? In true Amy fashion I began to panic and every thought went through my head in about .000001 seconds. i.e, He's back there and this surgery is going to go on for hours and hours and the doctor is going to be so sleepy and finally come out and tell me there is nothing we can do for him except cut his nose completely off and just drill 2 holes in his face for "pretend nostrils" and he will just need a breathing tube forever. And I just knew that Rob was going to bleed out from his nose all over the table and there would be no blood available for a transfusion so he was going to lay there in his own pools of blood and die when the blood finally bled out. Or, that the doctor was going to come out and ask me if I wanted to see him again before he slipped away. I.kid.yall.not- My freak of a strong self thought all of those things. So what is a wife to do???

Call her mom and start demanding things.

Yup. Called my mom and asked her to come by the hospital and get my house key and to please go and let our dogs out and feed them and turn on some lights for me (because, you know, since I was going to be coming home alone-husbandless- I would want some lights to provide some welcoming sight) and to give the dogs a piece of sliced cheese (a real treat for them). So just like any mother does for their child, she totally accepted my plea and came to the hospital and got the key and performed the said duties above. (This happened all around 7:30 PM).

Around 8:10 or so, Dr Rohn comes out to talk to me and explain to me how the surgery went. He told me Rob did really well but that Rob's nose was a hot mess, pretty much. Septum completely shattered, cartilage and tissue intertwined in places it should have never gone...not enough bone here, too much bone there... sawing, cutting, chipping, grafting, sewing...and Ta-Da!!! Rob's done. He told me what to expect the next couple of days and then told me Rob was in recovery and once the nurses felt he was stable enough, they would be out to get me and I could go back and be with him. I thanked the doctor I imagine...ohhhhh...about...hmmmm....132 times and then hugged him and sat back down to take a deep breath and give my thanks to God.

About 8:25 or so I see my mom walking towards me with my key and stuff and so I chatted with her for a second, passed on the news from Dr Rohn and we chatted about the olympics and the most hysterical people watching I had done throughout the ENTIRE day. In the midst of our conversation, the nurse from recovery came out and said "Brown hair, Red Shirt, Jeans and maybe a Camel jacket- you must be Amy???" I said "Yeah, I sure am!! Who told you what all I was wearing?" She said "Rob did!" - I was pretty surprised that he would remember all of that {particularly the word "Camel" for my jacket color- thats a good one for a guy!!!} and be able to tell the nurse so she could find me! Ahem, it wouldn't have been too hard to find me though, seeing as my mom and I were the ONLY two people in the ENTIRE waiting room by this point..everyone else had peaced out and gone home. So anyway, she let us know I could go back and see him and that mom could come back as well. So I grab my 902830192 things and my camel jacket and head back to Rob's room.

I knew that he was going to look rough, as many people had told me to expect. Now keep in mind that I have never had surgery, with the exception of my adenoids being removed when I was 2 which I don't remember and my wisdom teeth being taken out at 18, which isn't really surgery to me. So mom and I walk back there and it's like a ghost town {which in about 2 minutes will become a VERY VERY good thing} except for the nurse I was with and 1 other nurse sitting outside Rob's room. When I first looked at him I wanted to cry. He had a cast on his nose, a bag of ice on his nose, the pulse ox on his finger, blood pressure cuff going on and off, had a cup of juice and some graham crackers, and was the color of the sheets on the bed. They had put ointment on his eyes during surgery to keep them moist, so his eyes were a mixture of tears and ointment which just had me beside myself. My poor husband- and there wasn't crap I could do to make it better. So what do I do?? I stand there fore about 30 seconds while the nurse checks his temperature (which was perfect and normal) and Rob cracks some jokes and tries to APOLOGIZE for having to have surgery. Whatever, honey! The nurse informs us (me, Rob and mom) that he needs to drink his juice, eat the graham crackers and use the bathroom before he can leave. No problem nurse! So I start asking Rob if he can take a drink of juice and he weakly tells me he can and tries to grab the cup. I pick up the cup and hold the straw to his mouth and he softly takes a drink. I begin to set the cup down when I have this ridiculous hot flash come across me. It starts in my head and goes all the way to my toes. My heart starts pounding fast and and I begin to feel like I can't hear very well. I knew I needed to sit down, so I tell my mom and Rob that I'm going to sit down, and find my way to a small chair in Rob's recovery room. I am still hot and having weird flashes of heat throughout my body but my hands were clammy. I look across from me for something to fan myself with and find 2 laminated signs on the wall. They both talked about how to cover your cough to prevent infection, and one was written in English and one in Spanish. So I reach over there, and remove the pushpin and yank the Hispanic sign off the wall and begin to fan away. One of the nurses sees that the color of my own face begins to blend in with the color of the wall. She asks me if I'm ok and what I have eaten that day. I told her I ate an apple and a sandwich and that was it. She tells me to come sit outside and gets me some apple juice and crackers and tells me to sit and take it easy. So my mom and the nurses go back in Rob's room to check on him while he's chomping away on crackers and juice and his wife sits outside her room fanning herself like a fat woman on a hot day. I look at the nurse after she has me SIGN SOMETHING in regards to Rob's care {have NO CLUE what I signed} and ask her what to do since I'm starting to feel worse. She asks the other nurse to get a STRETCHER...yes, STRETCHER and wheels it in and tells me to hop on it. I had never been so glad to see someplace to lay down in my life. In fact, I hopped on that stretcher so quick that I put my feet where my head go and my head where my feet go and the nurses told me once I threw myself on the bed that I did great, except I laid down on the wrong end. Nice.

So I flip around, and they bring me a cold washcloth and my juice and crackers and I hear my husband (20 minutes out of 4.5 hours of surgery) ask me: "Babe, are you ok??? Do you need anything". Yes, again- you have read that right. The gimp husband is asking the perfectly healthy wife if I need anything. To which I reply "no babe...I'm good...I just wanted to see what it felt like to be in recovery, so I'm putting on a show." Truth be told, I think it was an extremely emotional day, I hadn't eaten much, it all came to a climax so quickly, and then seeing him so pitiful and looking so awful was just to much for me. {Or I'm going to chalk it up to that!}

So I lay there for about 4 minutes and immediately start feeling better. I am now cold as can be and sweating, but I am no longer dizzy and I want to go back and see my husband. So I swing my legs over the stretcher..throw away my trash and walk back out into the hallway, and then into the room next door where 2 nurses, my mom and my husband all ask me if I'm alright! "Yeah yall...I'm great...have no idea what went on, but I'm so embarrassed. But I'm good...now what can I do??" The nurses say that Rob needs to eat his last cracker and juice and then try and pee. So we do step 1 and then the nurses get Rob sitting up and unhooked from everything so he can walk the 10 steps out his room into the restroom. I went in there with him to help him, and all is good and I am holding his gown for him, and then I get a hot flash from my head to my feet. Then another one...then my heart is pounding and I begin to sweat profusely and feel like I can't hear. I decide to show my multi tasking abilities and while holding Rob's gown while he braces himself on the handicap bar I throw on the cold water and begin throwing it on my face as fast as my hand could fill up. I kid you not. It's not working and I know what is coming next. I tell Rob that I need to go back outside and leave my 25 minute post-op husband to fend for himself as he tries to get his organs to begin functioning correctly again. Actually, we are both needing our organs to function correctly but he has a REASON for his to be acting up, I do not.

So I drop his gown and I throw open the bathroom door, and tell the nurses "I think I need to sit down again". My mom looks at me and so do the nurses and my mom tells me I have ZERO color in my face, I have no color in my lips and my eyes roll back in my head and I fall out onto the floor of the recovery hallway. Yup- fell completely out. The nurses run over (I am still conscious for all of this) and put a pillow under my head. They tell me I am going to be ok and I start talking and telling them I am so embarrassed. One of the nurses then tells my mom they think I should go to the ER. I shot my eyes wide open and said "No no no no....I don't need to go to the ER, I'm FINE!!!!" Then the nurse said "Honey you have near fainted twice in 5 minutes, so if you do this one more time, we are taking you to the ER" I'm sure I argued back with her and then the stretcher was wheeled out of my "own recovery room" and wheeled out into the hallway. They make me get back up on the stretcher and give me 7up this time and tell me not to talk and to drink. The nurses chat with each other and my mom and ask if I ate all the crackers they gave me. I told them I ate them all and they said "Do you promise???" I advised them to take one look at my thighs and they would soon realize I am not anorexic and that YES, I ate the darn crackers. I then asked them where my husband was since I abruptly left him trying to hold himself up and trying to use the restroom and trying to hold his gown and trying not to fall down face first into the toilet. I then hear Rob walk by me and he runs his hand down my leg and stops at my foot as he walks into his own room and asks me "Babe, is there anything I can do for you". Ahem- HELLO....shouldn't the roles be REVERSED, wifey?!?!?!?!? Should I be the one doing what I can for my gimp husband who has blood running from his nose??? Instead I sweetly reply "no honey, I'm so sorry this is happening and I can't be in there". My mom goes back in with Rob and helps him sit back on the bed and regroup. The nurses let him know he was welcome to get dressed again and asked him if he needed any help- to which he said no...and I politely informed them that I could use some more 7up. So classy Amy, so classy. So the nurse fills my cup with a straw and then they are chatting while Rob is dressing. My mom is stroking my sweat soaked hair and the nurse stands RIGHT outside Robs door and asks me "Is there anyway that you could be....um......" I said NO!!!! No no no no. NO WAY! And they all laughed so hard and she said "well I was just thinking....given what has gone on the past 15 minutes"....I politely informed that as much as I wish that was the reason, I apparently am just a freak who can't see her husband after surgery and has to steal all of his thunder.

Rob gets dressed and it's time to leave. OH! The nurses also determined that they were NOT going to allow me to drive Rob and myself home, so my mother was going to have to drive the 2 of us home and Rob and I would return for our car the next day. Good grief, Amy. So mom leaves to go get her car and drive it up to the front. I get off my stretcher again- after again, feeling much better and having color return to my face. The nurses come around the corner with not 1 but 2 wheelchairs and inform me that I am going to be wheeled out as well. I tried and tried to tell them I was fine to walk out to the car, and they weren't having it. So Rob gets in his chair, and apparently I get into my wheelchair and forget to get my purse, tote, and jacket. So Rob, yes, ROB gets those things and hooks them to the handles of my chair while I sit and sip on my 7up in the hospital cup. We get ready to leave and the nurses say "Are yall ready, do we have everything???" To which I reply:

"We have everything except the newborn that the woman is supposed to be wheeled out with."

{Insert huge bouts of laughter from the nurses here}

So here we go....both of us wheeled out. My husband has nothing except a cast on his nose. Black eyes and some dried blood and it was clearly obvious he had just had surgery. He's content and smiling as we are being wheeled out. Then there comes Amy, being wheeled out behind Rob. Clearly has no bandages, has not had surgery but was forced to be wheeled out holding her hospital cup, and 7up with straw...NICE.....instead of couples massages, we come to the hospital for couples surgery...that's what I could tell people, right?????

They wheel us out the front doors, and my husband asks them to take a picture. So without further ado, I present...us:

Yup......that's right people. Both of us, in all our glory. I'm so proud.

So we both get loaded up in the car and mom drops us off at the house...

Like I said...I'm sure a strong person ya know--except I can't handle my husband recovering from surgery. I MUST steal his thunder.

I'm going to be just glorious in labor one day..........

Hammers, Chisels, and.....Anestesia- oh my??????

2010-02-18T17:13:00.005-06:00

8:22 Update: Dr Rohn came out to talk with me and let me know that Rob is in recovery..I will post more about the surgery in a bit...for now I'm going to sign off...and go see him in about an hour.

****8:00 PM Update****
Rob is still in surgery. His nose was broken years ago (as stated below) and he did not haveit reconstructed then. Therefore tonight there is a lot of pre-existing damage and scar tissue that the doctor is having to work with. He has been back there for 4+ hours...and I'm trying not to lose myself now. Again...I know it isn't a super invasive surgery, but for me- this is a lot.

I sit here at Plano Presy Hospital as my sweetie is having the reconstruction surgery on his broken nose. He broke it a couple of months ago boxing. For those that don't know (and I don't think I've mentioned it on here) Rob has taken up MMA (mixed martial arts) as a new found hobby. He and a group of guys go up to a training gym every weekend and learn how to throw each other around, choke each other out, box, and do tons and tons of conditioning. Well a couple of months ago, Rob and his fighting partner, Jeremy, were boxing and Rob looked right into Jeremy's left punch, resulting in a nice broken nose for Rob! The day he broke it, I came home actually didn't notice anything at first. And then I went upstairs and a few minutes later he came upstairs too and got a big bag of ice and slapped it on his face. I looked at him and said "What in the world have you done now??" (because about 2 weeks prior to breaking his nose, he obtained a nice slit open eyelid- go figure!) He proceeded to tell me he thinks his nose is broken :) Glorious honey, glorious.

We were of course in the midst of switching health insurance companies, so the Dr Appt's and such had to wait until we had our new coverage up and running!

So fast forward about 2 months, and here we are. Got here at 12:00 today....doctors previous surgeries during the day had lasted longer than anticipated so we wait..and wait...and wait. My dad came up here about 1:00 to see how we were. The nurse came out about 1:05 and told us about the surgeries being behind schedule and advise us that we were free to go "run around" and be back at the hospital around 2:00. So what did we I do??? Well Rob insisted that we I go and grab some lunch since I had only eaten an apple by that point. Rob hasn't been allowed to eat since 8:00 PM last night, poor thing so I attempted to protest and tell him that I wasn't going to eat in front of him but he was persistent and so I gave in and we went and grabbed lunch.

Came back about 2:00 PM and went back to pre-op. They prepped him for surgery which involved all of the following:

This also involved me continuing to take picture much to his chagrin:

But he was a good sport and we had a nice time waiting before he went back for surgery (well as nice as you can have within a room that is like 6 x 6 !!!!!

They finally came back about 4:00- put on the final touch which involved placing the hat THIS WAY on this head:

(and him deciding he was going to leave it like that to feel like a rapper)

So I sit out here in the waiting room...blogging...drinking a diet coke...perusing the internet and praying for a quick, successful surgery and a minimally painful recovery!

I'll be sure to post some before and after photos soon!

For Now,

XoXo!!!!

Finance or Land ???

2010-02-12T13:54:00.002-06:00

I thought I would throw this out there...just because I have no idea who might come across my blog!

If anyone who is reading this post has any networking ability for jobs related to Financial Analysis or Land Acquisition, would you please leave a comment??

It can be a stretch, it can be a shot in the dark...but if you can think of anything at all, please let me know!!!!

It doesn't matter the location either!!!!

Anything at all!

After these messages....

2010-02-08T19:44:00.001-06:00

.....we'll be right back!!!

Dear Anyone Reading,

2010-01-10T20:05:00.002-06:00

Dear Anyone Reading this post....

I would love the following goodies....ahem...would LOOOVVEEE them!

Hellloooooo GORGEOUS!

And finally...please stay tuned for my next post....I'm having trouble wrapping around something....and here is the hint...

Lil of This...Lil of That

2009-12-30T18:55:00.003-06:00

It's been a while since I have posted any amusing stories from my place of work, so I figured I would jot down some things that have happened to me recently at work.

{And trust me, you can't make this stuff up. I chat with Hubby over MSN while we are working and he hears these stories all.day.long}

~ One of my claimants** called me a heffer and asked to speak to my supervisor

~ One of my claimants name was "Dorothy Fharter".....even worse...my insured who hit her was named Eura Hogg.

~The statement above gets worse even more. Eura Hogg has a sibling who also has insurance with us. Their name????? Eura Hogg, Jr. {or, Eura Hogg II}

~ One of my claimants** the other day asked me if I could fax him his check for repairs. Not lying...not one bit. He asked me to fax his check to him.

~ The above statement, once again, gets worse. I said to him, "No Sir, I can't fax the check to you..and I can't send it to you via your iPhone because there isn't an App for That". {I'm not sure he understood the wit}

~ One of my insured's had their claim denied because the person driving their vehicle at the time of the accident was excluded from the policy {read- NOT ALLOWED TO DRIVE THE CAR}. My insured stated "Well if dazz whatchu gunna dooze, then I wonts my moneys back. I wants a refund." (yes because that's how insurance works. when something gets denied, you get a refund)

~ I worked a claim today where one of my insured's name was: "Christmas Eve Morgan". I kid you not. And would you guess her birthday?? 12-24-84. I wonder how long it took her parents to come up with her name.

