For us, Christmas isn't measured by how many items you received on one's wish list, but by the combination of moments throughout the day that make one happy. Based on this, I had a very wonderful Christmas.
We drove to Cypress in 2:35 on Saturday--record time. It was raining the entire time, and we haven't seen that much rain in a long time (merry Christmas, Grass and Trees). Shortly after arriving, I realized that I had forgotten our basket of items, which included the rosemary dinner rolls I had stayed up baking the night before, our homemade applesauce, and my salad for dinner. I cried. I can't believe I forgot it on the kitchen island. I wasn't going to be able to stick to WW very well without a salad. Click the "panic" button. Marshall was sweet enough to offer to take us to the grocery store and pick up a replacement salad and rolls, which we did.
Before dinner commenced, we opened crackers, put on our paper crowns, and read the jokes that came with them. Marshall's parents put a lot of effort into the meal, and everyone enjoyed it immensely. Afterwards Marshall and I took a nap, then as a family we watched A Christmas Story. When it was through we drove around the neighborhood and looked at Christmas lights. I love looking at Christmas lights, especially when you can see decorations inside the house through the windows. I like seeing other people's trees too. I have no idea what time my husband came to bed, but I was asleep by 11pm. My body got me up Christmas morning, bright and early, and the ripe time of 6:30am.
My father-in-law made us breakfast, and then Marshall woke up. Afterwards we opened presents one by one. Santa brought me a book of card game rules, an ornament, a pinball game with a prize inside and electronic kitchen timer that can track 4 different things at once. Joy gave me an amazing set of boxing targets and ladies' gloves. I've wanted these so I can do cardio and strength training indoors. Jeff gave me a Le Crueset skillet that looks amazing for stir fry vegetables! Marshall gave the the exact same timer (hehehe), fuzzy socks, and a gold plated venetian mask with diamonds on it. I absolutely love it! In fact, I wore it the entire way home to Austin yesterday.
After presents we cleaned up the now empty boxes and shredded wrapping paper. Joy and I looked through a digital scrapbook her mother had made of her time at BYU in the 1940s. We left at 2pm for Austin. On the way home, Marshall wanted to know if I still wanted to wait until Monday morning to open all the remaining gifts at our house (from my family and each other). Since we were coming back earlier than expected, we decided to continue Christmas when we arrived home.
I made french toast, scrambled eggs, and browned some left-over ham slices that was sent home with us. We lit the candles on our table centerpiece and had a nice little dinner. I had been craving french toast. Now I'm much better. :) The first presents we opened were the cat's stockings. They must have been good babies because Santa Cat brought each of them a can of Fancy Feast, something they had never had before. Maggie doesn't seem to like wet food very much because she didn't eat much of her turkey & giblet flavored treat. Misti and Santa went to town though!! Then I asked Marshall to open to other present that Santa Cat had given the Reeske Cats--it was a set of three Christmas themed picture frame ornaments with a picture of each cat in black and white already in it. Marshall thought they were adorable and wants to keep them out all year long because they also have a stand.
We opened our stockings first. Mine had two books and a gift certificate for a massage! His had new pens and a bag of his favorite cookie mix. Then we opened gifts from my family. My sister Rachael got me make-up and Marshall a three-step shaving package. My parents got Marshall a WW scale, which at first he thought was for me. I had to tell him it was for him even though it was a WW brand. It calculates BMI and body fat too. He's really excited. He also received a book light for late night reading. I received little baking loaf pans with size appropriate spatulas, mini tart/quiche pans, two mini bundt cake pans, WW chocolates, little cow clip magnets for the fridge, and an electric skillet. I can't want to go through my new WW cookbook and find recipes I can make in it.
