2010

With the new year right around the corner it is time to reflect to the year and make planes for the new one. Let's see what 2009 brought me...

1. Got married
2. Got the exciting news that I was going to be am Aunt
3. Reconnected with an old friend
4.Moved to a better place
5. Lost almost 30 lbs.
6. Gained it all back.... :(
7. Got a new car
8.Went on my first cruise
9.Did the Summer Show, Big River
10. Took out my nose ring <--- not huge but I had my nose ring for 4 years.

Needless to say it was a big year for me. I have already started my 2010 New year's Resolution list (there I go again with the list making) but I realized it was more a list of things I want to accomplish and goals but still fun none the less.This is what I have so far:
1. Be better with money.
2. Loose weight. I am giving myself one year to loose (gulp!) 90 lbs. That is 7.5 lbs a month..... makes me nervous but very excited at the prospect of being healthy again.
3. I want to take a picture every day. As you all may know I am a horrible picture taker, so I am challenging myself to 365 pictures. Also, I want to fill up all the frames we got from the wedding. Right now they are on the walls just with strangers in them.
4.Get better at doing laundry on a regular basis and putting it away when it is clean
5. go through every box, every drawer, anything that has junk in it and get rid of what we don't use or need.
6. Clean my car and keep it clean.
And Finally ...
7.pick my battles with Hubs .

So there you have it. My list of goals for 2010. What are yours?

Goo Goo Ga Ga...

I have baby on the brain.

Sunday, I went with my Brother and SIL to pick out the baby's new bedding. My brother was so cute, like a kid in a candy store and my SIL was just a little over whelmed at everything you need for a baby, and the price tag. I am not saying she is naive but it is a shock that a breast pump can cost anywhere from $60.00 to almost $200.00. During this very fun family outing I felt that familiar tug at my uterus, only it was a lot harder than usual.

(TMI!!!! consider yourself warned)
A few weeks ago I had a pregnancy possibility (I am not going to call them scares because I am not scared to be pregnant). I was late, had only a day of light spotting, mild cramps (compared to this debilitating ones I am used to), fatigue and nausea. Now, if you were me what would you think? Prego! Right? I always over analyze everything and really took a step back and tried to listen what my body was telling me. I am not very in tune with my body but I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was telling me something was up. I tried to really think “has my body ever done this before?” the spotting; no I have never had spotting with out the following 4-7 days of pure hell that is my period. The only thing that was normal for me was the fatigue I mean I am always tired, but nothing else was normal for me. I am on the shot but have not been regular with it (last one was in Aug). I know, I know, but we were still safe when I wasn't regular with my shot so you can stop judging me now. From what I read you can get pregnant while on Depo, it is extremely rare but it can happen. The only thing is, I am not regular in any sense of the word. I was one of the lucky girls that didn't get a visit from Aunt flo while on depo but once I stopped using it I would start back up again. I did have a visit in October but not November. Could I be? I started scouring the Internet (mistake I know) for info. I found out how far along I would be if I was and it was still too early to tell. So, I bought a pregnancy test and just waited. As the nausea wore on, I waited, I don't know what for. I was scared but I was so excited to think that I could be pregnant. My brain was calling me insane and telling me that it wasn't the right time but my heart had already started looking at baby names. This is something that I have always wanted and it is a legitimate fear of mine to find out I am infertile or barren. I prayed. I prayed for guidance, I wanted God to help ease my worry. Was this his plan for me? For my Husband? I know I am supposed to just let God's will be, but I sill asked my questions and then finished my prayers with what ever your will, will be.

I finally took the test one morning and it was negative. I was relieved and heart broken at the same time. I mean for a few days, as silly as it sounds, I played around with the idea that I could actually be pregnant. I was secretly elated, and to think you are and then find out you aren't is like having chocolate cake and dangling it front of a fat kid. I will say my reaction really put things in perspective for me. It concreted that I feel ready, mentally and emotionally for children.

I just never thought it would be this quickly, I thought with 5 years of cell phones, computer chats and airports I wouldn’t want to even say “baby” for a while after our wedding. But here I am almost 4 months after I said “I do” and I am ready to see 2 pink lines! But then I think we have been together for 6 years and I feel behind. Does that make sense? Hubs and I talked about it last night, what we wanted to accomplish before baby. In 2010 we are both going to make a much needed conscience effort to live more frugally. I know this is long over due but 1.we are going to sit down make a strict budget and stick to it like glue. We both really need to become better with money, I have always been horrible with it and now that he is making his own he is having trouble seeing the difference between a need and a want. The goal with this is to take a big chunk out of our debt. 2. We are both going to get in better shape. Hubs because in his words “is tired of having a belly,” and me because I want my body to be in tip top shape before, during and after pregnancy. I watched a documentary called Obese and Pregnant and granted I am no where close to those women weight wise (they were all morbidly obese where I am your just good ole run of the mill obese.) But the problems that can arise, gestational diabetes, hyper tension, it was like a scared straight video. I don’t want a high risk pregnancy and risk hurting my child due to my bad choices. 3. I want to finish school and Hubs wants to find a better job. This is a personal goal for me and an almost a necessity for Hubs. He is very happy to be employed but would like to get out of retail. So, our pre baby goals are to get out of debt, get healthy, and accomplish both our personal goals in 12 months. Let’s see if we can do this !!!!!!

3 down and 1 to go.

I still have one more Christmas to go but lets recap on the three I had...

First, I would like to say that I am horrible at taking pictures. I always forget, or only take one or two and call it a day.

Christmas #1:

This was the Christmas with my brother, SIL and my Mom. They came up on the 23rd and my brother and I made country fried steak, my first attempt, and it was alright. I have to learn not to be afraid to season my food. I always got told in school that you can always add but you can't take it back and let me tell you how much I love salt, so I tend to season very little. We all took one bite and everyone in unison asked for the salt. Made us all laugh. We watched movies and played Wii, and I baked cookies for my craving SIL... even as a fetus that baby is spoiled. Then we woke up on Christmas eve and opened gifts and watched more movies, Hubs had to work which was poopey but at least he got off early. I made everyone french toast and then had to run a few more errands before I had to leave to go down to my Dad's house. So, over all it was a lot of fun being with Bro and SIL. I really love my SIL and we have become close with my Brother being away I couldn't ask for a better sister.

This is SIL and her best buddy that night. For some reason Dot would not leave her side and they both just cuddled up and fell right to sleep.

Christmas #2:

This was probably the most laid back Christmas we have ever had. Granted by the time Hubs and I got there they had already cracked open a bottle a wine and were feeling the holiday spirit. My Dad made his famous cheese dip, and I gorged myself on it for the hour or so before we ate. My dad and I are notorious for loving spicy food, flavorful spicy food. But being that we are the only ones his cheese dip is usually on the mild side. I made a comment about it and Dad decided to take some a doctor it up a bit aka make it as humanly hot as possible. It just isn't the same cheese dip if it doesn't make your nose run. Anyway, we had a great dinner and then it was time for presents. All the kids got one box with a bunch of stuff in it. I got Karaoke Revolution for wii, an awesome tye dye scarf, tons of candy, an ornament, slippers, socks, and a photo album. I like to think I made out pretty well.

Then it was back home for hubs and I's first Christmas together.

It was amazing to try to mix our family traditions and make our own. We we both exhausted when we got home but stayed up and played wii until about 1am. I bet our neighbors loved us singing karaoke at 1 am but hey it was Christmas. I watched A Christmas story and then hit the hay. We didn't wake up until about 9 am Christmas morning and we rushed downstairs like little kids to open our presents. I got a new watch, a twilight calendar.... July is a dumb picture but all of August I will be staring to Edward... le sigh, more socks, and finally my big present from my mom was a wii fit plus! I was so excited. This thing is awesome and also distracting. I was supposed to be cleaning and getting dinner ready but instead I was doing rhythmic kung fu. My Grandma and mom were with us for dinner which turned out really well. Then we just kicked back and watched Christmas programming.

our tree on Christmas morning

My mom in her new Christmas PJs chilling with her granddog

The hubs in the brand new robe I got him for Christmas.

We are going to Alabama tomorrow to bring in the new year with his Parents. I can't wait to see everyone again.

Well there you have it folks. Christmas with the Gs.

List Maker

Hello, My name is Mrs. G and I am a List Maker....