~ Worked a claim where my insured** had their window busted out in their car and something stolen from inside their vehicle. In auto insurance, the damage to your vehicle would be covered and anything permanently installed in the vehicle {radios, tv's etc} would be covered. Anything stolen from the vehicle which is not installed would be covered by your homeowners insurance- if you filed with them. Anyway, I was discussing with my insured the damage, and if she knew who might have done this, and she stated to me "Well, izz someone who huuungry, cuz allz they stole was a box of pop-tarts...das it, dawg. Izz all over a box of cherry pop tarts." {I went ahead and decided to pry a little further and asked if it was a box of 6 pop tarts or 12....it was a big box, fyi} HA!

**The demographics that my company sells to are..hmmm...different. We sell minimum limits insurance...meaning it's the cheapest insurance you can carry and still meet the state requirements...So I will leave that tidbit of information with ya, so you can better understand why/how I seem to handle claims with the people listed above

It's Official....

2009-12-22T21:42:00.002-06:00

...approximately 9 minutes ago...at 9:33 PM...I turned 27.

I have decided I will turn 27 AGAIN, 364 days from today.

And will turn 27 for the 3rd time in December of 2011.

I don't know why but today, tonight...this turning of 27 has been a little tough. Do I think I'm OLD?? No. Do I think it's really hitting me that I am truly a grown up adult, and my childhood years have come to somewhat of a close? Yes, I do. I will always be young at heart, and again I don't think I'm old...but today, entering my late 20's is just harder to swallow.

I am blessed to be alive, be healthy, have a wonderful family, a loving husband...2 precious doggies, and the list goes on...

So while it was hard to swallow (maybe because my swallower has been functioning now for 27 years and needs a pick-me-up)...I'm raising a glass to another year, Y'ALL !!!!

A Bird Named Chet

2009-12-21T19:40:00.002-06:00

A man walks in to a pet store and says to the Clerk: "My girlfriend really loves animals, do you know a good Christmas present?"

The clerk says: "Sure, how about this bird? His name is Chet. Chet sings Christmas songs"

The man looks at Chet and says: "How do I make Chet sing?"

The clerk says light a match and put it under his right or left foot"

The man tries it. When he put it under the left foot Chet sang Jingle Bells, under the right he sang White Christmas. So the man buys it and goes home.

On Christmas day the man's girlfriend gets her present, Chet the bird. The man shows her how Chet can sing.

Then she asked:"What happens if you put the match in between Chet's legs?"

The man says: "I don't know, let's see"

So they put a match between his legs. Then Chet started singing:

"Chet's nuts roasting on an open fire....."

{so glad I was able to google and find this joke again, lol. It's one of my silly favorites}

Go Spencer...It's Your Birthday...

2009-12-18T00:01:00.000-06:00

28 years ago today...at 9:44...a baby was born.......

A baby who was loved from the second his parents knew he was to be born...

A baby who would once look like this after eating cake...

And would look like this after school...

A baby who would treasure his mother...

And a boy who would be a tough little brother...

A little one who would one day trade these wheels...

for something a little bigger and better...

And a teen who would relax on the couch one day like this...

And a few years later like this...

A man who would one day have a wife who would look at him like this...

And would grow to be as handsome as they come...

28 years ago today a babe was born who I would get to spend the rest of my life with...

28 years ago my sweet husband was born and for that I am grateful. For that, we celebrate today my sweet, sweet husband. May your 28th year bring more joy and happiness than you can fathom. May you know today and everyday, just how very much your are loved.

Happy Birthday, My Husband.

I love you.
-Amy

2009-12-13T12:16:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

I'd rather be sick for days...

2009-12-08T18:09:00.003-06:00

I'd rather be sick for days than let one of THESE horrid things dissolve in my mouth again!!

In fact, I'm pretty sure I understand their marketing technique....

"make people buy these with a thought in their ignorant head that they will surely feel better after sucking on one, and their cold will magically disappear in 3-4 days (or 42%...42% really??? Forty Two Percent quicker???? I'd love to see the statistical analysis on that...I'm just sayin'). {Insert- FAIL,}. When really, when they put one of these Zinc infested Glycerine something or others into their beak and suck on it for a while they will soon realize they would rather yack than continue to let the stupid thing melt- thus leading the poor ignorant fool to realize that their poor little cold could be something far worse. It could be the flu...it could be strep...it COULD BE throwing up because of the darn "miracle cure" lozenge.- which all lead to the fact that maybe, just maybe your cold isn't so bad after all...and therefore you let it run it's course."

I seriously CANNOT believe I lasted all of 6 minutes with the nasty piece of SOMETHING dissolving in my mouth. I WANTED to find the Zicam Nose Swabs that I used a year or so to end my cold, but apparently they determined that those swabs can lead to poor innocent souls losing their sense of smell. Who knew. But you know what???? I'm pretty sure I'd rather take the chance of possibly losing my sense of smell over ensuring the singeing of my taste buds. Poor things. I think they need some Diet Coke to come back to life.

Lesson: Don't buy that crap. Just take some Tylenol, complain to your husband how bad you feel and shove some toilet paper up your nose to catch the constant post nasal drip.

Click Me..No, REALLY...CLICK ME!!!

2009-12-07T18:35:00.004-06:00

Seriously?? I didn't even know it was possible for such a F.A.B.U.L.O.U.S Blog Designer to exist.

Seriously...she had her work cut out for her big time between my Thesis of an Original Email sent to her after I initially won, and my additional "chapters" added each time I emailed her from then on.

Seriously...Hollie from The Drama Mama has serious talent. She is an absolute JEWEL to work with, and spends hours and hours designing and tweaking a blog design just.for. -->YOU<-- !!!! Seriously- Check out some of her other designs here!! I promise you...you will NOT be disappointed!!!!

Seriously in Major Love with the new design!!!!

Seriously random...but Hollie just got the CUTEST new dog from the SPCA...check her out!!

{photo courtesy of The Drama Mama}

Seriously...I have a problem with "ellipses", no....seriously.....

Care to know the why's of the name change and the design??? Well stop reading here if ya don't care to know because here we seriously go....{don't get too excited, it's not THAT breathtaking}

*********

You see...while I loved our wedding, and it was a life changing day, an incredible day and a day filled with love-- it isn't what the rest of my life is about (kinda sorta what "From this day Forward" referenced). I mean, I still have to finalize our wedding album for print, still need to put the scrapbook pages of our guest book together, and still have about 3 returns to make of some wedding gifts that we decided we might should exchange for something else....so clearly it's not a #1 priority anymore. About 2 weeks after we returned from our honeymoon life's curveballs started comin'. One after another, after another after another. It was storm after storm after storm. And as I referenced in this post we were amidst a series of storms and felt the treacherous rains beating down upon us as we pressed on trying to see the sun ahead. While we new many of our situations were temporary- they were still the storms we were seeking protection from at the time. When the rain stopped for a moment, and the clouds parted- we were able to take a moment and look just slightly over our shoulders to see where we had come from. It's quite a sight. Mountain after mountain...rocky road after rocky road. And you know what??? Is the road a sunshiny smooth blacktop road ahead of us??? Absolutely not. I can't tell you what storms are brewing ahead, or what curveball is coming across our plate soon- but what I can tell you is that while you are walking this journey of life- you have got to learn to dance in the rain. You have got to grab onto the people in your life who mean the most and press onward. You have got to let go of the baggage and material things that truly don't do much other than burden you- and hold tight to the ones you love and the ones that love you. It doesn't take much to happen sometimes- to see what really matters. It can be an unexpected layoff, an illness of a family member, the passing of a friend or the birth of a child. It can be a multitude of things that bring life into focus. As I look back on the very beginning of our journey as one I can tell you that we were and are truly blessed. He was watching over us the entire time and just whispering to "follow Me, follow Me". We were provided for when we didn't know how to make ends meet. We were told we were loved and cared for when we felt alone. We were lifted up and carried when we didn't feel we could take one more step.

So as we continue on this road...I can tell you that while we walk this road it may feel like gravel, or dirt, blacktop or asphalt- but when we glance back to see the view behind us- it will truly be our Brick Road of Blessings.

I encourage you to follow along on my blog. It won't always be pretty..won't always be silly or funny- or sad or mad...it may not be right up your alley - but it will be feelings of a woman, a wife, a fun loving talkative girl who is simply trying to take life all in.

So whether this is your first time reading or you've read this blog for a while- make yourself at home-- and let's get this show on the road =)

Look what I WON!!!!!!

2009-11-19T13:39:00.002-06:00

{let me set the mood.....i am sitting in my chair working silently to myself..chatting with my husband on Messenger...it's pretty early in the day so far so people are still waiting for their coffee to kick in and the toothpaste taste in their mouth to wear off...I go to check my personal email, and I see that someone left a comment on my last post....and it reads.....}

"I stopped by to leave you a comment about something totally unrelated and I was touched by your post. I have SO been there, girl! Good for you for realizing it and making changes...it is so easy to get sucked into spending way too much time on the computer when you could be doing other things that are way more productive.

Anyhoo, I really stopped by to make sure you saw THIS- YAY!!! Email me when you can!! HUGS!!"

Well.....I KNOWWWWW you want to know what "this" means referenced above, dontcha?!?! dontcha??!? dontcha?!?

Can you just IMAGINE the squeal that pierced the ears of my co-workers at 9:00 this morning when I clicked the link and found out that I won...

A BLOG MAKEOVER COURTESY OF THE DRAMA MAMA!!!!!

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!!!

Y'all...I seriously squealed with delight and immediately emailed Hollie this long (I mean R.I.D.I.C.U.L.O.U.S.L.Y LONG) email about my life, my history, my blog, my blogs history and how I knew so and so from so and so's so and so blog. (no worries, she did reply to my email so I didn't scare her away!!!)

ANYWAY- I thought it was so perfect since I am coming back to blogging, and do hope that my posts will continue to peak the interest of my current readers and potentially draw more in!!!!

So...yall stay tuned...we are officially UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THANK YOU HOLLIE!!!!! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

I think I'm ready....

2009-11-08T15:50:00.003-06:00

I think I'm just about ready to head back into the blog-o-sphere. As I mentioned a few posts back- it was time to step back, take a look at my life, myself, my marriage, my career, where I've been and where I want to go. I had totally lost grip. I let things that didn't truly matter grip me. I suppose I was worshiping false idols? Wow...what a realization. I was typing the sentence above that reads "let things that don't truly matter grip me" and it just clicked that I think I was worshiping false idols. Interesting. So that's what it feels like. That's what it can do to you. That's what can happen to your life when you let other "things" of the world become your focus.

The internet was consuming my life. Hours upon hours when I got home I would peruse the internet. Not looking up anything specific..just looking. Reading. Concentrating. Concentrating on the lit up screen of my Mac Book instead of concentrating on my marriage. Instead of concentrating on my family, or my friends or my life. I was to busy nosing into the lives of others.

I've taken some time away from the computer, and it's funny how much I don't miss 95% of it. The 5% I do miss is blogging here. I miss getting to post about this or that...complain or praise. Happy or sad, Good or bad...I miss using this as a sort of outlet.

I can still choose which parts of my life that I want to be public...I can still choose what I want people to know. I can type about a situation or keep it private. It's my choice.

But I do love to help others. I love to impact others. I love to see others smile.

I can't help but wonder if my blog is helping someone. What if the things I say or the emotions I convey are exactly what someone else is feeling, or exactly what someone needs to hear. Because I have been on the receiving end of those words and emotions many times, I know how it feels. I know how uplifting it can be. The revelation it can reveal.

So...I'm back. Back to blogging here that is. I will not return to the hours I spent on the computer before, because frankly life has WAY too much to offer. WAY more than "cyberspace". I will read words of other blogs of the people that I have grown to love and appreciate- and I will share my thoughts with others here in hopes that it touches them. That it reaches people that I would never reach if it weren't for this blog.

My writing isn't really eloquent. It isn't fancy. Shoot- it may not even be grammatically correct (did I even spell "grammatically" right???HA!) but my writing is real. It's just...well...it's just ME.

**************

My sweet husband begins his new job tomorrow. Finally after being unemployed for 8 months and 10 days due to his past companies layoff- he will now be back in the corporate world again. Oh how much I hope he loves his job. I hope it's more than he can even imagine. I hope he loves the people he works with as much as I know they will love him. What an amazing talent they are gaining. Such knowledge, reasoning, intelligence...I could go on.

I am just so happy and proud for him. I hope he has an amazing first day back at work, and good grief- I will be thinking about him all day long :)

**************

Alright...well I have a little cleaning left to do on this Sunday...and tonight's menu includes some BBQ Beef Brisket that needs to cook for about 3 hours...so I'm off to get a jump start on it all :)

I hope all of my sweet readers, who may still be out there, are doing well...and I hope we will be back to chatting soon :)

I just call you, mine.

2009-10-11T07:59:00.003-05:00

A year ago today, while very emotional, very happy, very anxious, very excited and very much in love- I was not nervous. In fact, I couldn't wait to see Rob standing at the end of the aisle. I couldn't wait for him to see me in my dress. The dress I had ordered almost a year prior to the day that was upon us. I couldn't wait to get down that aisle and slide my arm through his as my grandfather married us before our beloved family and friends.

I couldn't wait to be married to him. To live the rest of our lives together and to walk the journey that He takes us down with Rob by my side.

A year later I am even more anxious to walk this journey with him. As I look back on the hills and valleys of our first year, it looks more like the Grand Canyon. And honestly, it has felt that way at many, many times. Our first year has brought many trials to us. Many times I thought to myself "this isn't fair...we should have been able to prepare more for these things that we knew could possibly happen to us- but we didn't think they would happen to us so soon after being married." It's again that naive way of thinking that we should be able to put on our armor before life begins throwing it's curve balls. But life doesn't work that way. I have always known that- but seemed to think at some point I would be better prepared for what it threw. I have learned very quickly that the minute you think you have a grip...here comes another 90 mph curveball headed straight to ya. Whether it's something smaller like an appliance breaking and needing replacing or something bigger such as an 8-months of being unemployed due to a layoff in February.....those things in life happen and you just don't have the luxury of controlling them. You can choose to walk through those storms and know that there is sunshine after the rain (and sometimes that sun is brief), or you can allow them to beat you down, make you feel as though you are drowning, and often times make you question if you want to continue down this path or look for the closest fork in your road. I can tell you that no matter the length or severity of the storm, I want to walk it with my Husband. I want to battle those with him. We have trudged through this past year while being AMAZED at the way we have been blessed and provided for in so many ways, and we know He was watching us all the way. He was taking care of us and asking us to follow Him.

I look forward to our future. I look forward to what it brings. I look forward to the long path that I see ahead of us. And all the while, as I look over my shoulder just to see the milestones we passed, and the view behind us- I don't focus there. It is a great reminder of the things we battled through and each of those things allowed us another piece of armor. We will never be fully protected- but I do believe we can take the lessons learned from every single joy and sorrow and know that God doesn't take us to a place that he can't pull us through with His grace.

I am so blessed.

Sweet Rob,
I love you more than words can say. There are so many times where we are able to know what the other is thinking or feeling without having to say a word. I am blessed to be married to someone so driven, so intelligent, so loving and so determined. I can only hope I bring half the joy to your life, that you bring to mine. Happy 1st Anniversary my precious Husband, and I look forward to 80 more =)
All my love,
Your Wife

(fyi- there is music to the slideshow if you turn on your volume)

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Just call me Susie Homemaker...

2009-09-13T18:04:00.006-05:00

So last weekend (Labor Day Weekend) I spent a majority of Monday in the kitchen. I happily made 4 different types of cookies, and Tortilla Soup!!! Three types of cookies were for various work occasions, and the fourth type was a personal request from the Head of Household (ahem, no...not me much to your dismay...my husband). The tortilla soup is a family favorite of ours, and Rob has now taken a much deserved liking to the soup...so yes- I made that too.

I figured I would go ahead and post all of the recipes here for yall. I will tell you that aside from the Oatmeal Scotchies I made, the other Three cookie recipes were BRAND NEW to me. I had never tried them before. If you cook or bake much you can totally understand the nerves that made their way into my body, as it's always a little nervewracking to try a new recipe (especially if it's a letdown when it's complete). But I can happily say that all 4 of the cookies were a HIT!!!! I had tons and tons an tons of compliments that were very flattering.

**Let me start by saying if you DO NOT use Parchment Paper when baking cookies, you need to start IMMEDIATELY. Do not pass go, do not collect $2oo. Instead, USE PARCHMENT PAPER. You can keep the same sheet on the baking sheet throughout the entire batch, so seriously...it's worth it**

Now make sure you have ink in your printer, and open a word document, so you can copy and paste these recipes and file them in your ~~recipe folder~~ junk drawer like me!

