My mom and I went to go pick up her dress tonight, which had come in about...oh...2 weeks ago. Whoops. When we got there, she tried it on and it fit perfectly! It looks so great on her and I'm so happy I was able to buy it for her with my gift certificate.
Then we looked for shoes. She found a purse that she really liked and we got it using the gift certificate as well. Because she didn't find shoes that day, I used the remaining credit to buy my bachelorette party dress. Score. We were told that they would have new styles in later in the year, so we went back tonight to look at them. Mom tried on quite a few shoes and we were getting pretty discouraged. Then I randomly picked up a box and showed them to her and lo and behold, those are the ones she ended up getting!
Next up was figuring out what color to get them (and the purse) dyed. Mom's dress color is "mocha" according to the tag, but as far as their shoes go, the "mocha" doesn't match the actual dress color. After much deliberation, we finally settled on a dark brown ("truffle") for the shoes and the purse, to compliment the dress and the matching jacket. My mom is going to look so awesome! She even mentioned that she felt like a mother of a bride and that made me feel good.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
#132: And the Living's Easy...
In other news from this weekend, J and I found the place we're going to live!!!! I have been fretting over this issue for quite some time. We thought we had found the apartment complex last October, but when I went to their website to look at it again, the price was WAY out of our range. At first I was bummed, but then I realized that God must have something better in store for us.
And today we found it! We looked at a 2 bedroom with a den (which we didn't even know was an option from looking at their website) and a 3 bedroom apartment. Some people have been asking us why we're looking for a three bedroom apartment and simply put, we'd like a guest room for our families and friends to visit and we'd like to use the third room as J's office. I want him to have his own space to spread out his art and not have to clean it up and put it all away whenever we have guests over. I'd like to just be able to close the door and leave his work undisturbed.
We were both really impressed with the appearance of the buildings themselves. We knew that the complex was probably over about 25 years old, so we weren't expecting a grand looking outward appearance. We were greeted in the office by Marie, an older woman who, over the course of our visit, mentioned she has a five-year-old grandchild, has a Pepsi a day to "keep away the grumpies" and informed us we needed to try one of her freshly baked chocolate cookies and that she keeps dog biscuits in her desk for all the residents who come in with their dogs. She was such a delight to work with and it makes me happy to think that we will be working with her in the future.
We toured the 2 bedroom apartment first and were pleasantly surprised by the new appliances, large windows and spacious closets. All important things. J almost mentioned how nice the kitchen countertops were and I was in love with the double sink. Don't ask why, I just love them. The den in this apartment was simply another room off of the living room. No door and no closet, but we didn't need them anyway. The den would be a perfect space for J's home office. The living room itself had a lot of open wall space, which was not expected. We're hoping to put a nice leaning bookcase on one wall of this room, along with our couch and other furniture. The only downside to this apartment is that it only has 1.5 baths. The half bath is in the master bedroom, so that means that we'd have to use the guest bath to take our showers, etc. Seems kinda weird to me, but I can deal.
The 3 bedroom was much the same layout, but with another bedroom near the others, with a door and a closet. The master bedroom in this apartment had a walk-in closet that led to the master bathroom. This seemed like a cool feature when we were looking at the floor plan on paper, but in real life, it seemed almost creepy to me. I know that sounds crazy, but I felt weird standing in the closet, and seeing the bathroom on one side and the bedroom on the other. The kitchen was exactly the same (and I should mention that there was enough room for a cute little 2 seater-table in the kitchen itself) and we still liked it, seeing it a second time.
We also toured the rest of the facilities, including the Olympic size pool, fitness center, sand volleyball court, two tennis courts, a car wash area with vacuum and hose AND a nine-hole putting green. Everything that was on our checklist was met. And Marie even informed us that they have a "guest suite" available for our extra guests to stay at in the event that our apartment can't hold all our guests. It's right on the property, has great amenities and is only $84 a night. Not too shabby.
I, being the future domestic diva/homemaker/wife that I am/will be, asked about the location of the grocery stores. Five within a three mile radius. Score. There are also three pharmacies nearby (including one that is family owned, which I think is so cool) and the hospital and library are just down the street.
By the time our visit had ended, we had filed applications for residency and put ourselves on the waitlist for the 2 bedroom with a den apartment (and the 3 bedroom, just in case that was the only thing available in June, when we'd like to start our lease). We walked away, with our chocolate cookies, extremely happy and relieved, but also a bit nervous about this huge step into adulthood and cohabitation.
We're very excited for our future and our future home :))
And today we found it! We looked at a 2 bedroom with a den (which we didn't even know was an option from looking at their website) and a 3 bedroom apartment. Some people have been asking us why we're looking for a three bedroom apartment and simply put, we'd like a guest room for our families and friends to visit and we'd like to use the third room as J's office. I want him to have his own space to spread out his art and not have to clean it up and put it all away whenever we have guests over. I'd like to just be able to close the door and leave his work undisturbed.
We were both really impressed with the appearance of the buildings themselves. We knew that the complex was probably over about 25 years old, so we weren't expecting a grand looking outward appearance. We were greeted in the office by Marie, an older woman who, over the course of our visit, mentioned she has a five-year-old grandchild, has a Pepsi a day to "keep away the grumpies" and informed us we needed to try one of her freshly baked chocolate cookies and that she keeps dog biscuits in her desk for all the residents who come in with their dogs. She was such a delight to work with and it makes me happy to think that we will be working with her in the future.
We toured the 2 bedroom apartment first and were pleasantly surprised by the new appliances, large windows and spacious closets. All important things. J almost mentioned how nice the kitchen countertops were and I was in love with the double sink. Don't ask why, I just love them. The den in this apartment was simply another room off of the living room. No door and no closet, but we didn't need them anyway. The den would be a perfect space for J's home office. The living room itself had a lot of open wall space, which was not expected. We're hoping to put a nice leaning bookcase on one wall of this room, along with our couch and other furniture. The only downside to this apartment is that it only has 1.5 baths. The half bath is in the master bedroom, so that means that we'd have to use the guest bath to take our showers, etc. Seems kinda weird to me, but I can deal.
The 3 bedroom was much the same layout, but with another bedroom near the others, with a door and a closet. The master bedroom in this apartment had a walk-in closet that led to the master bathroom. This seemed like a cool feature when we were looking at the floor plan on paper, but in real life, it seemed almost creepy to me. I know that sounds crazy, but I felt weird standing in the closet, and seeing the bathroom on one side and the bedroom on the other. The kitchen was exactly the same (and I should mention that there was enough room for a cute little 2 seater-table in the kitchen itself) and we still liked it, seeing it a second time.
We also toured the rest of the facilities, including the Olympic size pool, fitness center, sand volleyball court, two tennis courts, a car wash area with vacuum and hose AND a nine-hole putting green. Everything that was on our checklist was met. And Marie even informed us that they have a "guest suite" available for our extra guests to stay at in the event that our apartment can't hold all our guests. It's right on the property, has great amenities and is only $84 a night. Not too shabby.
I, being the future domestic diva/homemaker/wife that I am/will be, asked about the location of the grocery stores. Five within a three mile radius. Score. There are also three pharmacies nearby (including one that is family owned, which I think is so cool) and the hospital and library are just down the street.
By the time our visit had ended, we had filed applications for residency and put ourselves on the waitlist for the 2 bedroom with a den apartment (and the 3 bedroom, just in case that was the only thing available in June, when we'd like to start our lease). We walked away, with our chocolate cookies, extremely happy and relieved, but also a bit nervous about this huge step into adulthood and cohabitation.
We're very excited for our future and our future home :))
Saturday, February 26, 2011
#131: Red
Just finished watching Red with J. What an amazing movie. I would definitely recommend it. Sometimes I get tired of chick flicks (ok, not really) and want to watch something get blown up or shot up (the second part of that statement is indeed true).
Just putting Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich and Helen Mirren in a movie together is epic enough. Then you add in guns and bombs (Mary Louise Parker, to boot) and an interesting storyline and you've got a really great movie. Of course, there's a budding love story (what movie doesn't have one? Minus the Expendables, Boondock Saints and Snatch...thanks to J for those examples) and a lot of humor injected, so it makes it more enjoyable for a girl like me. Even though I wasn't kidding about liking watching things getting blown up or shot up...