From things to do, grocery shopping, pros and cons and what to take on vay-cay I make a list. Color coded, categorized and simply perfect, no typos or squiggly lines thank you. I made one today of everything that has to get done in the next 24 hours with a cold:

Christmas gifts still to purchase:
Hubs: Mario Cart
Bro: Something, Something, Something Dark side
Dad: Seasonal beer
Grandma: Wine and Chocolate
Vicky and Jay: Wine
Mom: jacket from Grandma
_________________
Dinner Menu
Wednesday:
Country Fried Steak
Mashed potatoes
Gravy
Green Beans
Rolls
Friday:
Honey Baked Ham
Asparagus
Mashed Potatoes
Corn Pie
Rolls
________________
Grocery list:
Cube steaks
Eggs (big carton)
Potatoes (large bag)
Green beans
Rolls (x2)
Honey Baked Ham
Asparagus (x2)
Light cream
2 Loafs of bread
Cream Cheese
Flavored cream cheese
Strawberry preserves
Peanut butter
Bananas
Conf. Sugar
Chocolate chips
Brownie mix
Icing
Cinnamon rolls
Chips
Cheez its
Pop corn
Milk
Sausage
Beef tips
Butter
Canned mushrooms (x2)
Onion soup mix
Cream of Celery soup
Cream of Mushroom soup (x2)
Frozen egg noodles
Dish washing detergent
Febreeze (x2)
Gift boxes
Tape
Bows

To do:
Tonight:
Go to Eddie Bauer for Mom’s coat
Go to Wal-Mart for Nick’s gift
Clean and organize all closets
Put all linens away
Get all box contents put away and boxes out to trash
Take all trash out
Wash and dry guest room bedding

Wednesday:
Finish Christmas Shopping
-Hubs –Target, Game stop
- Dad – Kroger
- Grandma –Kroger
-Vicky and Jay- Kroger
Go grocery shopping
Kroger, Wal-Mart, Giant Eagle
Go to blockbuster and rent wii games
At home:
Do all dishes
Vacuum all carpeted areas
Make our beds
Sweep kitchen floor
Wipe down kitchen floor
Clean mirror in upstairs bathroom
Move extra coats to upstairs closet
Put all shoes away
Wrap Christmas gifts

Fingers crossed I can get everything done!

looooooong weekend

This weekend was a long weekend, and I am still recovering.

Hubs and I helped my bestest and her hubs move on Saturday. It was the perfect day to move... cold and snowing! I hurt my back.... of course, and was out of commission for the last 2 hours of moving. So I had to separate heavy boxes and light boxes. Then we had to leave for my mom's surprise.

Needless to say everyone in central Ohio had the same idea... Lets go to the Zoo lights! There was a lot of traffic and we were about an hour late... my brother and SIL weren't to happy but in my defense I did tell them we were going to be late, and kept them updated on our progress.

My mom was so surprised! We walked in to the zoo and I had already texed Bro and told him we were walking in. Hubs, mom and I started walking very slowly towards the light show and I see my mom's mouth drop and her eyes get really big. They wanted to sneak up behind us but she turned around. She cried and I only got 2 pictures... bad pictures, but I will post them when I get a chance.

Sunday it was Hubs and I's turn to move. That's right we still weren't out of our old place yet. Remember my post about having a little of the bahumbugs? Well this weekend cured it. We donated so much stuff to the Salvation Army, 2 truck loads worth. It wasn't the same as buying a new toy but we donated clothes, furniture, toys, even a Christmas tree. It made me feel all warm and fuzzy. Anywhoozer, we finally got the last load of stuff from the apartment and we are finally done with them. PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!

So now my house is in Shambles with everything that was left at the old place and the garage now in my living room. I only mention this because we have Christmas with my mom tomorrow in to Christmas eve. My to do list is about a page long and I still have some shopping to do, my mom is such a trooper though, she is helping us get everything put back together because I got sick from being out in the cold for so long.

I will leave you now to enjoy your Tuesday. Hope you all have a good one!

Love.

I am theif!

8 things I'm looking forward to:
1. all of my Family Christmas'
2. My brother coming home
3. Making cookied and candies with Grandma next weekend.
4. Christmas dinenr prep, cooking and yummy-ness
5. Day after Christmas shopping! I am actually going to participate this year
6. Finally being down with my old apartment
7. Trip to Bham in a couple weeks
8. My voice lessons picking up after the first of the year.


8 things I did yesterday:
1. Had a muffin for breakfast
2. watched SYTYCD
3. Made dinner
4. Watched and made fun of music videos with my bff Jen
5. Talked and talked and talked with hubs
6. took a nice long hot shower
7. Had a jam session with my ipod
8. stayed up way to late

8 things I wish I could do:
1. say no to holiday goodies
2. fit in to a size 10 again
3. go to Iowa and see my family
4. Shop, shop, shop, shop... on someone elses bill.
5. hang out with my friends more.
6. stop biting my nails.
7. find out what my SIL is growning in her belly... boy or girl?
8. Get out of Debt

8 shows I watch on tv:
1. Glee
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. True blood
4. SYTYCD
5. The big bang theory
6. Family guy
7. The United States of Tara
8. Project Runway



and the people I tag....

The story of us

A little of what you Fancy does you good

Dishes and Wishes (when she gets back from her honeymoon of course)



Have a great day Ladies!!!!

2 more days!!!

I think I know what was causing my bahumbuggery....

Missing my Brother. But the anticipation and brought a Christmas filled breath of fresh air in to my lungs. 2 more days and he will be home for the holidays! I am not going to lie, when I heard Michael Buble's I'll be home for Christmas I teared up a little bit.

My SIL and I have a plan a foot:

My mom has never been to see the wild lights here at the Zoo. So I decided as part of her Christmas gift I am going to take her and surprise her with my brother.

Now, I have planted the seed with, "don't make any plans for Saturday night, we are going somewhere." She has no idea where, and I am actually going to blind fold her and take her to the zoo lights. Second part of the plan, she knows my brother is coming home,obviously, but she doesn't think she is going to see him until Christmas. So SIL and I are planning arrival time, where to meet and then where to eat after wards.

I can't wait to see the look on my mom's face when she sees my brother!!!!

In other news, tomorrow is my company Christmas party. They are getting a box at the hockey game. I am really excited because I have never been or seen a hockey game before... I will say though it is a dressy occasion so now what to wear????

Trust

"To be trusted is a greater compliment than being loved."
-George MacDonald , in The Marquis of Lossie (1877)

Blown way out of proportion

Ok so on my face book yesterday my status was " Can't believe hoe tired I am." to which these comments followed...

Ross: You need Iron
Dawn: Are you Pregnant?!??.... I'm just sayin
Tracy: Well??????????????
Net: more cousins would be so much fun

wow, just because I am tired because I didn't go to bed until 1am must mean I am pregnant.... right.

To rectify this I changed my status to " Just to clarify I am not pregnant, just tired."

to which theses comments waited for me this morning...

Angela: awww that's to bad more cousins would be fun
Eric: Your mom would be over the moon with another one on the way. Good Luck.

I have been married for 4 months! 4 MONTHS and already the pressure is on to have babies? Where's the fire people? I would like to enjoy married life thank you very much...

A little bit of the ba hum bugs

I didn't think it was possible for me to get them but I did. I still love Christmas but the Christmas spirit, the spirit of giving is what is getting me. I am broke... a special kind of broke and really can't afford Christmas gifts. I know that isn't what this holiday is about but I am so filled with a giving spirit during this time. I try to donate toys, canned food and change every chance I get but this year I can't. I feel selfish for not giving more and silly because I didn't save more. This time every year I am usually finished with my Christmas shopping, and they are beautifully wrapped waiting under my Christmas tree anticipating Christmas morning. This year I a few things purchased already but more is still needed. I have decided to part with a few things (aka selling my guitar and bike) for some extra gift money. I know that soon I will be filled with warm Christmas cheer again but for now feel as glum as Scrooge himself.

On a much happier note, the Celebration concert was amazing! It was so nice to be apart of it again. At my Alma mater it is one, if not the biggest concert of the season. All of the music department comes together for non stop show, that is just amazing. I will say it is strange being back at your high school. It is familiar, but then again foreign, you hear them talking and watch them (not in a creeper way) and think "did I really act like this in High school?" Sadly yes, yes we did. I know I have only been out of school 5 years now but I have grown up so much since leaving that I felt like a bitter old woman all night. They, being the high schoolers, wouldn't listen, thought they ran the place and at times were disrespectful. All I could think about was how care free I was then. I over heard some of them talking about a test for Music Theory and how they were "wiggin" out over it... I chuckled because I am wondering how I am going to pay all my bills and still have some money left over to contribute to our house fund. Ahhhh the joys of adulthood.

Sorry Hubs, you've been replaced....

This is what I woke up to on Sunday morning....



My dog on my Husband's side of the bed with her head on his pillow. This happens a lot in our house hold and I couldn't resist this picture. So after I rolled over to a cold nose in my face that jolted me a wake I snapped this picture.


Happy Hump day everyone!!!!

Is anyone out there?

It was brought to my attention by my bestest that I hadn't blogged in a month....

