Gangl*icious

I need to be random

2011-07-08T08:27:00.001-05:00

* I'm currently not working. I was. Now, I'm not. Long story and I won't really go into the details, but I am looking for something else, just taking my time. However, I have LOVED being home (as I knew I would) and I don't want to go back. Anyone know of something where I can work from home? No, really if anyone knows of any ides PLEASE let me know.

* I love having mom friends where I can talk about being a mom, sharing stories, getting advice, discussing how we ever got to this point (especially with those that I knew before parenthood), laughing about what kids do and basically just understanding one another. On the flip side, I love having my non mom/parent friends where I can go out and not talk about being a mom and use them to re-live my non parenting days. I am so lucky to have so many friends on both sides. I can't even say I enjoy one more than the other because both keep me sane.

* I've had kind of a rough week. As much as I talk about the fact I love being home, it's f*ing hard. Every time I get frustrated or I really think I can not do this anymore I remember that this is what I wanted and it really helps me get through those moments. I have such a good baby and I'm so glad that I can spend my days with him. BUT it's f*ing hard. I go to bed at 8 because i'm tired.

* Harrison is really starting to think Walter is the funniest thing around. He is more fascinated with that dog than anything else in the house. I love this and I really can't wait until Harrison is dropping food and Walter takes on the same admiration for him.

* I really wish I could start adjusting to this new body of mine. I try every day to embrace it, but I still get frustrated. Then, I think why put the effort into getting back into shape if I plan on having more kids?! I just wish the rest of my clothes fit so I didn't a. have to keep wearing the same things b. buying new things.

* Harrison is not a fan of carrots

* I have bruises all over my body. IF I had to guess I would say it's from toting that dang car seat around town and since I'm not that strong that dang car seat is constantly slamming against my body. Is this normal?

* I smell 95% of the time. Mostly it's breastmilk spit up that I smell like but some of the other time I don't even know.. poop? I use to be disgusted with the smell(s) but now I kind of just go with it. Yes, I shower but usually if I shower that means I'm a clean target when I get out and my sweet sweet child will make sure some bodily fluid is on me. I'm really just not phased by it anymore and I am almost to the point where I can go out and not care what I smell like.

* We have 0 minutes left this month on our cell phones.Basically, I can only talk to people that have Verizon at this point. This has not happened in awhile. I'm not sure who we I talk to so darn much. I am wondering if I call Verizon and ask them nicely to take off our overage charges if they would do it? I might try saying something like "hey Verizon, I've been with you since like 2002 when no one even knew who you were and I would really hate for you to lose a customer because of these small 5 minutes". Surely that will work, right? Hopefully the person I speak to speaks English.

* Every time I think my life will settle down I realize that all of our weekends in one month are booked... through October. And then the holidays will start and so really I shouldn't plan on having a free weekend until January. Awesome! I really do love our busy life, but we really need to do yard work. No, I can not do it during the day when I'm home and doing nothing else.

* One more thing on being home, I don't watch tv. My friend asked me one time what I do all day. I honestly have no idea, but I always feel like I'm busy. I mean I do sometimes watch someone for an hour grab their toes and try to chew on them. Productive!

* I really appreciate my husband.

4 Months

2011-06-21T08:17:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry, but didn't I JUST give birth?!! I can not believe it has been 4 months. Is it too much that I told my Husband the other day we needed to start planning his first birthday? Don't worry I was quickly told to "settle down". Anyway, here are some pics of my friend..

What he can do: TALK, smile,belly laugh, roll from back to front, roll from front to back, hold his head up, grab his toes, put his whole fist in his mouth and suck, fart and make the whole room smell, sleep through the night (like for 11 hours), say mama (of course, I am the only one that understands this), make-out with Sophie the giraffe, wear clothes that are 6-9 months,scream his head off, grab hair AND eat rice cereal (more on that later).

What he would like to do: Talk in full sentences, put his foot in his mouth and suck on it, walk, be potty trained (oh, maybe that's just me), comb his own hair, play golf, wipe the drool off his own face, and move out (I'm pretty confident he finds his dad and me pretty annoying)

No Judgement Here...

2011-06-15T10:34:00.000-05:00

Before I was a mom I would be one of those girls that would quickly judge mothers on what they were and were not doing with their kids. I had absolutely no clue on how to be a mother or why I would think that what I thought was what everyone should think, but I did. Now, ha, I will NEVER EVER EVER judge another mother in my life.

I have quickly realized that there are plenty of things that I said I would never do that I have done more than once since February. Where Harrison sleeps, for example, was never going to be an issue. He was going to sleep in his crib, at all times, from day 1. Well, he didn't. Now, he does but I just might put him in the bed with me to take a little nap after his first early morning feeding. Had you asked me 4 months ago, I would have told you that was dangerous and not good for attachment reasons. I love our snuggle time.

Four months ago if a kid was screaming in public I would have said to myself "geez why can't that parent make the baby stop crying". Ha! Harrison has been on 3 plane rides (two with me, one with Hubs) and guess what? He has screamed his head off for more than 5 minutes, at some point, on all 3. I saw the looks I was getting, but seriously people? Do you think I want to hear my baby scream in my ear?! I was saying that to myself as I had tears in my eyes because I felt so bad that other people had to listen to it. Oh, and then there was the trip to the restaurant where we had to leave not even 5 minutes after sitting down because he decided that he wasn't interested in going out for dinner. On a side note, that night was rough because it was the first time it hit me that our life was different and going out to dinner was no longer a simple task.

Breastfeeding vs bottle feeding. I was open to breastfeeding and thought I would do what was best for my baby, but I was not breastfed and I've been really healthy, so I was very open to either side. I never really thought women should do one or the other, and now I REALLY think that. I am lucky that he has taken so well to breastfeeding, but it's hard. Like, really hard. There have been so many times that I've wanted to stop. We have supplemented formula quite a bit, but I'm still breastfeeding 90% of the time. Plus, the idea of having a period again makes me want to cut my uterus out, so there is some motivation. Oh, and it's free. But, I don't blame any mother for not doing it, trying and not doing it very long, or doing it until the kid is 5.I'm confident a baby can be just as healthy from formula as they could from breast milk. Plus, I'm sure there are some mothers out there that would love to breastfeed, but simply can't for whatever reason.

Basically, what I have realized is that every mother out there is only doing what she thinks is best for THEIR child. Every baby/kid/human is different and what works for one may not work for another. I have a whole new respect for moms out there. It's hard work and I'm sure, just like me, most moms have no idea what they are doing. However, I am waiting for Harrison's manual to arrive any day. My goal, everyday, is to make sure Harrison is loved and he is happy. If at the end of the day those two things are taken care of then I feel like I have been a good mother.And I'm sure all mom's out there feel the exact same way. It just took me being a mom to realize it.

New Life

2011-05-28T08:29:00.001-05:00

Well, I could start off this post by apologizing for my lack of posts over the past three months and promise to make sure I am better about blogging. BUT we have been there before (more than once) and we all know that I probably don't mean it. I want to blog, I do. I mean I log into this almost every day and read other blogs, but for some reason I just never find the motivation. Or, I think "do people really care?" Then I remember that the reason I stalk everyone else's blog is because I am nosy and do care about what other people do or are doing. I'm going to try and get better at this. I need to take the approach that this will be great for Harrison, and other kids we might have, to look back on and see how our lives once were. I'm thinking if I look at it that way instead of a chore or hassle the motivation will come a little easier. We'll see!

The past three months have been the best, the hardest, the most emotional, very adventurous, extremely challenging and yet the most rewarding months of my life. Whew! This parent thing is hard. I mean, friends that had kids would tell me how hard it is, but this is something you will never truly know until you are doing it. Harrison is a GREAT baby. Heck, he was sleeping through the night at 2 months. He is still breasfeeding 90% of the time and boy (no pun intended) is he a champ eater. He cries, but I have quickly (if you ask my husband he would not say quickly) learned that babies cry. They do, and it's ok. I love waking up to see what new "tricks" he can do that he couldn't do the day before. I love his gummy smile. I love knowing that I am so freaking lucky to be this perfect little boy's mom. I usually want to just cry thinking about it. BUT it's freaking hard. I'm so worried I am going to mess something up. I'm worried I will do something wrong that will change the rest of his life. I'm worried I am going to walk down our hardwood stairs and drop him and his head will hit every step on the way. Is this normal?! I mean who thinks of these things? I do, apparently!

I'm back at work and have been for about 3 weeks. I hate it. H-A-T-E it. We found a really nice lady that runs an in-home place. She has been great. She is probably around my parent's age and has raised two very successful kids. I know she is good with him, but I want to be home with him during the day. People would tell me that I would be ready to go back, but I was not and am still not. Maybe it's because I don't like my job. Maybe it's because Harrison can't crawl or get into things to make my life so challenging I would like to be away for 8 hours. All I know, is that right now I want to be home with him. If you are a mom that is able to stay home, please count your blessings. We have tried to figure out anyway possible for me to be able to stay home and this second it is not possible. Maybe that's because I am not ready to give up certain things, but I said I would give up A LOT. I'm hoping we can figure something out.... soon!

I can also say that we are lucky to have been able to keep a lot of friends that don't have kids. I knew this was and will continue to be a challenge. We are not afraid to get a babysitter or take him with us and put him in a car seat to sleep while we hang out. It is important to us that we keep the friends that we have. We both value our friendships and we know it is important to have those friends around to keep us sane. I know as he gets older or the more kids we have the harder it will become. I have also learned to make new "mom" or parent friends that we can share stories with or take advice from. Either way, we have been very lucky. Now if more of our married friends would get on the bandwagon and have kids.. geez! On a little side note, I tease my non-kid friends about doing it and how great it is, but I also know that you need to be ready. This is something that you don't mess around with. This is something that will challenge your relationship with your spouse and something that will quickly be make you be less selfish. I don't think we did it too soon or too young because we both wanted kids and this was going to be our life. We love it! I want all the people even thinking about starting a family that it really is the best thing you can do, but make sure you are ready.

I don't even remember being pregnant. Sure, I remember that I complained and ate ~~quite a bit~~ a lot but I don't remember what it felt like. This is a good thing because when I was pregnant, I said I would only be having one child. Now, I am back to the 3 or 4 original estimate. I almost miss the feeling of him moving inside of me. Even 3 months later, I still wish I could have him all to myself. This just means we will have to have more. Not saying I'm getting pregnant tonight, but I know that I want more and especially for Harrison to have a sibling. It really is the best relationship.

Walter is adjusting. I wouldn't be comfortable saying that he is adjusting well, because I think it is hard for him. I think he misses his old life. I think every time we walk in the door and he runs up to the car seat he is thinking "sh**! That kid is back." He has been such a trooper. He has his moments. Acutally, I have my moments with him where I get extremely frustrated. I can tell that I treat him differently or yell at him a little more. He is still our kid and we both love him like crazy. I have yet to think of his as "just a dog". He is a part of this family and he will continue to be treated like that. I just can't wait for Harrison to start eating real food so he can make nice with him by giving him the extras. Unfortunately, that is still a few months away.

So, that is our new life. Adam and I both really do love it. We are still trying to figure some stuff out but I think we will always be doing that. I love when people ask the question "how do you know?" or they say "I'm so glad you know what you are doing!". The funny thing is, we don't. We don't know what we are doing 99% of the time. We use trial and error. We wing it every single day. Thank goodness for Google and Baby Center. Basically, thank goodness for the internet. Also, thank goodness for Facebook. That bad boy got me through some rough 3 AM feedings. Oh, and it also helps when I'm in an utility closet at work pumping or as I like to say milking the cow Don't be jealous of my life. We really don't know what we are doing, but I do know that we all survived from parents that had no clue. I'm convinced Harrison will be ok. He is loved and cared for and most days I tell myself that over and over again to help me make it through.

Well, I'm off to enjoy a weekend with Walter. Just me and Walter for a little over 24 hours. I do have a pedicure, solo trip to Target, bridal shower and bachelorette party ahead of me. Watch out.. cause this mama is out coming out!!

PS... I'm sad Oprah is over! Not that I am home everyday at 4 to enjoy her, but I do have DVR. Now I will have to fill up my portion with Housewives of New Jersey. It's Jersey Shore all grown up. Same story, different people.

It's A.....

2011-02-24T19:18:00.000-06:00

BOY!!

Harrison Scott Gangl

was born on February 18, 2011 at 3:49 AM.

I'm a little late on updating this but after 3 days in the hospital and 2 days adjusting to our new life.

I plan on giving you the full report in a day or so, but until then I will leave you with some pics...

10 things I have learned throughout this pregnancy..

2011-01-13T22:10:00.006-06:00

1. I find this one to be the BIGGEST lie and most important fact... it is actually 10 months NOT 9. 40 weeks divided by 4= 10. It is actually quite simple math, so I'm not quite sure who is/was confused.
2. Being pregnant is cute for about 12 of those 40 weeks. Right now, it is not cute.
3. My goal was to only gain 30 lbs..HA! I surpassed that a long time ago and now I don't even care what the scale says. If I want a brownie (or 3), you better believe I am eating it and chasing it with a nice glass of cold milk. Cereal at 3 am? Sure, why not?!
4. Day care is not something that is easily found. Then, when I do email or try to contact someone they tell me to check back with them a little later. A little later? Umm.. I'm a spaz and I was hoping to have this figured out before the baby arrived. I. Am. Annoyed.
5. I love sleeping with my husband right next to me, but for the past 9 months I have never thought more about asking him nicely if he could sleep in the guest bedroom. Walter and I really could use more space.
6. I miss beer. I could go for about 10 Blue Moons right now. I'm drooling.
7. Obviously I am excited to meet him/her, but I may or may not also be super excited to have a mini vaca from work.
8. I will no longer take for granted the ability to do such simple tasks.. such as: putting on my own socks and shoes, carrying a laundry basket, eating without spilling on my stomach, shaving certain areas of my body, bending over to kiss Walter, walking up stairs,walking down stairs, walking in general, and sleeping for 8 hours straight.
9. I hate when I'm in a public place (i.e. Target, the mall) and people stare. Yes, I'm pregnant. Yes, I'm uncomfortable. No, I'm not a freak show. But really in all honesty, I have a bad habit of staring at people, so I really should not be upset about this.
10. I use to want 4 kids. I am now thinking about great it would be to have just 1. Jk...... Kinda.
*BONUS*
Every single place should have expectant mother parking

I know it seems like I'm complaining a lot. I have been very fortunate that this pregnancy has been relatively easy.... I barely even felt nauseous in the beginning. I am just SUPER ready for this baby to be here and to start living as a family of 4 instead of 3.

Oh, and I think I need to do a segment on "the things they never tell you about being pregnant".

Nursery

2011-01-10T19:37:00.000-06:00

I'm on a role tonight.. not only did I put pics up on Facebook, but this is me updating the blog. Now, if I could just find the motivation to take pictures of my stomach that I will regret not having. To do that, however, I really need to stop wearing sweatpants and a robe whenever I'm not at work. Anyway, here are some pics of the nursery.. we still have a few things to add like blinds, an ipod docking station, the crib mobile and the then the baby. I LOVE it and think the baby will also love it. If it is a girl, I am definitely adding some pink :).

The chair is super comfy!

We need some pics

The baby's monogram or initials will go right above the changing pad

This is before we painted but this is the bottom part of the built in and right below changing table

WHOA...

2010-12-20T21:07:00.000-06:00

who is this chick that hasn't blogged in like 2 months?!?

I really thought that once I had something cool to talk about, I would blog all the time. WRONG!