In conclusion (pulling out the old high school essay writing phrase), this is a good movie and you should see it.
Just putting Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich and Helen Mirren in a movie together is epic enough. Then you add in guns and bombs (Mary Louise Parker, to boot) and an interesting storyline and you've got a really great movie. Of course, there's a budding love story (what movie doesn't have one? Minus the Expendables, Boondock Saints and Snatch...thanks to J for those examples) and a lot of humor injected, so it makes it more enjoyable for a girl like me. Even though I wasn't kidding about liking watching things getting blown up or shot up...
In conclusion (pulling out the old high school essay writing phrase), this is a good movie and you should see it.
Friday, February 25, 2011
#130: 3, 2, 1
Today was the last day I could use the number four. To describe how long there is until our wedding. Tomorrow, we enter the "3 months and some odd change" phase. Scary. What will be even scarier is when we're under 100 days. Eeek!
Today's weather was quite...interesting. And confusing. When I left for work at 11:45, it was 60 degrees. 60. Six-zero. I knew it was windy outside, so I wore a black sweater dress, gray tights, black pumps, a bright green sweater and belted it with a metallic skinny belt. Fabulous. I was wind blown by the time I got to work, but not even the slightest bit cold. I didn't even bring a coat with me.
Oh, did I mention the power was out at my house also? It went out at about 11:30, while I was putting together my lunch to take to work and my mom said it came back on about two hours later. The wind was wicked! Pretty sure it knocked a tree into the power lines.
Over the course of the first two hours I was at work, it was sunny. Then gloomy. Then downpour for about ten minutes. Then sunny. Then downpour. Then sunny. Then gloomy. I kid you not, it was intense.
I could tell the wind was picking up over the course of the afternoon, especially when my patients would blow in the door with, "Oh my, it's getting so windy out there!!" Why yes, thank you. Because I don't sit in front of a huge window or anything...
By the time 7:30pm rolled around, I was NOT looking forward to stepping outside. That whole not-bringing-a-coat-with-me idea was dumb. DUMB. I was shivering for the first half of my drive home. All I wanted was a hot dinner, a hot shower and some comfy in-bed reading.
Checks on the first two, now off to the third!
What was the weather like in your neck of the neighborhood today? Anybody missing snow?
Photo courtesy of westranchbeacon.com (google images)
Today's weather was quite...interesting. And confusing. When I left for work at 11:45, it was 60 degrees. 60. Six-zero. I knew it was windy outside, so I wore a black sweater dress, gray tights, black pumps, a bright green sweater and belted it with a metallic skinny belt. Fabulous. I was wind blown by the time I got to work, but not even the slightest bit cold. I didn't even bring a coat with me.
Oh, did I mention the power was out at my house also? It went out at about 11:30, while I was putting together my lunch to take to work and my mom said it came back on about two hours later. The wind was wicked! Pretty sure it knocked a tree into the power lines.
Over the course of the first two hours I was at work, it was sunny. Then gloomy. Then downpour for about ten minutes. Then sunny. Then downpour. Then sunny. Then gloomy. I kid you not, it was intense.
I could tell the wind was picking up over the course of the afternoon, especially when my patients would blow in the door with, "Oh my, it's getting so windy out there!!" Why yes, thank you. Because I don't sit in front of a huge window or anything...
By the time 7:30pm rolled around, I was NOT looking forward to stepping outside. That whole not-bringing-a-coat-with-me idea was dumb. DUMB. I was shivering for the first half of my drive home. All I wanted was a hot dinner, a hot shower and some comfy in-bed reading.
Checks on the first two, now off to the third!
What was the weather like in your neck of the neighborhood today? Anybody missing snow?
Photo courtesy of westranchbeacon.com (google images)
Thursday, February 24, 2011
#129: Girl Scout Stew
I hope you didn't think of cookies in a soup when you read the title. One of my friends did when I put that I was making it for my status on facebook earlier today. I don't blame her. I don't even know how it got its name...
Even though it's almost spring (I hope!), and stew and soup recipes aren't really needed this time of year, I thought I'd share this one anyways. It's super easy (only five ingredients) and it literally takes like ten minutes to make.
Ingredients:
Hamburger (We used 80/20 ground beef)
Onion (1 whole per pound of beef)
Vegetable Beef Soup (the Campbell's condensed one//2-3 cans)
French style green beans (1-2 cans)
Canned potatoes (usually "new potatoes" work best//1-2 cans)
The ingredients all are really dependent on how much you want to make. Today, I wanted to make a lot, so I used 1.25lb beef, one large onion, four cans of soup and two cans each of potatoes and green beans.
You might be wondering why the recipe calls for canned potatoes instead of raw russett, etc. Canned new potatoes tend to be much softer. I actually only had one can tonight so I mixed in a thinly sliced russett and I could tell the difference because the russett wasn't able to cook to the same tenderness.
So here are the steps:
1. Cook ground beef and onion together in a large pan. I season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
2. When it's all cooked and the onions are translucent:
Add everything in. Seriously. There's no special order. I get OCD and put the potatoes in first, then the soup, then the green beans:
And I didn't even stir it until I had everything in there.
Let it get to a boil, then let it simmer on low for as long as you'd like.
Feel free to add to water to thin it out a little. Oh, and I should mention. Drain the potatoes before you put them in, but don't drain the green beans. Bean juice tastes much better than potato juice...
What's the easiest recipe you've got?!
Even though it's almost spring (I hope!), and stew and soup recipes aren't really needed this time of year, I thought I'd share this one anyways. It's super easy (only five ingredients) and it literally takes like ten minutes to make.
Ingredients:
Hamburger (We used 80/20 ground beef)
Onion (1 whole per pound of beef)
Vegetable Beef Soup (the Campbell's condensed one//2-3 cans)
French style green beans (1-2 cans)
Canned potatoes (usually "new potatoes" work best//1-2 cans)
The ingredients all are really dependent on how much you want to make. Today, I wanted to make a lot, so I used 1.25lb beef, one large onion, four cans of soup and two cans each of potatoes and green beans.
You might be wondering why the recipe calls for canned potatoes instead of raw russett, etc. Canned new potatoes tend to be much softer. I actually only had one can tonight so I mixed in a thinly sliced russett and I could tell the difference because the russett wasn't able to cook to the same tenderness.
So here are the steps:
1. Cook ground beef and onion together in a large pan. I season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
Let it get to a boil, then let it simmer on low for as long as you'd like.
Feel free to add to water to thin it out a little. Oh, and I should mention. Drain the potatoes before you put them in, but don't drain the green beans. Bean juice tastes much better than potato juice...
What's the easiest recipe you've got?!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
#128: Zee Resume
I figured since I'm nearing the four month mark of the wedding, I should probably get on with the job hunt. If you read this post, you saw that I finished my resume! Such a relief.
I had definitely been dreading writing up my resume. I've never needed one before. I worked retail straight out of high school and my mom got me the job I currently have. So the task of writing about myself was daunting, to say the least. I've never really had to market my skills before.
I asked my dad for help and he forwarded me a copy of my sister's resume that he helped her with. I used this as my template and filled in all my information. At the time, I was chatting with my friend Anna and she mentioned that she could send me her resume as well. I would have been lost without those two templates! So thanks again to you two :)
I wrote everything I could write about my job and what I currently do. Then I had my dad read over it. Wow. He totally helped me beef it up, by asking me questions about certain things that I should have elaborated on and helping me to choose the correct (and marketable!) wording.
I am totally confident in my resume.
Now, if only I knew what to wear to these impending interviews...
I had definitely been dreading writing up my resume. I've never needed one before. I worked retail straight out of high school and my mom got me the job I currently have. So the task of writing about myself was daunting, to say the least. I've never really had to market my skills before.