Marshall loved all his gifts from me, and it seems his favorite is a sea sponge I picked up at Bed Bath & Beyond. He's wanted one that can really clean him up well. He liked the stand-up fan for the garage, new air hose, bamboo cutting boards and socks. I had written him a Christmas themed non-fiction story, and it came with a gift associated with the narrative. He opened the story, but read it later that night. Then he opened the present and was baffled at the wooden yo-yo. Later that night while we were in the first living room reading, I saw him get to the end of the story and pick up the yo-yo. He finally understood, and absolutely loved it. It even made him tear up, and I've never been able to do that before!! He brings me happy tears all the time, but I've never been able to do it to him.
My husband spoiled me this year for sure. He got me all the books on my wish list including a woman's health one that my friends had recommended. We now have our own Apples to Apples game too! I have a new bird house that is a wooden cabin that has a sign "Moose Lodge" and another towards the bottom that reads, "No bears allowed." I love it so much. I was the second to last present I opened, and the package was too big to contain a bird house. I was starting to wonder if I was going to receive one at all! He also got me a rack for inside the pantry door so I have even more storage. He's going to bolt it down for me today. His last gift was completely unexpected. He refurbished his '08 white Mac notebook for me that had liquid spilled on it months ago and wasn't working. I can lay my Dell 1200 laptop that I bought in September 2005 for college to rest. I was so shocked and completely overwhelmed. I had never received such a gift on Christmas before. We had a wonderful time having our little Christmas at home together.
We wanted to watch the Muppets Christmas Carol, but it wasn't on Netflix--can you believe that?! I think I'm going to look for some classic Christmas movies on DVD and start a nice collection for us to watch each year.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas as well!
Monday, December 26, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Milking the Moment
Merry Christmas Readers!!
It is early on Christmas morning, and I'm sitting at the kitchen table with my mother- and father-in-law at their home in Cypress, Texas. The living room next to us is dark, but the ornament tree is gently glowing in the corner like a modest queen over her servants at hand. Before going to sleep, there were our 12 presents plus about 6 that were there already. Now there must be double that amount! Santa was very generous this year.
Now my father-in-law is making me egg-in-holes for breakfast. It's a slice of English toasting bread with the center cut out and an egg in the middle cooked over easy (Marshall prefers an over-hard egg in his). My mother-in-law is doing her morning crossword in the Sunday newspaper across the table from me. My husband is still asleep. His dad is going to go wake him up when he's through cooking. Then we can all transfer to the living room and open our stockings. This is our Christmas morning thus far. More updates to come!
It is early on Christmas morning, and I'm sitting at the kitchen table with my mother- and father-in-law at their home in Cypress, Texas. The living room next to us is dark, but the ornament tree is gently glowing in the corner like a modest queen over her servants at hand. Before going to sleep, there were our 12 presents plus about 6 that were there already. Now there must be double that amount! Santa was very generous this year.
Now my father-in-law is making me egg-in-holes for breakfast. It's a slice of English toasting bread with the center cut out and an egg in the middle cooked over easy (Marshall prefers an over-hard egg in his). My mother-in-law is doing her morning crossword in the Sunday newspaper across the table from me. My husband is still asleep. His dad is going to go wake him up when he's through cooking. Then we can all transfer to the living room and open our stockings. This is our Christmas morning thus far. More updates to come!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Onto the Next Pack
Tuesday was my 25th birthday, which meant that the traditional package of 24 candles was one short of what I needed. Here's my birthday cupcake pyramid.
You can see the lovely birthday cards that I received from coworkers, Marshall's grandmother, my parents, brother and love-of-my-life. My parents-in-law sent flowers to my work. My grandmother sent me pecans from her tree in Florida. They are so delicious!
Mom got me a griddle. Making multiple breakfast quesadillas will be so much easier now!
I was able to leave work at 12:30pm and have the afternoon to myself. Marshall set me up with a 60 minute massage. After I had lunch, I went to JCPenny and found 3 three shirts plus a necklace. Everything was on sale plus I used two $10 coupons. In total I spent less than $11--woohoo! Next came a quick trip to Walmart to get ingredients for my birthday cake. I made it to my massage appointment at 3pm. I love massages. If I could afford to get one every month I will. Until then, the hubby and I will have to use our own massage table at home more often.