To make things easy I am just going to list what has been going on the past 9 weeks

1. I'm still pregnant

2. I'm 32 weeks pregnant

3. I'm over this pregnancy

4. I'm hungry all the time. I LOVE cereal

5. I am pretty confident I have set the record for how many times you can pee in one day

6. My vajajay hurts all the time but really bad when I have to get up (TMI? I'm being honest because no one ever told me this about being pregnant)

7. I've gained 32 lbs. No shame is my motto. Well, that and I just don't care anymore

8. The nursery is about 90% complete and it looks great.

9. Last week at the doc the baby was still breach. Pretty sure we need to get our act together in there and turn around.

10. We did the hospital tour. At the end of the tour the nice lady asked how the other classes were going. Our response: "Ehh.. we are just going to wing it so we aren't taking those other classes". The nice lady: "Oh" long pause... "I guess we all choose to do it differently".

11. We have a cleaning lady coming on Wednesday and I can't wait. Maybe it is just a sense of relief that I don't have to worry about cleaning this house before my in-laws come on Friday night.

12. I thought we had names picked out BUT some days I just don't know. No one ever told me it was such a big responsibility to name someone for the rest of their life.

13. I had a fantabulous baby shower the beginning of December. Tea party was the theme and I am so lucky to have such great friends and family.

14. Hubs and I took a mini-vaca in October. We went to Cooperstown, NY, Salem, MA and then we spent 3 days in Boston with my good friend and her husband. We had such a great time and I was so glad we could see the northeast in the fall.
15. Hubs finished his thesis a couple of weeks ago and that means he is officially done with grad school. SOOO happy for him.
16. My sister-in-law got engaged last weekend. SOOO excited for them and the wedding.
17. Walter has decided to change his sleeping location from my feet to right next to me.In the middle of the night he will nudge my arm so I move over and he can jump up. ADORABLE! I really feel bad that his life is going to change in ~~5 weeks when I reach in and pull this baby out~~ 8 weeks.
18. I need to find a part-time gig . Anyone have any ideas where/how I can find one. Or, I need to work from home.
19. Why is daycare so expensive?
20. My good friend, Cynthia, started a blog. It's funny (well I at least think so) that she gives me such a hard time about blogging and not keeping up with it and just the other day she told me.. and I quote "it is so hard to find time to blog". Umm.. yes, I know this! Anyway, she is really funny and you should go read about her life.

HALF WAY!!!

2010-10-02T08:49:00.001-05:00

20 WEEKS

Total weight gain:

15 lbs

Maternity clothes:

My collection is coming along nicely

Sleep:

For some reason, I feel as if I should be getting up more in the middle of the night to pee. Maybe I should drink more water? Or, I'm just lucky.

Movement:

LOTS!! Especially when I'm on my side. I can't see it from the outside, but I can feel it.

Food cravings:

How about I just let you know when it is not Jimmy Johns ?!

Gender:

Girl! Well, I don't know this for sure, but I have strong feelings. Let me tell you the hardest thing... lying on a table with the ultrasound tech measuring every inch and at the end I asked her if she knew what it was and then she smiled and said YES, yet we still can't find out. AHHHH!! I can't believe I'm doing this.

What I'm looking forward to:

Starting on the nursery. My in-laws are coming in a couple of weeks to help us with the built ins we are doing where the current closet is. I can't wait to see the finished product and then start painting.

What I miss:

My waist

Milestones:

Hubs being able to feel the baby move. Most of the time he/she will stop moving as soon as I say 'put your hand here', but we were sneaky and hubs got to feel one strong move.

19 Weeks

2010-09-23T07:48:00.001-05:00

19 Weeks!

Total weight gain:

10-12

Maternity clothes:

I don't even really bother with normal pants anymore. Old Navy was having a big sale on their maternity clothes, so I definitely hit them up for some fall staples. I still need 1 more pair of jeans and some other pants. Other than that, I'm thinking leggings all winter!

Sleep:

For some reason I've almost stopped waking up because I have to pee. Not that I am sleeping through the night because every time I want to move positions it's a process of waking up, moving, getting comfortable again, apologizing to Walter for disturbing him, telling Hubs to stop snoring, and then falling back asleep. Or, I wake up and deal with a bloody nose.

Movement:

They are getting really strong. Last night I was pretty sure that they could be felt from the outside so Hubs and I had this conversation:
Me: "Put your hand here because I think you will be able to feel it"
Hubs: after waiting 5 minutes "I can't feel anything"
Me: 10 minutes later "Ok, try again!"
Hubs: after not feeling anything again" UGH! I don't understand why you are hogging all of it. I want to feel it too! That's ok this kid will be better friends with me when it comes out, so feel it move by yourself all you want"
Me: "Umm.. ok too bad this kid will be pretty much latched to me for the first 6 months of it's life, but good luck!"

Food cravings:

and... still Jimmy Johns. I am still not sure why the one by work has yet to recognize my voice when I call. I'm sure I'm getting there..

Gender:

I'm pretty confident it is a girl. Everyone but me is having dreams that we have a girl.

What I'm looking forward to:

Our good good friends are getting married THIS weekend!! I can't believe that it is here. Some days I feel like they just got engaged and other days I feel like they have been engaged forever. I know it is going to be a beautiful wedding and I am so glad that Hubs and I can be a big part of their big day.

What I miss:

The ability to move at a quick pace and my back NOT hurting all the time.

Milestones:

After reading Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy (highly recommend to any pregnant women), I have accepted that my body will never be the same and that this baby will be worth every single thing that has changed in my life.

Walter Wednesday

2010-09-22T15:08:00.000-05:00

Guess who's back?!?!

I know, we haven't discussed Walter in MONTHS. Don't worry, he is still the best and cutest dog in the world. He just didn't really have an eventful summer. Well, besides finding out he is going to be a big brother.

I've been meaning to do this post for awhile, but along with the rest of my life I just haven't had time to talk about it. Anyway, I have a HUGE/MAJOR concern: What is going to happen to Walter when we bring this baby home???

Here is what I have heard will happen..

1. "The dog will become just a dog and the baby will be your child"

2. "He will go into a depression and stop eating"

3. "You will forget to feed him"

4. " You will want to get rid of him within the first week of bringing the baby home. And if it isn't within the first week, definitely within the first month."

5. "He will be mean to the baby."

6. Then, I read about babies being allergic to animals and the family having to find a new home pronto for their pets.

To think that any of the above will happen in our house makes me sick to my stomach and/or start crying. I understand that things might change, but really? To that extent?. I guess what really worries me about all this is that all the people that told me those things loved their dog as much as I did. Walter is my life, my best friend, my pal, my sleeping buddy, the guy I talk to when I get in a fight with my husband. Literally, he is everything to me/us. I have told Hubs and myself over and over again that we are going to have to make a conscience effort to make sure that Walter does not feel like this baby has ruined his life or put him on the back burner. We already decided to do some things now that will make the adjustment easier, and this way not everything changes when the baby comes hom because then he would just blame the baby for his life turning upside down.

Don't get me wrong, I think Walter is going to be a WONDERFUL big brother. I already have visions of him getting up with me in the middle of the night to do a feeding, or hanging out with me while on maternity leave and enjoying the one on one time while the baby naps. When the baby is on the floor playing, I see Walter right there next to them loving every second of it and letting the baby climb all over him. At night we can go on walks as a family of 4 instead of a family of 3. Maybe I'm being naive or really optimistic, but I hope a majority of those things do happen.

If any moms that have been through this situation or if any other pregnant ladies have ideas of things they are going to try, please please pass them on. I want to hear all good and bad experiences so I'm prepared for it all.

18 Weeks

2010-09-15T07:57:00.000-05:00

How far along:

18 Weeks. I can't believe I am almost half way there

Total weight gain:

I would assume somewhere around 10lbs.

Maternity clothes:

Still half and half. I put on my first maternity shirt this morning and Hubs said that I looked pregnant, but then he said it's because my stomach is big and not because of the shirt. I tried to suck in the other day just to see what happened... ha!

Sleep:

I'm starting to get a little uncomfortable. I'm still able to sleep on my stomach, which really helps my back pain, I'm just not sure how much longer this will last. My doc keeps telling me that I can sleep on my back for the whole pregnancy as long as I am comfortable. Not that I don't trust him, but why do all the other pregnant ladies out there say this isn't good? He also told me I could have lunch meat, two caffeinated drinks a day, and sushi as long as it had cooked fish. Just laid back kind of doc. Good for me, I suppose.

Movement:

Definitely feeling him/her. I never really felt "flutters" because the movements seemed stronger than that, or I just didn't pay attention. Either way, I can't wait until it's more often and stronger.

Food cravings:

STILL Jimmy Johns! #6, no mayo, add oil and vinegar, salt n vinegar chips with a Dr. Pepper. I had one for lunch and I would eat another one right now if it was in front of me... SOOO GOOD!

Gender:

22 weeks left... today, I think it's a girl.

What I'm looking forward to:

The big ultrasound in two weeks! Not that we are finding out the gender, but we should be getting the most up to date due date and to make sure everything looks good. Oh, and starting the nursery. I think we I finally decided on colors, so that is huge accomplishment.

What I miss:

I'm not really having any 'I miss' moments this week. Of course, at my friend's wedding I missed the beer and champagne ...I guess this means I'm starting to adjust to my new lifestyle of no wardrobe and no alcohol.

Milestones:

Feeling the baby move

I think it's about time my husband takes these pics

17 Weeks

2010-09-08T22:18:00.000-05:00

Before I get the pregnancy info, let's talk about something(s)...
1. Umm.. this is quite a few days late
2. I told you this would not be a pregnancy only blog, yet it seems the only thing I motivate myself to blog about is my weekly updates. I mean, I couldn't even find the time to blog about our two year wedding
anniversary.
3. Hubs and I had a fabulous anniversary. It was very low low key and pretty uneventful, but we spent plenty of time together the weekend before and that Monday night. I can't believe it has been two years. What I really can't believe is how much I love him more and more every day. Aww.. wasn't that special?

How far along: 17 Weeks
Total weight gain: As of the doctor yesterday...9lbs. Yikes?!
Maternity clothes:Today I wore "normal" pants, but that doesn't mean I didn't use a rubber band to hold them up
Sleep: Much much better

Movement: I'm really just not sure. The ultrasound yesterday showed a VERY active baby, so I'm thinking I should be feeling it or feeling it a lot more soon.
Food cravings: Jimmy Johns! #6, no mayo, add oil and vinegar, salt n vinegar chips with a Dr. Pepper. Seriously the best thing EVER. Then, there was that night I HAD to have a donut.

Gender: 23 weeks left....Heart beat was 154 yesterday and doc said "chick". I'm not sure what I think it is. I did come up with a new girl name that I'm in love with. Hubs is not thrilled (at all) with it.
Weekly Wisdom:No shame in eating
Stretchmarks?: Still keeping my eyes peeled for any

What I'm looking forward to:One of my best friends,Brenna, is getting married this weekend and I can't wait to be a part of her big day.

What I miss: Not having to wear a bra. I never thought this would happen. At first it was fun (YAY! I have boobs), but now I just get annoyed.

Milestones: The baby no longer fits on one screen during the ultrasound

Oh, and let me just tell you the bloody noses are OC! I'm talking all of a sudden gushing blood. Sick, right? My wonderful sister, who knows I'm a spaz, proceeded to tell me "well, you know that is also a sign of leukemia, right?" Who says that to a pregnant lady never mind a hypochondriac?! UGH!

16 Weeks

2010-08-29T13:37:00.000-05:00

How far along: 16 Weeks
Total weight gain: Maybe around +6ish
Maternity clothes:Pretty much that or I wear dresses that still fit and look appropriate
Sleep: Still the usual wake-ups a couple times a night. Now it is because I'm just uncomfortable

Movement: I thought that maybe I felt something earlier in the week but I'm pretty sure it was just gas. I've had a lot of that lately. In all the books it says I should expect the gas so I just embrace it... not so much the husband.
Food cravings: This week it is eggs...with hot sauce. YUM!

Gender: 24 weeks left....
Weekly Wisdom: All the cool pregnant women get bloody noses
Stretchmarks?: Still none but my stomach has been itching A LOT. I have been putting lotion on it twice a day instead of the usual once.

What I'm looking forward to: My appt next week and hopefully feeling him/her move soon

What I miss: Beer, my brain, walking up the stairs at a somewhat fast pace, and my wardrobe
Milestones: Hubs telling me I'm starting to look pregnant.

On a completely different topic..
Our good friends Heather and Derek had their precious baby boy, Brayden, on Friday. Brayden came 12 weeks early but so far he is doing SOOOO well. He is in the NICU and if all continues to go well hopefully he will only need to be there for 7 weeks. I can't imagine what Heather and Derek are going through, but they are both very strong people with a great support system. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. You can check out Brayden's updates on Heather's blog... www.heatherhelvey.blogspot.com

15 Weeks

2010-08-20T06:31:00.001-05:00

What happened to 14 weeks? Well, they moved my due date up 3 more days and it just threw this all off, so I decided to skip a week. I know, rude of them to not think about how this was going to affect my blog. My due date has been moved up a total of 7 days since we first found out I was pregnant. I have a feeling by the time this is all said and done I'll have a January baby :).

How far along: 15 Weeks
Total weight gain: I don't own a scale but I would assume around the +3 or 4 mark
Maternity clothes: My mom just bought me a couple pairs of maternity work pants and this morning I just tried them on to make sure they fit. Umm.. I didn't take them off. Why have I been fighting this for so long is my question?! Elastic here I come!!!!
Sleep: When and IF I work out I sleep a lot better. You would think that would motivate me to workout, right? NO! Oh, and the middle of the night bathroom breaks are still annoying.

Movement: I wish!
Food cravings: FOOD! And when I say I'm hungry I need to eat NOW. None of this playing games about what I feel like or what me and hubs can agree on. By the time we decide, I'm pissed, my stomach hurts and I'm not pleasant company. I've been trying to do better at planning meals so we don't come into this situation often...we have our good days and we have our bad

Gender: 25 weeks left....
Belly Button: I still have one..
Stretchmarks?: Not yet. I heard these guys are hereditary and my mom did not get them. However, along with everything else, I'm trying to be opened minded. If I get them, I get them.

What I'm looking forward to: Figuring out what the F I am going to do with the nursery.

What I miss: My brain
Milestones: I took a pic of my stomach

13 Weeks!

2010-08-10T17:37:00.000-05:00

How far along:

13 Weeks

Sleep?

Sure, I sleep. When I'm not waking up 5 times to pee or because i'm ~~STARVING~~ hungry or because my 90lb dog is taking up my half of the bed

Weight Gain?

3 lbs.. I am actually quite surprised it was that low. I may or may not have pigged out after my doctor's appt today.

Food Cravings?

CARBS

Food Aversions?

Chicken and pickles still.. yuck!

Sex:

I was 100% convinced it was a boy in the beginning and now I think girl. Unfortunately, I have 27 weeks until I will find out.

Movement?

Not yet..

Symptoms?

BOOBS! They may have road map on them and they may hurt like a bia, but they are big(er) and it's great

What I miss?

BEER! Having my body to myself, which I should probably get over since I have awhile to go

What I am looking foward to?

Registering in the next couple of weeks

Weekly Wisdom:

Stop reading Google. Easier said than done

Milestones:

2nd trimester and hearing the baby's heartbeat..146!!

Does Dolly Decorator read this??

2010-08-05T09:27:00.001-05:00

Alright ladies, I need some decorating advice.

Before we even bought our new house I imagined decorating it like a little cottage. Cute, right? Well, for the most part I think it looks "cottagey", but it is a work in progress. Before we bought the house I also thought that it would be a great idea to get a white couch. I had found the perfect one at Ikea and it had a slipcover so it could come off easily to be washed/bleached. It was brilliant...I would have my cake and it eat it too.

Everyone told me it was a bad idea since we had a dog and eventually with kids it just didn't seem reasonable. Well, I convinced everyone I was so smart and I would just bleach it and wash it and it would be fine. I even went out and bought a clorox bleach pen to tidy up everyday. Well, I get the couch and what does the slipcover say? DO NOT BLEACH. Shoot! I'm still ok with this thinking I'll just wash it every couple of weeks. Oh, and did I mention I thought I could keep my cute Walter bear off the couch and I would be really stern about it? HA! He has the cutest face ever and every time he is up there he just looks so happy.