I asked my dad for help and he forwarded me a copy of my sister's resume that he helped her with. I used this as my template and filled in all my information. At the time, I was chatting with my friend Anna and she mentioned that she could send me her resume as well. I would have been lost without those two templates! So thanks again to you two :)
I wrote everything I could write about my job and what I currently do. Then I had my dad read over it. Wow. He totally helped me beef it up, by asking me questions about certain things that I should have elaborated on and helping me to choose the correct (and marketable!) wording.
I am totally confident in my resume.
Now, if only I knew what to wear to these impending interviews...
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
#127: Sicky
I woke up very early this morning (like, it was barely this morning) with a really, really sore throat! I had a hard time getting back to sleep. Then I heard my dad scraping the snow/ice (yes, it was just 70 degrees last Friday) off his car at 4am so he could make his 6am flight, only to come back tonight at 10pm. The things that man does for his job...
So anyways, I'm pretty sure I only logged about two to three good hours of sleep last night. Which doesn't help when you're coming down with something (and babysitting a VERY energetic two-year-old for six hours before you go to work for seven-plus). I've got the head congestion, sinus congestion, runny nose, sore throat, earache, headache and overall feeling of lethargy.
I wish I felt better and wasn't so grumpy today. The past five or so days have been wonderful: no grumpyness, no fatigue, no headaches, only mild back/neck pain and overall just good days. Today, however, was not. By the time 3pm rolled around (mind you, I only go into work at noon), I told my boss I was pretty much done for the day. Everyone was irritating me, the phone ringing was irritating me and I just wanted to crawl into bed and sleep forever.
And that's my plan. I'm about to hop in the shower, and hopefully it will relieve some of the back tension/pain I acquired upon sneezing this afternoon. Lovely, I tell you. Then it's into bed to look over some of J's recent writing and see how he can change it to make it better (although he sent me a copy of his mom's rewrite and it's looking pretty darn good, just from skimming it!) and then it's a shot of Nyquil and off to bed.
Here's hoping my earlier margarita (it IS National Margarita Day, after all) and the Nyquil will send me into la-la land and a very deep sleep!
So anyways, I'm pretty sure I only logged about two to three good hours of sleep last night. Which doesn't help when you're coming down with something (and babysitting a VERY energetic two-year-old for six hours before you go to work for seven-plus). I've got the head congestion, sinus congestion, runny nose, sore throat, earache, headache and overall feeling of lethargy.
I wish I felt better and wasn't so grumpy today. The past five or so days have been wonderful: no grumpyness, no fatigue, no headaches, only mild back/neck pain and overall just good days. Today, however, was not. By the time 3pm rolled around (mind you, I only go into work at noon), I told my boss I was pretty much done for the day. Everyone was irritating me, the phone ringing was irritating me and I just wanted to crawl into bed and sleep forever.
And that's my plan. I'm about to hop in the shower, and hopefully it will relieve some of the back tension/pain I acquired upon sneezing this afternoon. Lovely, I tell you. Then it's into bed to look over some of J's recent writing and see how he can change it to make it better (although he sent me a copy of his mom's rewrite and it's looking pretty darn good, just from skimming it!) and then it's a shot of Nyquil and off to bed.
Here's hoping my earlier margarita (it IS National Margarita Day, after all) and the Nyquil will send me into la-la land and a very deep sleep!
Monday, February 21, 2011
#126: Mondays
As I write this, I'm lying in bed. Everyone in my house is either asleep or about to be asleep (including myself). It was such a long day for all of us! My mom is across the country right now. She flew out to Coolidge, Arizona for my great Aunt Mazie's 80th surprise birthday party! She then drove my grandma and aunt back to my grandma's house in Pahrump, Nevada (about an hour outside Las Vegas). I've missed my mom so much and she's only been gone for a week! Thank goodness she comes back tomorrow night :))
So anyways, on to our long day! I woke up early this morning to take my sister in law to get her wisdom teeth (and a 5th tooth) pulled. It was fairly quick and the doctor said it went well, so I'm grateful for that! I know if my mom had been home, she would have taken Megan herself, so I wanted to give Megan the same care my mom would have! I got her home and settled onto the couch, remote in hand. I started her on her ice regimen and also gave her some pain medicine that I hoped was enough until my brother could get her prescription filled. I also wrote down instructions for my dad and brother, who were home and taking care of both Megan and the two boys. I made a shopping list of all the things that Mike needed to pick up at the store in addition to the prescriptions. Then I was off to work!
My boss was out of town for the long weekend, so today was imperative to getting caught up on things without the distraction of other people in the office. Thankfully for me, the phone ringing didn't interrupt my progress too much. I managed to get my to-do pile to a manageable size and I also made some headway on a patient's insurance file that has been giving me a headache for months. This file alone makes me never want to work in healthcare again!!
After work, I stopped by the grocery store to pick up some things for dinner. Let me tell you, it is SO hard for me to plan meals! I finally settled on sweet italian sausages in potato rolls with sauteed onions and green peppers. I also made a pasta salad to go with them.
So, here I was, just minding my own business, cooking dinner, when the power goes out! What the heck?!?! It flickered a few times but wouldn't come back on. We were all disappointed because dinner was smelling SO good, but the sausages were still to raw for us to eat and the residual heat in the pan wasn't enough to finish the cooking process.
Dad to the rescue! He had a genius plan to fire up the grill outside. Mind you, it was raining and pretty chilly outside, but my dad was so determined to eat the dinner I had planned that he stood out in the rain, in the dark, grilling up the sausages. What a hero!
When we were all heading back for seconds, the power came back on! I was able to reheat the peppers and onions and microwave some mashed potatoes for Megan, who wasn't able to enjoy the same dinner as us (I told her she wasn't missing anything good, but I totally lied)!
After dinner, we settled in to watch The Bachelor. Such a bad habit! Only a few more weeks to go and them I'll have my Monday nights free again :))
So that was my busy Monday, what was yours like? Did you get the day off from work?
So anyways, on to our long day! I woke up early this morning to take my sister in law to get her wisdom teeth (and a 5th tooth) pulled. It was fairly quick and the doctor said it went well, so I'm grateful for that! I know if my mom had been home, she would have taken Megan herself, so I wanted to give Megan the same care my mom would have! I got her home and settled onto the couch, remote in hand. I started her on her ice regimen and also gave her some pain medicine that I hoped was enough until my brother could get her prescription filled. I also wrote down instructions for my dad and brother, who were home and taking care of both Megan and the two boys. I made a shopping list of all the things that Mike needed to pick up at the store in addition to the prescriptions. Then I was off to work!
My boss was out of town for the long weekend, so today was imperative to getting caught up on things without the distraction of other people in the office. Thankfully for me, the phone ringing didn't interrupt my progress too much. I managed to get my to-do pile to a manageable size and I also made some headway on a patient's insurance file that has been giving me a headache for months. This file alone makes me never want to work in healthcare again!!
After work, I stopped by the grocery store to pick up some things for dinner. Let me tell you, it is SO hard for me to plan meals! I finally settled on sweet italian sausages in potato rolls with sauteed onions and green peppers. I also made a pasta salad to go with them.
So, here I was, just minding my own business, cooking dinner, when the power goes out! What the heck?!?! It flickered a few times but wouldn't come back on. We were all disappointed because dinner was smelling SO good, but the sausages were still to raw for us to eat and the residual heat in the pan wasn't enough to finish the cooking process.
Dad to the rescue! He had a genius plan to fire up the grill outside. Mind you, it was raining and pretty chilly outside, but my dad was so determined to eat the dinner I had planned that he stood out in the rain, in the dark, grilling up the sausages. What a hero!
When we were all heading back for seconds, the power came back on! I was able to reheat the peppers and onions and microwave some mashed potatoes for Megan, who wasn't able to enjoy the same dinner as us (I told her she wasn't missing anything good, but I totally lied)!
After dinner, we settled in to watch The Bachelor. Such a bad habit! Only a few more weeks to go and them I'll have my Monday nights free again :))
So that was my busy Monday, what was yours like? Did you get the day off from work?
Saturday, February 19, 2011
#125: HALFWAY!!!!
Today's second post marks the halfway point of my blogging journey! Thanks so much for reading all 124 previous posts (shame on you if you haven't...just kidding!). I just had to share what I've done today!