Which I knew wasn't correct because I do try to blog everyday. I went to her site and sure enough it said my name and that it had been a month... I click to investigate and it says that my blog cannot be found. Well, booger. I say that because last week or so my blogger completely messed up. I mean it said I wasn't following anyone and no one was following me... I wonder if that had anything to do with it. I only wonder because I changed my URL a few weeks after my wedding and people have been following since then. I am not going to rack my brain about it anymore because the important thing is. I am here. Blogging away....

Insert the theme song from Welcome back, Kotter... because that is the song that was playing in my head this entire post.

The halls are decked!

My house is Christmasfied!

On Friday, Hubs and I went out in search of our first Christmas tree together. My mom and I are all about the Christmas tree and we say it has to speak to us... cheesy I know but that is what we always say. A few years back we discovered a Concolor Fir and fell in love with its greenish blue needles and citrus scent. Hubs had never had one before so we decided on that tree for our first tree.

We get to the garden center and I see the sign for Concolor Firs so I start walking back towards it and notice that there is no fine line between the concolor firs and the big 10 foot trees for office buildings and such. That is because the concolors must of had a great year because they are monsters this year. None were under 10 feet and $300.00.... so we move on.

This year I had to go against all that I believe in when it come to a tree. I like em big and fat, where this year we needed a tall skinny one to fit in our slightly cramped living room. So we are walking in the Frasier fir aisle and he just points at one and says "what about this one?" I don't want to say I rolled my eyes but like I said I am waiting for one to speak to me....

After wondering around for about 30 min I kept coming back to the one Hubs pointed out and I said that it was the one. He poked a little fun at me saying he was now the tree whisperer...

Anyway, after we got it home the festivities of decorating started. I got the lights on, the decorations out, made a wreath and then we both decorated the tree. Here is the finished Product (sorry for the poor pic quality, I had to use my cell phone.):

Hubs trying to find a perfect spot for his ornaments
Seriously, he had to find the perfect place for everything... :)

Some of the Decorations around the house.

My table top The ornament Wreath I made. Here it is in the daylight.

So that is the place all decked out for the holidays... what does your house look like during the holidays?

wedding pictures

Here is the link to our wedding pictures. Let me know which ones you like, I have lots of frames to fill....

http://www.candidkama.com/Katy-Matthew/

Tis the season

Good Morning readers!!!!

If you have been keeping up with my blog you will know that I am kind of in love with Christmas, ok obsessed with it is probably a better description. This year is the first year that I have my own place to decorate for the holidays and I am so excited!!!!! I am going to try to be a good newlywed and Document it, so we can look back at our first holiday season.

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us... which by the way I agree was totally jipped this year. I mean I loooooove Christmas but some of the music stations started playing Christmas music 24/7 beginning of November.... Overkill radio stations, overkill. Anywhoozer, The Decorating will commence this Friday with the purchase of our Christmas tree! I always go to this Lawn and garden place here in Columbus and they have hundreds of tress that you can choose from, not to mention hot popcorn for you to warm up with while making your selection.

I can't wait to make my wreaths this year, growing up my mom would always let me make the wreath for the front door. This year I am making an evergreen wreath for the front door and an ornament wreath for the dining room area, not to mention a centerpiece for our dining room table. I am branching out this year. I always use the same color palette at Christmas time which is gold, green and red. I don't know what it is about that color scheme but if done right can be rich, warm and so welcoming. Well this year, while deciding what kind of wreath to make for the dining room I saw this and fell in love:

I love this color combination. I know it isn't stretching to much because it is still the red and green but this I think, has a more modern feel to it.

The only issue with being out on my own(with hubs of course) is that I only have a few decorations donated by my mom. I don't want to say that I need a lot to make it Christmas just a few things like stockings and stocking hangers, a few decorative towels for the kitchen, festive place mats and who can for get a poinsettia, needless to say I am going to bargin shop my heart out on Friday for some holiday cheer.

Watch out Biglots, Dollar store, and Walmart. I am going to be ransacking your Christmas aisles!!!

Devil Spawn thy name is Toby

My brother as you know left for the military in November he didn't just leave behind a wife, he left a very pissed off cat as well. Now my SIL is a cat lover through and through but Toby HATES HER!!! He only likes Nick, no one else. With Nick being gone and Spawn being left with someone he hates makes a recipe for disaster. SIL in pregnant and can't touch the cat box without a bio hazard suit on so what does Toby do when he is mad? He pees everywhere... all the time. SIL unable to clean it up was at the mercy of her parents to come over everyday and clean up the mess he had made. She can't just get rid of this cat because it is my brothers, but no will take this devil cat because of the obvious reasons. So, what do I do? I volunteer to take him, consulting with Hubs before hand because he is terrified of cats. I told him it would be just until Bro gets here for Christmas leave but I am not sure he will make it that long.

Here is why:
1. This devil cat has a twisted sense of humor. I will go and sit on the floor of the office and he will come out and rub on every thing and come over to you like "Oh I have missed you and need love." but that is where he gets you. When you actually start to pet him he will growls and hiss at you. It's like wait devil cat... you came over to me... I hissed back at him the other day and freaked him out... he won't come near me now.
2. He hissed at hubs. Which lead to hubs almost pissing his pants. Hubs said that "he has really sharp teeth that can go right threw you." to which I said " He isn't a lion, I mean he doesn't even have his front claws, so if he does swat at you it is like kitten mittens." His response is they are from the same family and all have killer instincts.
3. He has peed somewhere other than his box and I can't find it. I knew this was a possibility but I mean it is day 2 and he is already pulling this stuff. If we still lived at our old place with the crappy carpet it would be totally different but I mean we just moved here and they did give us brand spanking new carpet. I can't have him ruin the carpet the first week we live there and Cat pee lingers.

I told my Brother that I would keep him until he got here and he decided what to do with him. Hubs and I can't afford to have another pet rent fee and deposit. Nor do I want t cat that needs a priest to preform and exorcism on it so we can all live in piece. But, Bro wants him gone before he gets here because he can't say goodbye. I mean I can understand that but this isn't my cat, I mean don't get me wrong I am a lover of most animals but Dogs over cats any day of the week and this behavior just concretes my favor for the tail wagging, barking variety.

SIL and I are researching no kill shelters in the area... but hopefully Toby will get his act together or demon spirits will leave his poor cat soul.

Has anyone dealt with an animal with this severe case of separation anxiety?

Holiday 2007? Isn't it 2009?

Ok so I am a soda fiend. Some people snort coke... I drink it, in the diet coke variety. My soda money has run low and I scrounged and even borrowed a few cents so I could get my morning jolt of caffeine. While standing in front of the soda machine I felt as if I was really lagging this morning so I decided to go with a good ole' regular coke. I pressed the button and I saw the red holiday can fall and I picked up my chilled beverage and walked to my desk. I place my finger under the tab and hear the comforting sound of the pop and a fizz. I take my first sip and It hits the spot, if it wasn't so cheesy I actually would have said "ahhhhhhhh." With my first sip still happily lingering on my taste buds I lower the can from my lips, and notice something very disconcerting.... the can being a holiday can is not abnormal, but the fact that it says Holiday 2007 is. I blink thinking maybe they mean it was the holiday logo from 2007 and they are doing a throwback... this has to be the answer. Only the bottom of the can will tell for sure... and sure enough it is says best before AUG0408... EW!!!!!! I have expired soda in my mouth. Now, for the sake of my 60 cents I take one little sip and it does taste off, like they put to much syrup in it. I went and told the person in charge of this and they said they would get the vending machine guy here today.... all I can say is that I better get a fresh can of soda. Until then I am sitting here drowsy and thirsty....

in other news.

When Hubs and I talked with Judy on Friday when we signed our lease she said that they didn't like to leave the units vacant so we kept our fingers crossed that at no extra cost to us we could move in early to our new place. Well, I called today and they said we could pick up the keys on the 24th and move in whenever we wanted at no extra cost to us! We are so excited!

I can't wait to get out of my current living situation, where all I worry about is are we safe? Am I going to come home to a ransacked apartment?

So hubs and I have to talk tonight about when we would like to move and call the leasing office and let them know what we have decided. Then we can commence OPERATION: MOVIN' ON UP.

In Army news: My mom got her first letter from my Brother and lets just say it's not what he expected. His biggest issues right now is 1. being away from wife and unborn child and 2. he says he doesn't feel like he has accomplished anything. Hopefully his attitude will change in the next few weeks or his Christmas homecoming is going to be twice as hard.

*****EDIT*****
Hubs approves of my master moving plan so it is official we are moving next weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh Dot Dot...

A November Dinner and Beyond!

This Saturday is my November Dinner... I know you maybe asking yourselves "Mrs. G, why aren't you just calling it Thanksgiving?" Well, in my family may you be for shamed for having more than one holiday or holiday dinner...