Well, Hubs and I were in Chicago and we decided to stop by Ikea on the way back home to pick up an extra white slipcover so we had two. All along I just keep telling myself that this white couch is my dream and it WILL look good. It has now been 3 months since that white couch made its debut in our home and the conclusion.....

BAD IDEA!!!!

I hate it, just hate it. Yes, it looks good but it does not work for our lifestyle. Maybe when I'm 60 and the kids are grown and we still have Walter, of course, but he is just too old to jump on the couch. Now, I'm in a little bit of a debacle. You see, I already bought a new couch, so Hubs will not go for me trying to go out and by another new couch. The only option I do have is to order a new slipcover for the couch we already have. The problem is, I've already painted around the couch and other things in the house to match white. Guess what? Ikea has slim pickins for what will match my current decor. There are two options that could possible work and this is what I need YOUR opinion on..

(keep in mind that our walls our yellow, drapes are green and coffee table and tv stand are white)

This is what we have now

This is the one that I am thinking I want..

The problem with the floral? A. Hubs says it looks like a grandma couch. I told him Ikea would not sell a grandma couch. B. I don't know what kind/color area rug to get.

This is what might have to be the option

It is a beige color. I'm a little worried it will still be too light. Ikea has one on their website that is darker but I'm not sure it is still available. I need to call.

If I went with the light or darker beige I would go with this area rug...

So.. that's my issue. If anyone has any opinions or ideas I'm ready to hear them. Thanks!!

Ok.. I found this picture of our room. It might help imagine the colors. It is looking from our dining room into our living room

Gangl Jr.

2010-07-20T09:56:00.000-05:00

Thank you everyone for your very sweet comments. Hubs and I are very excited.

To get all the juicy details out I am just going to answer some of the most common questions asked:

How far along?

I'm 10 weeks!

Due Date?

Feb. 15, 2011

Are we finding out the sex?

No! I know we must be crazy, right? At
least that is what everyone tells us. What surprises me is that I am doing this and I have zero patience. I mean it is probably even less than zero. I really need to work on this patience thing, or so I have been told, before this kid comes out, so this is a great way to start. Plus, there are so few surprises in life that we can make this the biggest of ours. Then I think that instead of going out and buying all pink and blue things I will have to get neutral colors and I can use them for all our kids no matter what sex comes next.

Were you trying?

I actually hate this question because trying to every person is different. But, yes, we were trying. I won't go into too many details on here, but we had some struggles along the way. For us, it wasn't like we did what we needed to do and bam.. pregnant. However, I will say that the journey we had makes me appreciate what a true miracle this is. And, I'm thankful for my wonderful doctor and he was able to figure out what we needed to do and it worked.

How am I feeling?

I am actually really lucky because for the most part I have felt pretty good. I do have my good moments and my bad moments where I think I am going to vomit all over the room and instead all I can do is eat to make myself feel better. Although, if you ask hubs he will tell you I am always complaining about not feeling good. I mean, I really try not to. Now, when it comes to my boobs this is a whole different story. Don't. Even. Look. At. Them. They hurt so freaking bad. I think my boobs are doing now what they were supposed to do when I was going through puberty. Hooray for maybe not being a negative A anymore!!!

Any Cravings?

FOOD!! And unfortunately it is not fruit or veggies. It is McDonald's French Fries with ketchup (but only McDonald's ketchup because it is different), pizza, and French onion soup from Panera. YUM!! I am really trying to not indulge in all of that, but if that is all I can eat then I'm assuming that is better than nothing. Right?

Food Aversions?

PICKLES and CHICKEN.... BARF!!!!!!!! Yes, I am dramatic about those two things. I can not even look at them. Sick! I usually eat a ton of chicken and for some reason this kid is not having it. Hubs one night grilled BBQ chicken, before we realized it was an issue, and it was on my plate and I tried to take one bite and I just couldn't. So he said "don't eat it". Then I just stared at it and pouted until he said "do I need to take it off your plate?" That was much better :)

Are we sharing names?

Most people do know the names we are thinking. We are 99.8% sure what the girl name is. The boy name Hubs is stuck on, but I'm considering some other options. Maybe I will just do a whole post on the names once we have 100% decided. Suspenseful isn't it??

So, there ya go. These first weeks have gone by super fast and I hope it stays like this. We are so busy the rest of the summer that I know before I blink it will be October and then the holidays and then pretty much there.

Walter Saturday...

2010-07-17T07:59:00.001-05:00

I know it is supposed to be Wednesday, but I couldn't wait until Wednesday...

Yep, I'm PREGNANT!!

We are beyond excited and so happy that we can finally share the news with everyone.

I'm also glad that I have a reason to blog. However, I promise to not be that blogger that only talks about me and the baby :).

I'll give more details later this weekend!!

It's all fun and games...

2010-06-07T21:51:00.000-05:00

until someone really does NEVER blog.

This time my excuse is because of the house. Oh, and our 1 year old computer crashed right before we moved. RUDE! We have been doing so many little projects since we have moved in that there has been no time for anything else. Now, things are slowly

getting back to normal. I've noticed that I have more time to read blogs and catch up on everyone's life (pretty sure almost everyone in the blog world is having a baby), and I decided I need to get back into the routine.I am going to post pics of the new and improved love nest as soon as I take them. Other than that, nothing too exciting has been going on. However, I will give you list of things that have happened in the past 2 months:

1. My sister got married

2. We already made the new neighbors mad

3. I started swimming again... and running

4.Walter got a wound and had to get a steroid shot

5.Two of my good friends came to visit for Memorial Day

6. I turned 26...I'm now closer to thirty than 20. I'm embracing it!

7. Hubs turned 27 and has some gray hair. We are both embracing it!

8. I signed up to work with a Real Estate company

9. I decided that area rugs are ridiculously expensive

10. I got Michael Buble tickets from my in-laws. Hubs said he is engaged and I shouldn't be so excited. I say "he just hasn't me met yet". This will be taking place June 26th.

11. I played in a volleyball league. No, I didn't play volleyball in high school, but I did in middle school(they let everyone on the team). Let me just tell you that it was soo much fun and I'm glad I did it.

12. Walter is still the best and most handsome dog EVER

Who doesn't love a blogger that only blogs once a month....

2010-03-30T07:52:00.001-05:00

Hi! I promise y'all have missed nothing exciting going on in my life. The first exciting thing that has happened will be today at 2:00 PM when we close on our very first house. YAY!!! The original closing date was scheduled for yesterday, but something to do with a 2nd appraisal not coming back in time pushed everything back one day. Annoying! What if we had just sold our house and we had to be out yesterday? Whatever, today is the big day and we are super excited. I am kind of sad that I will be out of town the next two weekends (Minnesota this weekend and Austin for my sister's bachelorette party the next weekend), so I won't be able to have the weekends to start making it a home. Unfortunately, this also means I might have to miss out on doing a lot of the painting. Sigh...I am so bummed ;).

Now that we will be doing lots of fun things with the new house maybe I will have something to blog about. Speaking of fun things.....Does anyone want to come decorate my house for me? You really don't even have to come to this fine city of Saint Louis you could just do it via pictures. I can't really afford an interior decorator so maybe think pro-bono work but for decorating. No? I just have so many ideas and no clue how to pull them all together.

Maybe tomorrow I will bring back Walter Wednesday with pictures of Walter in his new house and yard.

A BIG Announcement....

2010-02-28T15:21:00.000-06:00

We found and bought a house!!!!!!!

Isn't this so exciting?!?! We went through some minor drama, but I grew a pair of balls (figuratively speaking... obviously) and became a grown up and did what I needed to do to make sure we got this house. Totally worth it in the end!

We are beyond thrilled, but I don't think it has sunk it quite yet that we will be homeowners. I can't even begin to tell you how long we have wanted this. I guess this also means we will be in St. Louis for at least another 5 years...GASP! Not that we don't love it here, but growing up

I never pictured myself living in the mid-west. Ehh.. it's cute, I guess!

We close the end of March and since we are in our lease until June we plan on staying situated until mid to the end of April, so we can paint and do some other cosmetic things in the house before we bring in the furniture.We have the inspection tomorrow and we are crossing our fingers (toes, legs, arms, and whatever else you can cross) that everything goes well. The house was bought by the current owners, an investment company,to rehab and we hope since that is the case everything with be great. There was a previous offer on the house and they actually went through the inspection process and everything came back fine except one thing and they claimed to have fixed it. SO, hopefully ours will be the same way. After the inspection, we will just get everything we need together to make sure we can close on time.

Want some details about the house... and pictures??

The house was built in 1929, but like I mentioned earlier it is a complete rehab. The investors did such a great job of keeping the old charm while still giving it modern updates. It's 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, hardwood throughout, updated kitchen with brand new appliances, 2 car garage, gas fireplace, new hot water heater, zoned heating and air conditioning (this means we can have it cold upstairs when we sleep and still heat the downstairs.. fancy huh?), and a staircase that I'm in love with.

Here are some pics..

(These pics are all from Zillow)

This is the front of the house.

The awnings are coming down ASAP. We have had numerous people tell us to leave them up to block the sun, BUT we actually like the sun coming in and creating a nice little warm spot. Also, the front door is going to be painted. Right now, I'm leaning towards red, but i'm also thinking maybe a purple. Not sure.

The Porch

Isn't it great? We plan on putting up a swing (can we say sippin on some sweet tea in the summer while reading a book..ha) and possibly enclosing it. Hubs wants to enclose, but i'm fine with the way it is. Once we have kids I'm sure I will be all about adding that railing.

View from the front door/Living Room

This is right when you walk in the front door. No one lives in the house, but they did stage it.

View of living room in to the dining room.

The archway leads into the dining room. The pocket door to the left is a 1/2 bath and the door to the right is a coat closet.

Dining Room

Boy do I have some big dreams with this. First, the color is coming down. I'm going to be doing greens, creams, and yellows as our color scheme. I am also eying a couple of chandeliers that will look just fantastic instead of that light. Add a nice area rug and we may just sit down as a "family" for dinner.

Part of the kitchen (looking in from dining room)

I desperately wanted white cabinets or the ability to paint them white. I feel just awful paining these new cabinets, so unless I grow another pair I might just have to leave the for now. I don't hate them, so I will live. I REALLY don't like the countertops either, but that is a minor fix we can do within the next year or something. Next to the dishwasher is where the stairs are to go down to the basement ( I will come back to the basement). I need ideas for window treatments for those windows as well. Suggestions?

Another kitchen view

The staircase.... love at first sight

I love everything about it. They did such a great job keeping the old charm.

The landing as soon as you walk upstairs.

The bathroom is to the left, one of the bedrooms right at the top of the stairs.

The "office" or smallest of the 3 bedrooms

This is the one that you walk into right from the stairs. It's small, but super cute.

We plan on using this as an office until.... well, until we need it for a nursery. It has a sliding closet door, but there are also some big ideas for that down the road.

The upstairs bath.

It's nice. We are actually going to be putting in a new vanity because this one has zero counterspace and my blow dryer and straightner need to be able to fit on there at the same time. It's an easy fix. Plus, we can get something with drawers.

Tub

And we get a toilet. Pretty standard. Unfortunately, the saxophones will not be staying.

Master Bedroom

Bright and sunny. We will be adding a ceiling fan and painting. Oh, and I'm going to make a headboard. Uhh... I hope it turns out like the picture in my head.

Guest Bedroom

Looks pretty similar to the master, but we feel as if the master has more space so that is how we decided. I don't think I will change much except maybe the paint .I really don't know what I want to do for this room quite yet. Maybe something like all white with splashes of color or just navy and white. Hmm..

The Basement...

When we first walked in the house I feel in love, but the Hubs took a little while to be on the same page. He was concerned about how small the living room is. I, of course, didn't mind it. Then he makes his way down to the basement and comes up all excited. He said since the house is pretty much move in ready and he wouldn't have to do anything major he would finish the basement and then he wouldn't care how small the living room is. Ok..... As long as I get the things fixed I want I don't care if he does the basement. He has big plans... enclosed laundry room, living room, storage. We are thinking we would like to have it done within the first year, but we'll see. I am excited that we will have that much more space added to the house. I may or may not be REALLY excited about the laundry room (you know you are getting old when...).

Well, that is all.

Home Sweet Home

My life might be getting back to normal

2010-02-21T10:47:00.000-06:00

Key word: MIGHT

I can't believe it's almost March. Not to say this is a bad thing because I'm over Winter.

Did you hear that Winter??? I'M. OVER. YOU.

I finally finished coaching last week. I loved it, but it took up so much of my free time, which I would have spent doing productive things like watching tv, bloging reading trashy magazines, etc. I look back now and think that the 3 1/2 months went by so fast, but during that time it was taking forever. Coming home after work only to have to leave an hour later and get home around 10:30 again, go to bed, and do the same thing the next day. The athletic director of the school asked if I was going to come back next year. I told him I would definitely think about it.

Between you and me.... I sorta lied. I'm not sure I want to. It will depend on so many different things that may or may not happen between now and then.

Hubs and I have been hard core house hunting. I feel like we have looked at every single house in the area (s) we want to live, in our price range, with what we are looking for and we have yet to find something. Well, we actually did find something ( I was already placing the furniture in the house) and someone wrote a contract two days before we were going to write one. SIGH. I keep telling myself that it wasn't meant to be or it would be ours... but I'm still pissed. I loved that house. Now, we have started the search again. Hopefully, we will find something soon. We need to write a contract by April to get the tax credit. Umm... I will not pass up the $8000.

I had to give up Starbucks for Lent. Apparently hubs thinks I spend too much money there. Since we picked each others "sacrifice" this year, he told me it was either Starbucks or Facebook. I told him to NOT be ridiculous... Starbucks it is. Facebook? As if he thinks I can go 40 days without being a stalker and trying to find out every detail about someone's life that I may or may not have ever met. Now, I will just have to stalk while I drink my ~~Panera~~ home made coffee.

That Skinny Vanilla Latte will be waiting for me on Easter morning.

I'm really surprised that he didn't say Target, cause let's be honest... that is where I spend too much money.

Other than all that, nothing exciting has really been going on. I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up, I still suck at keeping this blog updated, I am still obsessed with Walter, and I'm still madly in love with my husband. A girl can't complain.

St. Louis is finally getting it together ...

2010-02-16T22:12:00.000-06:00

because one of these is movin' in...

FINALLY!!! Geez!

The even better part? It's approximately 2 minutes from my house and right across the street from "my"

Target. What a perfect little area this is turning into.

Ikea, I'm not really sure what you are doing, but I think you missed the memo about how great this city really is... get a move on it!!!

Walter Wednesday

2010-01-27T08:00:00.001-06:00

Walter wants to show off what Santa brought him for Christmas

(he apologizes for this being a month late, better late than never....right? Right!)

Isn't it a perfect fit? Walter has a hard time finding things that he fits in (i.e. clothes, beds, laps) but we tell him it's only because God made him extra big to put more love in him. Cheesy, I know. Anyway, everyone is a little happier at night now that Walter has his own space. Although, I will sometimes wake up in the middle of the night and feel someone at my feet... busted. Once we know that he won't rip the bed apart and take out all the stuffing, I would like to buy him a nice bed with his name monogrammed on it. He takes after his mom and loves all things monogrammed.

T-Word Tuesday

2010-01-26T08:21:00.001-06:00

Toilet Paper

I wanted to show all of you how easy it is to change the toilet paper roll. Now, I know that I've never personally had a problem with any of you not doing this, but I have had it with ~~one person~~ other people that may or may not read this blog.

I looked on You Tube because I was convinced someone else had already made a video of this and sure enough ..