Soft Oatmeal Cookies

(boring, I know...but they were a special request from a co-worker so I obliged)

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 cups quick cooking oats

1. In a medium bowl, cream together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; stir into the creamed mixture. Mix in oats. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour.

2. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line Cookie sheet with Parchment Paper. Roll the dough into walnut sized balls, and place 2 inches apart on cookie sheets.

3. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

***I followed this recipe exactly. In my oven I needed to cook them for 8 minutes. I let them cool for about 2 minutes only, before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. The cookies are REALLY soft, even 2-3 days later. Lots of yummy cinnamon flavor, and for boring ole Oatmeal Cookies, they were seriously so good! (feel free to throw in raisins, white chocolate covered craisins, chocolate chips, etc..if you choose.***

Soft (and I MEAN SOFT) Snickerdoodle Cookies
(I had sooooo many compliments on these. I have NEVER made snickerdoodles before, but they are definitely a favorite of mine. These cookies literally melted in your mouth when you bit into them...yum yum yum. And to quote one of my co-workers who called my extension while chewing his cookie- he said "Amy, these are the best snickers I have ever doodled". HA!)

1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
2 3/4 cups flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons sugar
3 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of Vanilla Extract (plus a little extra dribble)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Mix butter, 1 1/2 cups sugar and eggs thoroughly in a large bowl.

3. Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt in a separate bowl.

4. Blend dry ingredients into butter mixture.

5. Add vanilla and mix well.

6. Chill dough, and chill an ungreased cookie sheet for about 10-15 minutes in the fridge.

7. Meanwhile, mix 3 tablespoons sugar, and 3 teaspoons cinnamon in a small bowl.

8. Scoop 1 inch globs of dough into the sugar/ cinnamon mixture and coat. (I found it worked best if I dropped the "glob" in the cinnamon/sugar mixture, coated it and THEN formed it into a ball before dropping onto the parchment paper)

9. Place on chilled ungreased cookie sheet, and bake 8 minutes.

10. Let sit on cookie sheet to cool for about 3 minutes before transferring to wire rack to finish cooling.

(you *may* have to adjust your cooking time if they come out too dough-y. But I will tell you I thought my first batch was going to be almost raw in the middle, but they turned out perfect after completely cooling)

Nestle Oatmeal Scotchies
(found on the back of a Nestle Butterscotch Morsels bag)

1 1/4 cups unsifted flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups Old-Fashioned Quaker oats
1 (11 ounce) package Nestle Toll House butterscotch-flavored morsels (about 2 cups)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

2. Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a small bowl; set aside.

3. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.

4. Gradually beat in flour mixture.

5. Stir in oats and morsels.

6. Drop by rounded Tablespoonfuls onto an baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Bake 7 to 8 minutes .

8. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes, remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
(these might be bakery worthy. Seriously, they were amazing)

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup peanut butter at room temperature (smooth is what I used (Peter Pan brand- but you could easily use chunky for added texture)
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup peanut butter chips (I found Reese's brand at my grocery store)
1/2 cup MINI semi-sweet chocolate chips (Tollhouse makes these)
For sprinkling: 1 tablespoon sugar- regular sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, the baking soda, the baking powder, and the salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and the peanut butter together until fluffy.

4. Add the sugars and beat until smooth.

5. Add the egg and mix well.

6. Add the milk and the vanilla extract.

7. Add the flour mixture and beat thoroughly.

8. Stir in the peanut butter and chocolate chips.

9. Place sprinkling sugar — the remaining tablespoon — on a plate.

10. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls into the sugar and coat.

11. Place onto parchment paper lined cookie sheets, leaving several inches between for expansion.

12. Using a fork, lightly indent with a crisss-cross pattern but do not overly flatten cookies.

13. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Do not overbake.

(Cookies may appear to be underdone, but they are not.)

14. Cool the cookies on the sheets for 1 minute, then remove to a rack to cool completely.

******NOTE FOR ALL COOKIES MENTIONED ABOVE, AND FOR ALL COOKIE MAKING IN GENERAL******
I NEVER EVER BAKE MY COOKIES FOR THE TIME LISTED ON THE RECIPE. I WILL ALWAYS SET MY TIME FOR 2 MINUTES LESS THAN THE SHORTEST AMOUNT OF TIME IN THE COOKING INCREMENT (EX: COOK 8-10 MINUTES, I SET TIME FOR 6) AND THEN WATCH THE FIRST BATCH FROM THERE, AND DETERMINE THE EXACT TIME I NEED. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE COOKIES CONTINUE TO BAKE A BIT ONCE THEY ARE REMOVED FROM THE OVEN!!!!! ALLLLLLL OF THESE COOKIES WILL STILL JIGGLE A BIT WHEN YOU REMOVE THEM FROM THE OVEN, BUT I PROMISE WHEN THEY COOL, THEY WILL BE PERFECTION!

Chicken Tortilla Soup

1 lb Chicken Breasts cooked and chopped/shredded
2 cans beef broth
2 cans chicken broth
1 large onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
2 large cloves of garlic, minced
2-3 stalks of celery, chopped
1 small can or corn (maybe 8 oz or so??) drained
1 can rotel
1 can of diced tomatoes plus juice
1 small can tomato sauce
sprinkle of chili powder
sprinkle of cumin
chopped cilantro
Bag of Bite Size Tortilla chips
Monterrey Jack Cheese

1) Cook your chicken and cut it up

(I just throw my chicken breasts in a pot of boiling water and let them cook, and move onto step 2)

2) In large pot, place chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, and celery into the pot with about 2 T olive oil.

3) Saute vegetable mixture for about 7-8 minutes

4) To pot with vegetables add: 2 cans beef broth, 2 cans chicken broth, can of corn, can of Rotel, can of tomato sauce, can of diced tomatoes and your chicken. Stir.

5) At this point, you may determine you want more broth. If so, feel free to add another can of stock, or even some water and a bouillon cube- whichever.

6) Bring to a boil.

7) Add in your spices. (cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper). I do about 6 or 7 shakes of cumin and chili powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper.

8) Chop up your cilantro (I probably chop up about 3-4 Tablespoons - yes Tablespoons) and throw that in the pot.

9) It's really ready to go as soon as it heats up, but it's really best to let it simmer for about 45 min to an hour.

10) When ready to serve, put a handful of tortilla chips on the bottom of the bowl. Top with Monterrey Jack Cheese- and then ladle your soup ontop!!!

(If you are feeling really fiesty, grab a fresh avocado and chop that up to toss in there right before serving!!!)

Yall this soup is AWESOME. So easy- seriously so quick...and sooooo good. If you like spicy- add more chili powder, and if you like Cilantro..make sure to up that amount, too!!!

Alright- so those are my posts for today!!!!! I had so much fun making all of these things- and it was even better to share them with others!!! I miss yall lots, but have another post coming in a few days about a pair of shoes that I purchased that you will not EVEN BELIEVE I had the audacity to spend money on!!! Seriously!!!

Few and Maybe a little far between....

2009-09-02T20:14:00.003-05:00

Somehow I have gotten off track in what really matters in life. Who really matters, what really matters, and WHY they/it really matter. I have let this thing called "the internet" turn me into someone I don't particularly like (or know for that matter). The internet has begun to slowly creep in and consume my mind, heart, thoughts, and life....and that's just not right. It's not what God wants for my life, I can tell ya that much- and it's surely not what I want for my life either.

I have spent many-a-nights just sitting on the couch reading blogs, facebook, this page and that...linkety link to linkety lienk....instead of being productive, instead of being driven, instead of being motivated...instead of being me.

I don't want to be a family that doesn't talk, I don't want to be a family where each person goes to his/her space and just hangs out doing whatever. And if we allow that to be who we are now...then it will surely be who my family is, as that is all they will know.

With all of that said....my blog posts may become few and far between. I will still post, and hopefully my posts will actually have some substance now (HA!) since I won't be posting quite as much. It's a decision that I have chosen, and am not giving 1 second thought to. It's simply what I WANT to do, and can't wait to get back to finding the real me.

Now please don't misunderstand...I think the internet is a GREAT tool, I think that blogs are wonderful and I will keeping reading and commenting as the time allows. I think that the internet, networking sites, blogs, etc...are all great resources. But they are just that...informative resources.

I want to look back on my days, weeks, months, years, life...and see what I accomplished. What did I achieve? What did I overcome...what did I learn. I don't want to have regrets. I don't want to have to live in the "if only I had _______" anymore. I have beaten myself up for my mistakes in the past for long enough, and it's time to move from this day forward and be confident in my life and who I am.

I will be putting my focus, time and effort in to the things my heart wants and needs. The things that I strive to achieve, and surround myself with the people who love me the most.

So please excuse me for a bit =) I plan on taking some time away...but continuing to post every so often. I plan on enjoying all of this life which God has given me.

Finding my happiness within myself, within my husband's eyes, within my family and all throughout my friends.

I want to experience all that this world has to offer....to walk hand in hand with my husband and to take it all in.

If you don't mind...

2009-08-26T21:53:00.002-05:00

...will you please say a prayer for me on Thursday morning- and Friday midday?? I have something going on- on both of these days, and I could just really use the prayers of support and encouragement. I can't disclose what's going on right now...but just know that any thoughts and/or prayers would me the world to me and my husband. I hope I am able to update more in the next week or so.

Thank you guys so very much

XoXo,
Ames

Yep...Only Our Insured...

2009-08-24T20:15:00.003-05:00

...and many of you are aware...I am currently working as a Property Damage Adjuster for an Auto Insurance Company. What is that???, you ask....well let me share a little bit. Say you get in an accident, and gather the other persons insurance. You feel the other person is at fault. Therefore, you call said person's insurance company and file a claim. From there, the claim is sent to me, and it is my responsibility to get "our" insured's accident description, any pertinent police reports or witness statements, I have to get estimates and photos of your damage, as well as determine whether or not "our" insured was really at fault in yalls accident. Therefore it requires a lot of decisions being made in good faith, as well as being able to stand behind my decision should I accept or deny coverage for our insured's accident.

(lest us not forget that you should not piss off a claim adjuster, b/c if it comes down to it...the adjusters mood on any given day could determine if they render liability or denial- if the claim could really go either way....ahem)

ANYWAY....I thought I would enlighten your Monday evening (or Tuesday morning...whichever) by sharing some of the claims that came through my office in the past 3 days.

(for the sake of this post, I want to share that the person calling to report the claim, is called a "claimant". The person that my company provides car insurance for, is called "our insured" (duh))

Ok...brace yourseslf....

1) Our Insured calls in to inform us that she has been in an accident. I ask her for her accident decription, and it goes something like this:
"Well, I was driving along the road, and a vehicle starts coming toward me head on. I swerve into the lane next to me, to avoid the collision with the car coming towards me head on. When I swerved, I hit a trash can with the front bumper of my car. When I came in contact with the trash can, it caused me to stop- and gather myself before beginning to drive again. At that point, the other car that was attempting to hit me head on had turned around and parked his car in the middle of the street, gotten out of their car and was attempting to break into my car and harm me. They were pulling so hard on the door handle that my door handle broke off. So I need to get my front bumper repaired, as well as my door handle."
(Me) "Ma'am, did you get any information as to the identity of the person who was driving the other vehicle that tried to harm you?"
"Oh yes...he is the father of my children."

only our insured.....

2) Claimant calls to report an accident. States that she works at the mall, and that the landscaping and mall sign, and light pole have been damaged and that after a witness came forward with further information, it was determined the person who caused this damage had our insurance. So I called our insured and asked for their accident description.
(our insured) " Well I was driving around the mall parking lot, and all of the sudden someone pointed and yelled at me from outside my car, and told me my car was on fire. So I jumped out."
(me)"You jumped out? You put the car in park and jumped out??"
(our insured) "No, my car was in drive, I just jumped out because my car was on fire, dawg. And then I watched my car keep moving down the road and it hit a sign and then went into the flowerbed and finally stopped when it hit a light pole"
(me) "So you bailed out of your car while it was on fire, and still in drive and still in motion?"
(our insured) "yeah, dawg"

only our insured......

Stay tuned my dear readers...there will be more where that came from!

If you're gonna do it....do it right...

2009-08-22T08:42:00.003-05:00

My Breakfast of Champions.....

One...

Partnered with.....

A Dutch Apple Bagel w/reduced fat plain cream cheese, from Einstein's Bagels...

Yup...that's my breakfast of champions :)

What's yours?????

Thought I loved you then.....and babies....

2009-08-11T17:56:00.007-05:00

Um yes. It is 100% true that the first portion of the title of this post has absolutely N-O-T-H-I-N-G to do with it's content. I had NO clue what to title this post, so I decided to title it the name of the first song that popped into my head. So there. Ya have it.

No one can EVER say that I'm not random.....

Yall...my whirlwind of a life is continuing. But rather than be vague and boring- I am going to go into more depth of what's going on in the Spencer Household. Actually..it may still be boring, but hopefully not to vague.

To start with- I have started a new job. It's in an area that I have NEVER explored before, but I'm learning the ropes and I'm enjoying what I do. The people that I work with are great, and it's always fun to try your hand at something totally new. I'll spare the long story of how I came upon this job- but the best advice I can give you is to never burn bridges...and to always reach out when you need help. There are people from years ago that you may not have talked to in forever- and all it takes is on out stretch of your hand and they help. I hope to return the favor to someone else someday :)

Anyway, I'm working for an insurance company and I am currently a Property Damage Adjuster. Not sure where it will lead, but right now--God's leading it, and that is just how it should be.

I would also like to ask for continued prayers for my husband. He is still seeking a full time job, and in the interim, he is working in another city- and gone Monday through Friday. He is only home on the weekends and to say this house is lonely is a major understatement. While it is what we have to do right now, it doesn't make it any easier. Please pray for a permanent job/solution and pray that he and I can begin on an upswing soon. It's been a tough, tough past 6 months or so. (And happy 10 month anniversary to my sweetie. As he said to me today, only 2 more months until we get to eat cake , hehe. Thinking about food...man after my own heart, HA!)

The dogs are good....Beudreaux (ya know...the manly lab) has taken a liking to this toy that came in a McDonalds happy meal that the kiddos I used to babysit left in my car. So the said "manly lab" carries around this tinnnnyyyy beanie baby gerbil thing and will NOT put it down. Granted SOME might say this is a better alternative to the PINK pig he used to wag around...Rob and I beg to differ. A gerbil??????? Come on dude....but whatever. He likes it. The Schnauzer??? Well she still just likes food (and never caring about her squeaker toys until the MINUTE you get on the phone or try to carry on a conversation with someone in the room. What is up with that anyway???). She fits in here great.

In other news....Some of our VERY best friends are coming in town this weekend. It could NOT be a better time. Seriously...Rob and I have been living in the land of doom for a while now- and seeing their chippery (yes, I made up that word) faces--and getting to laugh and be silly while enjoying adult beverages sounds like something we totally need!!!!! I know that plans to head to the Rangers game are solidified...but not sure what other kind of trouble we will get into while they are here- but it's guaranteed to be a good time!!!

*****************

In some other- MUCH more exciting news....there have been THREE ADORABLE BABY BOYS born into this world in the past 2 weeks. From here, to Pittsburgh, to Canada...these boys have blessed their parents world in a way they never knew imaginable. Seeing these sweet mommies and daddies smiles and love just radiate from their faces makes me that much more anxious to be a mommy :) I know the time will come....but man....I just can't wait to see the precious child that is formed from the love their mommy and daddy have for each other- and the love that God has for us.

Please feel free to "ohhhhh" and "awwwww" over these sweet bundles- cuz Lord knows I have!!!

Meet Levi Reese Boyer.....

Levi was born on July 23rd weighing in at 8 lbs and 9 oz. I went to high school with his sweet parents, Jocelyn and Philip.

Seriously...how adorable is he???? Congratulations Jocelyn and Philip!!!!

*****************

Meet Kaden Hercules Peter

Kaden was born on August 4th, at a teeennny tiiinyyyy 5 lbs and 14 oz. I have become VERY good friends with his mommy- and even though they are so far away in Canada...I still feel like we get to see each other every day.

Kaden had some issues with his suck/swallow reflex when he was born, so he has been spending some time in the NICU in Canada. The doctors are hopeful he will be home by Friday- just in time to start his second week of life at home. Please say some prayers for this sweet family as this has been such an emotional time and they pray for their sweet baby, and feel so helpless that they can't "make it all better". I admire his parents strength, Faith, and determination. Can't wait for you to come home soon sweet guy! We are ALL pulling for you!!!

*****************

Meet Hudson Alexander Pettijohn

Baby Hudson was born to parents Natalie and JR. He graced the world on August 5th at 8 lbs 1 oz.