Now, I live in an apartment, about 1025 sq ft. It is fine for Hubs, myself, the pup and the occasional house guest. This dinner is a chance for me to use all my new gadgets, tableware, glassware and my culinary skills. It was supposed to be a small get together with bountiful food and spirits... yeah, small being 4-5 people now it looks more like 9. 9 people! In what now seems like my dinky apartment.

Anywhozer. It is still going to be great and I would like to share whats on the menu with you.

Starters (this is what I told everyone to bring):
Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Mushrooms
Shrimp Cocktail

Main course:
Maple glazed Turkey with Sage Butter
Mashed Potatoes
Green Bean Casserole
Stuffing
Baked Mac and Cheese
Gravy
Rolls

Dessert:
Caramel Apple pie
Various baked goods

Prep will start on Friday after work and I am so excited.

I am going to take a lot of pictures because this is my first than...er....November dinner. My brother can't come home so I am going to send him a few pictures of the family and hopefully a recordable card of us saying we miss him. I sent him his first letter (from me) today. I jabbed him a little bit because since I can remember the kid doesn't like eggs, and what does the Military serve for breakfast almost everyday? EGGS!!! so I asked him if he liked them yet and if when he comes home for Christmas I can make him eggs so he doesn't get out of the routine of things.

I am gearing up for Christmas Shopping. I am going out on Black Friday this year. That is right folks I am going to fight the crowds for a piece of Holiday saving glory. I have a few things to purchase and then I am going to be done and done. Then I can really focus on getting packed and moving. Which P.s. could be sooner than we thought. Totally pumped! We have had awesome weather which means my WT neighbors have decided to get some fresh air and have screaming matches outside. Ugh! I am so done. I am just waiting for the call telling us we can move in a week early. Fingers crossed!

Lets see what else. Oh! My brother will be home one the 18th of December! Totally excited. I know my sister in law is too. She has been hit a few pretty stressful weeks since he has been gone and I know having her husband around will be just what she needs to relax. Maybe he can make peace with his cat. This cat is going nuts without my brother around, he already didn't like Julie and now he is left to live with her and her 2 cats... he wasn't having it. So what did he do? He has started to pee every where imaginable... except the litter box. And poor sister in law can't clean it up because of the whole bun in the oven situation. Her parents have had to come over and scrub the place from top to bottom with vinegar to get him to stop, but to no avail. It is actually better when she isn't around but I guess he is the devil incarnate when she is home. I mean the little ass Bit her yesterday. Bit her! So she is at a total loss of what to do, we shall see what comes of Tobias in the near future.

I got my candle order last night and my house now sends you in to sensory overload but it is sooooo good.

all right ladies that is all for now. Check back later for pics of this weekend and some recipes for your holiday get togethers!

where will you be at midnight on 11/20?

I know where I will be!!!!

I just bought my New Moon ticket and can we say I am geeked. I AM TOTALLY GEEKED!!!!!

Do you smell what I smell?

Ok... I know I become obsessed over a product easily but when its good its good.

One of my best friends started selling Gold Canyon Candles. I was skeptical at first because I was a faithful Bath and Body works candle girl. But, wanting to help support I decided to throw a candle party. OMG! I am so glad I did. They have over or just around 100 different scents and they are all incredible. I decided that I was going to give everyone in my family a candle for Christmas because I wanted everyone to share in the scented joy. They only problem was I ordered 3 for myself..... DON'T Judge me!!!! I am a huge homey scent person and they have so many options in this category. Until I receive my order I did get a candle for hosting a party and it is wonderful... even husband will light it. They coolest thing about it... and I know I am a dweeb for saying so but, they burn super clean. You know what I mean? There is nothing worse than getting a cool candle and it turns the glass votive black, or the wax starts to seep out of the gaping hole that has burned on the side on to my wooden coffee table... I am not bitter by any means. It burns so clean that when the candle is used up you can just pop the wicks out and you have a pretty snazzy glass holder.

I implore you my dear blogggies to find your local sales rep and let your nose guide you to some pretty awesome candles.

Have a great hump day everyone!!!

Tastefully Tuesday

I choose this recipe because I had some for lunch and got some on my shirt... but it was totally worth it.

This is a recipe for French Onion Soup. Probably one of the most amazing dishes known to man, ok, that isn't fact, just my opinion but common it is pretty tasty.

What you need:

4 onions, chopped
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon white sugar
3 (10.5 ounce) cans beef broth
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup white wine
1 French baguette, cut into 1/2 inch slices
8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese

What to do:

In a large pot over medium heat, saute the onions in the butter or margarine for 10 minutes, or until onions are tender. Stir in the flour, ground black pepper and the sugar to form a pasty mixture.
Now add the beef broth, water, parsley and thyme and simmer for 10 minutes, Then add the wine and simmer for 10 more minutes.
Preheat oven to broil.
Fill individual oven safe bowls 3/4 full with the soup. Place a slice of bread on top of the soup and cover with the cheese. Place bowls in the oven.
Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly

When all is said and done you have a savory, ooey gooey bowl of goodness. Enjoy ladies... and make sure you don't get any on your shirt.

My plea

This post is whiny at it's best... I promise a tasty Tuesday after this vent. I am sorry my blog has been lack luster and down lately but that has pretty much been the aura around me. I try to change it but the dark clouds have a hold of me. Hopefully I will get some sun shine soon.

This morning I hit my boiling point and I am tired:

I am tired of his blatant disregard of my requests, I am tired of having to always go back over what he has done, I am tired of being laughed at, I am tired of the disrespect, I am tired of the mess, I am tired of trying, I am tired of caring, I am tired of being alone, I am tired of my expectations not being met, I am tired of this feeling, I am tired of going to be by myself almost every night, I am tired of not being a team, I am tired of working against one another, I am tired of the excuses, I am tired of the "I'll get it later."

I will give kudos to him for doing the dishes yesterday, well as much as he could. But....

There is so much I want to say to him but I am tired of beating a dead horse. I get excuses like "Our thoughts on clean are totally different"" Why should I give up my weekend to clean," and my personal favorite... "It doesn't bother me." But, why do I feel like I am expected to? I mean is it because I don't pay a majority of the bills so you think I need to earn my keep? What is it? Please tell me. I mean its not like I don't contribute. I do contribute money wise, so why can't you contribute more home wise?

I have done the make a list thing, split the house hold chores until we both get in to a routine and I got laughed at. I thought it was a good idea because we both have never lived with the opposite sex and the species being completely different us an understatement. I have nagged, I have yelled, I have ignored. I am not saying he is totally at fault here. I mean I am a messy person, but, and I have told him this, once I get the place clean I do try to keep it that way. He is such a force to be reckoned with. He says I should give him a chance, so I ask him once and get the "I'll get it later" then 3 days pass and it is still not done. I mean how much of a chance do you need? I give you 3 days to do it and that in my book is 2 days to many. I mean I have really tried to make a change, you ask and I try to do. I felt like I was being a bad wife because the house was a mess, I was a mess. I was crying myself to sleep because I felt like a horrible wife, but I am starting to question if it is really just me.

100th Post

100 posts... wow!

Lets reminisce, shall we....

My first blog hit the Internet on December 13th. I got the idea from my bestest, and thought that this would probably be the best way to write about my wedding planning experience.

During said process I found 3, count em' 3 "The one dresses."

The first: The could have been...

Although beautiful, I was scared of it. I was scared of the poof and the glitz and I a smidge of me wished I would have had the balls to wear it. I watched so many bride shows and I wish I would have put my fears aside and let myself love something like this.

The Second: The mistake

This was an epic fail on my part. Still an amazing dress, but still epic fail!

The Third : The one!!!!!!

It was simple, elegant and made me look like a friggin rock star BABY!!!!

I went through many roller coasters in my planning. Ups being, Becoming Martha Stewart and DIYing over half of my wedding, Finally finding the dress, watching the days slowly dwindle down, the day itself was absolutely, positively the best day of my life, IT BEING OVER!!!

Some of the downs.... tradition, the phrase "That's how it's done." , feeling pressured to make others happy, being stretched to thin financially and all the other little things that kept popping up. But the good news is, I lived!!!!!

I also moved my Husband here to Ohio, and we started living together. Still trying to figure some stuff out on this one.... it is going to be an up hill battle for a long time still.

I revamped my blog.... well sort of. I said I wads going to do all these cool things and have yet to do it. I want to get better at my themed blogs I will start as soon as I get my wedding pics and can do those posts like I promised.

I blogged about some of the challenges of married life. Trying to find out who you are after becoming a Mrs. is hard. I am still lost!!!!! Some one give a GARMIN!!!!

I became a grown up and left cover girl behind. I started a love affair with Mary Kay. I love everything that I have gotten from their line and I will never look back.

I wrote about finding inspiration and Clarity and some has been found but still looking for answers.

I gave you glimpse of a new crafty side of myself with my fall decorations. More to come with Christmas right around the corner.