-Worked for 2.5 hours
-Found a dress for my bridal shower (now I just need to find an awesome belt for it)
-Bought some goodies for entertainment kits for the nieces/nephews (a post on that when they're complete!)
-Got inspiration for bridemaids' gifts
-MADE MY RESUME! So happy about this! I had been dreading it to no end. I've never had to make a resume before and didn't even know where to start. Many thanks to my friend Anna and to my dad for helping out!
-Ordered photo prints to go out with our invitations ($8.03 for 120 prints? Thank you Snapfish!)
-Bought 2 pairs of skinny cargo pants. Way cute. And only $10 per pair. Love a good deal. I got them in black and in khaki. I think they're cute enough for everyday but also nice enough to wear to work with a nice pair of heels.
-Read a short love story about an Amish couple. I love a good love story. And them being Amish just makes it all better. Something about German words being tossed in a story make it all the better.
-Paid for J and I to celebrate my friend Ash's 25th birthday! Woot party bus woot!
-Finally got all the guests entered (albeit, missing some addresses) and my dad showed me how to add a column to enter guest counts, then add them up at the bottom. Genius. Now I don't have to hand count anymore!
-Wore my new cowboy boots. Love the way they look, but I'm thinking a cushy insole is a must...
-This one might be gross to some (okay, most), but I got the huge hair clog out of the bathtub drain. I have never been more proud in my life. If you'd like to see a picture of the mass resembling a dead rat, I definitely took a picture on my iPhone.
-Spent most of the day with my sister. So going to miss her!
-Thought about working out, but then thought again.
-Worked for 2.5 hours
-Found a dress for my bridal shower (now I just need to find an awesome belt for it)
-Bought some goodies for entertainment kits for the nieces/nephews (a post on that when they're complete!)
-Got inspiration for bridemaids' gifts
-MADE MY RESUME! So happy about this! I had been dreading it to no end. I've never had to make a resume before and didn't even know where to start. Many thanks to my friend Anna and to my dad for helping out!
-Ordered photo prints to go out with our invitations ($8.03 for 120 prints? Thank you Snapfish!)
-Bought 2 pairs of skinny cargo pants. Way cute. And only $10 per pair. Love a good deal. I got them in black and in khaki. I think they're cute enough for everyday but also nice enough to wear to work with a nice pair of heels.
-Read a short love story about an Amish couple. I love a good love story. And them being Amish just makes it all better. Something about German words being tossed in a story make it all the better.
-Paid for J and I to celebrate my friend Ash's 25th birthday! Woot party bus woot!
-Finally got all the guests entered (albeit, missing some addresses) and my dad showed me how to add a column to enter guest counts, then add them up at the bottom. Genius. Now I don't have to hand count anymore!
-Wore my new cowboy boots. Love the way they look, but I'm thinking a cushy insole is a must...
-This one might be gross to some (okay, most), but I got the huge hair clog out of the bathtub drain. I have never been more proud in my life. If you'd like to see a picture of the mass resembling a dead rat, I definitely took a picture on my iPhone.
-Spent most of the day with my sister. So going to miss her!
-Thought about working out, but then thought again.
#124: And The Winner is...
Emily!!
Congratulations!
Send me an e-mail with your address and your store of choice within one week and I'll get your gift card out to you asap :)
Friday, February 18, 2011
#123: Living Social
If you've never heard of Living Social, it's very similar to Groupon. If you've never heard of Groupon, I can't help you. Unless you click the link.
Basically, these sites have great deals on a variety of things. I've seen steep discounts on things from skydiving excursions to restaurant deals (like $10 for $20 worth of food). My sister-in-law actually got me one a couple months ago that was $10 for four regular size smoothies from Robeks. Those suckers are like $5 a piece! Good deal.
Anyways, J and I were video chatting tonight and he came across the deal for Richmond which was a 90-Minute Swedish (or Therapeutic) Massage and a Sugar (or Salt) Body Polish Treatment for only $59! It's regularly $125 and way more than I would pay to pamper myself. But at $59, I think it's a price I can manage. I was planning on getting a massage before the wedding to ease some stress, so now I can do it for a cheap price :) Super happy!
AND the deal is still good for 2 more days! Get on it!
Click on this link if you're in Richmond and want a 90 Minute Massage for only $59!
(Not meant to be an ad or endorsement or anything. If I can get 3 people to buy this deal through this specific link, my massage is free. So it's definitely an ulterior motive here...)
Basically, these sites have great deals on a variety of things. I've seen steep discounts on things from skydiving excursions to restaurant deals (like $10 for $20 worth of food). My sister-in-law actually got me one a couple months ago that was $10 for four regular size smoothies from Robeks. Those suckers are like $5 a piece! Good deal.
Anyways, J and I were video chatting tonight and he came across the deal for Richmond which was a 90-Minute Swedish (or Therapeutic) Massage and a Sugar (or Salt) Body Polish Treatment for only $59! It's regularly $125 and way more than I would pay to pamper myself. But at $59, I think it's a price I can manage. I was planning on getting a massage before the wedding to ease some stress, so now I can do it for a cheap price :) Super happy!
AND the deal is still good for 2 more days! Get on it!
Click on this link if you're in Richmond and want a 90 Minute Massage for only $59!
(Not meant to be an ad or endorsement or anything. If I can get 3 people to buy this deal through this specific link, my massage is free. So it's definitely an ulterior motive here...)
#122: Bieber Fever
(Let's pretend you didn't notice I didn't post yesterday. What post? Ok, good.)
Yep, I've got it. Much to J's dismay. Went for a walk with my sister and Little Monster tonight after work (temps in the 70s today...perfect!). Got home, poured a glass of wine, and my dad came down the stairs and casually mentioned that Justin Bieber was playing in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game.
Definitely high-tailed it up stairs to the tv and settled in with my glass of wine. It was actually an entertaining game. The West (JB's team) lost but Biebs got the MVP award. He told the ESPN announcer they were all going to Disneyland. Funny kid. Oh yeah, he's only 16. My bad.
I joke about thinking he's super cute, but in reality, I really just think he's a cool kid. He seems to have a good head on his shoulders. He doesn't come across as cocky, and he really appreciates his fans. Not to mention that the kid is hilarious. And, alright. I'll admit it. He's pretty cute.
And that is the extent of my fever.
Please do not judge me.
The end.
Yep, I've got it. Much to J's dismay. Went for a walk with my sister and Little Monster tonight after work (temps in the 70s today...perfect!). Got home, poured a glass of wine, and my dad came down the stairs and casually mentioned that Justin Bieber was playing in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game.
Definitely high-tailed it up stairs to the tv and settled in with my glass of wine. It was actually an entertaining game. The West (JB's team) lost but Biebs got the MVP award. He told the ESPN announcer they were all going to Disneyland. Funny kid. Oh yeah, he's only 16. My bad.
I joke about thinking he's super cute, but in reality, I really just think he's a cool kid. He seems to have a good head on his shoulders. He doesn't come across as cocky, and he really appreciates his fans. Not to mention that the kid is hilarious. And, alright. I'll admit it. He's pretty cute.
And that is the extent of my fever.
Please do not judge me.
The end.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
#121: Music
I've been listening to a ton of old music for the last hour. Getting so excited for our reception! And I just love these old songs :)
The Four Tops - I Can't Help Myself
The Commodores - Brick House
The Temptations - Get Ready
Wild Cherry - Play That Funky Music
James Brown - I Feel Good
And my dad's personal favorite:
The Foundations - Build Me Buttercup
Enjoy!
The Four Tops - I Can't Help Myself
The Commodores - Brick House
The Temptations - Get Ready
Wild Cherry - Play That Funky Music
James Brown - I Feel Good
And my dad's personal favorite:
The Foundations - Build Me Buttercup
Enjoy!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
#120: Lists
If you've known me for any length of time, you know that I love making lists. I make lists every chance I get.
One thing I was not prepared for was finding a list I did NOT like. And this morning, I found it.