I met Natalie many years back though a mutual friend, and have been a long time follower/supporter of her blog since I caught back up with her a year or so ago!! They just moved to Pittsburgh, and I know it has to be such an adjustment being in a new place, with a new baby, and so distant from the things that used to be "normal". They are doing such an amazing job handling all of the transitions!!! It has to make it much easier being able to love on this little guy!!!

*****************

I guess that's all I have for now!!! Me a new job, three friends have brand new sons, and I still have Brad Paisley's song "Thought I loved you then" running through my head!!!!!

Hope yall are having a great week...and we'll chat soon :)

XOXO

Whirlwind

2009-08-05T20:18:00.003-05:00

My life at the moment is such a whirlwind!!! Things are changing...and sometimes it even seems that I am exchanging one stress for another...but I'm making the best of it. At the current moment, I am not 100% confirmed in any plans so I really can't be more specific than that...but change is good, right?!?!?

I'm sitting here right now with a headache that has just slithered its way into my head like a snake in the tall grass- and I'm just hoping that my large Diet Coke from Chick-Fil-A (with AWESOME ice) will be suffice, before having to take any further medication, HA!!!!

I'm so ready for the weekend- but at the same time, I can't even see past 5 minutes from now!!!

*****************

I have some VERY exciting births to blog about just as SOON as these sweet new mommies have a second to post pictures of their precious bundles!!!!

I'll be back soon, yall!!!

Double Edged Sword :)

2009-08-01T08:25:00.002-05:00

So posting about giveaways on your blog for additional chances to win is totally a double edged sword....with the sharper edge on my side, lol.

You see- while it gets me an additional entry- it also means yall will hope over there and enter creating LESS of a chance I will win, due to odds :)

I digress....swords, machetes, guns, guillotines- or what have you....some stinking adorable giveaways going on over at

The Design Girl

1) Check out THIS ONE for an adorable dog collar and leash!!

2) Also up for grabs is an ADORABLE Monogrammed Mug!!!

3) You could win a precious "Boo" Tote for yourself or another sweet girl in your life!

4) Who wouldn't love a new Blog Template????

Good Luck Y'all!!!!

(and ya better come back and post and let me know if ya win!!!)

Please Pray for the Little Babe

2009-07-27T10:10:00.003-05:00

....I know that many, MANY of us blog readers follow MckMama and I almost thought to myself "everyone who knows of Stellan knows that he is in very very critical health right now, and is already praying..." so I almost didn't feel the need to make this post.

But you know what...even our Father knows the outcome of Stellan's life. He knows how long He is lending the Earth this precious babe. And even HE asks us to pray. Tells us to pray.

So friends...please...please take a moment to pray for this precious little boy who is so very sick right now. Please pray for his family. Pray for his mothers broken, tired and weary heart. Pray that his heart can return to Normal Sinus Rhythm and continue beating at a safe rate.

While you pray for this babe, please pray for the other sick babies in the world...the ones that we know of, and the ones we know of not.

Show Us Your LIFE!- Wedding Dress Friday!!!!

2009-07-24T17:12:00.002-05:00

Kelly over at Kelly's Korner is hosting Show Us Your Life by posting _______________. Well today just happens to be Wedding Gown Friday!!!!!

My dress was my dream dress, hands down. When choosing my gown, I wanted something that was a reflection of my taste, combined with what I new Rob would love. Rob is simple, and traditional. So the style of my dress was A-Line traditional, and the material was a Satin Taffeta. So it wasn't all lace or beads...it was just a little more traditional. It was a simple frame dress- just what Rob loves. But at the same time, it had some modern touches. A sash that was a gorgeous Champagne color that matched exactly with some of the beading on the gown. The bodice of my gown was very detailed. Beads and small small pearls. Scalloped bottom with the same details...gorgeous train- just the right length for an outdoor wedding. Corset back. When choosing a veil, I had 2 veils. I had a fingertip length veil, as well as a blusher. I knew I wanted to wear my veils ontop of my head during the ceremony, and wanted to put one of them under my updo for the reception. We chose the shorter style of veils, as the back of my dress where the train started had some detailing and we didn't want to cover it.

No necklace..we didn't want to take away from the sweetheart neckline and detail on the bodice.

I did cry when I tried this gown on. It came down to this gown and another. I tried them both on again, and tears brimmed my eyes when I slipped this one on again.

I am still trying to find a way to wear this baby again...ahem...not in a wedding of course....but I just LOVE her so :)

And let me say this....my Handsome Groom made me look good!!!!

Urine Schample......

2009-07-22T09:41:00.005-05:00

So we're gonna get reaalll comfy reaaalll quick. So collecting urine samples on ourselves isn't really my idea of a good time, or heck, even an "ok" time- but every now and again it has to be done.

So fine, I wrap my hand in tons of papertowels as I grab the nasty germ infested Sharpie that they LEAVE in the bathroom for the people have just peed hopefully in the cup and not all over their hands, to use. I try and keep my hands covered in papertowels as I write my name on the cup. And writing on a curved surface with a Sharpie with a dull tip, and a sticker the size of this line ________ trying to fit my entire name on the cup without it all running together is enough of a stress that I begin to feel the beginnings of an anxiety attack coming on as I sit in the restroom. So get the urine sample in the cup and stick it in the "Secret" door- and hope that someone with a rubber glove on doesn't reach through the other side right when they hear "my" door open. That would plain FREAK me out. I'm not going to pass my cup of urine through the wall to another hand. No way jose.

Please wait until my door is closed and then do whatever you see fit with the cup.
Thanks,
Urine Sample Management

Anyway....so I've gone into a little much detail here, but whatev. It's my thoughts and fears on the UA, and that ain't gonna change =)

So why in the WORLD is Amy talking about pee on her blog???

Well I am SO GLAD you asked!!!!!!!!!!!!

We noticed that the sweet schnauzer was having to go outside far too often to "go potty" and she would try and squat 2 or 3 times each times she went out. Well I have been told before at each of the vet appointments we have taken Sadie in for, that Schnauzers are very prone to Bladder Infections (among a list of like 100 other things- It's a good thing she's cute as all get out.) They told us what to look for in order to see the signs of a UTI, so within 12 hours of this going on I informed sweet husband that we needed to take her in. I think he is always hesitant when I begin to self diagnose myself and NOW the dog...but hey- something about my "motherly" instinct????

Anyway, I was busy yesterday so "dad" took in the pup at 11:30. Like any good pet owner, he had her go potty outside the vet before he took her in, just to make sure she didn't embarrass us and pretend she wasn't potty trained. Well of course they need a darn urine analysis from the poor pup. So the vet tech tried to ~~take~~ drag Sadie outside and have her go potty again- to which Sadie looked at her like--"woman, I just went, now let me sniff around....but I'm not gonna pee." So they went back inside, went ahead and said it sounded like a UTI, and gave Rob the meds for Sadie, charged us for the Urine Analysis, and sent him on his merry way with 2 empty sterile urine cups.

So he calls me on his way home and tells me bits and pieces of the vet visit, and how they couldn't get her to pee (YA THINK?!?!) and how we now have to collect a urine sample on our own. WHHHHHATTTTTTTTTT??????

Yes.

We.have.to.collect.a.urine.sample.from.a.female.dog.

Note I said FEMALE. So that means the space between her little "tee tee" and the grass blade is about thismuch. At least if it had been the male labrador there would have been a decent stream!!!!

Soooo, I get home and decide to take her out. So I leave her off the leash because there is no way I'm juggling a pee cup, a leash, and a schnauzer while parading around the yard in heels. Puuhhlllease.

So I am following her very closely b/c I have like .5 seconds to catch her in the act, right?? So I'm following her like white on rice, and she's all hunkered down with her tail tucked thinking she has done something wrong!!! Can ya BLAME the poor girl??? She wanted her space!!! HAHAH!!

So finally she stops, and she squats and I throw the cup under her and catch a raindrop amount of urine. Yes, a raindrop. I think she thought she had to go more than she really did (hence the Bladder infection) so there wasn't much in her.

So Rob and I tag teamed and spent the rest of the afternoon taking turns playing urine catcher. You can repeat the scenario above over and over - well, except for the part about Rob wearing heels..that was only me.

About 5 hours later we FINALLY got enough of a sample to take it to the vet. I get the cup, and take it in. I have to admit I felt hilarious riding in the Tahoe with a container of pee in the cup holder.

So I get there, drop off the urine and they asked me how long it had taken to get it. Conversation went as follows:

Vet Tech (VT): How fresh is this urine?
Me: (frowning I'm sure): Well we gathered it throughout the course of the afternoon
VT: Was it refrigerated?
Me: Was it REFRIGERATED?????
VT: Yes, in between trips to collect, did you refrigerate the sample?
Me (thinking)--gee ma'am..no I didn't keep it in my fridge! I keep lemonade and diet coke, left overs, yogurt, fruits and veggies in my fridge...even some brown rice, but I DONT KEEP URINE IN MY FRIDGE. MY APOLOGIES!!!!
Me: No, it wasn't in the fridge
VT: Ok well, sometimes if it's kept hot- the bacteria will break down and we won't get as good of an analysis
Me (thinking)- how about YOU come to my house and collect the darn sample. After all, yall are the medical team right???
Me: Well I tell ya what...let's go ahead and go with this one and see what we get, K??? If it comes back totally normal, I'll collect another- but for now..you can start with this.
VT: Sure, that sounds great ma'am
Me (thinking) Yes it sounds good because there is no other choice unless you're catching a ride back to the house with me woman!

So long story longer- Sadie DOES have a UTI, the vet called to confirm that today. Also let me know that she might had Bladder Stones as well, and would like us to consider an $84 X-Ray. She said there was just a high amount of blood in Sadie's urine. I politely informed her that we will keep Sadie on these meds for 1 week and the re-access her count via another sample. If the counts are still really high, absolutely we will do the X-Ray...gotta keep the babies safe.

So stay tuned, b/c when we collect this next urine sample in a week, I might just take some pictures!

Takin it back to the Old School

2009-07-18T09:43:00.003-05:00

Cause I'm an old fool who's so cool
If you want to get down
I'm gonna show you the way whoomp there it is
Let me hear you say

Whoomp chak a laka chack a laka chak a laka chak a

Just chiming in to say I have switched back to my old default style of comments. Disqus is a great idea, I just think there are some kinks that need to be worked out before I will enable it again on my blog. I should have just known never to mess with a good thing =)

So we don't have many things planned...ok who am I kidding, we don't have jack squat planned for the weekend, and I have stooped to the low levels of googling "what to do in Frisco, TX" to try and come up with ideas.

Ohhhhh, I totally forgot. We had a COLD front come through here last night!!! Yes-siree folks. A COLD front. That's what it's been called. Today- here in Frisco TX- this high is ONLY 92.....thank goodness for that COLD front. (I seriously think they are mistaken in what a COLD front actually is) 92 is still freaking hot and makes it miserable to get in the shower, dry your hair, have your back all sweaty, do makeup, and then still be hot from getting ready, only to go get in your scalding hot car, back sweaty and clothes sticking to you- hot air blowing in your face. Eeesh. Makes me not want to do anything at all. Maybe that's why I got up this morning, went to the gym and ran on the treadmill in the A/C and then came back here and parked myself on the couch and am now debating a late morning nap!! HA!!!!!

Alright, I'm officially rambling.

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend, and that you enjoyed this "cold front" that apparently came through yall's states before it made it's way deep in the heart of Texas!!!

I will leave you with this....the picture below would be my husband and his brother (my brother-in-law). I will let you guess which is which....but apparently my husband thought it he was Mr. Tough Guy when he was just a few years out of diapers *wink*

Let's Give 'em Somethin' to Blog About...

2009-07-15T12:48:00.004-05:00

People are bloggin'....bloggin 'bout people...let's give em something to blog about... (one of my favorite songs from "back in the day")

Annnywaaayyy...moving right along. Seriously, I know I haven't written in forever. It seems like so much has gone on, yet nothing has gone on at all.

This summer heat here in Texas is about to dehyrdrate and have me shrivel into a piece of human jerky. Could someone PLEASE turn down the A/C. I am SO READY for fall and winter. Sad part about it....we still have 2 months left of this dreaded Texas heat. I know, I know - If ya can't take the heat...get outta Texas. But really...right now we are staying put.

HOWEVER....I could SERIOUSLY SERIOUSLY use a getaway here:

Seeing this all morning and afternoon long:

While practicing shooting the outdoors with our

Having a Cooler filled with some:

(granted the place I displayed above isn't Mexico...Corona would still be the beer of choice.)

With some tunes playing in my ears via this:

While having my awesome husband lying on the chair next to me...

We could really really use a break from here. I sure hope we have the opportunity soon.

*****************************

Everyone needs to welcome my SISTER into the blogging world!!!! If you want someone down to Earth, yet hilarious, gorgeous, with a sense of style, and someone who HATES to walk up ANY stairs with someone behind her because she gets frightened**, then you will truthfully enjoy reading Her Blog. No, really...yall hop on over there--become a follower, and give her a lil' shout out!! I've made it easy (ya can thank me later)...just Click Here.

(**We grew up in a two story house and poor thing- everytime she would go up the stairs, and I would be behind her- I would run as fast and loud as I could up the stairs chasing her making this wretched screeching sound while trying to tickle her and it has seriously scarred her for life. I imagine we will see a post about it on her blog very very soon!)

And I just wanted to clarify once more that my new comment system *should* remember your information (name, email, bra size, weight...etc) after the first time you put it in. Also make sure you click under your comment that you DO NOT want to receive email updates on comments. But again, if this comment system seems to frustrate people, and keep them from commenting, then I'm taking it back to the old school. Because ~~I'm so cool~~ yalls thoughts and comments are WAY more important to me than the new comment system :)

I hope yall are all having a wonderful week.....

Where do YOUUUUUUU wish you could be right about now????

Slackers 'R Us.....

2009-07-02T12:50:00.003-05:00

Seriously...I am the biggest slacker. Well BLOG slacker these days. I will say I am VERY proud of myself for my Bootcamp progress!!! Bootcamp started last Monday and it is 5 days a week, so tomorrow (Friday) will be my 10th day at bootcamp! She has changed up a lot of the exercises- so in some ways it is hard to tell how much I may have improved since there is only 1 exercise we do every.single.day but I ~~do believe~~ know for sure if she had started out last week with the exercises we are doing this week- I would not be alive. I would be moonwalking it up with MJ. Ok, bad bad bad joke. Forgive me, please. Ahem...anyway, Bootcamp is WONDERFUL and I truly am excited to go each and every night! Rob has told me on 2 occasions how proud of me he is, and that seriously means so much to me. I am doing it first and foremost because I want ME to be proud of ME, and second because I want my husband to be proud of me. I'm beyond proud of him in so many ways, it will be nice to return the favor =)

My sweet (but strict as all get out) BC trainer has asked me to ~~bite off more than I can chew~~ attempt to run a 5K with her in October. Rob is going to run it too, so how kind and inexpensive of me to let him know it can be our anniversary gift to each other in October. I supppooosseeee the little paper on our back that says our number can be the "paper" gift for the 1st anniversary. When is the diamond anniversary? Do I have to wait much longer??? Oh- sorry..back on topic. So yes, apparently my fat ass is going to run a 5K in October. Yikes. I'll keep you updated on that front.

I am so saddened by ALL of the recent losses that have happened in the entertainment and non-entertainment world. And while MJ's life was all sorts of crazy, IMO, I did and still do, and probably always will- Love his music.

What else do I know....oh yes. My ~~tim the toolman taylor~~ husband is building this MASSIVE desk. He has been working on it NON STOP this week. No, I'm serious. Like he goes to the gym, goes to spin class, comes home and works on this thing from 11 AM to 9 PM. It's awesome though. He's building the entire thing all by himself. So amazing.

I really need to get back to posting some pictures on this blog. I was looking back today, as I was searching for a particular post I wrote a while back and see that this place is really rather boring. Or maybe it's just my life. Hmmmmm.

Yall got any good ideas for some rockin' posts???? Seriously, I'm begging here....

Update coming soon....

2009-06-30T09:41:00.000-05:00

....promise. Maybe tonight...hopefully :)

Hope yall have a great Tuesday!!!!

And one last tid bit...

2009-06-24T08:01:00.002-05:00

Alright...it appears that the new comment system is a go!

One last tidbit of info...if you are receiving an email when anyone and everyone comments on one of my posts, make sure the next time you comment, that you look at the little box under your comment box and select DO NOT SUBSCRIBE.

Then it will make sure that you do not receive emails about others comments in the future.