I wanted to go to the Driskill Grill for my birthday dinner because it was fancy and I had a $25 gift certificate. The Driskill Grill is now my new favorite "fancy" restaurant of choice. The atmosphere, service, and food were mind-blowing! I was a server for 4 years, and I'm a hard judge on servers because I've been there. I was amazed at how good our server Scott was. We of course shared that it was my 25th birthday, and guess what they did for me!
The general manager Charlie even took a picture of us in front of the adjoining Driskill Hotel's Christmas tree in the lobby.
When we came home, I had one last present and one last card to open. I bawled at how sweet Marshall's card was. I told him I purposely didn't wear mascara because I was going on a date with him. If there's a chance he can make you sentimental in a happy way, he will. Well, he gave me a clarinet! I haven't been able to find my old one, and Mom hasn't had time to look for it in Oregon. I can play again! I have to basically start from scratch, but I'm so excited to fill our house with music.
I had a wonderful birthday, and an astronomical amount of well wishes from friends and family all over the country and world! I felt really cherished, which was best of all.
December Plans
Here's a little update about what is happening for us (so far!) for the rest of December:
*12/16--Marshall takes a tour of Lufkin Industries in Lufkin, Texas. He's stopping by Cypress to crash at his parents' house then coming home Saturday afternoon.
*12/17--Christmas part at Leslie & James' new apartment. Bringing a bottle of malbec wine.
*12/20--Sarah's work Christmas party at the Highball 1-4pm. Half a day of work plus bowling and fajitas. Good times, right?!
*12/24--WW meeting for Sarah, then we're on the road to Cypress to send Christmas with Marshall's parents.
*12/25--Merry Christmas! Marshall gets to find out everything I got for him!
*12/26--Drive home to Austin. Off of work.
*12/31--No plans for New Year's Eve, but hoping something will be brought up at the Christmas party on Saturday.
*12/16--Marshall takes a tour of Lufkin Industries in Lufkin, Texas. He's stopping by Cypress to crash at his parents' house then coming home Saturday afternoon.
*12/17--Christmas part at Leslie & James' new apartment. Bringing a bottle of malbec wine.
*12/20--Sarah's work Christmas party at the Highball 1-4pm. Half a day of work plus bowling and fajitas. Good times, right?!
*12/24--WW meeting for Sarah, then we're on the road to Cypress to send Christmas with Marshall's parents.
*12/25--Merry Christmas! Marshall gets to find out everything I got for him!
*12/26--Drive home to Austin. Off of work.
*12/31--No plans for New Year's Eve, but hoping something will be brought up at the Christmas party on Saturday.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Questions Answered
Here are some Q & A about us as a couple.
*When did you first meet?
June 29th, 2007
*Where was your first date?
First place we went together alone was Little Tokyo for hibachi; however, our first fancy date was to Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.
*When did you get engaged?
April 24th, 2009 at my college graduation party.
*What are your top three meals to cook at home?
Pecan crusted chicken, baked eggplant parm, and veggie tacos.
*What is an activity that you do together the majority of the time?
Go to the gym.
*What is your favorite TV show to watch together?
All three of the Stargate series!
*What are the three restaurants you frequent the most?
Jason's Deli, Patsy's Cowgirl Cafe, and probably Chili's.
*What are three restaurants you want to try but haven't been to yet?
A crepe place downtown, the Driskill Grill, and the Salt Lick.
*Name something you want to do in your city but haven't yet.
Take a picture with the Zilker Christmas tree in the background.
*How long have you owned your house?
On December 22, it will be two years--wow!
*What are your three next house projects?
We need to finish priming the trim around the house, install gutters, and put up a retaining wall in front of the house to cover some of the exposed foundation.
*What is your favorite CD to listen to together?