Unfortunately, it's my guest list for the wedding. We've been working on it literally since we got engaged. We've gotten down to the right numbers and the right people, but I forgot about all the other things I need guest lists for. I'm having three showers (I am beyond blessed), a rehearsal dinner, and a day-after lunch. That's five events, not including the wedding itself. My task this week is to figure out the guest list for each of these events and get the lists, including addresses, to the appropriate event-thrower.
Enter chaos.
I entered most of the addresses I had into a spreadsheet this morning. I finished that up (minus a few addresses) after I ate dinner tonight.
I'm going to attempt to get two of the guest lists done tonight before I go to bed. Wish me luck!
The good news is that when these are done, I get to check them off the Master To-Do List. And the idea of that makes me super happy!
One thing I was not prepared for was finding a list I did NOT like. And this morning, I found it.
Unfortunately, it's my guest list for the wedding. We've been working on it literally since we got engaged. We've gotten down to the right numbers and the right people, but I forgot about all the other things I need guest lists for. I'm having three showers (I am beyond blessed), a rehearsal dinner, and a day-after lunch. That's five events, not including the wedding itself. My task this week is to figure out the guest list for each of these events and get the lists, including addresses, to the appropriate event-thrower.
Enter chaos.
I entered most of the addresses I had into a spreadsheet this morning. I finished that up (minus a few addresses) after I ate dinner tonight.
I'm going to attempt to get two of the guest lists done tonight before I go to bed. Wish me luck!
The good news is that when these are done, I get to check them off the Master To-Do List. And the idea of that makes me super happy!
Monday, February 14, 2011
#119: Valentine's Day
I am going to be perfectly honest with you right now...
I HATE Valentine's Day. I worked for Hallmark for five years, so trust me, I've seen every Valentine's gift you can buy for your significant other (or the random person you took out for Valentine's Day). The cards, the chocolates in a heart-shaped box, the stuffed animals, the necklaces and the rubber heart with the long arms and legs to wrap around a pencil (don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about!).
Yes, I've been with J for four Valentine's Days now, and yes, J is the BIGGEST romantic I've ever met. But I still think it's an over-commercialized "holiday" that is just an excuse for Hallmark (among others) to make a ton of money, playing on people's emotions.
I feel like Valentine's Day should be everyday. There shouldn't be one day only a year where you shower your loved one with gifts and adoration. It should take place every chance you get.
Now here's where I feel a little hypocritical: J and I got each other gifts this year. I know how much J likes to buy me nice things and show me how much he loves me through romantic gestures like red roses (my fave) and sweet cards. This year he bought me a gorgeous beige silk-like fabric sundress I've been wanting. And I bought him a gift in return. I'm not going to deny J the chance to show his love for me, and we've talked about this difference we have multiple times. I'm not going to change my stance on this, and J won't either.
So we'll have to learn how to deal with this, and make sure both of us end up happy. And that's what relationships are all about. Compromise.
Since J is back in Richmond, I spent my Valentine's Day at work, then watched The Bachelor with a glass (ok, several glasses...) of wine and my sister and nephew. Love it :) Wish I had spent it with J, but we had a lovely weekend together.
I HATE Valentine's Day. I worked for Hallmark for five years, so trust me, I've seen every Valentine's gift you can buy for your significant other (or the random person you took out for Valentine's Day). The cards, the chocolates in a heart-shaped box, the stuffed animals, the necklaces and the rubber heart with the long arms and legs to wrap around a pencil (don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about!).
Yes, I've been with J for four Valentine's Days now, and yes, J is the BIGGEST romantic I've ever met. But I still think it's an over-commercialized "holiday" that is just an excuse for Hallmark (among others) to make a ton of money, playing on people's emotions.
I feel like Valentine's Day should be everyday. There shouldn't be one day only a year where you shower your loved one with gifts and adoration. It should take place every chance you get.
Now here's where I feel a little hypocritical: J and I got each other gifts this year. I know how much J likes to buy me nice things and show me how much he loves me through romantic gestures like red roses (my fave) and sweet cards. This year he bought me a gorgeous beige silk-like fabric sundress I've been wanting. And I bought him a gift in return. I'm not going to deny J the chance to show his love for me, and we've talked about this difference we have multiple times. I'm not going to change my stance on this, and J won't either.
So we'll have to learn how to deal with this, and make sure both of us end up happy. And that's what relationships are all about. Compromise.
Since J is back in Richmond, I spent my Valentine's Day at work, then watched The Bachelor with a glass (ok, several glasses...) of wine and my sister and nephew. Love it :) Wish I had spent it with J, but we had a lovely weekend together.
Image courtesy of: http://tinyurl.com/4no2mmn
Sunday, February 13, 2011
#118: Smorgasboard
Today was a weird, scattered day! My family and I decided not to go to church this morning, for many reasons. None of us have gotten much sleep recently and this was one day we were all able to sleep in. It felt so nice to not set an alarm!! I woke up at nine and J came over at eleven. We got to work, finishing up the DIY project we started last night. It was a tedious, three-step process. We had to pause again before we could finish.
We got a quick lunch after we returned the movie we watched last night, Legend of the Guardians. Amazing, by the way!! I was initially against watching it, but J insisted I would like it. And I did. So I admitted that he was right. I said it again, just for good measure AND because he probably won't hear it very often ;)
Then we headed over to was my future sister in law perform in a play! The Prince William Little Theater did a performance of "The Wedding Singer" and it was so good! It was fun and full of laughs and good songs. It was so great seeing my FSIL doing what she loves to do :) It actually made me wish I had gone into theater, minus the fact that I have horrible stage fright and two left feet!!!
After we got home from the musical, we finished the DIY project (and it turned out SO awesome!!) and ordered pizza and just hung out with the family, watching Toy Story. Then J left. :( luckily, it will only be two weeks until I see him again in Richmond!
Here's a few pictures from our cuddle time on the couch with Little Monster :) all photo credit to the two year old.
We got a quick lunch after we returned the movie we watched last night, Legend of the Guardians. Amazing, by the way!! I was initially against watching it, but J insisted I would like it. And I did. So I admitted that he was right. I said it again, just for good measure AND because he probably won't hear it very often ;)
Then we headed over to was my future sister in law perform in a play! The Prince William Little Theater did a performance of "The Wedding Singer" and it was so good! It was fun and full of laughs and good songs. It was so great seeing my FSIL doing what she loves to do :) It actually made me wish I had gone into theater, minus the fact that I have horrible stage fright and two left feet!!!
After we got home from the musical, we finished the DIY project (and it turned out SO awesome!!) and ordered pizza and just hung out with the family, watching Toy Story. Then J left. :( luckily, it will only be two weeks until I see him again in Richmond!
Here's a few pictures from our cuddle time on the couch with Little Monster :) all photo credit to the two year old.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
#117: Check!
Well, we FINALLY got the cake taken care of today! So, so happy! I can't wait to see it all put together!
We also started on a DIY project. I thought it would be a fast and easy project, but it isn't. I say "is" because after a few hours, it's still not even half done. But it will get done...and soon. Because there's a wedding in 133 days!!
We also started on a DIY project. I thought it would be a fast and easy project, but it isn't. I say "is" because after a few hours, it's still not even half done. But it will get done...and soon. Because there's a wedding in 133 days!!
Friday, February 11, 2011
#116: Celebration!!!!
Today we're going to celebrate!
#1: It's Friday!
#2: I mentioned here that I was going to celebrate a random post and here it is!!
#3: I have $20 lying around that needs to get put to good use! (Not really...)
So here's the deal:
I've got a $20 gift card to the store of YOUR choice up for grabs.
What you have to do is:
1. COMMENT on this post
2. Because I've been looking at furniture and accessories for our home a lot lately, I want to hear what your FAVORITE item is in your home. It could be a dining room table or a really comfy couch. It could be a cookie jar you were given as a gift, or even a pillow you made. Tell me what it is and why, and you've entered yourself in the drawing!
This drawing will be open for ONE WEEK and I will randomly select the winner (using a number generator) and announce it on Saturday, February 19th.
If you've never commented on my blog before, now's your chance!
**This is not any type of advertising or bribery for reading my blog. I simply want to thank my readers for reading about my life.
#1: It's Friday!
#2: I mentioned here that I was going to celebrate a random post and here it is!!