It's all about compromise

2010-01-23T11:16:00.001-06:00

So we have officially started the home search. We are hoping to find something in the next couple of months and close by early summer... at the latest. Since I love real estate I will randomly go open-housing on a Sunday (even before we were looking) because I'm nosy and I want to see ~~what you really get for 1,000,000~~ how people decorate. Now, we I will start going because we really need a house. As I'm sure you other girls that have bought a house with a guy before know,guys typically don't find looking at houses as a form of entertainment. I'm sure some of you can even relate to the conversation me and hubs had last night:

Hubs: " You know what I'm doing at 5:30 Sunday night right?"

Me: "Ugh! Watching the Vikings? I'm so annoyed with football"

Hubs: "Babe, it's the playoffs"

Me: " Fine! But you have to go look at open houses with me during the day"

Hubs: (after a big sigh) "We are only looking at 3"

Me: "5"

Hubs: "4 1/2"

Me: " 5 1/2"

Hubs: "4"

Me: " Ok, but then you are only watching 3 quarters of the game. That would be unfortunate"

Hubs: " 4 quaters, 4 houses"

Me: " Ya, but the game takes way longer than looking at houses. 5 houses"

Hubs: " 4 houses AND you can go spend $$ at Target...but you are going to Target without me. Final offer."

Me: " OMG! You have yourself a deal!"

All it takes is a little compromise and your husband knowing what really makes your heart flutter.

T-Word Tuesday

2010-01-12T08:43:00.000-06:00

TUB

I spend my winter nights doing this..

I am ALWAYS cold, even though we do have it and we turn it on. By nature I am just a cold person and a little tub time every night warms me up. Better than me turning the heat to 90 (ahem not like I have ever done that and then been busted by hubs or anything).

What makes this really enjoyable is if I have my new one of these in hand...

Snow Day

2010-01-07T09:37:00.000-06:00

I am NOT having one. Our Campus President will never call off school/my job unless it is full on blizzard. Unfortunate!!

I don't get it!?! I don't think it is worth anyone's life to have to go in to work when it's not 100% safe.

I'm annoyed that in about a half hour I am going to be driving 20 (or less) on the highway so I arrive alive. Maybe it's because I'm from Texas and even talk of snow meant that everything shuts down for a week "just in case". Hubs is from Minnesota and he busted out the door this morning (on time), cleared off his car and went on his way. Whatever, If I get in an accident I'm requesting a raise.

If you are having a snow day right now... enjoy!

Walter Wednesday

2010-01-06T07:44:00.000-06:00

Walter wanted me to share his New Year Resolutions with you all...

1. Eat Less

2. Sleep More

3. Stay out of the trash can

4. Sleep on his new bed (that Santa brought) instead of at mom's feet

5. Get a job

I actually added that last one because I feel like he needs to contribute this year. If I can give up fast food he can go to work, right?!

New Year New Me

2010-01-03T21:07:00.000-06:00

Hello? Does anyone still read this thing?

Uh.. Where have I been? I'm not even really sure where to start to answer that question, so I am just going to pick up as if I blogged yesterday. I would have way too much to fill you in on, but since there is nothing TOO major to announce I will just mention any news as I go.

As the new year approached I started thinking about a resolution. I seriously came up with 20 things that I wanted to change this year and I decided that I shouldn't have to pick just 1. Right?

Here are the top things that I am going to adjust in 2010:

1. WORKOUT at least 3 days a week. I already belong to a gym so I might as well use it.

2. Drink water. I hate water. HATE. However, my body and skin need a lot more and I want to look healthier, so I will control what I can.

3. Drink less coffee. My original plan was to quit drinking it all together...like quit cold turkey. Then I realized that a little coffee never hurt someone, so I will just make a generous cut back.

4.Eat more fruits and veggies. When we were at Sam's yesterday I picked up 24 cans of V8 to help with this process. I had my first one this morning and it made me gag. I'll need to get over that real quick!

5. Be more organized with my pictures. I take a ton of them, but they either stay in my computer or camera, so why do I even bother. I know I will want the memories later, so I need to come up with a system to stay on top of this. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

6. This is the big one..... Hubs and I are giving up fast food. Yikes! We don't necessarily eat it a lot, but definitely more than what is good for us. I guess it all ties together with my get healthy plan. Now, we are still allowed Subway, Quiznos, Jimmy and Chipotle/Qdoba. Sorry, I can't give up my sandwiches or burritos. What will I miss the most? It's a toss up between McDonald's breakfast (#1 with a Diet Dr. Pepper) or a Cheesy Gordita Crunch from Taco Bell. One of those I enjoy when I drinking and the other the morning after I drink.

7. Just try to be a better person. Nothing in particular, but I'm not always the greatest friend and although I'm close, I'm not a perfect wife. I really just want to be able to go to bed every night knowing that I did my best to be a good person.

I definitely think all of them ~~except maybe the McDonald's breakfast thing~~ are doable.

In family news...My sister got engaged on Friday!!! YAY!!! I am so happy for her and my future brother-in-law. She is planning on a May (yes, this May) wedding so it will be a crazy 4 months. She is about to start nursing school in June, so instead of waiting close to 2 years they decided to do it fast. Makes sense to me and I will do whatever I can to make the day perfect for her. So Excited!!!!

T-Word Tuesday

2009-12-08T10:40:00.000-06:00

TREE

Christmas tree, that is, and other festive decorations around the Gangl*icious household.

and we didn't fight once putting it up. It still needs a topper of some sort but I'm picky.

This is the skirt that I got from Target. Do I love it? No! I really want one from Pottery Barn, but I refuse to pay $100 when I know it will go on sale on Dec. 26th, so I'll be patient. This one from Target was $4.99 and I added the "G" myself to give it some character. It will do for this year, but look out next year because that skirt from PB will be amazing.

Our stockings hung. These are new stockings all around. These I did get at PB when they were recently having their free shipping and monogramming sale. LOVE THEM and they are classic.I was somewhat tempted to buy extras for the kids (one day) and just add the monogramming as we went. Weird? I still might do it if they go on sale with that skirt. If not I guess I will have to be ok with mismatched stockings.

Dining room table centerpiece

Not sure if I love this. It's all the creative juices were giving at the time,and I will just leave it.

Too bad I didn't paint this table in the fall like I had said I would since last winter. This spring looks promising.

Side view

Buffet

Santa's Station

Dear Santa:

Remember this station when you are in

Nordstrom

Target

Kate Spade

The Lexus dealership...

or anywhere really.

Love, Liz

Me and my friend before at dinner before The Nutcracker

And then me and hubs at The Nutcracker in Indy

Must go NOW and buy this....

2009-12-07T11:00:00.001-06:00

shirt from Banana

This pictures doesn't even do it justice!

This past weekend Hubs and I went to Indiana to visit one of my good friends from college. Brenna and her fiance bought a house last May and I've been dying to see that and their new dog, Max. Saturday during the day we went shopping (after she showed me where her wedding and reception is taking place next year) and that is when we discovered this magical little shirt. It's amazingly soft and comfortable. Plus, it can be worn with jeans for the weekend or black pants for work. I'm obsessed!!

Saturday night we went to a nice dinner and then saw The Nutcracker (a holiday MUST). It was a really nice and relaxing weekend. When we got home yesterday, we ventured out to get our Christmas tree. It's all decorated and now the Christmas decor in our house is complete. Pictures tomorrow!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Walter Wednesday Remix

2009-12-02T12:58:00.000-06:00

I have had zero time to blog the past couple of weeks, as I mentioned before, but things are going to change now. Why? Well, because today I discovered that I am no longer blocked at work. HOORAY!! Now I can fill my work days ~~blogging instead of being prodcutive~~ geting my work done and then blogging. I will try to catch everyone up on the past few weeknds of events and hopefully I will have a brand new Walter Wednesday for you next week.

Dallas Wedding Recap

2009-11-23T20:04:00.000-06:00

Two weeks ago (as you all know) I went to Dallas for my good friend, Lindsy's, wedding.The whole weekend was so much fun. I was so glad I could be apart of the big day and watch her get married. Here are some pics of the weekend festivities along with some little recaps.

I flew in on Wed night and my dad picked me up. Whenever I land in Dallas I always get this sense of home and I love it. Of course, it sucks when I'm leaving. Anyway, Thursday morning I woke up and got ready for Lindsy to come pick me up. From the moment I saw her until after the reception that girl was glowing with wedding bliss. She looked amazing. We went straight to her house and hung out before we went to bachelorette/girls night in at her sister's that night. It was so great to be able to spend one on one time with her and catch up before all the events started.

Thursday night:

We hung out at her sisters house while sitting around, drinking wine, and watching Lindsy open her lingerie gifts. She didn't want a crazy night out knowing that she had a lot to do the next day and she needed to function. Totally understandable! It was great and it was nice way for all the girls that had never met to hang out.

Pictures from Thursday

Her sister came up with a game that is usually played at bridal showers. Instead of using toilet paper to make a wedding dress, we got in to groups and created the lingerie that her future husband Juan would love to see the night of the wedding. Super cute idea!

Lindsy and her three sisters. All GORGEOUS!! I've know them all forever and think the world of each of them. Plus, it was always fun being at their house because there was always something going on.

The whole gang

Friday morning I woke up to Lindsy's fiance, Juan, asking me if he wanted him to go get the coffee and donuts. Umm... nice! Lindsy went and worked out while I sat on her couch and watched the Today show. Juan came home shortly after with Starbucks and a dozen donuts. I told him he was already husband of the year a day before he was married. I didn't even need another reason that Lindsy is one lucky girl.

Lindsy and I headed to the bridal luncheon mid morning. This was the first time Lindsy's whole wedding party was together (some girls couldn't make it on Thursday). After lunch, we went and got mani/pedis.

Friday night was the rehearsal dinner at the Dallas Center for Architecture after the church, of course. It was catered Mexican food with a margarita machine and beer. Lindsy and Juan put on an awesome little show for everyone and it was definitely lots of laughing, but also lots of tears. For those of you that are or have gotten married you know how it goes.

Lindsy and Juan at the rehersal

Lindsy and Juan talking at the rehersal dinner.

Saturday was the BIG day. We all met in Lindsy's hotel suite at 10 A.M. and from there we went to our hair and make-up appointments that were scattered throughout the day. There was always a group in the hotel and we drank mimosas and ate sandwhiches in between appts. Lindsy was the calmest bride I have ever met. She wasn't nervous, wasn't freaking out about anything, just as calm as ever. I think it helped that she is extremely organized and had every last detail done 3 weeks before the wedding. At about 5:00 we all headed over to the church to get dressed and take some pictures. At 7:30 Lindsy walked down the aisle with her dad and married the man of her dreams. I cried, she cried, Juan cried, her sister standing next to me cried, and I think her dad even cried. It was ineveitable because Lindsy was one gorgeous bride. When she was walking down the aisle I thought two things:

1. I couldn't believe after 15 years of friendship I was lucky enough to stand up there and witness the best day of her life.

2. More than anything she deserved this wonderful guy she was about to marry

After the wedding we headed over to the Scottish Rite Cathedral for the reception. Of course ther was good food and lots to drink.

So... I was really bad about taking pictures and I wasn't able to take picturs of her walking down the aisle, but here is what I do have.

The dress

The bride waiting to walk down the aisle

Lindsy dancing with her dad

The bride and groom dancing their first dance

Hubs and I at the reception

I would have to say it was a huge success. I talked to Lindsy today and they had a wondeful honeymoon in Vancouver and Whistler Canada.

Ya.. about this blogging thing

2009-11-22T17:33:00.000-06:00

I've been awful! Just Awful!

In my defense, I have been SUPER busy these past few weeks. I have been traveling lots for weddings and then with the coaching gig starting last week I can barely find time to pee. Anyway, I plan on doing a big post tomorrow with lots of pictures.

Hope everyone had a fantastic weekend!!

T- Word Tuesday

2009-11-17T23:34:00.000-06:00

TACO!

Burrito! What's coming out of your speedo?

This week is the first week of the swim team "tryouts" for the team I'm coaching. Umm.. .let's just say that I am a little overwhelmed. I will say that I think it is going to be lots of fun once I get in a routine and figure it all out. All the girls are super nice and a little more mature than I expected.

So here is the first story for you:

I had to go to a meeting at the school tonight for all the parents of winter sport participants. I get there and I go up to talk to the Athletic Director about random stuff and what not. About 5 minutes later he comes up to me and this is the conversation:

AD- " So, I get a call from the people that run the pool last night, and he mentioned something about a bunch of guys hanging out in the hallways waiting to take some of the girls home from practice.

Me- "What? I'm not really sure what you are talking about"

AD- "These guys were messing around in the hallway and they were there waiting for your swimmers"

Me- "Oh, well I know nothing about this. I thought I didn't have to worry about this stuff at an all girls school. Maybe I'm a little naive."

AD- " YES! You are naive. You need to address this problem and make sure it doesn't happen again."

Me- "Absolutely! I will make sure the girls know this is not ok."

I told the girls tonight that I don't care who it was or whatever, but they need to make sure it doesn't happen again because I don't want to be in trouble. If they want their "boyfriends" to be at practice they can sit and watch instead of jacking around outside the pool. All they did was laugh and say ok. Geez! I do think it's kind of funny and I don't care because I probably would have done the same thing :)

Walter Wednesday

2009-11-11T07:59:00.001-06:00

We are going to discuss something today that I hope none of you actually share with Walter. I typically let him know what I write about each Wednesday because he is genuinely interested on what I have to say about him. Plus, who doesn't love to hear about themselves?! Well, not today. This is sensitive.

Last week Walter and I had to go to the doc to get a heart worm test (he got the test I was just there for moral support) Anyway, when we get there they tell me how cute and sweet he is and I of course said ~~that I know and that I feel bad that other dogs have to compete with him~~ thank you and acted like I've never heard such a thing. The nice vet tech then takes Walter to a back room while I wait patiently in the waiting room. She comes back out about 10 minutes later and asks me if I would like his heart worm pills. Yes, of course, that is why we are getting the test so he can get his meds. The nice vet tech lady then proceeds to say ...

"he is 89 lbs, so he will need the large breed ones". WHAT?! Now, I know that my dog is a large breed, but 89 lbs?????? When Walter went in June for shots the vet said he was 83lbs and that he needed to be closer to 75. Five months later, he is even more overweight? Big trouble!

I swear that we don't overfeed our dog. I think we give him a healthy amount once a day and I don't think he looks 89 lbs. Well, I guess when he tries to be a lap dog he is a little heavy, but I always just assumed it was his extra skin. Shoot!

We got some suggestions about adding veggies to his food and picking up the exercise a bit. Oh, and maybe cutting back the people food that ~~I give~~ Hubs gives him. We have been giving him lots of positive encouragement and we are convinced that he has already lost a couple of pounds. He is well on his way to being the biggest loser. Wish us luck!

Scarf Swap

2009-11-10T20:15:00.004-06:00

Kate over at Simply Said by Simply Me recently put on a scarf swap and it was sooo much fun. Basically, Kate sent us all that wanted to participate a questionnaire with some questions about our style. She then paired us up accordingly with another blogger. We had to go out, buy a scarf for our partner, and send them around the same time. Kate was so great with all the directions and making sure we received our scarfs around the same time.

Who was my partner you ask? Well, it was Jenny from Practically Perfect. She is an ER RN in the Midwest, but she is moving to New Zealand in May. Jealous? I am! Her husband accepted a job teaching at a university over there and I think that it is so cool that they are taking the plunge and moving across the world. We emailed a couple of times back and forth and she is such a sweetie. If you don't already, check out her blog.

Ok, back to the swap. ..

I would show you a picture of me opening the scarf, but I was way too excited to bust out the camera.

Here is a picture of me with my new scarf

I do not think this is the best picture, but let's just say that Hubs wasn't exactly thrilled to be taking numerous pictures of me in a scarf. I know, I don't understand why either!

The scarf hanging on our coat rack

To say that I am obsessed with the scarf she sent me would be an understatement; I'm so in love with it. I don't typically go out and buy scarfs for myself, so that is one reason that I wanted to participate in the swap and I'm so glad I did. Plus, I have no scarfs to wear with brown or my new green jack, so this is pefect.