The only comments you will receive via email, will be those that yours truly leaves you, in reply to the comment you left me :)

Is there anyone not liking this new system??? Be honest now! Yall as my readers/commentors are #1, so if yall ain't happy...ain't no one happy :)

I need a favor...

2009-06-23T13:38:00.004-05:00

**EDITED TO ADD: You have 3 ways to leave comments now. You can leave them signing in using your facebook account, twitter account, or the FIRST time- log in as a guest...fill in your name, email and blog address and it will remember you from here on out. I know it sounds confusing but I promise once you log in one way or another, it remembers you each time from here on out!!!! But I still want your input!

**One other thing....when you sign in - make sure under your comment, you click that you do NOT want to subscribe to all comments....I think you only have to do this once...I believe.

Like I said, I'm brand new to this, just trying it out along with yall.

******************

I'm testing out this new commenting system.

Can yall go to "comments" and attempt to leave one and tell me if it gives you options to sign in with your twitter account, or facebook account or blogger account??

If it becomes more trouble than it's worth for yall to comment, I'm going to go back to the way things "used" to be...but I enjoy this because I can reply to your comments, and you get an email, and you can reply to other peoples comments as well!!!

Yall lemme know!!! Thanks so much--

1 Day down...only 39 more to go...WHAT??????

2009-06-23T13:01:00.004-05:00

This is going to be short. Because my fingers just might fall off. I do have to admit that it was a GREAT feeling to conquer bootcamp last night. There was a sense of pride and excitment amongst my panting and wondering if I head home, or to the nearest hospital.

I don't think I told you guys, that the personal trainer hosting this bootcamp is a Cancer Survivor. She is 30 and was diagnosed when she was 23. After completing one of her final rounds of Chemo when she was about 25..her doctor informed her that her ovaries might be asleep for 6 months or so, but not to worry- as they would begin functioning again. She informed me that she and her husband (who is a firefighter in our town) didn't do anything to further "prevent" conceiving and low and behold not a month after her final round of chemo she was pregnant. She had her daughter, and when the trainer was 2, she relapsed. And relapsed hard. She just went through a bone marrow transplant about a year ago. She in fact still has her port, which she expects to be taken out next money. This trainer is an inspiration yall. She loves what she does, and if this woman can get out there in the heat and motivate us, and do examples of moves correctly...then I'm sure my healthy (but lardy) body can make it through as well.

When I was sitting there wanting to cuss life and cuss myself for being overweight, I thought of all she had overcome and how much further she WILL go, and it gave me a little bit of motivation to push myself. I can't help but wonder if God put her in my life right now, for a reason. I'm very much looking forward to my 8 more weeks with her!

Now- about the bootcamp itself....I was sweating in places I didn't know had sebaceous glands. I was doing things I thought only the pro football players did...and I felt like I was going to puke, passout, and die of a heart attack ALL at the same time. But, well, as you can see- I didn't. {insert a hip hip hooray}. At the beginning we were outside for about 20 minutes (ahem, in Texas so read 100 degrees) doing lunges, and other heinous leg regimen's and I really thought my legs were going to collapse underneath me.

We went inside and did some cardio, did a weight circuit, some more cardio, and then abs.

It was really awesome, and I am totally looking forward to tonight, and totally hoping that we work on upper body, and don't move a muscle in lower body. Totally.

(Thank yall for all of the encouragement and support! This really means a whole lot to me- I love yalls comments!)

I'm off to take some advil....with some water, instead of Diet Coke.

Bootcamp for my Big Fat Butt

2009-06-22T15:33:00.003-05:00

So I did it. I signed up for bootcamp for ~~fatties~~ people who need to lose weight. Yall, I have gone and lost my mind and now can only hope to lose some inches.

This bootcamp is 5 (count it...FIVE...Cinco...10-5..4+1...) Days a week for 8 (E-I-G-H-T) weeks. I am ~~dumb~~ determined to make myself get in shape on way or another. I went this morning and had the sweet (very in shape) personal trainer heading up the bootcamp, take my measurements. After seeing that the BIG weight on the scale has to jump up to the next level, from last time, before the tiny weight can be moved- I know I am ~~obese piece of lard~~ making the correct decision.

Luckily the trainer didn't laugh in my face at my measurements, I hope she at least waited until the floor stopped shaking once I left the premisis. So anyway, tonight is my first night of bootcamp. It's every night a week from 7-8 PM. I am really hoping to see some improvement at the end of 8 weeks, and really hope to be in a habit, routine of working out so that I am motivated enough to CONTINUE to keep working out when this camp is over.

If I'm able to move my fingers tomorrow or the next day, I will definitely report back. She was kind enough to tell me that she doesn't get in your face and yell at you and call you ludacris names, but that if you aren't performing, you are punished with push ups at the end of class. (I figured it wouldn't behoove me to ask her if I had to do real push ups, or if I could do "girl pushups").

I've lost my mind. I've got to lose inches.

and I've got to finish this diet coke here.....as she so ~~nicely~~ firmly informed me that I really need to cut back on my soda intake. Yes Yes, I've heard that before.

Wish me luck......

Wonderful Words of Wisdom

2009-06-20T10:00:00.006-05:00

I read this the other day and since reading this list, it has been on my mind more often than not.

I wanted to share it with you all, as it really is very inspiring and uplifting :)

I hope you all enjoy it- and that it will being some cheer to your weekend!!!

*********************

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we’d grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Bridesmaid Luncheon

2009-06-19T19:33:00.002-05:00

So I thought I would post up a bit about the Bridesmaid Luncheon we had for the amazing ladies in our wedding.

There is this FANTASTIC nail salon/spa that opened near our home about a year ago. They are soooo sweet in there, and I continue to visit them today. Well not "today"- but you know what I mean. So as a treat to my lovely ladies, we took them to the Salon and they were all treated to Pedicures, Lunch, and Custom Ordered Cupcakes :) I mean...what girly get together is complete without Delicious Cupcakes!!!! Anyway, moving on from food...we all got together for our Pedicures and Pampering on Friday around lunchtime, so that we would be finished and could get ready for our Rehearsal Dinner that evening.

Everyone had such a fun fun time and I truly enjoyed getting time with the girls for pampering, laughs, cupcakes, wine and spending my last few hours as an un-married woman!!!

These are the girls' bridesmaids gifts. It was an adorable wicker basket filled with all kinds of pampering goodies, totes, and some flip flops that matched their dresses in case they wanted to change at the reception!

Amen

Cupcakes with Lipstick, Brushes, and Fingernail polish decorations!

My sweet, sweet Junior Bridesmaid and Me

Caught Red Handed.....Apparently I was thinking about what I was doing the next day =)

All of the gorgeous girls, including my mother =)

Such a fun, fun, fun time!!!!!

What did YOU ladies do for your Bridal/Bridesmaid Parties, if you had one???

Tomorrow-It's only a dayyyy awaaaayyyy

2009-06-18T21:18:00.004-05:00

I can't post/disclose much right now. But I did want to ask that my faithful bloggy friends for life please think of me tomorrow (Friday) around 9:00 AM CST. Got something going on, and I would really appreciate just a second of thought or prayer :)

I hope to update more tomorrow afternoon or possibly Saturday!!

I hope yall all have a Fabulous Friday :)

Frills and Thrills

2009-06-16T13:03:00.002-05:00

Totally Cute.....

I won't lie...if I could pull it off, I would wear it

I could use this top as a HAIR TIE and that's about it!

And if you see me at the lake- please do not point fingers and laugh!

Someone Call the Doctor...

2009-06-09T16:56:00.002-05:00

.....I'm sick. Not sure what it is...horrid horrid cold, or a bout of Strep...either way some critter has invaded my body without asking and is LIVING in my throat.

Eviction notice was given yesterday.

Be Back Soon!

Friday Firsts...

2009-06-05T17:08:00.003-05:00

{First of all, THANK YOU to all of you who have commented on my last few posts. It excites me to check my blog and see comments from SO many who wish me well and support me :) I will address the Weight Watchers Update soon...but for now I must say this....}

Today was my first day to have both kiddos at the house. When I accepted the Nanny-ing job, the 2.5 year old was in school until 2:45 each day, and it was only the baby. Well now the 2.5 year old ~~critter~~ kid is out of school for the summer, hence I have both children all day.

I ~~ran to~~ got in my car promptly at 4:17 and shuffled through all of the ~~crap~~ woman necessities of my purse and found my phone among some unwrapped gum, year old receipts, nasty old cough drop, a sweetart or two, lipstick...etc. I frantically hit "favorites" on my phone can called the husband. Convo went like this:

Husband: Hey babe how are you
Me: I'm fine. Hey..do we have any Vodka in the freezer?
Husband: Don't we have that Tito's in there and that small thing of Absolute?
Me: I'm not sure, can you check?
Husband: {walking over to freezer} Oh yeah babe, there is plenty in here.
Me: Both of the bottles???
Husband: Yes, both are freezing in the freezer. {walking back to couch}
Me: Hey babe, do we have Sweet & Sour mix left?
Husband: What in the world do you have planned?
Me: JUST DO WE HAVE IT????
Husband: {walking very hard on his feet to the cabinet} Yes, we have a little but you might need more.
Me: Great. I'll be making myself a Vodka Sour or 12 when I get home. See ya soon, Love you
Husband: Love you too.

Went to Kroger and got the fixings for nachos this evening...as well as Sweet & Sour Mix AND Appletini Mix- HA!!!

So now, I sit enjoying my FIRST (of many) Appletini's for the evening.

It's been a rough day =)

Porker.....

2009-06-04T13:43:00.002-05:00

Yall..I need some serious serious ideas. This constant weight gain I am having is getting out.of.control. The only thing I can do without any work or effort is gaining weight. I swear if I think about something sweet, or candy or pasta or something greasy my stomach grows. And wait a second. Be really really quiet. Do you hear that??? Do you???? Don't worry, the sound you heard was my thighs growing and rubbing together SIMPLY by writing a post regarding food. *sigh*

Anyway- here is the deal. Yall, my husband has even bribed me with a TRIP once I get to MYYYY (not his) but MY goal weight. (I want to make that clear). Once the profession situation is back on its feed in regards to my husbands job- he has said he will make a way to take us on a getaway to celebrate my weight loss. He told me it could be anywhere. Granted I will say I'm very grounded and realistic so I won't take advantage of his diction of "anywhere"- BUT I am thinking it might be a beach NOT in the US or Mexico :)

SO WHAT IN THE HECK IS WRONG WITH ME??????????? Why doesn't anything motivate me to lose weight? I hate working out. I really do. No idea why, I just can't stand it. But I know it goes hand in hand with weight loss, right???

I have heard success after success after success story about Weight Watchers, but I have also heard that going to the meetings for meal ideas and accountability is a very important part of that program, and right now- there just isn't an extra $30 a month we can spend for me to go on those meetings. Is it possible for me to still do WW and be successful even if I can't go to the meetings? Is there anyone willing to tutor me and hold my hand a bit to help me get started??

Part of my big problem also, is that I want to see immediate results. Once I see that I have lost a pound or two, I am 110% more motivated to keep going. But I never see that 1 or 2 lbs come off. It is SO FRUSTRATING.

None of my "old" clothes fit anymore and I was FORCED to go out and buy new clothes in sizes that I have NEVER purchased in my life before. Seriously....it broke my heart.

So much of my weight gain contributes to my saddened state as well. I'm not happy with the way I look and I want to ~~snap my fingers and wiggle my nose and it be gone~~ change it.

Can you guys please please help a sister out? What worked for you? How do I do this?? Yall we eat grilled chicken or pork all the time, fresh vegetable and maybe brown rice. I only keep fruit in the house now for sweets...nothing else. We don't eat many chips...but I do love diet coke.

I'm rambling here, but please- do you have ideas??? (and who ever has an idea that works, might just get to be packed in my suitcase for the celebratory trip!)

Thanks in Advance :)

Well Float my Boat.....

2009-06-03T10:12:00.003-05:00

Free Root Beer Floats {10 oz.} tonight at Sonic from 8PM-Midnight!!! I seriously love Sonic Happy Hour. LOVE their Cherry Limeades, Love me a Vanilla Creme Dr Pepper, tried the Mango Limeade and was totally let down...*sigh*. Love a Watermelon Slush with Vodka, Love a Blue Coconut Slush with Rum, crap...I love any of their drinks with Vodka or Rum.

Ok I seriously got way off track. If ya want a free float, then go to Sonic tonight for a free one, and it'll float your boat :)

Bartender....

2009-06-02T13:47:00.003-05:00

...I could totally go for ~~one~~, no ~~two~~, no ALL THREE of these right now!!!!!

So tell me...what is YOUR favorite ~~drunken pleasure~~ mixed drink?!?!? Please please do tell =)

...just takes a little time, sometimes...

2009-05-30T10:15:00.002-05:00

..to get your feet back on the ground. Takes a little time some times...to turn the Titanic around {thank you Amy Grant}....

I'm again taking a small break. Still smothered in frustration, sadness, feeling hopeless and very stressed out. I hope to be back to my old self very VERY soon.

I hope you all understand how much I appreciate all of the support and encouragement! Please continue reading and checking back!

Praise You in this Storm

2009-05-22T16:55:00.006-05:00

Life is tough....really really tough right now. I am broken, I am deflated. I know a lesson is being taught. I know this. I know I am being grown. I know this. I am not alone. I know this. In what I hope and pray will be a long life for myself as an individual and as a life with my husband this time will be a very small part of our life together. I know this.

Man how I thought back in kindergarten that my mom not packing me the snack I wanted or only packing fruit and nothing sweet for dessert was the worst thing in the world. I remember in 5th grade thinking a girl having better scrunch socks than men was the worst thing that could happen to me. I remember in 10th grade, thinking that me not having a brand new car might be so important..and in 12th grade me thinking that performing for the last time with my friends on drill team might just break my heart in two. A couple of long distance relationships had my stomach in knots and it seemed like it "just wasn't fair". Wedding photographers and flower and colors and perfection- seemed to be what defined me for 14 months of wedding planning.

And you know- at all of those points in time, those were my storms. I don't think I praised. I think I thought I was praising and seeking the Truth and the Lesson, but now that I really take a good look back, I thought I was owed a happy ending.

I am a good person. I want good for others. I want to have a successful career, a love filled marriage and well behaved children someday. Therefore, God will have planned for my life to be "an easy one". Am I or was I this naive??

Yall I don't have words right now. None at all. I have enough tears right now to flood our home..but I have no words. My heart is so broken and I have never felt so dumb and ignorant to life and it's ways as I do right.this.very.moment.

There will be harder lessons to learn in the future. I know this. This will not be the toughest thing Rob and I have to battle through as a couple. I know this. My life is still good even through my tear filled eyes. I know this.

Sometimes eyes cleansed with tears see the clearest.

All I can do right now is play this song over and over and over.

God has a plan for me. A plan for us. He says to trust him. He says to me "Amy, I love you and you are to follow me. I have a plans for you far beyond your dreams. I know this."

Can he do it?? ....Yes he can!!- and on a random note..

2009-05-20T10:00:00.003-05:00

Sweet Sweet goodness. I hope Adam wins tonight. Now let me say, I completely understand about the American Idol contract restrictions, 90 Day Waiting period for any outside contract negotiations, he might be better off not winning blah blah blah talk-- but when it comes to the competition part... I hope he wins. I think Kris is a doll, and I think we might not see his mousy wife around for long (sorry folks) BUT I think Adam is far more talented and a far better singer. Can he be over the top and over dramatic at times?? Of course, but then again--so can I =) HA! So at any rate- as far as the winner/loser concept of Idol, I hope Adam wins.

And oh.my.heavens- I think Kara Dioguardi is gorgeous, and I think she is a great singer- but that song last night was HORRID. I don't recall hardly any of the "Debut Single" songs written by producers/co-writers, that I have really drooled over, but all of the judges, EVEN KARA, said that the song wasn't great for either of them. HELLO, if you have said all along that so and so would be seen in the finale, how about you at least try and write a song that is a little better than that! I guess the positive of that wretched song is that neither of them sang it well, so it cancels each others performance out, right?

Hmmm...gonna be a nail biter of a 2 hour finale. And I was actually very glad that Ryan let us know that it was going to run over, so that I knew to DVR the next show as well, so it doesn't shut off like LAST YEAR when he gets to the line "And the WINNER...of American Idol Season 9 (or whatever it is) is _______________ {cue DVR Do You Want To Delete Now} pop up. I nearly keeled over last year and passed out. We will have none of that.

So anyway- Yes Adam, I love you and I think you are fantastic and talented and a very genuinely kind person. Even if you like boys. Or whatever.