#3: I have $20 lying around that needs to get put to good use! (Not really...)
So here's the deal:
I've got a $20 gift card to the store of YOUR choice up for grabs.
What you have to do is:
1. COMMENT on this post
2. Because I've been looking at furniture and accessories for our home a lot lately, I want to hear what your FAVORITE item is in your home. It could be a dining room table or a really comfy couch. It could be a cookie jar you were given as a gift, or even a pillow you made. Tell me what it is and why, and you've entered yourself in the drawing!
This drawing will be open for ONE WEEK and I will randomly select the winner (using a number generator) and announce it on Saturday, February 19th.
If you've never commented on my blog before, now's your chance!
**This is not any type of advertising or bribery for reading my blog. I simply want to thank my readers for reading about my life.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
#115: 30 Day Shred
Today you're only getting one post, because I am back on track! 115 posts down, 135 to go...
Some of you may be wondering how I'm doing with the 30 day shred. I'm sad to tell you that I had to stop about a week and a half ago. Some of the exercises were too high-impact for my knees and ankles, and I was having some trouble with tension in my neck from the weight lifting (which was leading to headaches).
I'm happy to report that my ankles and knees are feeling better (as long as I stay out of the heels!). I'm still having some serious problems with my neck and shoulders. I've had a headache (some days, migraines) at least once every day out of the past ten.
I just ordered a new pair of tennis shoes today, and I'm hoping they'll stabilize my ankles more and allow me to resume working out. My plan is to restart the 30 day shred and even though I'll probably have to stay on Level 1 for longer than I'd like to, I'm planning on working in some of the exercises from Level 2 that I liked and am able to do.
I never realized how much energy you get from working out! Even though each workout is only 20 minutes, I've noticed my lack of energy since stopping. I notice I'm feeling more lethargic and tired and I can't wait to get that energy back!
And because you know I love shoes and pictures of shoes, here's a picture of my new kicks:
Here's hoping they fit well! I wasn't able to try them on in the store (Kohl's), so I'll have to see how they feel when I get them in the mail.
Some of you may be wondering how I'm doing with the 30 day shred. I'm sad to tell you that I had to stop about a week and a half ago. Some of the exercises were too high-impact for my knees and ankles, and I was having some trouble with tension in my neck from the weight lifting (which was leading to headaches).
I'm happy to report that my ankles and knees are feeling better (as long as I stay out of the heels!). I'm still having some serious problems with my neck and shoulders. I've had a headache (some days, migraines) at least once every day out of the past ten.
I just ordered a new pair of tennis shoes today, and I'm hoping they'll stabilize my ankles more and allow me to resume working out. My plan is to restart the 30 day shred and even though I'll probably have to stay on Level 1 for longer than I'd like to, I'm planning on working in some of the exercises from Level 2 that I liked and am able to do.
I never realized how much energy you get from working out! Even though each workout is only 20 minutes, I've noticed my lack of energy since stopping. I notice I'm feeling more lethargic and tired and I can't wait to get that energy back!
And because you know I love shoes and pictures of shoes, here's a picture of my new kicks:
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
#114: I'm Leaving...
...on a jet plane. Just kidding. I wish I was going somewhere cool...but alas, I am not. My title actually refers to my job.
If my calculations are correct, my last day of work before the wedding will be in 126 days. It might seem crazy that I'm counting down to the last day of my known stable income, but although I love my job (most days), I'm excited and super ready for a change. It's scary not knowing where my paychecks will come from after the wedding, but I know God will provide the perfect job for me. And I'm really looking forward to at least three weeks to relax, get married and spend quality time with my husband.
My patients, however, are having a tough time with the fact that I'm leaving. Most of them start out with "I bet he's not happy" (pointing in the direction of my boss' office), and I get the occasional "What are we going to do?!" but everyone has been understanding and has only good wishes for me. Then there's certain patients (mostly my favorites) who bring me these:
Love it. The person who brought me this actually admitted the other night that he has "embraced and accepted" the fact that I'm moving. And I of course invited him and his wife to our home in Richmond when we get settled. And I can't wait for that :)
If my calculations are correct, my last day of work before the wedding will be in 126 days. It might seem crazy that I'm counting down to the last day of my known stable income, but although I love my job (most days), I'm excited and super ready for a change. It's scary not knowing where my paychecks will come from after the wedding, but I know God will provide the perfect job for me. And I'm really looking forward to at least three weeks to relax, get married and spend quality time with my husband.
My patients, however, are having a tough time with the fact that I'm leaving. Most of them start out with "I bet he's not happy" (pointing in the direction of my boss' office), and I get the occasional "What are we going to do?!" but everyone has been understanding and has only good wishes for me. Then there's certain patients (mostly my favorites) who bring me these:
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
#113: OOTD
Today, I tried to come up with a creative outfit, and I think I pulled it off pretty well.
Cardigan/Leggings: Target//Skirt: Kohl's//Boots: Payless//Shirt...oh wait, it's a dress: Old Navy
Yep, you read that right. I wore a skirt over a dress today. I wanted a little stripe action going on in my outfit today and I had this dress and a striped tank top...a little too cold for that. So the 3/4 sleeve dress it was! I actually revealed my secret to one of my patients who complimented my shirt. She was impressed. You should be too.
And that skirt? I got it for three bucks on clearance at Kohl's. It unzips completely. Which is weird. But it looks super cool with the zipper up the front. Don't you agree?
Yep, you read that right. I wore a skirt over a dress today. I wanted a little stripe action going on in my outfit today and I had this dress and a striped tank top...a little too cold for that. So the 3/4 sleeve dress it was! I actually revealed my secret to one of my patients who complimented my shirt. She was impressed. You should be too.
And that skirt? I got it for three bucks on clearance at Kohl's. It unzips completely. Which is weird. But it looks super cool with the zipper up the front. Don't you agree?
Monday, February 7, 2011
#112: A Case of the Mondays
I have a love/hate relationship with Mondays. Ok, fine, I'll tell the truth. I hate Mondays. They mean three straight days of working until 7:30p, missing dinner with my family, and not much free time.
On the bright side, it was somewhat warm today! I think the temps got into the low 50's. And going back to my high school days of breaking out the shorts when it hit 50, I wore capris to work today. I wore olive green dress capris with a new tank I got at Kohl's yesterday for seven bucks! I topped it off with a chocolate brown cardigan and mocha colored flats. I've had to lay off the heels (I think it's been over 10 days since I wore heels) because my back has been acting up recently. Not fun. Flats don't do a thing for my calves, which makes me sad. But not as sad as seeing my heels, untouched, on my shoe racks. No love for heels. Sad face.
I'm ready for some warm weather and some daylight when I get off work. I can't wait to get back to walking around the block after dinner and not feeling like I want to go to bed as soon as I get home.
I'm also ready for the weekend. J will be home (!) and we have a lot planned. We have a cake tasting Saturday morning after a Waffle House breakfast date. I don't think we've ever been to Waffle House together, which breaks my heart, because I heart Waffle House. Not for the waffles, but for the hashbrowns. I hope that's not a crime.
But for now, I'm ready for bed. It's been a Monday. It makes me think of this song by Francesca Battistelli. Sometimes I forget how big I'm blessed.
On the bright side, it was somewhat warm today! I think the temps got into the low 50's. And going back to my high school days of breaking out the shorts when it hit 50, I wore capris to work today. I wore olive green dress capris with a new tank I got at Kohl's yesterday for seven bucks! I topped it off with a chocolate brown cardigan and mocha colored flats. I've had to lay off the heels (I think it's been over 10 days since I wore heels) because my back has been acting up recently. Not fun. Flats don't do a thing for my calves, which makes me sad. But not as sad as seeing my heels, untouched, on my shoe racks. No love for heels. Sad face.
I'm ready for some warm weather and some daylight when I get off work. I can't wait to get back to walking around the block after dinner and not feeling like I want to go to bed as soon as I get home.
I'm also ready for the weekend. J will be home (!) and we have a lot planned. We have a cake tasting Saturday morning after a Waffle House breakfast date. I don't think we've ever been to Waffle House together, which breaks my heart, because I heart Waffle House. Not for the waffles, but for the hashbrowns. I hope that's not a crime.