I think Kate plans on doing more of these with different items and I will definitely be playing again.

Thanks again Mrs. Practically Perfect for my scarf!!

T-Word Tuesday

2009-11-10T08:01:00.001-06:00

TIME...

for my best friend's wedding.

I leave tomorrow night for Dallas to see my friend, Lindsy, get married!!

Excited= YES
S000 happy for her= YES
Going to be a blast=YES
Glad to be going home to TEXAS=YES

Lindsy and I met in 7th grade when my locker was right below hers,
and we pretty much stayed that way, with some minor switching on who was on top, throughout high school (thank you alphabet).

We have shared so many great memories, and I think our friendship has only grown stronger over the past 13 years. I love her so much, and I can not express how happy I am that she has found her best friend, her soul mate, man of her dreams and someone that makes her incredibly happy.

I'm excited to be apart of her big day and share another life event with her.
Oh, and She is going to make one beautiful bride.

Me and Lindsy at my rehearsal dinner last year

Welcome Back Gangl*icious

2009-11-09T20:53:00.003-06:00

I have soooo much to share and so little time.The most important thing will come first......

WE NOW CAN GET U-VERSE!!!!

Isn't this exciting?!? Ok, maybe y'all don't find this exciting, but when Hubs told me yesterday I thought it was Christmas. I called today during work and we are getting all hooked up next Monday. Hallelujah!!

Happy Monday!!

VACA

2009-11-02T21:45:00.002-06:00

I'm taking a mini blog vaca this week. I know, I'm a little sad too, but this is much needed. I have so much to get done this week before I leave for Dallas next week and blogging distracts me and not for just an hour but HOURS... it's ridiculous.

Just think how much I will have to share with you!!

Obesession

2009-10-29T18:57:00.003-05:00

For some reason I am obsessed with this show

I think it's because I'm so nosy and you get to see how much they spend (sometimes they tell what they do for a living) and at the end of the show they show you the inside of the house. Uhh.. love it!

My wonderful husband will make rude comments throughout the show like he is annoyed we have it on, but by the end he is guessing which one they choose.

Walter Wednesday

2009-10-28T08:31:00.000-05:00

T R I C K

OR

T R E A T

In honor of the holiday coming up, I thought I would share with you the tricks Walter does for treats...

(don't judge me in my sweatpants... they are the first thing I put on when I come home)

Wouldn't it be cute if he was wearing a costume? I think so too, but unfortunately no one makes

costumes big enough for ~~a slightly overweight 83 lb~~ a very healthy 75 lb dog.

I decided he is going to be a chick magnet... no costume needed.

T-Word Tuesday

2009-10-27T10:30:00.000-05:00

TIRED...

of the f-ing rain.

It has been raining for like 26 of the past 27 days this month. Annoying!

Dear the month of October,

I'm pretty sure that the saying isn't

October showers brings November flowers.

Butsince you decided to not play by the rules, then November is going to have to be 75 and sunny.

Thank you!

TEXAS vs Mizzou

2009-10-26T19:19:00.000-05:00

This past weekend Hubs and I went to Mizzou with some friends for homecoming. Yes, it was lots of fun. But guess what was more fun ? They were playing Texas. Now, I know that I did not go to Texas, but I feel like I had a moral obligation to my friends that did (and also to the place that I grew up) that I cheer for Texas.Plus, it's not like I went to Mizzou. I absolutely heard comments the whole time I was there about my Texas attire, but it's cool....Texas won! Anyway, it was a great weekend. Who doesn't love to pretend like they are in college again?! Although, my body quickly reminded me on Sunday morning that I'm not in college again, and acting like I am will result in feeling like poop.

Me and hubs. Don't let the shirt fool you, he isn't a Mizzou fan.He bought the shirt at Wal-Mart when we got into town.

This is me and my friend Cynthia. Isn't she cute?

Cynthia is getting married next September and this was one of the only pics she will have of all of bridesmaids before the wedding. Isn't that special? Sorry Cynthia that I was jacking around and not looking at the camera.

Things That Annoy Me This Week .....

2009-10-22T08:16:00.003-05:00

1. Having to get gas in the morning before work. Yes, I could do it on the way home from work, but that annoys me too, but not as much as before work.

2. People that don't say "excuse me" when it is the most OBVIOUS time to say "excuse me". Don't be rude!

3. Period cramps. Uterus... get it together!

4. Parents that don't put their child in the proper seat belt/car seat. Hey awful parents, do you know who else finds this annoying? Cops. Horrible parents, do you know what else might be annoying? Jail.

5. Having to watch some sort of sporting event every.single.day. because Hubs always manages to find one that "interests" him. It could be the most random teams playing that he has no connection to and all of a sudden he is their biggest fan. I don't get it.

6. Radio stations that play good new songs over and over and over and over again so by the time one week has passed I already hate the song.

7. People's Facebook status updates. Not everyone's and not one in particular, but I think some people abuse the privilege.

8. The fact that I requested (and paid) this service to send someone out to mow and trim our lawn TWO WEEKS ago, and they have yet to do it. Yes, I understand that it was raining during that first week.... I get it. What I don't get, is what happened this week. Plus, I called the guy on Monday and he said Wednesday. Well, Wednesday is over and the grass is still long.

9. My phone turning off whenever it fees like. Sorry Verizon looks like your number one customer will be in touch... and just when you thought we settled our issues.

10. AT&T not putting UVerse in our area.

Thank for letting me vent! I feel so much better!

Happy almost Friday!

Walter Wednesday

2009-10-21T08:19:00.000-05:00

A little self-portrait.

Caroline from Simply Smithwich

does (really good) drawings of all different types of dog breeds. When I saw her first sketches I, of course, had to have her do one of Walter. I sent her a picture (or two) of Walter and she took over from there. It turned out AMAZING. I love love love it. Walter, is also pretty impressed with how handsome she made him look. Oh, and she does it super fast. If I was drawing a stick figure it would take me 10 months, so I think it's impressive.

Thank you so much Caroline for doing this and giving me another way to show off my best friend.

Walter in real life

Walter's Portrait

Ya, I tried to get Walter to sit like that with a bone in his mouth. Let's just say that if Walter was a human, I don't think I would be one of those parents that have a bumper sticker on the car that says My child is on the honor roll at HoHum Elementry.

Just sayin!

T-Word Tuesday

2009-10-20T10:32:00.001-05:00

TEAM

I am going to be coaching my first high school varsity girls swim team this fall/winter. I actually had a friend show me the job posting and she said she thought I should apply and well, I did. It's at one of the many local all girls Catholic high schools in the area.The Athletic Director pretty much hired me one the spot, so I kind of had an "oh shit" moment right after I left wondering three things A.what did I get myself in to? b. Am I qualified/old enough to do this? C.What if they hate me?

Because the practices are late at night, I can do both jobs super easily. I also made Hubs commit to joining me at some of the practices and meets to help out.(Reason number 5,000,000,000 he is lucky to be married to me).

Practices don't officially start until November 16th, but last week we had an after school meeting to see how many are interested and to introduce me as the coach. Let's see.... the girls seem really cool, but it makes me feel old. I feel like I just left high school. The AD asked what he would like the girls to call me: Liz, Coach, Elizabeth, Coach Liz, Mrs. Liz,Mrs. Gangl, or just Liz. I immediately responded with "Liz or Elizabeth is just fine". Let's not age me any more than needed...geez! Then the girls asked me if they had to swim in every meet because some teams were better. Umm...YES, but good try.

I think I will have about 25-30 girls total. There aren't really try-outs with swimming because there are never enough people to start with, so we can't really afford "cut" anyone. Unless, and I told them this, someone jumps in and starts drowning. I can't deal with that. I'm nervous for a lot of reasons, but I think it will be a really good experience and fun for all involved. I plan on being a really cool coach as long as everyone is trying their best.

P.S.-I'm secretly hoping that there is drama on the team because I love being in everyone else's business. Is that bad?

Just call me Betty

2009-10-19T20:05:00.002-05:00

Crocker.

I am usually not a huge cook/baker, but for some reason these past few days I've been at it. Again, I am secretly hoping that Hubs will see what a fantastic wife I would be if I could just be a stay at home mom with Walter. I would bake and cook all the time and possibly even do more than one load of laundry a week.

Friday I started with Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprints (cookies) from the one and only Martha. I'm a sorta peanut butter cookie lover, but Hubs loves anything peanut butter so I thought I would try them out. Pretty good, pretty good. I had a couple, but I think it would be a great treat for kids.

We I was about to go to the grocery store last night and I wanted to come up with an idea or two for dinner this week. Usually, Hubs will have cereal while I have an egg sandwich, but I'm over it. Therefore, I came up with this menu...

Monday:

Tortilla Soup

(review: super good. I would actually make double the recipe because there wasn't enough left over.Also, if you like spicier out a little more chili powder in it. Oh, and I used boiled chicken that I pulled and I think it made it real special.)

Tuesdsay:

Chicken Stroganoff

(love me some crock pot)

Wednesday:

Meatball Sandwhiches

Thursday:

Hubs has class,so I will probably just have ~~Wendy's~~ a salad or something healthy like that

In other news:

Umm.. I hate UPS. Why? Because I work 8-5 and it is really hard for me to be home to sign for a package when you deliver it during those hours. Last week I got a nice courtesy call that said they would be delivery a package during those hours that I work, so I left a note on the door that said I would love for them to leave my package and there was my signature at the bottom of the note. It worked in college and I figured it would work now... I even put a little smiley face at the end to say that I was a nice person. Nope. No. Package. Left.

So... I get a call this past weekend from the store and I told the lady I was really sorry, but I have a J-O-B that requires me to be there and no one is home to sign for it. She said she would re-send ( although, I didn't sense any sympathy in her voice) the package and "maybe I could arrange for someone to be home." Oh, ok lady! I think I'm going to have to go physically pick it up, or it will be a vicious cycle. I'm annoyed.

If you are reading this UPS man that delivers on my street, LEAVE THE PACKAGE. Thanks!

Back and Sick

2009-10-15T16:59:00.000-05:00

Can you believe I missed Walter Wednesday yesterday??Crazy, I know! I don't think he is too devastated about it because he is just happy to be home, but still. Next week will have to be extra Waltery.

I made it through my Chicago trip. Thankfully, nasty co-worker and I really didn't have too much contact once we arrived in Chicago. BUT, that doesn't mean we still don't have to share an office and I still have to hear him smack around lunch time every day.

So, the training was good and I definitely feel like I learned a few new things. The worst part is I got sick as soon as I got there. I felt kind of iffy on Monday at work, but I RARELY get sick, so I just figured it would move on and I would be fine. I woke up Tuesday morning and no bueno. All day Tuesday I sat at this table and wiped my nose. Pretty sure the people sitting with me did not appreciate this. I kept telling them I was sorry and busting out my hand sanitizer, but they still looked disgusted and I think they thought I had the Swine. Right after we were done Tuesday night I went straight upstairs and slept until the next morning. When I woke up Wed. morning I didn't think I could sit through another 8 hours, but knowing that I didn't really have a choice, I sucked it up, drank lots of tea, and made it through. I was so happy to come home last night to my own bed. I did enjoy my alone time, but I always get excited to come back to my normal life routine and husband.

Carrie and I are doing Jillian together tomorrow morning. Uhh.. wish us luck! The good thing is I can move my day counter to 4. It's not like it's called 30 Days in a Row Shred.

T-Word Tuesday

2009-10-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

TRAVEL

I'm in Chicago today and tomorrow for work. Ask me how I feel about this....

I'm not happy .Yes, Chicago is a fun city, but not when you are staying at a hotel by the airport and have to sit in training all day. So, I don't really get to make the most of it. Ugh! Plus, I'm here with a guy that I work with that chews with his mouth open and smacks. MOST. ANNOYING. THING. EVER. AND. GROSS.

Luckily, they let us fly instead of having to make the 4 hour drive, AND.. the hotel has Bath and Body Works products. Don't mind if I do snatch them up and take as much home with me to add to my collection.

Weekend Recap:

2009-10-11T12:56:00.001-05:00

Ya... so this was the longest I went blogging in a long time. Apparently, I've been busy.

Friday Night:

We had our 2nd Annual Gangl Harvest Party.

What is a Harvest Party? Well, last year I wanted to have something to make good food and have people over, but I didn't want to have a Halloween party, so I came up with this. It's nothing too fancy, but it's always nice to have friends over and eat harvesty foods such as:

Chili Dogs

(I made this chili for the first time last year and I think it is fantastic. I like it because there are no beans and it isn't too spicy. Plus, it makes a ton)

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Dill Dip with Rye Bread

Pumpkin Dip

(this pumpkin dip is fantastic! I didn't use the ginger and I served it with apples. Highly suggest it)

Onion Dip

Stuffed Mushrooms

Apple Crisp

Carmel Popcorn

Beer

Pumpkin Beer

Here are some pictures..

We had lots of fun and hopefully next year we will have the 3rd Annual.

Saturday:

We laid around all morning and then decided to hit up Sam's Club to get a membership. This will be our second time getting a membership because we never used it the first time, and when it was time to renew we didn't. We promised each other that we would make a better effort at going at least once a month and buy some things (like Franks Red Hot) in bulk. Hubs saw the HUGE box of Reeses Puff cereal and you should have seen his face light up. So cute when little things like that make him so happy.After that, I enjoyed a very nice long Saturday afternoon nap.

Sunday:

Definitely nothing exciting going on. Tonight we have our neighborhood block party. Should be fun to get out and meet some of the neighbs that live on the other side of the street. I do have to say that I'm annoyed because we hired a guy to come mow our lawn last Thursday, but since it was raining for like 40 days (that is an exaggeration, but still) he wasn't able to do it. Now, people are going to look at us like we are "those" people with "that" lawn. Shoot.. Oh well, I guess we will have to show them how fantastic we really are and they will forget about our bad lawn.

I hope everyone had or is having a fabulous weekend.

Walter Wednesday

2009-10-07T08:33:00.001-05:00

If Walter were a human..

His age: 21 (Woo hoo!!)

His Height: 6'5

His Weight: 260 (slightly well fed, but not too overweight)

His Personality: Maybe a little socially awkward and maybe a wannabe man whore, but overall a nice guy that means well.

How would he talk: Think Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh (kinda slow)

His job: Mail room supervisor

Favorite sport: Swimming..obviously

Favorite T.V. Show: The Bone Collector

Favorite Book: Walter the Farting Dog

Favorite Food: Ribs

Clean or messy: Messy (he pulls toys out of his toy basket and doesn't put them back)

Uhh Houston.. We have a problem...

2009-10-06T19:07:00.000-05:00

I can not check blogs at work and I'm annoyed. At first I was ok with this becuse I thought I would be busy. I'm not. I have a lot "down" time I want to read blogs. I can check Facebook ,but I don't want to check Facebook.

What employer thinks to block blogs, but not Facebook?! Mine, apparently. Weird.

*SIGH*

T-Word Tuesday

2009-10-06T07:00:00.005-05:00

Tanning

Alright ladies it's about that time of year again to bust out the fake tanning. Uh.. let's just be honest.. it's always that time of year for me. Ya, I'm white! Anyway, I need your help in finding one. I think I have pretty much tried everything on the market, but I have yet to find one that is just perfect and that I will go back to when the bottle is gone. I don't necessarily want to spend a lot of money and I definitely DO NOT want to look like an oompa loopma ( a.k.a. orange). Basically, I just do not want to look sick during these winter months.

I want to find one that is so amazing that this is the conversation between me and the dermatologist next week:

Dr: "Wow, you are so tan BUT if you are in here getting your moles checked I would suggest staying out of the sun"

Me: "Oh no doc, I do stay out of the sun.This is just magic lotion that makes me look so fantastically tan without the risk"

Dr: "Good for you being so healthy"

Suggest away....

Weekend Recap:

2009-10-04T21:00:00.009-05:00

Another weekend came and went way too fast.... as usual!