And finally what is to come of my blog. My first Thanksgiving with hubs , A move, School starting up, My first Christmas with hubs, and much, much more. Lot of Pictures too. I want to start taking a picture a day.... ok maybe a week in my case to break up all the font on this page.

Thank you to all of my lovely readers! I know you are out there and I hope you enjoy what is to come.

Things that you would only hear at my job.....

This is how my last phone conversation ended:

Dealer: I am having one of those confused days, I just need to clear my head a little. I think I am going to go ride my horse.
Me: That sounds like a good idea, it is gorgeous outside.
Dealer: No kidding, I need to get my horse trained so I can compete in barrel racing next season. I had to sit the last one out.
Me: Oh, why?
Dealer: I bought this amazing horse for a heck of a deal and was so excited to get her ready but a week after I bought her I cut my foot off with a chain saw and was laid up in bed for 2 months.
Me: Silent as my jaw fell open

That's right Ladies, he cut his foot off with a chainsaw. I am not sure if it was the whole foot, part of his foot or what, but still. That ranks right up there with one of my dealers that got his finger cut off by a belt and he didn't go to the emergency room because they were going to charge too much money. So, he did what anyone would do, take a stapler and stapled it back on.....

The dealers do keep my job interesting.

He's in the Army NOW

Yesterday was a very hard day for my family. My older brother finally swore in and shipped out to Basic Training, something he has been waiting for since April. That is just when all the paperwork started, he has really been working towards it for years now.

There were a lot of tears, mine were mostly for my sister in law. I am not worried about my brother, he is going to be fine. This is something he has wanted for a very long time and when he puts all of his energy in to something you can't stop him. My sister in law, knew this day was coming but you can try your damnedest to prepare your self for being alone but you still go in to shock when it finally comes. She broke down in the car and asked "what am I supposed to do without him?" She is scared, of being alone, loosing touch and going through her pregnancy with out her husband,She is almost 4 months along now.

I am really lost with the post. I guess that is all I am going to write for now, I mean I am still in disbelief that I said good bye to my brother yesterday and won't see or hear from him until Christmas. Please keep my family in your prayers. We need strength right now.

Have a good Thursday everyone.

Movin on up!

Lot's of fun and exciting things going on in the G house hold.

This weekend was my open house. It didn't go too badly and people came and bought stuff but it wasn't as big a turn out as I had hoped. The good news is I have Christmas pretty much done, every woman in my family is going to get one candle and a little something else. Well, the candle side of it is done and with some web surfing last night so are the rest of their gifts. The Dads aren't that hard to shop for but the brothers are. I have no earthly idea on what to get those three.... I am going to have to do some digging to see what they want.

My friend came and picked up the furniture I sold her, and in turn offered for us to use her trailer when we moved. Heck yeah!!!! We really didn't want to dish out that kind of money around Christmas time so I thanked her profusely. After we got everything loaded Hubs and I went to look at a potential apartment. It was a townhouse a little further outside of the main drag of town, which will be a little change of pace for us. We go and meet with Judy and she asks if we are aware of the specials and I told her what I was told and then she said also if you sign today I will give you a new washer and dryer for free. I mean give as it is ours forever and free as in the low low price of NADA!!!!! She left to go put my license in her desk and Hubs leans over and says " I don't care if I hate we are moving here." Much to my surprise, he loved it! So we turned in our application and paid our deposit and even got our unit. The couple that was in the office during all of this was turning in the keys to our place. We talked to them about living there and the unit itself and they said they loved it there and the only reason they are moving is because they bought a house. We drove by our new place and we are just really excited about living some place that is quite, clean and safe.

I am writing my letter of reentry to Bradford today. Hopefully they will take me back, Cross your fingers!!!!

things I love.

I was going through my old xanga page last night and I one night just made a list of everything I loved at that moment. Now, that moment was over 4 years ago so I think it is time for another Love moment.

I love:
my husband, my family, my dog, candles, wii, real house wives of ATL, Glee, America's Next top model,SYTYCD, my fleece jacket, my wedding dress, the trees that leaves look they are on fire, sweaters, hot chocolate, long hot showers, make up, high heels, navajo bronze hair dye, head bands, thunder storms, gloomy days, naps, lazy Sundays, pay Fridays, chocolate chip cookies, chipotle, diet coke, long talks, late nights, crafts, shopping, singing, music in general, bible study, my Cabernet nail polish, cute socks, a new recipe, Christmas, a good fire, long drives, SPANX (probably the best invention ever), lotion, my engagement ring and wedding band, reading a good book, anything polka dot, a fresh snow, laughing, making lists, quiz shows, musical theater, dancing, getting flowers for no reason, date nights with husband, going to the movies, Iowa, Paris, France, Euphoria by CK, Flip flops, getting tan, eating out, finding money in a pocket of your jeans, a clean house, a good burp ( I know its gross but can be so enjoyable), Hawaiian pizza, spicy food, old Christmas music, cuddling, and last but not least..... MY BLOG!

If I look at this list, I just get happy thinking of everything. What do you ladies love?

Wedding purging brings back memories

I have been purging my life of everything related to weddings that I had kept during the wedding process. Magazines, inspiration boards, blogs, handouts from bridal shows and even the wedding binder that I kept for years, with just cool ideas of course wedding dresses.


The hardest thing was probably my magazine collection, the oldest magazine I had was from 2005 so you can imagine how many I had. I wasn't crazy I just love weddings. I think it is so cool to see how something that is a ceremony and reception and be turned in such a different experience due to the bride and grooms vision. so I would purchase and just sink in to the the newest issue of the knot, like a good book. I have stopped recordings on my DVR and stopped following many of the wedding blogs that I used to obsess with 10 months ago. It made me start to think about the very beginning of wedding planning, how what you think you want can turn on a dime and how inspiration can come from left field.

I found my wedding binder, the very first thing that I made with my wedding vision. Now, I made this a long time ago and it is so funny to see how things changed. When I made it I wanted a fall wedding, with deep reds, coppers and golds. Huge centerpieces with tree branches and candle light, fall leaves strewn on the tables, dark rich fabrics all tying it together. What a difference a year made. My brother got married the year before me and they had a fall color wedding, I held that book with a death grip because I was so afraid they were going to steal my ideas. Then when everything started to come together I finally let go of my fall wedding, it was hard because I had everything planned, before I even had a ring.

Then I realized I had this huge blank canvas in front of me and I could do anything I wanted. But what did I want to do. I thought about the bride and grooms favorite colors, Blue and orange. NO!!!! Hubs favorite college football team is Auburn and they are blue and orange. I bought magazines, watched wedding shows, scoured the knot for inspiration and nothing. I wasn't sure what I wanted,but nothing was grabbing me. I started to watch movies with amazing costuming like Marie Antoinette, waititng for a spark, then as I was watching her run down a hallway in this amazing dress I thought maybe a really light robins egg blue with a dark scarlet and bright white to accent it. I thought Christmas time and what I could do with it;The girls in scarlet with a robins egg blue sash around their waist, white chairs with blue sashes, frosted glasses, crimson candle holders, white tree branches, blue sheer linens, a faux fur wrap for me and a bright, bold red lip. Even after all of that, I still went "eh" I wasn't convinced. It was also a very popular color combo at the time and I wanted something different, or wasn't in the knot in the last 6 months.
Feeling a little defeated I halted my search and I decided to watch 27 dresses just for fun. I saw the horrendous dresses and laughed, then the end of the movie came and it was Jane's wedding day. I saw her bridesmaid dresses and there it was, a soft yellow with green. The light bulb went off and all of these ideas started to flow through me. I grabbed a pen and paper and started to write down everything that was naturally yellow and/or green... bananas, lemons, tulips, roses, the sun, most veggies, limes, belles of Ireland, then it popped out at me LEMONS AND LIMES!!!!! I started to google and that was it. I decided to use all different shades of yellow and green, lemons and limes centerpieces, accented with white and sliver. It was clean, warm, fun and something that I could only recall seeing maybe once before. It was perfect. I ran it by fiance and he said he liked the idea and from that point on I was hooked. Anything and everything yellow and/or green caught my eye. Friends and family would call and tell me about a cute nick knack they found. It was really amazing.

Because I am getting rid of everything or putting in a box to go in to storage, when this type of memory hits I want to write it down, because I didn't keep a wedding book, I know fail on my part. I hope you guys enjoyed this little walk down memory lane. Have a great Thursday ladies!!!!

inspiration

I need some. I really haven't felt the pull to blog recently. I mean I even forgot a tasty Tuesday...

I am tired. Tired of being sick, Sunday and Monday was the worst I have felt in a while. I had so much sinus pressure behind my eyes, that I could barely open them, not to mention my left one was almost swollen shut. I was a hot mess let me tell you.