But for now, I'm ready for bed. It's been a Monday. It makes me think of this song by Francesca Battistelli. Sometimes I forget how big I'm blessed.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
#111: Cribs
Was I the only person to watch that show on MTV? I remember watching the episode with Mariah Carey's New York Penthouse (ooo, and this is weird, she just popped up on my iTunes...). Anyways, I completely drooled over her closet. It was literally the size of my whole basement (almost 1,000 square feet). So ridiculous. I aspire to own a closet that big one day (I have already discussed this with J, including the zebra print rug I intend to have in it). But for now, this is what I have to work with:
1. My "closet": This is actually the second clothes rod I've had since I moved into the basement in September 2008. The first one (plastic) could not hold up the weight of my massive amounts of clothes. Oh, and did I mention my laundry basket is full? Yeah, I could really use a real closet!
2. My "drawers": My mom is planning on using this to house part of her massive fabric collection once I move, and oddly enough, I won't miss this storage. It didn't really fit anything practical. This is what is housed in these bins: t-shirts, camisoles, leggings/tights, socks, workout clothes, and I'm ashamed to say, I have three pairs of tennis shoes in the bottom right bin. Oh, and hey, there's the magazines I "threw" out in this post...you caught me. I'm doubly ashamed now because I just realized that post was from the beginning of November. I guess I should go throw them in the trashcan tonight, since trash day is tomorrow.
#3: My dresser: I wish this was mine, but in fact is my sister's. When I faux inherited it, it had wooden, brightly painted square knobs. Literally, they were painted red, green, blue and yellow. I removed them, and used a magic eraser to get rid of most of the residual paint. Mom hunted down these knobs for about $10 at Target and voila! It's a tad classier now. This is a very sturdy piece of furniture, but truth be told, the drawers are rather small and don't hold too much. This dresser houses my belts and unmentionables on top, seasonal tops (tanks are in there now, and sweaters in the summer), jeans, shorts, pjs and the random miscellaneous clothing drawer. I think I have a couple men's flannel shirts, a random Hanes sweatshirt and two tank tops that are too big for me in there.
To the right of the dresser is a plastic four-drawer bin. In here I have: wallets and clutches, scarves and some really random things that I have no other place for. These things include: my cords and sashes from my GMU graduation in 2008, some glow sticks (told you it was random!), and a crocheted wine bottle bag. Please excuse the rest of the stuff piled up (although I kinda like that my shoes and jewelry bags are in this picture!). You don't even want to see the rest of the stacks of boxes and bins.
So there you have it! I can't wait to have my own space with a real closet and cohesive, practical storage. But before then, I need to purge a lot of what I have. I plan on going through all my clothes once spring hits. Every winter item that doesn't fit or won't be worn again will be donated. What I keep will be packed up. And of course, spring items I currently have will need to make way for a few new friends :)
1. My "closet": This is actually the second clothes rod I've had since I moved into the basement in September 2008. The first one (plastic) could not hold up the weight of my massive amounts of clothes. Oh, and did I mention my laundry basket is full? Yeah, I could really use a real closet!
To the right of the dresser is a plastic four-drawer bin. In here I have: wallets and clutches, scarves and some really random things that I have no other place for. These things include: my cords and sashes from my GMU graduation in 2008, some glow sticks (told you it was random!), and a crocheted wine bottle bag. Please excuse the rest of the stuff piled up (although I kinda like that my shoes and jewelry bags are in this picture!). You don't even want to see the rest of the stacks of boxes and bins.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
#110: Pink Before You Leap
I love the weekends! Even though I had to work this morning, it still ended up being a good day! I got off work at noon, met Jewel for lunch, then called up my favorite nail lady, Susan, to see if I could stop by for a quick manicure. Unfortunately, she didn't have anything for over an hour, so I went home and changed into more comfy clothes and then went over there.
As long as Susan has known me and has been doing my nails, I'm pretty sure she's seen my two trends: pink and whites, and dark short natural nails. Well, I sure surprised her today. I went with a PINK shimmer polish. She was caught totally off guard and immediately expressed her surprise. My response? "Time for a change!" We both agreed that the polish I picked is very pretty.
When I get a manicure with a new color that I like and don't have at home, I'll usually head over to Ulta to buy it soon after my appointment. The bummer is...there was no tag on the bottom of this bottle. Sad face. So I went to my favorite helper, Google, and searched "pink shimmer OPI nail polish" and this came up in the results. I'm pretty sure that this is the polish, so I'm going to go ahead and order it and see what happens! I'm hoping it comes before this manicure chips off, so that I can see if it matches correctly or not. Here goes!
As long as Susan has known me and has been doing my nails, I'm pretty sure she's seen my two trends: pink and whites, and dark short natural nails. Well, I sure surprised her today. I went with a PINK shimmer polish. She was caught totally off guard and immediately expressed her surprise. My response? "Time for a change!" We both agreed that the polish I picked is very pretty.
When I get a manicure with a new color that I like and don't have at home, I'll usually head over to Ulta to buy it soon after my appointment. The bummer is...there was no tag on the bottom of this bottle. Sad face. So I went to my favorite helper, Google, and searched "pink shimmer OPI nail polish" and this came up in the results. I'm pretty sure that this is the polish, so I'm going to go ahead and order it and see what happens! I'm hoping it comes before this manicure chips off, so that I can see if it matches correctly or not. Here goes!
Friday, February 4, 2011
#109: Remix
I'm not doing the 30for30 Remix and I'll tell you why: I'm too chicken. You see, the rules are that you can't SHOP for 30 days. And according to this post, that would be a huge problem. I think I might try to do it for the spring/summer 2011 edition, but I'm just not mentally or emotionally ready. Seriously.
I thought I would do my own little version of a remix. Since I'll be moving in four and a half months, I'll probably be paring down my wardrobe quite a bit, so I don't end up moving things that I'll just throw out once I get down there. That would be a waste of my massive biceps' strength. So I thought I'd try to wear things that I haven't worn in over a year, to see if they're both practical and stylish with the other clothes I have. You see, all the kids have to play nicely with each other. Or they get put up for adoption. If only parenthood worked that way, right? Just kidding? (Don't worry about our future children, they'll be just fine!)
So anyways, as I laid in bed last night, I remembered this army green skirt I bought from Target probably a good five years ago. I haven't worn it in easily over a year, but it could be as long as two years. I thought I'd pair it with the new brown tights I got for five buckaroos at Target yesterday and of course, my trusty mocha knee high boots. I've gained a bit of weight in the past couple of years. Not very noticeable to the average person, but I've noticed most of my clothes are fitting a little snugger these days. So I chuckled a little at the thought of this skirt even still fitting me!
To my surprise this morning, I got the skirt on, over my hips (quite a feat) AND zipped up, and it fit pretty dang well. I tucked in a brown v-neck sweater (with a white cami under it for warmth) and added a little bit of color with a blue and white patterned scarf that one of my friends got me for my birthday two years ago (thanks Jennifer!). Tell me what you think :)
Sweater/Skirt/Tights: Target//Scarf: gifted//belt: Kohl's//boots: Alloy
I thought I would do my own little version of a remix. Since I'll be moving in four and a half months, I'll probably be paring down my wardrobe quite a bit, so I don't end up moving things that I'll just throw out once I get down there. That would be a waste of my massive biceps' strength. So I thought I'd try to wear things that I haven't worn in over a year, to see if they're both practical and stylish with the other clothes I have. You see, all the kids have to play nicely with each other. Or they get put up for adoption. If only parenthood worked that way, right? Just kidding? (Don't worry about our future children, they'll be just fine!)
So anyways, as I laid in bed last night, I remembered this army green skirt I bought from Target probably a good five years ago. I haven't worn it in easily over a year, but it could be as long as two years. I thought I'd pair it with the new brown tights I got for five buckaroos at Target yesterday and of course, my trusty mocha knee high boots. I've gained a bit of weight in the past couple of years. Not very noticeable to the average person, but I've noticed most of my clothes are fitting a little snugger these days. So I chuckled a little at the thought of this skirt even still fitting me!