************************

So I won a giveaway that I blogged about here, a few weeks ago.

I received my tote in the mail, and it's totally adorable and I wag it around everywhere. Seriously. Match or not- it is sported hanging off my right shoulder. Love it.

I flip flop around in my flops any time the opportunity presents itself. I seriously LOVE flip flops, on pedicured toes of course.

And just the other day, I received my sign in the mail!!! I had contacted Susie from My Flip Flopz and decided on paint colors/design and I had known what I wanted the sign to say all along :) So below is a picture of the ADORABLE sign she painted for me, and I have hung it VERY proudly right by the front door, as I deemed that appropriate. You will see some sticks on the right hand side of the picture, and a tiny bit to the right of those dead limbs stuck in an adorable canister you will find the front door. Just in case you care. Since I know you do. Ok, onto the picture....

Totally adorable, right?!!? Go to her Etsy shop, located here and grab one =) She is super fun to work with, and can create pretty much anything you want!!

************************

I swear...I love our two pups. Love them to death. They don't get sick often, thank heavens, but when they do- pets sure as heck know how to rack up a darn good vet bill, don't they?!? Beudreaux has a "deep seeded skin infection" (aka Staph-which I diagnosed before taking him to the vet) so after some skin scrapings and feeling all over his body (not to mention the aspirations they had to do b/c they felts some lumps they wanted to make sure weren't cancerous)- we came out of the vet with $180 deducted out of our bank account, 3 weeks worth of horse sized pills, a stop at the grocery store to buy some cheap brand American Cheese slices to give the dog said pills because he doesn't like peanut butter (is he weird or what?!?) and a shampoo that I am supposed to bathe him with 2-3 times a week. Um hello kind vet, would YOU like to come over and bathe him 2-3 times a week??? He's very good in the bath, but it kills my back and I then have to clean the bathtub once I clean him. I could use the hose but Beudreaux LOVES the hose and thinks it's the greatest gift in the world when he gets to play with the hose. I get so frustrated with him that I squirt it hard in his snout when I'm bathing him- and he thinks I hung the darn moon. I DIGRESS!!!!!

But- the medicine is working, there was nothing cancerous, just doesn't metabolize as well at 7 years old- so the spots were Lymphoma's (fatty cells and tissue) and is just storing fat, ahem, like his OWNER.

And here is a fabulous picture that my husband took of Beudreaux one day miz-snooze.

Love him. Love him. Love him.

************************

Alright, enough rambling for this post. I have so many other things the hamster inside my head is telling me to report, but frankly, I am using the home PC of the people I nanny for b/c I left my laptop at home, and I am getting carpal tunnel wrist or carpal tunny body or something from sitting in this kinked position, so I'm off to do better things. Aka- drink a diet coke =)

Talk soon loves!

Coming Soon to a Blog Near You...

2009-05-18T15:26:00.002-05:00

...a really decent post, I swear. Just recooping and soaking in this amazing weather we are having!!!

More, More, More

2009-05-13T19:32:00.002-05:00

...more fantastic giveaways that can be found at Fabulous Fun Finds!!!

Color Me Cute Splat Mat & Bib

Color Me Cute offers "sweet baby items for your little cuties." From bibs to stroller blankets to toddler belts to swaddle blankets, these hand-made beauties are sure to please! The laminated splat mats are fabulous for easy clean up underneath a high chair, and come in the latest trendy prints. For you mother's with toddlers out there these mats would also make the perfect floor covering for your art areas! Each mat has a lip edge that helps keep those spills on the mat and not on your floor.

Punkydoo Kids Cuddle Gown

Punkydoo Kids and her Etsy Shop offer "alternative clothes for the hip & cool." Check out these trendy infant cuddle gowns, for example! Visit Punkydoo Kids and Etsy Shop to see the available prints: rock & roll, motorcycles, giraffe, china doll, and more.

Balboa Baby Nursing Cover

Balboa Baby supports the modest mother through their nursing covers. The innovative Balboa Baby® Nursing Cover allows you to feel comfortable and confident nursing your baby anywhere. The Nursing Cover is contoured to fit around you and your baby – keeping the fabric securely in place so you can nurse at ease. Balboa Baby nursing covers come in a variety of chic prints! The neckline is structured to help the fabric stay away from your body, so you can have eye contact with your baby while you are nursing.

Girls...yall head over and enter these giveaways!!!!! Don't Forget I have lots and lots more about 2 posts down!!

Hope yall are having a great week!

Random "Facts" of Kindness my head...

2009-05-13T10:21:00.003-05:00

...so I'm sure I have enough ~~babbling~~ interesting intelligent things that I could use to write about 8 different posts...but I just feel rather sporadic and random today--and it's my blog, so there =)

1) I love American Idol and I love Adam. I know he loves boys, maybe, but I still have this ridiculous infatuation. When he comes on the screen to sing or shoot, even on my iTunes to sing the world stands still. I block out all dog barks, people around, background noise, husband ~~rambling~~ wealth of knowledge and my eyes are focused on him. Seriously...I don't care if you think all he does is scream, he screams in tune. The guy is simply amazing.

2) I think Kris is very very attractive, and I think his wife is mousy. Mousy or not, she's about to be rich. Hmmph.

3) Danny- well he is good, but I just....I don't know...I don't really get into him much. Wouldn't buy his CD. I would buy Kris's CD and would Sleep with Adam's CD every single night...but I'm not so sure about Danny.

4) I doubt anyone cares what I think about American Idol, but the hamster's on it's wheel today, and wanted to get that out =)

5) School is out for the semester for me. You would think a whole entire post should be dedicated to this, but this last final has me feeling rather down. I don't think I did well...so I'm pouting and anxious. Blah.

6) I am so ready for summer, so ready for a tan but free willy will NOT be seen in a bathing suit at the pool this summer. You can thank me now.

7) Fabulous Fun Finds is in the middle of her amazing Baby Blast Giveaway week, and I LOVE her newest item up for grabs!!

Isn't it precious??? If you want one of these blankets, just hop on over here and ENTER!!

**and don't forget to scroll down and see the rest of the other 19 items up for grabs...HERE!!!

8) Sweet Rob and I went to try out a new restaurant (pizza place) last night. It was really good!!! Ate way too much pizza and I shouldn't have. Why you ask?? See #6 above.

9) Today feels like Friday to me. It's not.

10) The sun is shining here for like the first time in a week at LEAST. It is nice!

11) I really enjoy Ritz crackers. Probably because they aren't good for you.

12) Can someone fax or email me a diet coke?? I could really go for one right now!!

So tell me, my friends...what are you random thoughts today??? I know ya got 'em =)

Giveaway, Giveaway..and....GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-05-11T09:11:00.006-05:00

I have so many friends who are first time mommies, or are expecting their first bundle of joy. A blog that I follow often can be found on my sidebar as: Fabulous Fun Finds. Wanna talk about giveaways??? This girl can host a giveaway!!! She has given away some of the cutest things ever!!!

This whole week is dedicated to the mommies out there, and I want to make sure and post about all of her giveaways so that you can hop on over and enter!!!!

To make this as easy to follow as possible, I am going to just continue updating this post. Check back to my blog often to see if there are any new giveaways that you need to hop on over and enter, because she is going to be giving away 8-10 things A.DAY.FOR.A.WEEK. Yup. You read that right!!!

Scroll Down To See The Giveaways!!!!

Item #1:

Loveyduds Baby Wrap

In fact, Loveyduds offers baby wraps, nursing covers, burp cloths, blankets and all things baby - in all of the styles you need. Loveyduds even offer baby gift baskets for your next baby shower. And - best of all - if you win this giveaway, Loveyduds will give you a baby wrap of your choice up to $40! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!!

Item #2

Petunia Pickle Bottom Clutch

Gotta' love this Parisian Pansey Clutch by Petunia Pickle Bottom! An innovative twist on the classic clutch for modern motherhood, this bag has the ease and convenience of a traditional diaper changer in a compact silhouette like no other. As a mother of two children (and one on the way), I agree that this is perfect for trips across town and back! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #3

Emmie Kate Jewelery

Emmie Kate is the place to find unique personalized sterling silver jewelry for infants, children, teens and women. At this trendy shop, you’ll find a large selection of sterling silver jewelry and accessories that can be monogrammed, stamped, engraved and customized. From children’s names, favorite phrases and special dates to be remembered, to Planetjill’s unique photo jewelry, gifts and accessories, you’re sure to find something to treasure for years to come! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #4

Maclaren Stroller, Rocker, and Carrier Package

This Maclaren Techno Stroller XLR is a roomy, full-featured travel system. And, it coordinates with the baby carrier and rocker! This stroller comes with a Sovereign Lifetime Warranty™ and is part of the Maclaren Recycling Programme†. The Techno Stroller XLR has a 5 point harness for added security, a removable washable seat, compact umbrella fold and water resistant hood. Its high-performance aluminium frame is accessorized by a handy mesh shopping basket and carry strap for easy portability. We're talking about a 5 second one-hand fold with lockable, front swivel wheels!
What about the coordinating Maclaren rocker? Enjoy the lightweight compact fold with carry straps for portability. This rocker easily converts to a stationary chair! Your baby will be in the lap of luxury with the rocker's adjustable seats that recline and vibrate. Or, when baby wants to play, add the removable toy bar and canopy. It has a removable faux suede head hugger and 5 point safety harness, too! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #5

Always Inspire Burp Cloth and Bib

This etsy shop is too cute. From Burp and Bib sets to fabric mini wallets to childrens' headbands and more, at Always Inspire you are sure to find the perfect baby shower gift. And aren't these fabrics perfect for the modern mother? Think chic, baby. Chic. CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #6

My Urban Toddler Packin Smart 5 Tier Giveaway

Store your baby formula and give your toddler a variety of snacks on-the-go without cluttering your carry-all. My Urban Toddler offers all things baby, including this Innobaby Packin Smart 5 Tier. It's functional-friendly and cute to boot! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #7

Baby Showers By Mail 3 Month Supply Giveaway

Baby Showers by Mail caters to the needs of three groups of people: babies, new parents, and those who want to shower them with gifts. That’s why Baby Showers by Mail offers products that babies need and parents appreciate. Plus, they make it convenient for the gift giver to choose and purchase presents that are sure to WOW.
Win a three month supply of diapers! You get to choose the brand! Anyone who is purchasing diapers on a weekly basis knows how FABULOUS this giveaway is!! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #8

Bibi and Mimi Baby Shoe Giveaway

I bet you are sighing in awe at these baby booties already. They're darling, aren't they? Bibi and Mimi offer such cute baby footwear in a variety of colors, patterns and animal themes. And, they offer socks to match! These booties are made of the softest leather which keeps your babies feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. These shoes have an elastic band feature allowing these shoes to come on and off your baby's feet easily. Best of all, the elastic band keeps these little shoes from falling off! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #9

PaperRamma Mommy Contact Cards

Join the newest craze with these unique Mommy Contact Cards! Custom Paper Ramma cards - with your name and information - come complete with a trendy clip carrying case which clips on to your diaper bag, key chain, stroller or anywhere! They're perfect for distributing to potential babysitters and playdate mommies. Or, customize it as a trendy business card! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #10

UV Skinz Swim Shirt

UV Skinz is an easy and stylish way to protect your family's skin!
UV Skinz is offering one lucky winner a baby or child size swim shirt of their choice! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #11

Diaper Cakes by Becca

This is a perfect gift as it is made with new mom essentials all wrapped up in a pretty presentation. A fabulous way to celebrate baby!
Thanks to Diaper Cakes by Becca, you could win one three tier diaper cake in boy or girl version (that a $110 value!). CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #12

Zutano $150 Shopping Spree!!

Zutano is offering one extremely lucky blogger a $150 shopping spree!! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #13

Baby Jakes Poodle Swag Blanket

Baby Jakes blankets are soft and smooth! I bet you feel a bit cozier just looking at them online, don't you? Your munchkin will float on fluffy, fuzzy clouds when nestled in Baby Jakes scrumptious, double-sided Poodle Shag Blanket! This super absorbent, Baby Jakes blanket comes with a embroidered monogram option of your toddler’s initial, choice of a variety of unique & sassy color combinations, and unlimited license to snuggle! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #14

Olive Janes Cloth Swim Diaper

Has your baby got a cute bum? Show it off with an an Olive Janes cloth swim diaper. These diaper covers are water proof made of laminated polyester fabric covered with 100% cotton pre-shrunk designer fabric...and they're cute! The diaper cover closure is made of "crossover" hook and loop tape to accomodate even the skinniest of babies. Fold over elastic is used as a binding around the entire diaper to provide a contoured fit and keep "things" in the diaper where they belong! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #15

Dudes and Diamonds Carseat Cover

Dudes and Diamonds offers premier boutique fashions and accessories like My Vintage Baby, Ooh La La Couture, and Haute Baby. Everything you find is handpicked with you in mind from cradle to cribs, gearing up and decorating your little world will be a breeze! The boutique outfits and diaper bags are truly dreamy!! You can go wrong with anything from this shop! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #16

Belle Baby Carrier

Unlike other baby carriers and baby slings, Belle Baby Carriers distribute your baby's weight to your hips instead of your back and shoulders, and place your baby in a proper, ergonomic position that supports your baby's developing spine. Compact and versatile with no extra bulk, Belle Baby Carriers are lightweight, cool in the summer, and easy to stow away. CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #17

Uniquely Squeaky Shoes!

Your little ones will be filled with joy as they learn to walk wearing Uniquely Squeaky shoes and sandals. Watch as they tap their feet and laugh with every step! Tons of fun for everyone, including parents and relatives! Actually, FUN is the most important reason to own a pair of Uniquely Squeaky shoes. CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #18

Leslee's Bits and Pieces Handbag

Leslee's Bits and Pieces offers a little bit of something for everyone: handbags, totes, jewelry, belts, and this trendy weekender and diaper bags. Leslee knows that not everyone has the same tastes, so variety of styles of products are available to please everyone.
Win the Amy Kathryn Gladiola Magenta Weekender or Diaper Bag. This is one of the hottest vegan bags out there and a perfect giveaway for ladies with and without kids! Note: A matching diaper changing pad is included. CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Item #19

Hand Picked Pumpkin Flare Pants

Hand Picked Pumpkin features a modern line of limited edition and custom baby clothing. Mama designed and baby tested, the line is stylish, beautiful and locally hand-sewn from the coziest of fabrics. This is truly one of the most unique companies out there! You get to become your own designer!! CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!

Handsome...

2009-05-09T20:04:00.001-05:00

...that is all =)

Oh Is That So???????

2009-05-07T15:40:00.002-05:00

(currently while being the studious student that I am, I watch a little 8 month old girl during the day. Her 2 year old brother goes to Montessori School during the day, and I pick him up at 2:45 each day.)

**also, since he is still two, his says his "S" sounds with a tiny lisp still...so I will be telling it that way**

Today's Conversation (and I quote)

Me: "Hey buddy!!! How was your day??"

Age 2: "Good..I like thnack"

Me: "You liked your snack?? What did you have?? Was it crackers??"

Age 2: "No...golfish"

Me: "Ohhhh, GolDfish"

Age 2 "Yeth".

Me: "What did you learn today? Did you go to your Garden and dig??"

Age 2: "We did 'Panish"

Me "Spanish???? That's Great!!! What words did you learn??"

Age 2: "You need thop HOUNDING me!!!!!"

The End.

(he is 2 for pete's sake and apparently I was hounding him!!! Duly noted, my little one.)

Be Back....

2009-05-04T10:12:00.001-05:00

...I've got one heck of a week this week. Tests tonight, Tomorrow and Wednesday..big BIG tests.

If you don't mind, a couple of prayers would be really appreciated =)

Be Back Soon

XoXo

Might Should Play the Lottery...

2009-04-29T15:19:00.002-05:00

...so I never win anything. ever.

Never win raffles...never won the lottery...never won pools...just never win.

Until Now =)

I have entered many-a-giveaways since embarking upon the blog world to no avail. No problem if I don't win...I just move on. But low and behold yall I WON A giveaway!!! And I won big!!!

Ms. Sweet Tea was hosting a plethora of giveaways and I was so desperately hoping to win!!! So much so, that the comment I left her as my entry read something along "Please oh please I hope I win this! Just want to win one!!!" LOL.

She has given away some super cute stuff!!! So heading my direction I have:

One of these...LOVE Totes, and LOVE things with m new monogram =)

A Pair of these, which I can't wait to flip flop around in this summer!

And an Adorable Custom Made sign from My Flip Flopz!!! I am planning on having my sign have the same pattern and colors as the one below, but I would like it to read "Home is where your story begins"

Not to Shabby if I may say so myself!!!! Thanks again Angela!!!!!