The worst part is I was sick for Hubs' birthday, he turned the big 25 and I was passed out on the couch with a mound of tissues around me... I don't feel to super bad about it because he got the ultimate birthday gift and that kept him busy and me too since then.

Today is the first day I can say I feel better. About 75% so hopefully I will keep getting better.

It is official, we are staying in Ohio. Husband keeps telling everyone it is because we didn't' know how much money JWU was and I finally set him straight. I knew how much it was and he was the one with sticker shock when I told him. The reason I suggested we stay here is because we are both gainfully employed while in NC he had absolutely no prospects, none, Nada. And I wasn't willing to put my schooling on hold until he became employed. So that is the real reason.... don't believe him if he tells you different, ha!

We turned in our notice at our current apartment. With them raising our rent to the tune of $750 a month, we feel that for that money we should 1. feel safe in our home, which we don't considering in 2 weeks there have been 2 break ins and an arrest in front of our house, 2. should feel that our complex is taken care of, which they already raised our rent $5.00 to cover trash. Which I know isn't going to break the bank. BUT! The trash doesn't come on a regular basis, the bulk trash pick up never comes (there has been a love seat by my dumpster for 3 months, and when I went to the office to complain they said I should call the bulk trash people, because they already had. I told them no, because that is why I live in an apartment and not my own home, if I need something fixed or want to complain I come to you. Not the other way around. I know that I should have been nicer but the lady did give me attitude.) , and they never get all the trash in the garbage truck so it is strewn about the complex.

I know what you are thinking, "Mrs. G why would you move to such a place?" It was affordable when we moved in, and we didn't know we were going to get an apartment in the red-headed stepchild section of the complex. I mean we are in the very last building of the complex, so no one cares.

The hunt is now on for a bigger and better place. I found one I really like that hubs and I are going to look at on Sunday. So fingers crossed he likes it and it makes it to our list of possibilities.

Saturday I am having a party at my place, well it is more of an open house. For Mary Kay and Gold Canyon Candles. I made the mistake of having in on Halloween because I thought I was moving and wanted to have one last party like this to support my friends.Sothe turn out is going to be slim. I am kind of bummed, guess I should have planned that better. Sorry Ladies!!!!

The rest of my week will contain a cleaning spree, apartment hunting and getting some other little honey do's done. Should be productive, NO! it will be productive.

Clarity

So, lot of stuff has been discussed with hubs and the little light that I needed was shed!

I am doing this amazing bible study and last week we discussed living with out fear. Can you imagine it, what are you afraid of (think bigger than spiders and snakes, how does feeding into those fears take you farther and farther away from your path, you plan. Needless to say, it really spoke to me. I am a planner and if I could plan my whole life out I would, right here and right now. But, my near future was up in the air, and depending on someone else, scary!

Well, I decided to write down everything that had been eating away at me, lingering in my head, weighing heavy in my heart and it felt so good to see everything and get all my fears in order and bring it to the table with husband. I had my thoughts on a 2 year program vs. a 4 year, moving vs. staying, Bradford vs. JWU, the what could happen and outcomes of everything. It felt like a huge weight had been lifted from me and so husband and I talked about pros and cons of each and let it sit for awhile. Still, I was/still am a little restless because we still haven't said this is what is going to happen. He really doesn't want to be here for another winter, but he has no job prospects. I put apply for loans on hold because I didn't want to get all this money and have to go out there alone or have something fall through.

Then last nights study happened. Beth Moore talked about waiting, waiting for the right time. She said we are always on the edge of a major decision waiting for something. And I really I am. I want this decision, whatever it is to feel right, to feel good for my husband and I. Then she said, that sometimes you have to wait until someone elses right time. I thought about that too, maybe this isn't the right time for us to try to move, with everything my family is going to go through this upcoming year, maybe I am needed here, maybe he doesn't want Hubs to miss out on something here. Then I get the call....

The flooring specialist is leaving the store and coincidentally got a job in Charlotte. He said that he was going to refer hubs as the new specialist if he is interested, hubs said yes. So, basically husband has the chance to get a promotion, pay increase, and probably better hours. I got chills when he told me this, and looked up (in a comical way) and said " Ok, I got message." So Husband and I are going to finalize everything this weekend. Our lease is up and I really want out of our apartment. I mean it is an ok place but they are raising rent $100.00 and there have been 2 break ins the past week in my neck of the development. So needless to say when I am by myself at night I don't feel entirely safe. I will let you know what the DECISION 2009 will be.

This weekend= Christmas Decoration shopping (don't judge me they are on sale this weekend at kohls, plus it is friends and family), My brothers going away party, shopping for Hubs Birthday he is going to be the big 25!And as always cleaning. I am having a Gold Canyon Candle and Mary Kay open house next weekend which is going to be KICKIN!!!!

Did I mention I may become a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant! I am so Excited!!!!! Another thing for Hubs and I to make a final DECISION on.

I want everyone to have a fun filled weekend! Tootles!!!!

falling in love with fall part 2

So after seeing this blog entry at ucreate I thought "that belongs on my front door", and "I can do that." And I did!

After painting, placing, twisting wire, playing with ribbon to get it just right. Here is my fall wreath...






What do you think? I think for my slight crafty ability it turned out pretty well. Hubs was pretty geeked out about it too.

P.S. Michael's fall decorations are all 40-60% off! That wreath hanger was only $2.00! So excited, plus they are have there Christmas stuff in. Already started planning the Christmas decorations, all are going to be handmade this year. Can't wait to get started!

Tasty Tuesday

an amazing appetizer coming your way!!!




What you will need:
* 1/2 (17.3 ounce) package Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry Sheets
* 1 egg
* 1 tablespoon water
* 1/3 cup dried cherries, softened*
* 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
* 1/4 cup honey
* 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
* 1 (13.2 ounce) round Brie cheese
* 1 (26 ounce) package Pepperidge Farm® Entertaining Cracker Quartet Collection

What to do:
1. Thaw the pastry sheet at room temperature for 40 minutes or until it's easy to handle. Heat the oven to 400 degrees F. Beat the egg and water in a small bowl with a fork.
2. Unfold the pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Roll the pastry sheet into a 14-inch square. Stir the cherries, pecans, honey and rosemary in a small bowl. Spread the cherry mixture into the center of the pastry square. Top with the cheese round. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg mixture. Fold two opposite sides of the pastry over the cheese. Trim the remaining two sides of the pastry square to 2-inches from the edge of the cheese. Fold the sides up onto the cheese and press the edges to seal. Place the pastry-wrapped cheese seam-side down onto a baking sheet. Brush the pastry with the egg mixture.
3. Decorate the top with pastry scraps or additional rosemary, if desired. Brush the pastry with the egg mixture.
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is deep golden brown. Let stand for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Serve with the crackers.

recipe courtsey of allrecipes.com

I wasn't tagged ...

but I wanted to do this anyway!

1. Where is your cell phone? mouse pad
2. Your hair? in a pony tail
3. Your mother? Loving
4. Your father? Child like
5. Your favorite food? Homemade mac and cheese with fish sticks
6. Your dream last night? Dot going to the vet
7. Your favorite drink? Fountain coke
8. Your dream/goal? finish school
9. What room are you in? at work...
10. Your hobby? sleeping
11. Your fear? have to many to choose just one
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? a bun in the oven and one on my hip
13. Where were you last night? home
14. Something that you aren’t? skinny
15. Muffins? chocolate chip
16. Wish list item? wii
17. Where did you grow up? Ohio
18. Last thing you did? took a sip of coffee
19. What are you wearing? yellow argyle
20. Your TV? is at home but I am anticipating Glee this week
21. Your pets? Dot
22. Friends? Amazing
23. Your life? Up in the air
24. Your mood? sunny with a chance of showers
25. Missing someone? not at the moment
26. Vehicle? Subaru
27. Something you’re not wearing? shoes... they are under my desk
28. Your favorite store? Old Navy
29. Your favorite color? Orange
30. When was the last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? Last night
32. Your best friend? Mrs. E
33. One place that I go to over and over? no where in particular
34. One person who emails me regularly? Mrs. E and Mom
35. Favorite place to eat? Carrabas

Look for a Tasty Tuesday later today!

Falling in love with fall.

Hello ladies. I hope that you had a great weekend!

Saturday I was supposed to clean the house like a mad woman but decided that watching the game with my mom was a better idea. When we decided to turn off the game, if I saw one more fumble I was going to scream, we chatted about the up coming holidays and can I say I am so PUMPED!

This is my favorite time of year. The changing of the leaves, the sweater wearing, hot chocolate sipping, family time, anticipating Christmas.