To my surprise this morning, I got the skirt on, over my hips (quite a feat) AND zipped up, and it fit pretty dang well. I tucked in a brown v-neck sweater (with a white cami under it for warmth) and added a little bit of color with a blue and white patterned scarf that one of my friends got me for my birthday two years ago (thanks Jennifer!). Tell me what you think :)
Thursday, February 3, 2011
#108: Hanging Out
I'm not going to lie. I love making money. It allows me to pay my bills and buy food...and of course buy all the beautiful things I own. But sometimes, I like to stay home and do nothing. Or in the case of Thursdays, stay home and hang out with Little Monster. I can't believe he'll turn three this year. He's growing and learning SO much. And he's the biggest goofball I know. I love to laugh with him.
This morning we were hanging out...literally.
And here's a "hi, bye" video just for you!
This morning we were hanging out...literally.
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| I wish I knew what he was doing with a damp paper towel... |
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| Goober |
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| Hanging out on the couch |
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| Almost upside down |
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| Love this guy |
#107: Garden Ridge
I heard about this mega store called Garden Ridge through John and Sherry from Young House Love. Located in Richmond, it can be a tad overwhelming when you first walk in. J and I went on Saturday afternoon. We walked in, grabbed hands and headed off to the right once we entered the store. We first encountered lawn furniture and terracotta pots (quite an assortment, I might add!) and then came into the furniture section. Let me just say, I was impressed. They had really nice couches and loveseats for $299 and $249, respectively. They were nice looking and very comfortable. They also had a lot of nice armchairs. I think we'll definitely be going back there once we start our serious search for furniture.
J really enjoyed their vast array of silk trees and bushes. I, on the other hand, was not quite as amused as he was. Once I got my
We then ended up in pillows and linens. I had picked out a really cute black and white accent pillow for our room, but then remembered I have pillow forms and fabric for FIVE pillows at home, three of which are for our bed. I should probably finish those first. I did, however, pick up a table runner for a whopping eight bucks. It's a really warm golden yellow and I think it will work well, whether we end up with a dark wood kitchen table or a black one.
After linens, we set off in search of the largest rectangular mirror we could find. Why, you ask? I'm planning on leaning it against a wall in our bedroom in order to: #1, have a full length mirror and #2, to open up the room and make it feel larger than it really is. However, the price tags on these mirrors was enough to send us running. And besides, we really have nowhere to store huge pieces of furniture, etc.
Running out time before we had to meet the Meltons for dinner, we quickly checked out all the goodies they had around their checkout queue. One bag of white cheddar popcorn and a bag of hot fries later, we made it out of the store with our table runner and snacks. Only $13. Wahoo. Can't wait to go back and fill up our home with goodies!
PS: It's Two-a-Day Thursday! Stay tuned for post #2 later today :)
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
#106: How We Do
I mentioned our duckpin bowling adventure on Saturday night, but what I didn't show you was our unique styles of bowling. So enjoy these videos :)
1. J: I love that he used to be on a bowling league. I tease him endlessly about it, but secretly I am super jealous. He actually taught me how to curve the ball :)
2. Beth: She was having a little trouble at the beginning so we told her to granny style it. This is what ensued.
3. Me: You're actually catching me in the middle because I had already walked up and then decided I didn't have enough room, so I'm backing up in the beginning of this video.
Sadly, I didn't get a video of Bryce bowling, which would have been cool because he bowls left handed! I'm left handed too, but I only use my left hand when I'm writing and eating...everything else is right handed. Sad, I know.
But here's a couple pictures too :)
1. J: I love that he used to be on a bowling league. I tease him endlessly about it, but secretly I am super jealous. He actually taught me how to curve the ball :)
2. Beth: She was having a little trouble at the beginning so we told her to granny style it. This is what ensued.
3. Me: You're actually catching me in the middle because I had already walked up and then decided I didn't have enough room, so I'm backing up in the beginning of this video.
Sadly, I didn't get a video of Bryce bowling, which would have been cool because he bowls left handed! I'm left handed too, but I only use my left hand when I'm writing and eating...everything else is right handed. Sad, I know.
But here's a couple pictures too :)
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| Handsome :) |
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| Beth and Bryce! :) |
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
#105: Addiction
I love to shop just as much as the next girl. Sometimes, though, I wonder if I like to shop TOO much. I've never seen Confessions of a Shopaholic but I could definitely see myself chipping a credit card out of the ice block I put it in to go buy some Louboutins.
Luckily for my credit score and my bank account, I don't own a credit card (outside the two store ones I have from NY&Co. and Kohl's, and even then, my credit limits on both are super low). And I'm much too paranoid about being in debt to go on extravagant shopping sprees. We bought J's suit and wedding band at Kohl's and I paid the balance in the store the following week, before I even got the statement in the mail. Yeah.
I do a lot of online browsing though. And I always put stuff into my "cart." Sometimes I end up getting it, sometimes I don't. I had this cute pair of brown ruffled flats in my online Target cart for weeks, and ended up not getting them. Right now though, I have these two beauties in my cart. And I'm about 99.9999% sure they'll be showing up at my house sometime in the near future:
1. Cowboy boots: I've been looking for a super cute (and inexpensive pair) to wear with skinny jeans now and with dresses/skirts in the summer. I think these will do the job. And at $30, they won't break the bank.
2. Sandals: I'll admit it, I want these to wear on our honeymoon. But that doesn't mean I'm waiting until then to wear them. I have a similar pair that I got this past summer for our engagement party and I wore them SO much. At $18, they'll last at least a couple summers and they'll be well worth the money. They go with just about anything!
I seriously heart Target sometimes. I actually just bought a cross-body bag for the honeymoon as well (I guess I'll have to break that in too...sigh...such a hard life). I really liked it and J could tell. He doesn't usually encourage me to spend money, but if HE tells me to get something, then that means he probably really likes it too. I was a little wary of the $30 price tag, but I figure I'll get a lot of use out of it, especially upon the move to Richmond. I have a feeling Louis won't fit in very well. Don't tell Louis...but he's not real. He's a knockoff I got in Ocean City. But I still love him. Hence the reason he's sitting next to me right now. But this new bag will be a little more practical and easier on the crook of my left arm. And hopefully a little safer?
My sister has off work this coming Sunday, so we're going to hang out. And I'm pretty sure "hang out" is code for shopping. Especially since we both have payday Friday coming up. We usually hit up Kohl's because they always have great deals. And I mean ALWAYS. I was perusing their site today...and I'm pretty sure some major damage will be done. Stay tuned for the update!
What is the one store you can't live without for apparel, etc? What about for home decorations (don't even get me started on how much I LOVE HomeGoods)?
Luckily for my credit score and my bank account, I don't own a credit card (outside the two store ones I have from NY&Co. and Kohl's, and even then, my credit limits on both are super low). And I'm much too paranoid about being in debt to go on extravagant shopping sprees. We bought J's suit and wedding band at Kohl's and I paid the balance in the store the following week, before I even got the statement in the mail. Yeah.
I do a lot of online browsing though. And I always put stuff into my "cart." Sometimes I end up getting it, sometimes I don't. I had this cute pair of brown ruffled flats in my online Target cart for weeks, and ended up not getting them. Right now though, I have these two beauties in my cart. And I'm about 99.9999% sure they'll be showing up at my house sometime in the near future:
1. Cowboy boots: I've been looking for a super cute (and inexpensive pair) to wear with skinny jeans now and with dresses/skirts in the summer. I think these will do the job. And at $30, they won't break the bank.
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| Photo Courtesy of Target.com |
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| Photo Courtesy of Target.com |
My sister has off work this coming Sunday, so we're going to hang out. And I'm pretty sure "hang out" is code for shopping. Especially since we both have payday Friday coming up. We usually hit up Kohl's because they always have great deals. And I mean ALWAYS. I was perusing their site today...and I'm pretty sure some major damage will be done. Stay tuned for the update!
What is the one store you can't live without for apparel, etc? What about for home decorations (don't even get me started on how much I LOVE HomeGoods)?
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