What a......

2009-04-26T22:10:00.002-05:00

weekend.

Holy Moly...I think I am more exhausted right now than I was after my own wedding!!! Hmmm, well I'm sure the fact that at this time and date on our wedding weekend we were enjoying a lovely dinner along the ocean and beaches of Mexico- but anyway.....I'm exhausted.

Great weekend with family....My Brother-in-Law got married so Rob and I now have a new Sister-in-Law...and it was just an interesting but fantastic weekend.

2 Things I have to post about this week:
1) The fantastic giveaway I won
2) Another post regarding the wedding.

for now my friends....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..................

Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes..and an "I Do"

2009-04-22T12:10:00.002-05:00

Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes...Knees and Toes....Eyes and Ears (and abs and glutes and quads and hamstrings and biceps and chest and delts and latissmus dorsii's and ankles and wrists) and mouth and nooooosseeee....yep. Do you know what these previously mentioned body part mean??? Do ya??? Huh Huh...do ya????

Here let me help.

It's the parts of my body that are so sore that I don't know what to do with myself. Just now, as I sit here and me fingers move along the keyboard and pointer fingers have to stretch to meet some of the keys, its traveling up my arm and causing my shoulder/chest to sting me with a shock of soreness!!!!

And I whining once more??? YUP. Yes-Siree.......I am. Because I HURT!!!!! LOL!!!

Jillian kicked my butt again today...and will again tomorrow, and the next day and the next. But in all honesty..if you guys are looking for a seriously good workout video that is a quick one to do when you don't have a whole lot of time- check it out. It was around $11 from Amazon with shipping included.

******************************

And in other news, I just wanted to go ahead and post this now, because our weekend is just about to get pretty busy!!!! Rob's brother is getting married this weekend and family begins to arrive tomorrow!!! It's been pretty much exactly 6 months since these family members were here last, and when they were...it was for our wedding, and as most of you know- you get about 10 seconds with each person when you are getting married!!!

Sooo...family begins to arrive tomorrow and I imagine we will be spending time with them tomorrow evening, and definitely on Friday as we have the Rehearsal Dinner (Texas de Brazil here I come!!!!!) and on Saturday as they say "I Do".

I'll have a post after the wedding with pictures and what not :) I have an idea of what we are wearing...and well- Rob just looks so dang handsome in a suit!!!!!!!!

J-E-L-L-O!!!!!

2009-04-21T13:50:00.002-05:00

Seriously. When like everyone and their dog says that something is "so-and-so" you would think you would believe it, right???? For instance....if everyone, hypothetically, were to say "Jillian Michaels kicked my butt!! I was sweating, shaking, and my legs were like Jell-O." You might believe them, right??

So why do I think I'm an exception?!? Yall, my Jillian ~~Make me sick~~ Michaels DVD came in the mail yesterday. So today was the day.

Ready.Set.Go.

I got all geared up ready to make fun of her video when it was all said and done...so I trotted my happy self downstairs, fought with the big screen in the gameroom, asked Hubby to fight with it also, and after enough of a battle with the darn thing, I huffed off into the guest bedroom to see "what this was all about".

Ahem.

It's 1:54 PM here. Approximately 5 hours AFTER I finished the mere, 20 minute, workout and my legs are still weak.

I kid you not.

She kicked my butt. But I'm determined people, I'm determined!!!!!!

10 days at Level 1, 10 days at Level 2 and 10 days at Level 3.

Rob asked me my gameplan with this said video because well, I guess he has started to see a trend in me ordering/saying I'm going to "do this activity or that" and then I never do it. I politely informed him that I plan to ~~die~~ exercise with Jillian Michaels every day of the week. Yup. {insert me biting off more than I can chew right about here} and then, I plan on heading over to the workout facility in the neighborhood on the weekends for some intense(er) cardio. However as it stands today, I could barely make it down the stairs when I had to leave this morning.

I'm not giving up!!!!!!
(at least not today)!!!!!!!!

Who else is still shaking from their workout a week ago????????

Happy Birthday To You....

2009-04-19T13:45:00.004-05:00

...happy birthday to you...happy birrrttthhhdayyyy dear, Megan...
Happy Birthday To You!!!

This Sweet Sister of Mine:

has somehow managed to go from Baby to Big Girl, and Big Girl to Grown Woman

Megan sang at our wedding during the Unity Sand

And well...can still be as crazy as they come :)

And I love her for all that she is, and all that she is going to continue to become. Megan and I are 5 years apart, so for much of our lives, we were just in different spots, and didn't have a whole lot in common. We both love each other so much, but were in such different parts of life. Now that we are both "grown" and more ~~mature~~ apt to act our age we really becoming close and understand each other so much more. There really is no love like that from sister to sister. Hard to explain, but so rewarding to know.

Megan- I love you so very much and am SO glad to call you my sister!

Reel Me in Suckers

2009-04-16T10:37:00.003-05:00

I did it...well, ahem...I purchased it. I haven't done it yet, per say. I mean, I fell into the Wii Fit and Other Jillain Michaels workout thingy for the Wii that is sitting gathering dust along with the other games- so what's one more????

I will say that I really hope to stick with this one for once. I have to eventually find SOME way of working out that I enjoy, right???

Tips, encouragment...words of wisdom???? Anyone????

Oh it's true.......

2009-04-15T08:03:00.002-05:00

I could LIVE in these sweet sweet babies.
Thank you Lord, for the Summertime
(and for Old Navy $2.50 Flip Flops in Standard Colors and $5.00 Flip Flops in Metallic)

With One of These In One Hand....

And this in Another...

Sitting near one of these....

With an endless supply of...

And being able to look to one side and see this:

The Simple Joys in Life....

Trash My WHAT?!?!?!

2009-04-13T13:19:00.003-05:00

If you have ever commented on here, on facebook, in person on my wedding pictures- I will say Thank You (as I truly am grateful that you think they are gorgeous) and then I tend to follow that with my annoying rant and whine regarding my photographer the day of the wedding.

You see- when we initially met with our photographer, he promised this, and showed me that, told me this and confirmed that. Yes he would do artsy-fartsy..(not all of them, but some). Yes we would have pictures of our rings with my bouquet. Yes Rob would have pictures with all of his groomsmen individually. Yes we would get tons and tons of pictures of everyone getting ready. Pictures of the brand of champagne we drank with our gorgeous toasting glasses next to it with bubbles floating from the bottom to the top of the glasses. Some candid, Some not. Some artsy and abstract, some not. Yes we would get pictures of Rob and me out on the golf course right after the ceremony with me holding the flag on the green, and him putting a ball into the hole. You bet Amy....absolutely.

As I sit here right now typing, tears brim my eyes 6 months and 2 days after that day. Do I have any of those pictures mentioned above? No. We have about 3 pictures of me getting ready and ONE, count them, ONE of Rob getting ready (and it's the picture I posted about 3 posts down when he is buttoning his cuffs). No pictures of rings laid within flowers. There is a picture of Rob with his Best Man (brother) but do we have pictures with him and the other Groomsmen? No. Pictures of our bubbly and flutes? No. Pictures on the golf course, what???? NO.

I know my husband reads this blog, and I know he thinks that all I do is talk about our wedding, and that I need to have more interesting things to talk about- but this is still so raw on my heart, ladies. It breaks me every time I think about it. All, All, ALL I have to remember of regarding that day are my own memories (which are a blur) semi-etched into my mind as well as about 200 lousy photographs.

Now before you say anything- YES, my photos are real. They aren't overly-edited and they did capture the special moments of that day. Rob and I are real people. We aren't fancy, we aren't showy- we are just simple people...and in fact the song we performed our first dance to is called Nothing Fancy (and as I found this link and put it into my Blog I have it playing in the background and the tears have now flown past the barrier of the brim of my eyes). We are just us. Don't know what tomorrow holds- but we will hold each other through it.

As I look at some peoples' photos from their weddings recently, I think they lost focus of the day- and there was too much focus on making their pictures look "magazine worthy" or "portfolio worthy". They are over edited or too posed. So that is not what I am looking for.

But I do feel cheated. I do feel that our photos were over promised and under delivered. When it comes down to it, I feel guilt. I feel guilty for cheating myself and my family and my husband and his family out of what "was supposed to have been."

I know pictures aren't what makes the day. I KNOW THAT.

But I am so sad. I haven't even begun to put our album together because I feel like we don't have adequate pictures. My photographer sent me his "idea" and "preliminary" cut of our WEDDING ALBUM and yall, 2 of the pages are full of our Engagement Pictures. WHAT??? This is our WEDDING ALBUM. When I saw it, I emailed him back and told him I was too busy right now to focus sufficient attention to the album process, but in all truth- I was hurt. Are there engagement pictures in the album because even YOU, YOURSELF, THE PHOTOGRAPHER couldn't find enough good pictures to make a full album???

Here I thought I was going to have to ADD pages (and $$) to the cost of our album, and now- I'm going to have a hard time filling the standard amount of pages.

Yall, I need advice. What would you do in my situation? I turned down 2-3 other photographers who were in the same price range because this man pretended he had a passion. I fell for it. He pretended that he would do this and that and I believed him. And now, when I want to physically look back on my day- I only have one shot here and there to look at. I have tried to look through the pictures and see into the people inside of those photographs. I have tried my hardest. I have like I said, the faint blurred memories in my head as the day went by in a FLASH.

I first saw my photographer going downhill in my bridals when he was "placing" me in the same spots at the Arboretum that I saw other brides' on his website being placed in. I called and explained that I felt he needed to photograph me in ways that reflected me as the bride, and my personality. I told him I needed him to fall in love with me as his canvas and show off who I am through the photos. I'm not like "every other bride" he may have had. He knew I was silly, and giddy, and happy go lucky. He knew I'm not fancy really, but I'm not boring. I cried on the phone after my bridals were up to view, and I explained to him that I expected more. He had promised me more. We talked and I thought we had a great understanding of what the wedding day would bring and what photos would come from that day.

After our wedding, once I saw the gallery- I was in tears. I called him again bawling and this time some of my frustration was shown. I asked him where my pictures were like the ones he showed me that day in the coffee shop. He said "Well Amy I spent a lot of time thinking up those pictures and then editing them". Um, OK- GREAT. Where are mine????? He had no answer. He simply said he was sorry. Well thank you for taking THOUSANDS of dollars and providing me 200 photos to show from it. 2 of me getting ready. Not one of my mother coming down the aisle. ONE picture of Rob and I together right after the ceremony. ONE picture of Rob getting ready. Thank you for all of that.

Some of you may be reading this and saying "she is nuts, who cares..there is so much more to it, and be thankful for your life." I know this. Believe me, right now Rob and I are in the toughest spot we have been in as a couple with me being a student and him being laid off as of February 10th. 6 Months married...and they have been the toughest 6 months ever. And when I look back on this event it just tears me up inside.

So I have some questions. I'm asking the regulars and the "lurkers" to come out come out wherever you are and provide me some support.

What would you do? Do you think I should just let it go and build the best album that I can? Try and capture the day with the photos he took? Do I get my parents involved since they are in fact who he (I like to say) stole from? Is it wrong of me to feel like he owes me something??? Do I just pray for peace in my heart that only the Lord can bring?

And on the flip side...I've been contemplating a trash the dress session with my husband. I have a couple of photographers in mind that I would like to use, to do this session, and would love to have this done for our 1st Anniversary and I want to have myself in my dress and my husband in a nice shirt, pants, tie and jacket (not a full blown tux). I have thought about my dress and I'm not going to make it into a bassinet or christmas tree skirt. I don't know if I will ever have a daughter, and I want her to pick her own dress. I'm not preserving mine...so it hangs right now. I think a trash the dress session would be fun, and a way to get some passionate- wonderful photographs of us. Let me say that this session is in NO WAY trying to represent anything in regards to my wedding day, or how I feel about the other pictures in my dress. It's simply something I have thought about and I am determined to get some phenomenal pictures in my dress.

So I have questions and I really really need yalls help. Would you say anything further to my previous photographer....and what do you think about my ideas for a trash the dress???

And lastly- If you are in the Texas area (even states surrounding it) and have recommendations for photographers that you know have done a Trash the Dress shoot, could you direct me to their website or leave me their information??? I really want to make sure I find just the right person to possibly do this for us in 6 or 7 months.

I know this post has been a bit all over the place, but when this subject rears its head in my heart, my feelings and emotions overflow all over the place.

Thank you for listening, reading, and providing advice.

ugh....

2009-04-13T10:27:00.001-05:00

I'm again driving myself crazy trying to make the colors on my blog flow. Please bare with me as I am the most IN-decisive person I know.

And the Winner is.........

2009-04-13T09:44:00.007-05:00

(so sorry I am (again) late for posting the winner...this weekend got the best of me!)

So....

Here are all of the entries...about to me "invetro-d" into their eggs.....

The procedure is complete.....

So I mixed up the eggs....and with my head turned and eyes closed I picked ONE egg....

And low and behold when this egg was opened it contained twins!!!!
(since I had more entries than eggs, some eggs had twins and triplets)

So I mixed up the ~~chicks~~ papers that hatched and selected ONE.

And the winner......is............

WENDY from Pieces of Me!!!!! Congratulations Wendy!!!!! I "met" Wendy through the blogging world...you know, she reads blog that I read and I read blogs that she reads and we all read blogs that each other reads etc etc etc...and so she and I have begun emailing back and forth each week, AND she has put me in contact with a family member of hers who works in the medical field...and well....some things might be in the works...(shameless plug for some prayers if you will). Anyway, Wendy is adorable and her family is PRECIOUS!!! I encourage you to take a venture over to her blog here and check it out!!!

Congratulations Wendy!!!!!!

(I will compose and email with you and Brandie as the recipients and we'll getcha all set up!!!)

6 Months into the rest of our lives....

2009-04-11T16:04:00.002-05:00

6 Months ago today....

I was getting ready:

And so was he:

And all of these friends and family:

Were getting ready to walk down this aisle:

And take their place on either side of these pumpkins:

So that he and I could join our hands in Marriage:

And say "I Do":

And we did:

And it was the best day of my life.

Happy 6 Month Anniversary, My Love.

And I'm so glad I only have 6 more months to go until we can indulge in this gorgeous masterpiece....but shhhhh...that's a secret and beside the point =)

Huh? What???

2009-04-09T07:56:00.001-05:00

..ahem. No one needs a New Header???? I'm Shocked!!!!!

That to This...

2009-04-07T15:35:00.002-05:00

****Don't Forget to Enter the AWESOME Giveaway Post Below!!!****

Natalie over at The Pettijohn's was tagged for a post from "That to This."

Rules??? Post a picture from back in the day, and post one from now :)

Amy back in about 1983

Amy in 2008-ish

Your turn!!!! Make sure and let me know if you participate!!!!!

Happy Header Giveaway!!!!!!!

2009-04-07T11:28:00.004-05:00

So back when I was a stressed out, overwhelmed, anxiety ridden ~~Bridezilla~~ Bride....I had a precious friend do some adorable custom work for some water bottle labels. (and let me insert here, I don't know who I'm kidding because I am still ALL of those things listed above, except now a Wife vs. Bride).

I digress.

Anyway, Brandie from Designs By Brandie made some A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E water bottle labels for me, as one of our favors leaving the wedding were bottles of water with our custom label, date, names, etc on them. We also had adorable bottles of water in our Welcome Baskets in the hotel rooms for our out of town guests. My mother freaked and decided that we couldn't use the SAME bottles in the backets as we did the wedding, because technically when the guests got to the hotel room before the wedding, Rob and I weren't married yet, so we couldn't have our "new name" on the bottles. Ok ok ok ok --- this all came about like 6 days before the wedding so I had NO desire nor energy to state my case on this issue, so I let my mother win that one- and asked Brandie if she could make a different label for the "hotel water". Making a long story longer, she of course came through again!!!

And what is SO amazing about all of Brandie's work that she has ever done for me, is that I will just email her and say: Here are some colors, here is what it needs to say, it's for this event- and yall- the girl creates a MASTERPIECE!!!!!

I emailed her in tears the other day....you know... This Day. I told her I just wanted a new header, and I wanted it pretty and I wanted it to be different, but that I had NO IDEA how to do it. She asked me what I wanted and I said I know nothing more than what I told you already. I know nothing. I said I wanted prints and maybe pictures and come cute fonts and maybe something from the color palate from our wedding, but that none of this I was sure on. She let me be SO ridiculously indecisive and said "Ames, let me work on this, and let's see what I come up with and if you hate it we change it, or we tweak it or we start over or whatever." *Amy breathed a sigh of relief*

So I say all of this to let yall know that Brandie is as sweet as they come. She is so patient, and so GOOD at what she does.