Friday: Carrie from Running in Stilettos and her husband had us over for dinner. Umm.. her husband is an amazing cook. We had steak,potatoes, portabella mushrooms and asparagus. AWESOME! Not only was it great food, but we had a lot of fun just hanging out and talking. We may or may not have gone through a bottle of vodka, 2 bottles of wine, and 11 beers. Ya...

Walter also got to meet Riley (their black lab) and I'm pretty sure Carrie and I think they are going to be friends for life.

Saturday: Well, I was hungover ALL day. I mean really really bad hungover. Like, I don't remember the last time I was that hungover and all I could do is sleep or lay one the couch and complain to my husband who had no sympathy for me. However, I did find the energy to go to Target... I love how that works. Saturday night we had an engagement party for a couple whose wedding we are in next September. It was a really nice party with lots of good company. I think Cynthia (the bride) got a good taste of how it will be all about her for the next year. Although it might be overwhelming at first, what bride doesn't secretly love it?! They are such a great couple and I'm really happy for them.

Sunday: We typically like to make Sunday's our lazy days, but since I was so unproductive on Saturday, I (definitely not Hubs) decided to get some cleaning, yard work, grocery shopping, goodwill treasure hunting, and cooking in. We are having our Harvest Party next Friday, so I started setting up for that as well. I hate waiting until the last minute to do everything because then I get stressed out . Oh, and I put away a lot of my summer clothes...finally!

Hope everyone has a great week!

Look What I have....

2009-10-02T08:24:00.001-05:00

Yep, it's a recipe card. Isn't so cute!?!

I finally decided to go on to etsy and see what I could find on there since it's usually cheaper than a normal online shop. I found ItsMelC's (Melissa) page and she had really cute designs, but nothing with a monogram. So.. I simply just asked if there was a way she could put something together for me. I then found the design above that she had done for a recipe card, but it was in blue instead of pink, and instead of the monogram it was a bird.I sent her another message to see if she could switch a couple of things out and she said it was not a problem. I can't tell you how long I've been looking for something exactly like what she put together. I'm going to be a recipe machine. It's also really nice because she sent me the PDF where I can print as many as I want, when I want, on my own card stock.

Fantastic, right?

Wait, it gets better... I told her that I had a blog and I asked if it would be ok to put this on there and talk about her etsy shop. Not only did she say absolutely, BUT she also has a blog. Hooray (things like this get me really excited). Here is the link to Melissa's page.

If any of you are looking for recipe cards, invitations, holiday cards, or pretty much anything I would definitely check out her etsy shop.

Those were the days..

2009-10-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

When I read these books

When I watched this

and this

I listened to

this

And all I had to do is go here from 8-3

Really?? I complained about having to be in school from like 8-3??

Sometimes I wonder why I thought life was so rough back then. I guess it was in a different way, but I will say I really do miss those days... especially you Nickelodeon.

Walter Wednesday

2009-09-30T08:42:00.000-05:00

Walter's Personal Ad

SYM seeks SACABF, NS, S, BBL

I am a very handsome, big , brown eyed, charming male that is seeking a pretty bi** for a good time. I love nice long walks with many stops to sniff things, a meaty bone, a good belly scratch, and tennis balls(actually I like all types of balls). I hate to share my bones and toys, but I will share my long giant tongue with you. Unfortunately, my owners "fixed" me, but I promise I have other wonderful things to offer.. like my very soft fur and big paws. I need someone that will be a good play mate, yet not too needy. You must like to swim or the ability to possibly like to swim..I'm very athletic. I'm sort of a momma's boy, and I plan on living in her house forever, so you must be okay with that, but don't worry, no creepy kidnapper vans involved.
Call if you think you can handle this bad boy...woof!
1-800-bones4u

Key

SYM=Single Yellow Male

SACABF= Single Any Color Any Breed Female

NS= NonSmoker

S= Spayed

BBL= Big Boy Lover

T-Word Tuesday

2009-09-29T07:00:00.003-05:00

TAMPON

(this might be gross to some of you, but I'm doing it anyway)

Dear lady that was in the bathroom stall before me,

FLUSH. YOUR. TAMPON. DOWN. THE. TOILET.

Not sure what the problem is, but I do not want to see when all I'm trying to do is pee. Gross!If it is an automatic toilet, like we have at work, just make sure it flushes before you leave the stall. I promise it's not hard. Thanks!

Sincerely,

The girl that vomited in her mouth the second she saw your nastiness

It's only Monday in case anyone forgot

2009-09-28T08:31:00.002-05:00

Just Random:

* Good weekend,not really as productive as I had hoped, but still good

* Apparently, I'm in Walter's "spot" right now because he is sitting on me

*I love this time of year when the windows can be open at night, but I hate it in the morning because I'm cold and don't want to get up

* This is the conversation Hubs and I had first thing this morning

Me: "Can we just quit our jobs and travel

Hubs: "Sure"

Uh was he serious?? Cause my bags are packed.

*I need to get my eyebrows waxed

*Has anyone ordered recipe cards online and just love them?

*I made chocolate chip cookies this weekend and they were pretty darn fantastic... if I do say so myself.

* I've been taking these new vitamins and I think they are actually making me feel better

* If you didn't get the memo, cause I didn't, Home Goods now allows you to bring your dog in to the store. Well, at least the lady was allowed to this weekend did. No, It wasn't a seeing eye dog or anything, she just thought it was ok I guess. I'm all about animals, but that was random and weird.

Friday Fun Facts

2009-09-25T08:00:00.005-05:00

This week could not have dragged anymore. I'm so ready for a relaxing weekend (my sis is no longer coming), but it will probably turn into a weekend of doing things that haven't been done in awhile. Ugh.. that may or may not need to include putting summer clothes away and busting out the fall/winter collection.

Thank you so much to Carrie over at Just a Girl for this Award. I'm usually really bad about doing these awards and passing them on (no reason at all), but I am really thankful

Here are the rules:

1-Thank the person who nominated you for this award.
2-Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
3-Link to the person who nominated you for this award.
4-Name 7 things about yourself that people may not know.
5-Nominate 7 Kreativ Bloggers.

6-Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate.

Here are my 7 things that you may or may not know:

1. I can't stand the thought of sharing milk, whether it's with me or anyone

2. I want 4 kids

3. I'm weirdly obsessed with seeing a dermatologist every 6 months to get my moles checked

4.I have a problem with leaving my clothes on the bathroom floor

5.I never sit on a public toilet (gross!!)

6. I regret not trying to make better grades in high school and college. For some reason, swimming was always more important to me.

7. When I was 8 my parents made me walk around with a fractured heel for a week because they didn't think anything was wrong with me. Let's just say I ~~still do~~ use to have an issue with always complaining or thinking something was wrong with me, and I guess it's like the cry wolf story.

I don't have just 7 people I could tag, so I think if you read this you should do it.

Hope everyone has a fantastic Friday and a great weekend!!

Dress

2009-09-24T08:10:00.001-05:00

You may remember when I talked about my friend Lindsy and her bridesmaids' dresses that I just love ... well, they came in yesterday and it looks just as good on as it does in the picture. Since my body is so unproportional, I will need alterations (like putting boobs in the dress), but very minor. She did such a great job picking out the dresses and I know it will look great on each of the girls. The dress is a deep navy and she is doing gold accents/ flowers. Isn't that going to be gorgeous for a night wedding in November??? Only about 6 weeks left and I can't wait.

Walter Wednesday

2009-09-23T08:01:00.002-05:00

Walter's choice of food this week....

What can I say? ...We all all deserve a splurge here and there.

Thanks

2009-09-22T18:32:00.000-05:00

Thank you everyone for your nice comments about the job situation. It always helps to know I'm not the only one that goes through or has gone through this type of thing. I think it's fantastic that a lot of you have gone back to school,are going back to school or are getting certified to do something you truely want to do.

T-Word Tuesday

2009-09-22T08:00:00.003-05:00

Two Weeks Notice

That is exactly what I gave yesterday at my job. Too bad with the position I'm in, they don't actually want you to stay two weeks, so my official last day was yesterday. I had been trying to get this other job for about a month now, but with some minor bumps in the road, it took a little longer than planned. Whatever, I don't care I just had to eventually get out of that ~~hell hole~~ place that I was at for about a year. I won't go into too many details about why I wanted to leave, but I will say that nobody deserves to work in an awful environment that leads you to cry everyday on your way home,when you get home start drinking, and think of a reason to call in every morning. UGH... Life is too short!! I will say that I loved almost all of my co-workers and I will miss seeing them on a daily basis.

No, this is not a real estate job. Yes, I am still on my way to having a license again, but I plan on this being a temporary thing until all of that can happen. I'm lucky because this has better hours for me to be able to take on the extra work that this real estate job will demand. I'm ready for a new challenge, a much healthier state of mind, and hopefully less stress.

Today, I am going to a real estate expo. Tomorrow, I will start the new gig.

I hope I make new friends !

This will motivate... hopefully

2009-09-21T08:57:00.000-05:00

I added a little gadget for me to track the 30 days until i'm shredded. If it's a month from now and it's still on day 1, everyone has the right to be mean to me and tell me I'm lazy.

Random

2009-09-20T15:56:00.001-05:00

I've had a crazy/busy last 5 days. Here is a little run-down of what's been going on..

* I signed up to re-take the 48 hour real estate course that I need to reactivate my license. Not only that, but I have also found a Broker to let me start doing it part time until I can quit my full time job and make real estate my full time job. I can't wait to get started on something I've been wanting to do for a long time.

* I went wedding dress shopping with my good friend, Cynthia, yesterday and it was so much fun. Me and some of her other bridesmaids spent the day watching her try on gorgeous dresses. They all looked so great on her and I don't know how she will choose.

*Taylor (Swift), girlfriend, I love you and your songs, but do you think you could ask the radio stations to simmer down on feeling the need to play one of your many songs every 5 minutes? Thanks!

*My sister is coming to play next weekend and I can't wait to see her. We talk every day, but definitely do not see each other enough.

* Tomorrow I will start Jillian... again. I originally started her back in May, but I got distracted way easily. This time: No excuses!I plan on doing her in the morning and I'm really hoping to have extra energy during the day because of this.I think there is potential for Jillian and I to be friends.

* I love where I went to college and I had a great 4 years, but I do wish it was a bigger football school.

*One more week until Brothers and Sisters returns. I can't wait to be there for Sunday night dinners again.

*Hubs and I have had to make a lot of hard decisions in the past couple of months, and we finally realized that we have to do what is best for us. Too many times before we have made some stupid decisions and we are still paying for it (literally). We decided that it was time to look at things realistically and not try to have the world right now. It sucks and it's been hard, but we know what we are doing is right.

*Verizon decided to see it my way: They took charges off our bill AND sent me a new phone. Good job, Verizon. Good job! Lucky for you, I will continue to use you until my contract is up next May.

*** Update**

I just realized that this was my 100 post. I actually have something up my sleeve to celebrate, but it won't happen until probably the middle of the week. Suspenseful isn't it?!

Important Info Needed...

2009-09-18T13:23:00.000-05:00

Does anyone have Obama's personal phone number or email address (I have his home address)? I really like and respect the guy, but I have a couple of questions/ concerns that I would love to talk about with him.

Walter Wednesday

2009-09-16T09:36:00.000-05:00

Walter has been having some major behavior issues lately. I think we need Cesar to come whisper to him, because I won't have a rude dog. Basically, he will growl at anyone/anything that tries to take something of his. Example: when we were at the pool last week, he would not let any other dog come near him if he had a ball in his mouth. He felt so threatened that the other dog was going to "take" his toy. Walter, too bad your toy wasn't that cool and all the dog wanted to do is play with you. This also happens if we are having a play date with other dogs and they are sharing a bowl of water. Walter will be drinking and if the other dogs come over to take a drink he will show his finest teeth to them.RUDE! Another issue is if Hubs and I are hugging or standing close to each other, he will jump in between us until the attention is back on him. Didn't someone tell him not to interrupt??

I pretty much blame all this on ~~me giving him attention 24/7~~ him being an only child, but I refuse to have a brat. I'm a little concerned that if this problem doesn't get fixed, there are going to be some major issues one day when we have kids. We all know how much I love this dog, but he needs to figure it out. I told Hubs we needed to get another dog and ya...let's just say that didn't go over very well.

For some reason I can never stay mad at him very long.

T-Word Tuesday

2009-09-15T05:58:00.000-05:00

Telephone

To whom it may concern at Verizon Wireless (pretty sure this is you Mr. President of Verizon):

GET IT TOGETHER! Listen, I've been what I would consider a very loyal customer over the past 8 years. Even before you had towers in certain areas, I used you. I was probably frustrated, but I stood by your side. Why can't you cut me some slack? So maybe I went over by a ~~lot~~ couple of minutes last month, but did you need to charge me an extra $200? No, I didn't think so! I pay a lot of extra money a month to have internet service on my Blackberry( it is important I get Facebook status updates by the minute) and insurance, but why when my phone ~~falls into a cup of water~~ breaks, do you send me a broken replacement? Then, when I call to tell you it's broken, you put me on some "waiting list" for a another pink Blackberry replacement because you don't have any more in stock? Umm... pretty sure it's been 3 months and I have yet to receive a new pink one, and the one I have is STILL missing the 0/space key. You see, we are both not perfect and therefore,I'm calling truce. I will pay you our normal bill amount, if you kindly send me a non-broken phone. Deal? If not, I promise I will threaten to change companies. I wouldn't put it past me; I've already been doing my research.
I'm so glad we could work this out! Have a spectacular day!

Sincerely,
Customer of the year

Weekend in Pictures...

2009-09-14T07:50:00.013-05:00

Here are the pics from my very eventful weekend

The view into Busch Stadium from our room.
.
The cake and champagne all ready for when they came back

Waiting for their carriage to arrive

The future Mr. and Mrs.

Celebrating

Lindsy and I at her shower

Art project

Isn't it cute? I didn't think we needed ONE more picture added to what already seems like a shrine to us and our wedding. Plus, since the frame is oval, I would have to cut a pic to make it fit properly. I decided to print a "G" and stick it in there to put on the table behind our couch. I LOVE it and it was so easy.

Weekend Recap:

2009-09-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

* Engagement went amazing! She said yes, so that was good, and her ring is GORGEOUS. There was a change of plans with when it actually did it, but it actually worked out for the better. I'm just glad she was VERY surprised. I am so happy for them.

* It was so great to see my friend, Lindsey, and be able to attend her shower. There is only 8 weeks left until her wedding and I can't wait to be there on the biggest day of her life. She is going to make one beautiful bride. I am also in love with the bridesmaid dress she chose and I'm excited for it to come in.

* Walter was able to go swimming one last time before all the local pools closed. I think he might have water in his ear, or he is getting an ear infection. Either way, poor kid!

* I did a little art and crafts project today. When i'm not being lazy, I post pictures of the results and pictures from the rest of the weekend.

* The VMAs kind of bother me. Kanye, why are you so RUDE?!! Seriously, who pissed in your cheerios? RUDE,ASS, RUDE, ASS!

* I made blueberry muffins for the first time;I think they turned out pretty good.

*The third major thing that happened: I got to meet a fellow blogger! Carrie from Running In Stilettos and I met up with our husbands and it was lots of fun. She is so cute, and we had just as much in common as I thought we would. We both agreed that we should hang out on a regular basis. Who doesn't love making new friends?! Let me share Hubs' comment when I told him we were meeting people that I met through blogging: "This is weird! You don't even know what this girl is like" Umm.. for you! For me, it is like we've known each other for years. He did have a good time, so I think it was just the initial plunge :)

Boyfriend+ Dinner+Carriage Ride+Ring=Engagement

2009-09-11T21:00:00.000-05:00

I've kept the biggest secret for longest time....EVER!!

Earlier in the week you might remember me mentioning that big things were going to happen this weekend. Well, here is what is happening: keep in mind that I scheduled this post, so it was sure not to ruin a single thing.