The hubs and I had some money left over on a gift card for Kohls and I decided that we needed a little fall in our lives... so My mom and I went to Kohls and found the most amazing table set up for my November Dinner! I am so excited...it is very Better Homes and Gardens. I picked out a burnt orange, green, red and yellow plaid place mat with a matching solid green napkin. The napkins are being held by a ring of fall leaves with a twine bow. I decided for presentation sake to use my gold chargers that we got as a wedding present before we brake out out good china we also got.

Then came the centerpiece, I didn't know what I wanted to do. Our table is kind of small, so that kind of limits my options. Should I do a real pumpkin? A filled glass hurricane? Then my mom found the perfect item for my centerpiece, a cute ceramic pumpkin. It isn't to big and I can use it year after year! Kids this looks totally awesome and I am in decorating mode now.I think this Friday I am going to make a wreath for the front door and carve my pumpkin. But Seriously, it took everything I had to not raid the Christmas section, they some awesome decorations this year... some of which will be in my home soon.

This is my first holiday season with my Husband, and it is his first without his family. In my family if you have anything like thanksgiving around it my dad and step mom get mad, if you don't spend all day there they get mad, if you ask to make something they get mad, if you leave before the grandparents they get mad. Sometimes it becomes a fight to see who gets who at there thanksgiving. So I am not having thanksgiving, I am having a November dinner...

It will be a little get to together where I can entertain family, use my culinary skills and get to use all my new cookware, tableware and serve ware I got from the wedding. It is also a chance for hubs and I to start our own traditions which is very exciting.








Have a lovely day all!

Shed some light....

I hate being so whiny... but whatev.


Ok. To make a long story short, I am still going to school but had to change my start date to spring quarter which will mean my start date is in March now. TO give us a little breathing room to try to tackle this one thing at a time.

I was talking to a friend yesterday and she asked if I wanted to do a girls night in December and I told her that I may not be here to her response "Yeah its already the middle of October." It really hit me like a ton of bricks. It is the Middle of October and Hubs hasn't gotten a transfer, which I have a whole set of issues with.
And I have sent in my FAFSA, but haven't started applying for loans because I am not going to start if Hubs can't get a transfer or a new job. It is a never ending non productive cycle.

I will say the whole way he is handling this is less than desirable. I say that because I feel like he is dragging his feet. I feel a common theme with my husband is he does enough so no one can say he didn't do anything, but he doesn't give 100%. And it is to stuff that he doesn't particularly care for i.e. house work, finding a job...I want to interject that this is me looking in on a situation. I feel this way because he doesn't do things the way I would do them. I am working on this....

So we talked about it and we agreed that it was to much to take on at once. Wedding, honeymoon, new job, move, school. So we are just focusing on job right now. Take it one thing at a time. I told my dear old husband to not procrastinate or become complacent... he can and he has had a history of it.

I will say I hate that once again I have to put my education on hold. It is something that I fiecrly want to accomplish in my life. But Lets face it, the more and more I put it off the less and less I will believe it is achievable and I will end up working in a call center for the rest of my life with golden handcuffs around my wrists.

I am beginning to think what is the point anyway. I mean I have always said that I am not some modern woman that wants to bring home the bacon and fry it up too. I want to be a stay at home mom. Now I say stay at home mom instead of homemaker because I am doing it solely for my kids, as soon as they are out at the bus stop I am back at work. So, I know that it is important to continue one's education but why put out the cash that I don't have and will never have to get a degree to stay home and finger paint with my kids? I mean School was the reason that Hubs and I were putting off starting the family. I mean not that we were going to start soon but it is the reason to start Later rather than sooner. If I were to go to school it would be a good 4 years before kids would even be mentioned. But, if that isn't there... Can you tell I am conflicted?

Also, on my mind is if I start in March that is one month away from the birth of my Niece or Nephew. Do I really want to miss this? The answer is no. But I don't know what to do? Should I stay in absence of my brother? Will it make that much of a difference if I am there or not?

I have been praying for guidance. Just some light on this situation. Well, all the situations and still feel so in the dark. All of this has been toiling inside for awhile now, and I just need.....help.

Tasty Tuesday!

Hello Bloggers. I hope you are ready for a new tasty Tuesday!

With Thanksgiving right around the corner I thought I would share an amazing turkey recipe that I tried last year and it was amazing! The Turkey came out so juicy and flavorful it actually made me like turkey. I am a total ham eater for the holidays, but this is totally something that I will be making for years to come.

What you'll need:
* 1 sticks unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
* 1/4 bunch fresh sage, finely chopped
* Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
* 1 (12 to 14-pound) fresh turkey, giblets, neck, and liver discarded
* 8 strips bacon
* 1/2 cup maple syrup
* 2 tablespoons hot water

What to do:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and remove the top rack of the oven.

Put the butter and sage in a mixing bowl and mash with a fork or spoon until the sage is well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.

Rinse the bird thoroughly inside and out with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the cavity and skin liberally with salt and pepper. Using your fingers, gently lift the skin from the turkey breast and slip the remaining seasoned butter under, massaging the breast meat as you go. Truss the bird by crossing the legs over one another and tying with a piece of kitchen twine. Shingle the bacon strips over the breast so it's totally covered. Put the turkey on a rack in a large roasting pan, cover the turkey with aluminium foil, and place in the oven.

In a small bowl, stir the maple syrup with 2 tablespoons of hot water to thin. Roast the turkey for 2 hours, basting with the maple glaze every 30 minutes. Continue cooking until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the meaty part of the thigh registers 170 degrees F. The thigh juices will run clear when pricked with a knife, about 3 hours total (15 minutes per pound). About 1/2 hour before you think the turkey is done, remove the foil so that it can brown. When done take the turkey out of the oven and put the roasting pan on the stovetop. Transfer the turkey to a serving tray to rest at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with Turkey Gravy.

Enjoy!!!!


Recipe courtesy of foodnetwork.com

I'm Back!!!!

Hello Bloggies! Did you miss me? I am back and ready to blog.

The week went by to quickly if you ask me but I am glad to be home and back in to the swing of things.

I am really antsy to do my wedding themed blogs in there entireity but my photog is out of the country for 3 weeks...so here's hoping I get them before we move. I have so many pics of the honeymoon so that will be added to the wedding themed blog list.

Well, I am gonna leave ya with a hello and it's good to be back.

Talk to you later!

TGIF!

We are down to hours people!!!! That's right, hours from now I will be whisked away (at an absurd hour in the morning.. ahem 4 am) to a cruise ship where for 7 days I get to enjoy my husband and myself. I am so geeked out right now!!! We have never been on a real trip together, it is has just been me traveling to him or vice versa.

I have a question for you ladies. When packing for a trip, do you pack just enough for the allotted time of being away or do you pack a plethora of options?

I ask for this reason. I may have gone overboard with my packing but I justify it as, if I have forgotten something I can't just hop in my car and drive to Wal- Mart. The whole being in the middle of the ocean thing totally hinders that. So as I am packing I am thinking along the lines of, well I want cute somethings to wear just around, maybe some more out doors-y stuff for when we are walking around the ports, and then the nice dresses for dinner. I mean am I wrong here? I weighed my bag yesterday sans toiletries and it was already at 40 lbs... that's right, half my summer wardrobe and 6 pairs of shoes will do that to a person. Now, once I got all of toiletries in the bag, which mind you barely shut when it was all said and done... it was 54 lbs. Hubs about freaked out, and then got a good laugh about it when I told him my Wal-mart theory. I am one of those people/women that like to bring the comforts of home with them, and nothing makes it more like home than a full closet.

Well Lovelies, I leave you now for a week. But! I will take tons of pictures and have lots to blog about when I get back!!!

thankful Thursday!

Good afternoon Ladies! I am sitting at home right now because this morning, as I was driving in to work, I had this horrible sharp pain in my eye and it began to water like it was Niagara falls. All of a sudden I couldn't keep my eyes open, and I became and instant driving hazard. So I turned around and look like a pirate, patch and all arrrrgh!

Anyway things I am thankful for:
1. Inventory being over. It is a break in the mundane, BUT! being so sore you can't move, dirty alllllll over, and (I know this is TMI) gray snot from all the dust, is just not my cup of tea.
2.That I leave on my Honeymoon on Saturday. THAT IS RIGHT! THIS SATURDAY! LIKE 48 HOURS!
3.A clean house. Mine isn't there yet but it will be before we leave.
4.Chocolate Chip cookies, I tried a new recipe and it is de-lish. Bible study girls, get your sweet tooth's ready!

What are you thankful for?

It's another.... Tasty Tuesday!!!!

Baby it's cold outside!

There was no easing in to fall here in the buckeye state. So now it is time to hunker down in a big cozy sweater (which I have a ton of!), hot cup of coco, and big wool socks and embrace this change in the season.