***********Getting to the Point, I Promise*************

What do you think of my new header?!?!?!?
Do you LOVE IT?!?!? Do you WANT ONE?!?!

Do you think that you need to spruce up the blog since (sometime sooner or later) Spring will come and Spruce up our yards and our days?!?!?

Well here is your chance!!! Brandie has been so generous and to give one lucky reader a new header of their very own!!!! Yep!!!! If you are ready for a new header now, or maybe one to save and use later, now is your chance!!!! Brandie is going to work with one lucky reader to make a custom header with any colors, pictures, fonts, ideas, etc that you have!!!

So how do you get entries?!?!?

1) One Entry for Leaving a Comment
2) One Entry for being/becoming a follower on my blog
3) One Entry for heading over to Brandie's Family Blog and become a follower
4) TWO Entries for posting about this giveaway on your blog

(she is also going to post some pictures of other headers on her blog so you can see some more of her work!!!)

So leave me a comment and let me know which of the above things you have done, and we will get your name in the drawing for the appropriate number of entries!!!

We will be leaving this Giveaway open until 11:59 PM on Saturday, April 11th. I will pick a winner on Sunday, and Brandie said she could even work on the header on Monday and have it turned around quick!!!

Now....one last thing!!!!! Let's say you don't win, but want a new header OR button!!! Well great news...for a limited time, Brandie will be offering all of you sweet readers a new Custom Header for only $10 !!!!! And if you would like a button for your blog, she will be doing those for $7 !!!! Yup...you read it!!! So if you would like to purchase a new header and/or button for your blog from Brandie, you can either email me : amy(at)v-rod.net or you can email Brandie directly at Brandie(at)designsbybrandie.com and we can get that in the works!! Brandie will accept Paypal as a method of payment.

I promise you, promise you- you will not be disappointed.

So leave your comments and GOOOOOOOOD LUCK!!!!!

Testing, Testing...1..2...3...

2009-04-07T08:11:00.003-05:00

ok....some changes to the blog are coming....so please check back.

And with these changes...comes a SUPER fun giveaway that you'll want to get your name in for, I promise!!!!

SO CHECK BACK!!!!

School's Out Forrrrrr Summer....and a Giveaway!!

2009-04-06T13:10:00.004-05:00

....ok not really. Not even close. But for whatever reason, that song came to mind- so I decided it was appropriate for the title. On the OTHER hand, I also wanted to inform you that I will me MIA until about Thursday of this week, or so.

A) I have a huge test tonight.
B) I'm coming home tonight and working out for 45 minutes and then headed straight back upstairs to study for..........Big Test #2 Tomorrow night.
C) I will be studying tomorrow during the day for said test #2 above.
D) I will come home tomorrow evening (after taking test #2) and work out for 45 minutes and then begin studying for a HUGE HUGE test I have next Wednesday.

Ok- so lots and lots and lots of studying with some working out in between. Because I have decided the following........

I've had enough of my fatty fat self. The End.

****************************

Ok- and seriously, you will want to enter This. Seriously. Go Here and enter this.

The Tears

2009-04-03T13:06:00.003-05:00

...just won't stop flowing today. I'm having a rough one. A really rough one. I can't put a finger on the one, or two, or twelve things are causing my emotions...but I'm broken today. My spirit is broken, my heart is exhausted...my pleading and praying feels like it's reached a dead end...

I'm not crying for attention today...not crying for a pity party...I am just truly heartbroken and upset today.

Lord, please give me peace. Please bring me understanding and a calm that only you can bring. I won't ask for answers to any other prayers today...please just put some beating to my heart.

Out to Lunch

2009-04-02T11:02:00.002-05:00

Headed Here

With Him

What I Wouldn't Give....

2009-04-01T11:34:00.002-05:00

.....to be back here, right now. *sigh*

Mr Postman.....

2009-03-31T13:26:00.002-05:00

Ohhhh
Leannnnnnaaaaaaa......

Your Fun Martini glass from Ashley's Martini Swap is on it's way!!!!!! I had it shipped directly to you from the store as to cut out the extra time to send it to me first!!!

I hope you enjoy it, and that it brightens your day!!!
XoXo

The Time Has Come....

2009-03-30T12:20:00.003-05:00

This weekend I'm tackling the Spring Clean. I think this may be one of the last weekends that I don't have too much studying to do, so in a few short days I'm tackling the disaster. From Blinds to Baseboards and Ceiling Fans to Floors....the weather is "supposed" to be nice and that calls for the windows thrown open and the old dingy cleaning clothes thrown on.

So I figured I would list some of the cleaning products that I can't do without while cleaning, and HOPE that you ladies can offer up some more suggestions!!!!

First, Rob and I have Absolute Black Granite Countertops in our kitchen. Gorgeous....absolutely. PITA to keep clean and streak free???? You betcha. I have found 2 cleaners that I enjoy using on my black granite countertops to keep them clean and streak free. One is the Method Granite Spray that you can get from Target. That is the 2nd runner up. The top choice is 409 Natural Stone Cleaner. This stuff is the BEST. Have anyone else tried it???

FYI-- I have pretty much determine the only place I can consistently find this cleaner is at Kroger!

Second, I LOVE me some Mr Clean Magic Erasers. Seriously, these things can tackle the nastiest of scums and grimiest of greases!!!

And for our Stainless Steel Appliances I have had one HECK of a time finding something to clean them, and truly CLEAN them, remove fingerprints, but not streak!!! Pledge makes Stainless Steel Wipes and they are HANDS DOWN the best thing for Stainless Steel Appliances, Trashcans, Door Knobs, etc. They are sometimes difficult to find as well, so when I do come across them, I always grab a couple of packs!

So here is where I need yalls help, PLEASE. What are some of the cleaning products that YOU love??? What do you use on a tile shower with glass doors? I want to TACKLE the soap scum big time. What about the baseboards? What have you found to work best?? And for those of you with Hardwood floors...what do you mop with??? I have Bruce Hardwood cleaner, and that stuff works great but I'm looking for another alternative!!! Can yall help?!?!

Tell me what your Cleaning Cabinet can't live without!!!!!!

Breaking News.....

2009-03-28T15:12:00.003-05:00

I Love Him. Truly, Madly, Deeply, - It knows no end, Love Him.

And Love Conquers All.

Small Break...

2009-03-27T10:27:00.002-05:00

....I'm going to take a small blogging break throughout today and the weekend...I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and will talk to yall on Monday :)

Betcha Can't Pick Just One....

2009-03-26T10:16:00.002-05:00

Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow.

To those of you who watch American Idol, did yall get as many chills as I did last night??? Holy Goodness. I don't usually tear up this early in the season at the performances, but 2 of the men had tears brimming my eyes, I won't lie.

Kris Allen

This guy is just awesome. Tender, Sweet, Amazing voice...just all around greatness. He truly doesn't realize how good he really is (I agree with the judges here) and totally hope he goes really really far in the competition.

Adam Lambert

He.blew.me.away.last.night. Seriously. This guy has unheard of talent. He has taken every single song he has chosen, and has made the most amazing arrangement. And last night, if you did not just LOVE the song, then seriously...we need to talk about your taste in music. It was soft and sexy and sincere and ....mannnnn. Rob even agreed. He is AWESOME. I can't wait for next week :) And who knew he could clean up and get out of those wretched skinny jeans?!?

So I hope it's Kris and Adam in the finale. I'm going to throw that out there now. Such greatness, such amazing voices.

Tell me Talkers...what did yall think about last night?!?

Kreativ Kritter...????

2009-03-25T13:41:00.002-05:00

(PS- Abby, I can't stand spelling "Kreativ" that way either) *wink*

So Miss Babbling Abby has presented me with this Kreativ Blogger Award, even though we all know I'm not Kreativ (ok, not creative either) but since she and I have had fun reading each others posts, she was so kind to "award" me =)

Rules???? Post 7 Things that I Love, and tag some others....

1) Sweet Things. Candy, Cupcakes, Pastries..you catch my drift, while I catch the pounds.

2) Diet Coke. Enough Said.

3) I love my mornings and evenings with my husband and 2 dogs. Just hanging out, being silly...makes me smile.

4) I love when I think it's Sunday, but it's really only Saturday!!! YAHOOO!!!

5) I love doing "home improvement" projects with my husband. Seriously, I'm not even kidding.

6) I love all 4 seasons. I love Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Love bundling up for the cold, love seeing the leaves change color, love the newness of spring and the lightness of summer!

7) I love when Rob kisses me on the forehead :)

Alright...Taggy Time...(im just tagging 3)

Wendy!!!!: My newest BFF (blog friend forever) Heheh. Seriously. Her daughter is adorable, and her stories hilarious.

Teresa!!!!: Our "behind the house" neighbors, who have a precious 3-almost-4 month old daughter. We are blessed to have them as our neighbors!!!

Sweet Kara: who REALLY needs to catch a break =)

Back to Life....Back to Reality....

2009-03-24T10:00:00.008-05:00

If my mission is accomplished, then This Soul II Soul Song has come to mind =)

This song was the theme of our adventures home on Monday. Rob and I spend a wonderful 5 days in Snowmass Village, Colorado with wonderful friends such as these:

And taking in the views such as:

Rob and I have friends (Jaime and Toby) who live in Louisiana and were in our wedding. Jaime has a cousin named Hannes and his wife is also named Jamie. Anyway, we met Jamie and Hannes a while back during one of our excursions to Louisiana and they also made it to our wedding. They have an Uncle who lives near Snowmass Village, Colorado. He so generously offered to book a cabin on the mountain, and invited all 6 of us up there for a weekend of skiing and fun!!! We skied, we ate, we laughed, we cried, we drank a litte, we ate a lot. We had Shrimp and Crawfish Gumbo one night, and shrimp fettuccine the next. We ate a lot of other stuff that's totally unhealthy inbetween meals. It was SO much fun and Rob and I are truly blessed with such fun and amazing friends. The weather was gorgeous, and we often found ourselves coming back at lunch to remove layers of clothing, which is a BLESSING when skiing! I came back injury fee, and my sweet husband came back with a messed up tailbone =) He took a good spill while snowboarding and attempting to pull a Shawn White in the terrain park =) I have a video, but that will have to be put up on facebook!!! Anyway, we had a wonderful getaway, and it was much needed for the both of us!!!!

*************************************************

I apologize for not posting the winner of the giveaway sooner- but life got the best of me =) I hope I can be forgiven!!! Before I announce the winner I do want to say a big THANK YOU to all of those who participated!!! I had such a wonderful turnout, it made me smile! Lots of new followers for both me AND Allison!!! I also want to thank Allison for her generous giveaway idea!! Thank you so much for allowing me to host this for you!! I wish you nothing but the best in your business endeavors, Allison!!!!

Also- please come back often and visit, as I have another giveaway later this week!!! Yep...another!!!!!!

Ok...onto the stuff I know yall really care about.

Here are all of the entries all ready to go:

And All of my little fishies in the sea.....

And the WINNER OF:

This...

And THIS....

AND THIS....

IS....... DRUM ROLL PLEASE.........

KELLY!!!!!!!!

Kelly is a sweet friend of mine, who is a member of the Wedding Forum that I am on. Wedding Announcer (dot com) is the site that I used to host our wedding website and there is also a forum connected to Wedding Announcer and I have met some wonderful ladies on there, and Kelly is one of them!!! Venture over to her blog and take a look at her precious Corgi puppy :) CONGRATS KELLY!!!!!!

(email me at amy(at)v-rod.net and we will get the giveaway to you!!!

Thank you ALL, again, for hanging around and reading and participating on my blog :) It really does make me smile. Like I said, I have another giveaway coming later on this week, so please keep checking back!!!

*************************************************

On another note, as I close this long long entry, I do have a couple of favors.

1) I know many of you out there in the blogging world read MckMama's Blog -- and already know that her precious baby, Stellan, is in the hospital right now with some heart issues. I love reading her blog and if you have never read it before, please click on over and sit back and be prepared to be entertained for hours. If yall could just say a prayer for her family, and particularly little Stellan, I know she would be so grateful.

2) And secondly, if you would please please keep Rob in your thoughts and prayers. He is really facing some things right now that are just so tough for him. He is trying to determine the best possible avenue to take for himself and for the two of us at this point in time, regarding his profession. As many of you know, he was laid off over a month ago and is being tugged in a few different directions. If you could please pray for our patience, understanding, and for something to become clear to us- which way to go, we would really appreciate it. I know the world out there is tough right now, and there are many others in our position, so if you could just keep us and others in your thoughts, it would mean the world =)

I hope yall are having a WONDERFUL Tuesday!!!!!

(PS- answers to my "You Question, I Answer" coming soon!!!)

Stand By....

2009-03-22T09:08:00.000-05:00

....winner of the GIVEAWAY coming soon!!!

Leavin' On a Jet Plane....

2009-03-18T13:29:00.004-05:00

Rob and I (and 2 of our very good friends from Louisiana) are leaving tomorrow to spend the rest of my Spring Break on a much needed getaway.

I'm truly hoping for some great memories, fantastic food, wonderful company, great food and how can I forget YUMMY FOOD!!!!!! I'm pretty sure the previous stated items will be accomplished and much much more!!!

I will post a hint to our whereabouts on Saturday when I post the winner of the Giveaway!!!! Make sure you enter before Saturday, and I'll talk to yall soon!!!!!

Luck of the Irish!!!

2009-03-17T10:29:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to pop on quick and wish everyone a VERY happy St. Patrick's Day!!! Of course I never need extra reason to celebrate any holiday, but I so have some Irish in me, so that gives me even more reason *wink*

It is going to be gorgeous here this entire week! In fact, after I got home yesterday, I informed Rob that we were hopping on the motorcycle and heading to Happy Hour. We enjoyed adult beverages on the patio of Gloria's on the most perfect of days! We had a great time. This afternoon involves lots of errands in a short amount of time, and a birthday celebration for a family friend!

Yall have a great day, and don't forget to enter the giveaway below!!!!

Manic Monday Giveaway!!!!!

2009-03-16T00:01:00.001-05:00

Alright friends (and followers) here is Giveaway #2 on my blog!!!

This sweet friend of mine has just started up her own business. She is focusing on providing stationary needs, letterhead needs, and the like. She just started recently, but I think her designs are adorable well on their way to being a huge success!!!!

This sweet friend has asked if she could sponsor this giveaway on my blog and I of COURSE agreed!!!!!

So to answer my hints from Friday:

1) Whenever I need one of these, I have to go diggin'......

Item #1 in this set of 3 is an adorable pen!!! I swear, whenever I need a pen, there is never one around, and I have to dig to ~~China~~ the bottom of my purse to find one!!! This one is adorable!!!

2) I always need to leave myself reminders...

Item #2 in this set of 3 is a matching notepad to your pen!!!! I swear I need to have a notepad permanently attached to me. I have such a horrible short term memory and need to write down each and every single thing if I have any hopes of remembering it!!! No problem with this adorable 50 page notepad!!!!

3) I just wanted to say thanks....

Item #3 in this set of 3 are 10 precious polka dotted notecards!!!! I love love love to send and receive little random "thank you" or "how are ya" cards in the mail to and from ones I love. It's such a great feeling to randomly receive a little note from someone just telling you that they were thinking about you =)

So there you have it!!! The winner of this giveaway will be awarded these 3 Awesome Gifts!!!!!! How generous of Allison!!!!! Yall make sure to pop over and check out her other items, and since her business is just in the starting phases, please feel free to email her or leave a comment for a custom order!!!

So how do you get entries?!?!?

So glad you asked =)

**For 1 entry- leave a comment

**For a 2nd entry- become a follower (or comment and tell me you already are)

**anddddd....For a THIRD entry, hop on over to Allison's Blog and become a follower there, and leave a comment on my blog telling me you are her follower!!!

So you have a chance for a possible 3 entries!!!!! YAHOOOOO!!!!!! This contest will be open until FRIDAY, March 20th at 11:59 PM!!! Rob and I will be out of town that weekend, but I will find a creative fun way to post the winner, and give yall a hint to our whereabouts!!! So get to commenting!!!!!!!!!

Shhhh...It's a Secret!!!!

2009-03-13T12:44:00.002-05:00

Coming to you on MONDAY.....will be a new Giveaway!!!!!!

"Well Amy, what is it????" you ask.

Well there are 3 PARTS to this giveaway, but I will tell you this:

For Part #1 - Whenever I need one of these, I have to go diggin.....

For Part #2 - I always need to leave myself reminders

For Part #3 - I just wanted to say thanks