I got an email from my good friend/old roommate's boyfriend about a month saying that since they were already coming this weekend, he thought it would be a great time to propose to her because she would be totally surprised and never expect it. I was all about this because I love her and engagements!! I had to play a few small parts in this, since I had to make up a reason for me and Hubs not to be able to meet them at the original time tonight. If I do say so myself, I am a pretty good liar; I think she totally bought every word and will be completely surprised. However, I feel like she thinks I'm an awful friend for switching things up last minute when the reason they are coming is to see US. I'm sure she will understand, so I'm not too concerned.

What is his plan?? Well, after a day a the zoo, he is taking her to dinner at a nice restaurant, then they will walk outside and see a carriage, which he will act surprised to see, ask the guy how much it is, tell her that it is cheaper or easier then finding a cab, go on the carriage ride, bring out the ring, propose, she says yes, come back to the hotel where Hubs and I will be waiting to surprise her and take pics. Then, we will go to the hotel room (hes had this booked for weeks, but she thinks he booked it last night at the last minute) have some beverages and then go out and celebrate.

Isn't this exciting?!!? I can't wait to see her and how happy she is!

Then, tomorrow I get to see my very good friend of like 15 years (hi Lindsy!) for her wedding shower. She is getting married this November in Dallas, but since she has a lot of family from this area they are throwing her a shower here. I am so excited to see her becasue I haven't since A. my wedding last year B. she got engaged last December. A very fun, friend, and wedding filled weekend. I couldn't be more excited for both of them and all the fun activites they have coming up. I will definitely have lots and lots of pictures to post come next week.

This Confirms That I Truly Am A Spaz...

2009-09-10T21:47:00.003-05:00

I like to clean. Wait, I don't necessarily like it, but I do it a lot because I can't stand a dirty house or for other people to think I have a dirty house. There are definitely times when I let it go because I'm lazy, but at least once a week I do a good run through. I blame my mom for this because she too was a spaz about cleaning. I'm also a spaz about thinking I'm going to get cancer or some other illness and die. How do these two things go together? I think that the chemicals in the cleaning supplies I use are going to cause cancer. Do I need to settle down? Probably, but oh well! Every time when I am done doing a hard core cleaning I feel sick and just not good. Tonight,after a very thorough cleaning session,I decided to solve this problem: I ordered natural cleaning supplies online. After pressing the submit order button, I felt such relief. Weird... I know!

I had never heard of this Seaside Naturals company, but after some minor research online I decided it was a legit brand. For $20 I got whole cleaning kit, which includes all of your basics (glass,hardwood,bathroom, all purpose,dusting, and a linen spray). I thought it was a good deal considering I would spend just as much if not more at Tarjay to get all of the above. Hopefully they get the job done while not slowly killing me.

Walter Wednesday

2009-09-09T08:02:00.000-05:00

Every year after Labor Day the local pools will have what they call Dog Days of Summer. This means that before they drain the pools they will allow you to bring your dog in ( for a small fee) and let them swim in the pool. Walter, of course, L-O-V-E-S to go swimming, so we take full advantage of this. Last night was the first one and he had a blast.

Here is a video of him being a swimming fool.. and yes, he does get this talent from both of his parents.

(Ya, sorry about the fact that my voice might sounds high pitched annoying)

T-Word Tuesday

2009-09-07T15:07:00.005-05:00

T-SHIRT

Hello! My name is Liz and I have an obnoxious amount of t-shirts.

Did I really think it was necessary to get a t-shirt from every swim meet that I participated in? Apparently. In college, it got even more ridiculous because not only did I order the t-shirts for the swim team, but I bought the regular school ones from the bookstore on a monthly basis. Now, I have containers, boxes, dressers, and cabinets full of stupid t-shirts. I don't wear them all because I don't even know half of them still exist, but for some reason I can not get rid of a single one. I guess I look at them as a souvenir; if I get rid of one I will forget that particular event ever took place. I've heard of people making a quilt out of their old t-shirts, which sounds really cool, but unless someone volunteers to do that for me it will never happen. Maybe I just need a t-shirt fairy to come in and take half of the collection so I don't even know they are gone.

Looooong Weekend

2009-09-07T10:31:00.002-05:00

I have had one of the longest weekends (no pun intended) of my life. I could not be more excited to have this day off because I definitely need the extra day to relax.

Here are some random thoughts:

* I am so lucky to have a wonderful husband that will stand by me no matter what 100% of the time.
* I am so excited for this coming weekend (details to come later this week)
* I need some positive thoughts for a couple things I have going on this week
* I have been very into fall decorating this year and I started WAY earlier than ever before.
* There is nothing I love more than having a 2 hour phone conversation with a best friend that I've had for 14 years.
*Fall T.V. is so close I can smell it.
*I meant to wear a white skirt to work last week and I forgot. Now, I'll have to wait until next year :(
*The Soup on E! is always a guaranteed good laugh
* I think if Rachel McAdams and I met she would love me as much as I love her.

I hope everyone is enjoying their long weekend!!!

When the cat is away

2009-09-04T15:27:00.000-05:00

the mice will play.

In this scenario, Hubs is the cat and Walter and I are the mice.

Hubs is going to Chicago this weekend for a bachelor party, so this means I will have the house to myself. PARTY! Actually, nothing too crazy will be going on at all. What I am looking forward to is

- having music on instead of the TV (I could DVR all my fav shows and watch them on one day and not have the TV on for the rest of the week)
-Not having to spend 1 hour on deciding what is for dinner because we can't agree on anything

-Waking up to no one snoring in my face that I have to ~~hit~~ slightly nudge to get them to stop.

-Not having to to have the bedroom fan on HIGH. I get cold at night and although it is better than being hot, I like to be comfortable.

-No type of athletic game on in the background

-Not having to listen to how someone on a (fantasy) team was not performing.

-not having to share the computer (we have two but we both always want the laptop, of course)

-Not having to play 20 questions when I start a new arts and crafts project.

-Not getting a dirty look when I "accidentally" leave my clothes on the bathroom floor.

This might seem as if I don't like weekends with my husband, but I really do. I also like weekends where I have alone time. I'm sure everyone can appreciate this. I will be VERY excited on Sunday to see him because I always miss my best friend after a few days apart.

Y'all I Miss Texas

2009-09-03T21:22:00.006-05:00

Here are some of the things that I'm really missing out on by living in the Mid-West..

1. Blue Bell Ice Cream. Not sure what the problem is, but they need to sell this everywhere. No, there is no ice cream that can compare and until you have Blue Bell you will probably not understand.
2. Seeing Bluebonnets on the side of the highway.
3. Uncle Julio's..enough said!
4. Tex-mex in general
5. Riscky's BBQ in Ft. Worth and Rudy's in Austin
6. Whataburger.. I will take 10 breakfast burritos at 2 am.
7. Taco Bueno.. .When you want more say bueno a whole lot more Taco Bueno. B.O.B
8. I miss a big city with a small town feel.
9. The Texas Flag flying everywhere
10. Friday night football.
11. My friends
12. Being able to drive by areas that bring back memories from middle/high school
13. The license plates. Something you don't appreciate until you live in a state that has boring ones.
14. Tom Thumb (not weird at all that I miss the grocery store)

This list could go on for days.... ** Sigh**

The good news? I'm going home in November for my very good friend's wedding. Can't wait!!!

Walter Wednesday

2009-09-02T06:07:00.003-05:00

Excuse me mom and dad I am going to sit wherever the hell I want and you will have to adjust accordingly, and by accordingly I mean you will have to sit on the other couch because this one is clearly occupied. Sorry!

Love,

Walter

Ya, I want this...

2009-09-01T21:42:00.003-05:00

Ikea's Ektorp Corner Sofa

Isn't she perty??

You may also notice that I want it in white, which might lead you to think I'm crazy, BUT if you think about it all you need to do is throw a little bleach in that washing machine and you have a good as new slip cover. Brilliant? I think so.

T-Word Tuesday

2009-09-01T06:13:00.000-05:00

TURKEY TOM
(extra points for TWO t-words?)

For all of you Jimmy John goers, like myself, you will know what I am talking about. I cherish a delicious Turkey Tom. Not too much Tom because I hate lots of meat on my sandwich, but just enough to make me feel like it's a complete meal. I will take the sprouts and lettuce dropping from my mouth to save the perfectly round tomato covered in anything but low fat mayo... yum!

In college my roommate and I would get home from class and all it would take is one look at our kitchen and another look at each other to know that we were both wanting to order us some Turkey Tom instead of trying to come up with something we already had in the apt. I added the salt n vinegar while she added the regular chips. We would sit there in pure bliss eating our sandwiches in quiet.

Now that I am a little older, I enjoy it a different way. As husband eats his sandwich that he is not loyal to, he orders differently each time we go, I will bite down on Tom while I'm chugging my pumpkin beer. I always contemplate saving half for lunch the next day,but before I know it, the whole things is gone (don't judge).

Thanks Jimmy!

Anniversary Weekend Recap: Part 2/Pictures

2009-08-31T06:51:00.010-05:00

Thank you all for all the congrats yesterday! We did have as good of a time as it sounds. Some people are wondering if we liked staying at a B&B. We had a really good experience, Hubs did say that if other people had been staying there he wasn't sure he would have liked it. That would have meant having breakfast with them AND sharing the bathrooms. I love making new friends, so for me it would have been fine. I definitely think it is something everyone needs to try because it's something different.

What did we get each other for gifts? We stuck with the paper theme, so I got Hubs a book with 100 reasons why I love him with 30 different types of coupons (i.e. any dinner he wants, night of bowling (i hate to bowl), etc). Hubs got me, this is fantastic, tickets to The Nutcracker in December, Mama Mia in February, and Wicked next June. I was SHOCKED and so dang happy. I can not wait for all of those shows. Way to go Hubs!!!

Here are the pictures from our weekend..

Hubs Driving

Downtown New Harmony

Driving the golf cart.

The B&B

The bed

Sitting area in our room

Where we had dinner :)

Where we had Breakfast

Leaving yesterday

Anniversary Weekend Recap: Part 1

2009-08-30T14:03:00.003-05:00

Hubs and I had such a wonderful weekend! There were a couple of surprises and we were unsure about some parts of the adventure, but it was great to spend the time away and more importantly.. TOGETHER!

** This is long. I know that is annoying, but I have lots to tell***

Friday Night: After work I had to rush home to be ready in an hour for dinner. I was stressing out ,as usual, about being late when Hubs walked in with flowers for me. Aww! Of course he decided to go on a run to make me stress a little more, but I knew it was important to him that he got it in. We made it to dinner and had a fantastic time with friends at this fun little restaurant. After dinner, we headed over to the Sheraton to check in to our room. When we got there Hubs was taking our suitcase out of the trunk and I may or may not have forgotten to zip it back up after I had retrieved my sweater out of it. Oops! The look on his face was almost priceless when our belongings were all over the parking garage floor. He wanted to get so mad at me but he quickly remembered it was not the way to start our weekend. When we got to the counter to check in we saw a lot of gift bags behind the counter for weddings going on this weekend. It made me slightly sad that it wasn't ours, but I can't have a wedding every year. The lady told us congratulations and then proceeded to tell us that she would upgrade us to a junior suite with access to the club floor for breakfast the next morning. Umm... Awesome! Thanks Sheraton lady! Another pleasant surprise was that the Sheraton now uses Bliss products for the room. You better believe I snatched those up real fast and put them in my cosmetic bag.

* This is when I told Hubs what we would be doing the next day. I wanted to surprise him since I rarely get the chance and I was so proud of myself to come up with the plan. Keep reading and you will see what we did. ***

We enjoyed the evening and had a very long night of some much needed sleep.

Saturday Morning: I wanted to get up early to get the day started, but at Hubs request we took it slow and enjoyed the time we had. I did get up early, but I laid in our king size bed with the provided big comfy robe, and the Starbucks coffee I made in the room, while watching T.V. Perfect? Pretty darn close! After showering and packing up we headed to our delicious breakfast (it's always better when it's free). We read the paper, talked, watched a little bit of the Kennedy Memorial, and then went on our way.

We left our hotel and started the 2 1/2 hour drive to Grayville, IL. Destination exactly?A Bed and Breakfast that was in a house built in 1890. Grayville is a tiny town right on the border of Indiana and Illinois. I found it online and thought it was the perfect getaway spot. Since we are going to Hawaii in October we couldn't do anything major, so this was the best option. I know that guys usually plan something like this, but I have always wanted to stay at a B&B and instead of waiting for Hubs to do it, I decided to do it. We couldn't check in to at least 3, so we went 15 mins south to a bit of a larger town called New Harmony. But, it wouldn't be an adventure if Google Maps didn't take you through the town where Deliverance (the movie) was filmed. Not exactly sure why GM took this way when we could have apparently just stayed on the major highway. Hubs said "I think Google Maps likes to mess with people sometimes". Anyway, when we got to NH we parked the car in the "downtown" area and started walking. We noticed that there were a lot of golf carts around yet no golf course. We assumed that it was what people that live there do to get around. We made our way to the tourist center to see what we should see and guess what we found out? Ummm that you could rent a golf cart by the hour. Heck yes! We drove around this town in a golf cart stopping in little shops and looking at the old houses for an hour. It was a gorgeous day and a great way to kill time. After that, we went to a pizza place for lunch. I got a BLT and Hubs ordered a peanut butter pizza. What? Yes! He said that he could not be there and pass up the opportunity. I have to say that it was actually pretty good. You could definitely taste the peanut butter, but not as overwhelming like you would think.

After lunch, we headed back to Grayville (staying on the main highway this time) and found the B&B. It was this gorgeous old house right as you enter town. We were both unsure how this worked, but when we walked up the owner was on the front porch waiting for us. She was so nice and very welcoming. She showed us to our room, showed us where the bathrooms were, asked us what time we wanted breakfast, and then told us where we could use our dinner credits that came with the package I got. Oh, and we got a bottle of champagne along with flowers. After we got settled, I took a nap and Hubs watched TV.

We got up and got dressed for dinner and made our way to the restaurant, which was attached to a hotel. So ya.... dinner. Let's just say that it was interesting. Like I said before, Grayville is a small town and this Paradise Grill restaurant represented it very well. Of course, when we walked in we looked out of place a) we were way over dressed b.) everyone in the town knew each other and we were clearly not from there. We sat down, ordered some drinks, looked at the menu, and for the first time EVER I did not want to eat one thing on the menu. Not that I was being a brat, but nothing looked good. Then, I saw it. Fried Okra!Sold! Love me some fried okra. I settled on the ham steak with fried okra and mac n cheese as my sides. Would I have ever pictured eating that on my wedding anniversary weekend? No, but it added some character to the weekend. After dinner, we went back to the room and watched TV/ movies. I, of course, got scared in the middle of the night thinking the house was haunted. Hubs, of course, got mad that I woke him up to tell him this.

Sunday Morning: I want to share with our first conversation on our 1 year..
Hubs: Farts really loud under the sheets
Me: Looked over at hubs because I now know he is officially awake
Hubs: Looks at me and smiles " Who let the duck in here?"
Me: laughing "Thank you for not letting me forget for one second why I married you. Happy Anniversary!"
Hubs: " Happy Anniversary!"

At 9 we went downstairs to our breakfast, which consisted of pecan waffles, strawberries, bananas, whip cream, coffee, and orange juice that literally had just come out of the orange. We left soon after that because I missed Walter and wanted to have the afternoon to relax.

Grandma (my mom) stayed with Walter while we were gone and this kid was spoiled. But, my mom also bought us champagne and cake to have tonight. So nice! Overall, it was fabulous weekend and I couldn't have pictured it any other way.

* Pics to come soon**

Getting Pretty Excited

2009-08-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

Tonight after work Hubs and I will start our 1 year anniversary weekend. Can I get a... HOORAY!!