Fall is by far on of my favorite seasons, not just only for the beautiful colors but also because it is time to whip up hearty soups and meaty chili's. I am not sure about you guys but on a 90 degree summer day my stomach never growls for chili. So, as I have switched my wardrobes this weekend from summer to fall,I also put the grill and accessories away and broke out the big cooking crocks and stock pots.

Today it is a beautiful day with a definite hint of fall crispness in the air so what better to way warm you up than a nice big bowl of New England Clam Chowder (or as I like to say Chowda)

I had tried the Campbell's version of NCC but thought it gritty and bland. It wasn't until I was in Culinary school, in my Soups, stocks and sauces that I stumbled upon my now favorite soup. This recipe does take time but it is sooooooo worth it. It makes a hearty, flavorful soup that just sticks to your bones and warms you inside and out.

What you need:
½ TB Clarified Butter
1.25 Oz salt Pork
2 oz Med diced Onion
6 oz Clam juice
4 oz Chopped Clam
6 oz Milk
2 oz Heavy Cream
All purpose flour
White Roux
Salt and white peper to taste

What to do:

In pan render salt pork over med heat
Add onion and cook slowly, until soft. Do not brown
Add flour to make a roux, do not let brown
Using a whisk stir the clam juice in to the roux. Stir until liquid comes to a boil remember to stir constantly
Add the potatoes and simmer until tender
Stir in clams and add hot milk and cream, heat gently, but do not boil
Season to taste with salt and white pep

There you go Ladies... Stay warm!!!!

Fight, fight, fight, fight!!!! a weekend recap

This weekend was supposed to be filled with honeymoon anticipation and cleaning. All of which happened, just with a few set backs....

first. On Tuesday of last week I told husband that on Saturday we were getting up at 9 am so that we could get an early start to our day of cleaning. He did protest and gave me the line "but its my weekend." I refreshed his memory to the fact that he had Wednesday and Thursday off too so I didn't feel bad for him. Remember the long blog I wrote about some of the issues I was having with hubs? Well that whole blog was about to make an appearance....

Flash forward to Saturday and we both get up and go to the living room to make a game plan for the day. He sits down and the first thing he says to me is " I will only clean on one condition, that I can listen to ESPN college game day as I clean." Now, I know I blew this way out of proportion but, I know my husband, I know that college football is the cheese to his macaroni. That is why I wanted to get an early start, get everything done before the games start, or at least have a big enough dent that we were ready for a break anyway. Another thing I know about m y husband... he doesn't listen, he watches. He won't even mute the game so we can talk, he says it isn't the same. I felt defeated and kind of pissed off. Why didn't he tell me he wanted to watch this show? I mean I love sleep too, could still be doing it right now if he would have told me. I can feel the heat of anger start to rise from my tippy toes and I just get up and go get dressed. I come back in to the room stone faced, to him laying back on the sofa watching his beloved game day.

I go to the gercoery store, in a fowl mood, come home, to hubs sitting in the exact position and so is the mess, and start cleaning. I really wasn't paying any attention at first because I was busy putting stuff away, but I soon realize that I am alone in my cleaning venture. Hubs is sitting on the couch..... still. I start to think to myself, why am I going to clean if he is just going to sit there? This is his house too.
I walk away..... I walk in to the bedroom and just lay down. I am the type of person that was cursed with a very short temper, but I have system in which to control my temper, I walk away so I can collect my thoughts and cool off. Now, I never like to back down but I have a mouth on me too, a mouth and temper are a lethal combination. I didn't want to say anything to hubs that I knew I would regret and feel guilty for. Also, I hate being mean, it paints such an ugly picture.

So the fight begins and last for about an hour. We yell, curse, cry and yell some more. I didn't want to resolve our problems through a fight but, for this instance it did. It was strangely productive.

We both go to air a lot of our grievances, we talked about his "I will get it later" attitude, my expectations of him, his lack of respect for our home, his expectations of me, and so on and so on. Which opened our eyes to a lot of things that we really came to realize was the elephant in the room. We were working against each other, he was still acting like he was a bachelor in his bachelor pad, while I was a conflicted new wife. I didn't want to nag, and it took everything I had to not scream when I felt like I was living with a 12 year old.

What still really hurts to know is when I said " I know this is an apartment, but this is our home, we made this place, this atmosphere together and I don't think you respect that." He agreed whole heartedly. His reaction was "This is just an apartment." I told him he needs to get over himself real quick because this is the type of housing we are going to have for at least the next 5 years. And I will be dammed if I feel like this for the first 5 years of our marriage. I mean I laid it out for him, every ounce of feeling I had, was out there. Which is strange for me.

This is new to us, fighting. We were long distance for 5 and a half years. When you are fighting on the phone all you have to do is hang up and turn off. Now we are face to face, there is on where to run, you have to stay and fight. Which I hope we don't do that often. I mean I am a realist and I know it will happen some, but lets be optimistic as well.

after the shouting stopped and we actually talked about what was going on, and our expectations we were saying our I'm sorrys to each other with in 15 minutes. Like I said this was a reality check for both of us. This is new for the both of us and even though we have been together for 6 years, we haven't been together.


Anyway, after the blow out we started working as a team and had the common areas pretty much cleaned. Then we took a break and I went to a Gold Canyon/Mary Kay Party which I mean come on, what girl doesn't like amazing smelling candles and make up.

We also got all packed up for the CRUISE!!!!!!! I am so excited, I can't even tell you. We leave on Saturday, for a week long cruise in the west Caribbean, SO PUMPED.

How was your weekend ladies?

I've come to realize...

1. I've come to realize that my hair:
will always be stick straight, no matter how hard I try to make it wavy or curly.

2. I've come to realize that when I talk:
That I sound like a sarcastic northerner.... wait...

3. I've come to realize that if I make a mistake:
i will admit it, no matter how much I don't want to.

4. I've come to realize that all I really need is:
love and support... and diet coke

5. I've come to realize that I've lost:
friends. My high school reunion is coming up and seeing everyone who has RSVPed it is funny how people that you thought you would be friends with after high school drop you like a bad habit and act like you were never friends.

6. I've come to realize that I hate:
money. It isn't a new realization, it is just one that I realize every day.

7. I've come to realize that if I were to get drunk:
I would probably cry. I tend to keep things bottled up and really have to let my guard down to deal with them.

8. I've come to realize that money:
you don't need it to be happy, but it sure can help.

9. I've come to realize that when I get old:
I may have some regrets, and think what if?

10. I've come to realize that I'll always be:
a worry wart, sometimes pessimistic, but I try really hard to be optimistic most of the time. Long story short. I will be me. Deal with it.

11. I've come to realize that I have a crush on:
My husband of course but also on most musicians. A man that can play an instrument or sing makes me weak in the knees... i.e. Dave Matthews, Michael Buble, Rob Pattinson.

12. I've come to realize that the last time I cried:
it was during Husband and I's first married couple fight.

13. I've come to realize that my cell phone:
used to be something that I just had to have, now it is my security blanket.

14. I've come to realize that when I wake up in the morning:
I should have gone to bed earlier.

15. I've come to realize that before I go to sleep at night:
I over analyze everything in my head and can't turn my brain off.

16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking about:
My honeymoon, which starts next Saturday!!!!

17. I've come to realize that my life:
is going to get pretty scary here in a few months

18. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook:
I get nosy.

19. I've come to realize that tonight I will:
probably still be doing laundry

20. I've come to realize that tomorrow I will:
be counting filters, and engines at work. gotta love inventory

21. I've come to realize that I really want:
reliable friends that I can truly count on

22. I've come to realize that the person who is most likely to repost this is:
I am not going to tag anyone, I am just avoiding laundry and cleaning.

23. I've come to realize that relationships:
are hard no matter what kind and how involved you are.

24. I've come to realize that love:
is amazing.

25. I've come to realize my best girl friends:
are my saving graces and I love them all.

26. I've come to realize my best guy friends:
give me different perspective.

28. I've come to realize food can:
make me happy and miserable at the same time.

29: I've come to realize that this summer:
was very stressful,but had a wonderful outcome.

30. I've come to realize heartbreak:
happens to everyone

31. I've come to realize that my ex:
don't really have one.

32. I've come to realize that my sister(s)?brother(s)
are just like one person they don't want to be like.... then again so am I.

33. I've come to realize that crying:
doesn't make me feel better, it just makes me feel weak.

34. I've come to realize that death:
is gonna happen, hopefully much much later rather than sooner.

35. I've come to realize that if I'm sick:
I am very stubborn.

36. I've come to realize when I'm bored:
I really have other things I should be doing, but I am just putting them off. Gotta love Procrastination!

37. I've come to realize that work:
doesn't always get to be something you love

38. I've come to realize that family:
you can grow and so can your family, even if some members of said family want grow with you.

39. I've come to realize when I go shopping:
I spend waaaaaaaaaay to much and have buyers remorse after wards.

40. I've come to realize:
that this survey is 40 questions.