To start it off, we are going to dinner with friends and then we will head off to stay in our free room at the Sheraton where we had our reception last year (we got a free room on our 1year included in our package). Saturday morning we are going to wake up early and do something really cool. As much as I would love to tell you what we are doing, I can't! I'm surprising Hubs (he reads this blog.. I know I'm also shocked) with a little something and for once, I really think he will be surprised. This time last year I was probably spazing out ~~A LOT~~ a little thinking about the remaining things that needed to get done. Little did I know everything would fall into place and be perfect.

I can't wait to share our weekend with you when we get back. I plan on taking lots of pictures!

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!

PS.. Enjoy the last post of wedding pics. These are some randoms and some of my favorites...

Oh Internet... How I love Thee

2009-08-26T19:24:00.003-05:00

Thank you Zillow.com for allowing my stalkerish habits to be taken to a whole new level. Want to know what a friend paid for their house? Check it out! That is absolutely not at all what I use it for, but I just wanted you to know it was one of the features.

Walter Wednesday

2009-08-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

I found some pictures of Walter when he was just a pup and this past weekend I got around to scanning them on to the computer. It reminded me that he has always been handsome, and why the moment we saw him we could not pass him up. I still have a hard time believing that at one time I was able to pick him up. Hubs still can if he is motivated, but at a VERY healthy 85 lbs I won't be doing that anytime soon. Anyway, look how cute...

He was so small he could fit under the coffee table.

Ha! The poor guy got bit by something and his cheek swelled. Nothing a little Benadryl couldn't fix.

Proud Mom!

T-Word Tuesday

2009-08-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

TYPICAL

It's typical that this time of year I get antsy for Fall TV to start.

It's typical that every time someone tells me what they do for a living I say to myself 'that sounds cool, I want to do that'

It's typical that most days when I leave work I wonder what I did all day. Well, at least I know that I am caught up on y'all's blogs.

It's typical for Walter to growl at me when I accidentally nudge him at night when he is taking up MY side of the bed.

It's typical for me to be very curious about other people's lives (hints the stalking habits I may or may not have)

It's typical that when I see that someone has a cluttered house I wonder how they live (i.e. Little People Big World).

I think it's pretty typical for people to have a minor heart attack when they are not going the speed limit and they pass a cop.

I don't think it's typical to have empty picture frames around the house that are being used for decorations. I do, but only b/c I'm not sure what pic I want in them.

It's definitely typical that every time I decide I want something I want it NOW and I have zero patience. ( Ehhh... I'm trying to work on it!)

I would think that it's typical for people to want all of their good friends to live in a 5 mile radius of each other, so there can be a happy hour together every Friday.

Please tell me it's typical for a girl my age to be obsessed with TV shows that deal with the lives of high school girls....

Thanks!

2009-08-24T21:30:00.007-05:00

Thank you all for your encouraging and helpful suggestions about my working out, or I guess it would be my non working out situation. I am going to desperately try to get up in the mornings and start the routine TOMORROW. Whenever I come home at night I will either see a pair of sweat pants or the bottle of wine and get non-motivated...FAST! However, if this morning thing doesn't pan out then I will have to get over not wanting to work-out after work because something has to be done about the no muscle situation going on. I'll keep you updated!

Attention Avid Workouters:

2009-08-24T08:41:00.003-05:00

I need some advice on how to get my lazy ass out of bed in the morning and work-out!!!!! For the life of me I can not get motivated. I will even go to bed earlier some nights thinking that I will get plenty of sleep and there would be no excuse. Nope, doesn't work. I will lay out my work-out clothes thinking it will help. Nope, doesn't work. I have joined countless gyms thinking if I was paying to work-out I would go. Nope, doesn't work (and it only pisses Hubs off cause I'm paying for something I don't use...AGAIN). The funny thing is that for at least 10 years I had to get up before 5:00 AM to go to practice and there was a never an issue. I know I would feel better all day if I did, but it's the initial getting out of bed. Do any of you have any advice on how to subcome to the cozy bed an snooze button???? And, how long it will take for me to get in to the routine of working out again? I use to be an addict where if I didn't have a great work-out I would be grumpy. Now, I'm grumpy if I have to work-out. **SIGH**

Not Really Sure

2009-08-23T20:57:00.008-05:00

I did my usual weekly pop in to the local Goodwill today and I found this guy

Although I like black, I'm wanting a brighter,whiter, crisper look in the house, so that same guy now looks like this

Here is the problem:
I don't know what it is or what to do with it.

I'm not creative, so I need help. If anyone has any suggestions please pass them along.

Dear Blogging Friends,

2009-08-22T07:48:00.002-05:00

You all have the right to make fun of me because I just now discovered Google Reader. Yes, I had heard of it before, but I never made sense of it until this morning. All I have to say is FANTASTIC! It will be so much easier, as I'm sure you all know, to follow my favorite blogs.

In other things that went on this week...

*Celine Dion is pregnant.....again. I mean good for her and all, but isn't her husband really old?

*Octomom is NUTS. Although this is old new, her show this week just verified it.

* I like Giuliana and Bill Rancic's show, but why doesn't she eat more? She looks so hungry!

* I didn't have to work on Tuesday because the AC in the building was out. Such a pleasant surprise walking in to work and hearing you can go home. It was almost as good as this morning when my alarm went off and I got really annoyed then I remembered it was Saturday.

*The weather here has been amazing: a little bit of summer mixed with a little bit of spring with an aftertaste of fall. I want to move to where it is like this year round. Not sure yet where that is,
but i'm researching.

* I have a big project I am about to start and I can't wait to see the final results. Thanks to Holly over at Life in the Fun Lane for all of her advice. I love her whole house and she was more than willing to help out. Stay tuned (for a few weeks) for the before and after.

Happy weekend everyone!!

Barfalicious to Delicious

2009-08-20T13:47:00.003-05:00

I went to Target today during lunch to pick up some ~~things that I do not really need~~ necessities and I decided to have my usual Target meal, hot dog and Diet Dr. Pepper (refer here). When I was putting the ketchup and mustard on the dog, I remembered to myself that I use to despise mustard. I mean, I would not touch it if my life depended on it. Now, I love it! It's great on pretzels, hot dogs, chips, burgers, etc. That led me to start thinking (thing I do when I'm sitting alone) about all the other foods that I use to hate and now I thoroughly enjoy and eat all the time.....

Asparagus- Not sure if it was just not cooked properly, but I could never bring myself to put it in my mouth. My poor mother would try to make it all the time. I'm sure after she saw the disgusted look on our faces she would decide to not serve it. Now, I could eat it with every meal.

Subway- It wasn't necessarily the sandwiches themselves, but the smell inside Subway. If my family ate there I would have to sit in the car and then ask to go somewhere else because the smell would make me sick. Not sure when things changed , but I would assume it was after my parents started refusing to stop at more than one place and I had to suck it up. In college I would eat there numerous times a week. I still eat there quite a bit (can't beat a $5 footlong) and love almost every sandwich they make.

Water Chestnuts- Chinese food in general and I did not get along. I remember one time when my mom was out of town and my dad made Chinese food for dinner and I threw up all night. Those water chestnuts were brutal.. yuck! Now all I can say is spinach dip and all the water chestnuts that dip can hold.. yes please!

Peas- I actually still HATE HATE HATE them and I don't think any store should sell them YUCK- BARF- NASTY- BAD TEXTURE

Walter Wednesday

2009-08-19T11:29:00.002-05:00

Walter has already started making his Christmas list. We encourage early shopping in our house ,and the sooner we know the things that he wants the more gifts he is likely to receive. Here are some things that are on his list so far...

- A sister

-A new bed so he can rip all the stuffing out and then be bed less again the very next day

-A real large meat bone

-All you can eat buffet gift certificate

-His personal balls back

-Golf and Tennis balls

-Dog park membership

-Indoor pool

-Jar of peanut butter

-Water bowl that looks like a toilet (skymall)

Obviously, some of these are more realistic than others, BUT we will do our best to get him what he wants.

T-Word Tuesday

2009-08-18T07:06:00.000-05:00

Terminal

Last weekend I spent a significant amount of time in airports. I'm the type that will get to the airport 45 minutes before departure. Therefore, I hope for the best when it comes to check in and security lines, but I'm willing to take the risk. I passionately hate waiting in airports and this is why:

When there are a million seats open is it necessary to sit down with your 10 bags RIGHT next to me?
Pretty sure I know it is NOT necessary to talk as loud as you do on your cell phone or have the volume turned up so much I can hear the other person talking too.

If you are confused about where to go that is fine, but please step to the side and not stop right in the middle of the walkway to figure it out.

Put bag on security belt, walk through the detector, which will detect metal (gasp!), take bag off security belt. What is hard about that?

Southwest passengers: There are enough seats for everyone. Don't spaz out. Thanks!

I do respect other cultures. If deodorant isn't your culture's thing then totally fine. However, if you are going to be in confined spaces with a lot of people, I really wish you could wear it for the day. I ate having to wonder if the barf bag is going to have to be pulled out from behind the seat.

The check-in kiosk is suppose to make things easier. I think some people have not been challenged that much since high school algebra.

Please do not let your kids climb all over the chairs and into my personal bubble. Especially when they have juice in their hand or snot on their face.

With all that being said, I love to people watch in airports. Especially major airports like Atlanta because you see some real characters.

The First Dance (s)

2009-08-17T19:54:00.007-05:00

I'm not sure about anyone else, but I think picking our first dance songs was one of the harder things about wedding planning. I mostly think because in this day in age not a lot of people have "a song".I would always throw out ideas and they got shot down so fast I didn't have time to get attached.

This was the song that Hubs and I agreed on.

I love love love John Legend. We chose our song by first narrowing down an artist that we both liked. Then, we looked to see if there was a song of theirs we could use. When Hubs found this song and showed it to me I knew immediately that was it. I love it because we had not seen anyone else use it and we could relate to the words.

The song me and my dad danced to

I grew up listening to oldies. Who didn't? All we ever had in the house were those cassettes or records.Ha! So, when my dad would turn them on at night we would dance. Me and my sister would stand on his feet and have a grand ole time. What I really love about the song is when they say "I've even got the month of May with my girl" I think about how me and my dad both have May birthdays. Corny?? Absolutely.

I love my dad!!

The song Hubs and his mom danced to

We also did a joint dance where I danced with my grandfather and Hubs danced with his grandmother. I am so thankful that we were both able to do this. For both of us, our grandparents played a significant role in our childhood and I wanted to have the special moment with them. We danced to this this song.

Fun is an Understatement

2009-08-16T21:48:00.016-05:00

I had an amazing time this past week/weekend in Florida. And yes, amazing is the most appropriate word to use. There were a total of 10 girls that went and then my friend's mom and her aunt, so 12 ladies total. Her mom, sister, and aunt did such a great job planning and making sure every single detail was perfect. I knew about half the girls, so the other girls that I met are now new friends. Love it!

So you want to know what we did? Let me tell/show you..

(the bags we all had waiting for us when we arrived. Inside:beach towel, chapstick, coozie,flip flops, and Tylenol)

Thursday Night:
We all arrived at the airport about the same time. To keep it centralized we all met at a bar in the Marriott attached to the airport. Around 10:00 we left the airport and went to their house (on the water) and hung out, talked, caught up, drank, and then passed out.

having our first drinks

Friday Day:
We woke up and had breakfast and realized that it was poopy outside. VERY cloudy and definitely knew that it was going to rain. We decided to go in to the little town where there were lots of shops and restaurants. We ended going in to an aquarium and feeding sharks. Not something everyone can say they have done. That afternoon it cleared up and we were able to take the boat out and tube (currently still sore from that) and also hang out by the pool. We came back and some people took naps while others just hung out until we had to get ready to go out.

We thought that was the only boat ride we would get all day

Friday Night:
AWESOME! Bride to be's parents got us a limo for the whole night. Unlimited stops, drinks, and Juan, our fantastic limo driver. We started out going to a bar to do a round of blow jobs. No, not for Juan, the shot. After that, we went to our initial destination, which was a bar located right on the water. We had a VIP table with bottle service and appetizers. We pretty much danced and drank and caused a scene. Just as it should be. Then since we apparently had not had enough craziness we made our way to another bar where I did the most dancing since I don't even know when. Plus, there was a 65 year old man there ALONE and since I have no shame, I danced with him. Some of the girls were giving me a hard time about it, but I thought it was great that he was there. Live it up old guy!

Saturday Day:
We got up pretty early and packed the boat to head out to one of the local islands for the day. I felt like I was in paradise. Gorgeous weather and beaches. We set up camp and just enjoyed the sun and beverages while playing in the water. I used my whole bottle of SPF45 and still managed to get burned. I may or may not have a continuous issues with not applying sunscreen evenly.

Where we spent Saturday. Jealous? I would be

Saturday Night:
Pretty low key with games and carrot cake. We were all able to sit around and tell our favorite stories of the bride to be. I think

we were all drained from the night before and being in the sun all day. It was good to hang out and do nothing too crazy.Plus, we all were leaving somewhat early the next morning. Umm... I wouldn't wish flying hungover on my worst enemy.

Sunday:
Bon Voyage! So sad to leave everyone. BUT... we have already started planning on girls weekend get-a-way for next year. Can't wait!

Delores (the beer bong) was able to make it this weekend after a lot of dirty looks going through airport security.

This guy definitely missed me
Please excuse the water on my shirt, Hubs knocked over my glass while getting ready to take the pic

This could be taking over my life

2009-08-15T06:53:00.001-05:00

Blogging, that is. Does anyone else ever find themselves seeing a girl out and about and ever say to yourself 'I wonder if she blogs. Do I read her blog daily and not even know it?' I feel as if there are so many bloggers out there now that there could be a good chance. Cause if that girl does have a blog, I want to read it and follow. Is this weird? Am I the only one that does this? I also may or may not secretly want to meet all my "pretend friends". I think we all get to know each other on a personal level and we wouldn't read on a daily basis if we didn't like that person or what they had to say , so I would assume we would be best friends in real life.

Alright, I'm done acting creepy and extra stalkerish today.

F.Y.I.

I scheduled (thank you blogger for that option) this post. No, I am not blogging in Flordia.

Gangl*icious

I need to be random

4 Months

No Judgement Here...

New Life

It's A.....

10 things I have learned throughout this pregnancy..

Nursery

WHOA...

HALF WAY!!!

19 Weeks

Walter Wednesday

18 Weeks

17 Weeks

16 Weeks

15 Weeks

13 Weeks!

Does Dolly Decorator read this??

Gangl Jr.

Walter Saturday...

It's all fun and games...

Who doesn't love a blogger that only blogs once a month....

A BIG Announcement....

My life *might* be getting back to normal

St. Louis is finally getting it together ...

Walter Wednesday

T-Word Tuesday

It's all about compromise

T-Word Tuesday

Snow Day

Walter Wednesday

New Year New Me

T-Word Tuesday

Must go NOW and buy this....

Walter Wednesday Remix

Dallas Wedding Recap

Ya.. about this blogging thing

T- Word Tuesday

Walter Wednesday

Scarf Swap

T-Word Tuesday

Welcome Back Gangl*icious

VACA

Obesession

Walter Wednesday

T-Word Tuesday

TEXAS vs Mizzou

Things That Annoy Me This Week .....

Walter Wednesday

T-Word Tuesday

Just call me Betty

Back and Sick

T-Word Tuesday

Weekend Recap:

Walter Wednesday

Uhh Houston.. We have a problem...

T-Word Tuesday

Weekend Recap:

Look What I have....

Those were the days..

Walter Wednesday

T-Word Tuesday

It's only Monday in case anyone forgot

Friday Fun Facts

Dress

Walter Wednesday

Thanks

T-Word Tuesday

This will motivate... hopefully

Random

Important Info Needed...

Walter Wednesday

T-Word Tuesday

Weekend in Pictures...

Weekend Recap:

Boyfriend+ Dinner+Carriage Ride+Ring=Engagement

This Confirms That I Truly Am A Spaz...

Walter Wednesday

T-Word Tuesday

Looooong Weekend

My life might be getting back to normal