Flight of the Concords' second CD.
*What are any traditions you've started for your family?
Every birthday we get a massage. Each year I write him a fiction story for Christmas and give him a gift that relates to the story. Geez, I think that's all. I need to start some more, huh?
*How many pets do you have?
We have three cats: Misti (female), Santa Ana (male), and Maggie (female).
*What vacations would you like to take next year?
We'd like to fly to Utah to see Marshall's mom's family and spend a few days at the family cabin in Wyoming.
*What is your dream vacation?
We'd really like to take 2 weeks and travel to Stokholm, Copenhagen and Berlin.
*What are your career goals?
He wants to be an engineer in the manufacturing or foundry industries. I don't have any career goals at the moment because I'm going to be a SAHM within the next two years.
*What are your degrees in?
His will be Industrial Engineering--Manufacturing in 2014. My BA is in Spanish with a minor in Political Science.
*Where would you like to move to after your current city?
Ultimately I'd like to move to Couer d'Alene, Idaho, but I'm willing to move to a different city that meets the same requirements as CDA. If M gets a job offer in a different city in Texas, we'll probably take it though.
*What is key to your marriage?
I believe we have a strong marriage because we don't hold each other's faults against that person.
*What is an activity that you each like but do not do together?
He really likes paintball, but I'm afraid of bruising so I don't go with him. I love to hunt, but he has a hard time killing a fly.
*Ever thought about getting a dog?
Yes, but we don't have the time or energy for a dog. He would want a yellow lab, but I wouldn't. I prefer a medium size dog or a swiss mountain dog.
*How many children do you want?
Probably three.
*What are your current financial goals?
Pay as much as possible towards our house and contribute to my 401(k). Adding funds to our baby/car fund has been slow.
*When did you first meet?
June 29th, 2007
*Where was your first date?
First place we went together alone was Little Tokyo for hibachi; however, our first fancy date was to Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.
*When did you get engaged?
April 24th, 2009 at my college graduation party.
*What are your top three meals to cook at home?
Pecan crusted chicken, baked eggplant parm, and veggie tacos.
*What is an activity that you do together the majority of the time?
Go to the gym.
*What is your favorite TV show to watch together?
All three of the Stargate series!
*What are the three restaurants you frequent the most?
Jason's Deli, Patsy's Cowgirl Cafe, and probably Chili's.
*What are three restaurants you want to try but haven't been to yet?
A crepe place downtown, the Driskill Grill, and the Salt Lick.
*Name something you want to do in your city but haven't yet.
Take a picture with the Zilker Christmas tree in the background.
*How long have you owned your house?
On December 22, it will be two years--wow!
*What are your three next house projects?
We need to finish priming the trim around the house, install gutters, and put up a retaining wall in front of the house to cover some of the exposed foundation.
*What is your favorite CD to listen to together?
Flight of the Concords' second CD.
*What are any traditions you've started for your family?
Every birthday we get a massage. Each year I write him a fiction story for Christmas and give him a gift that relates to the story. Geez, I think that's all. I need to start some more, huh?
*How many pets do you have?
We have three cats: Misti (female), Santa Ana (male), and Maggie (female).
*What vacations would you like to take next year?
We'd like to fly to Utah to see Marshall's mom's family and spend a few days at the family cabin in Wyoming.
*What is your dream vacation?
We'd really like to take 2 weeks and travel to Stokholm, Copenhagen and Berlin.
*What are your career goals?
He wants to be an engineer in the manufacturing or foundry industries. I don't have any career goals at the moment because I'm going to be a SAHM within the next two years.
*What are your degrees in?
His will be Industrial Engineering--Manufacturing in 2014. My BA is in Spanish with a minor in Political Science.
*Where would you like to move to after your current city?
Ultimately I'd like to move to Couer d'Alene, Idaho, but I'm willing to move to a different city that meets the same requirements as CDA. If M gets a job offer in a different city in Texas, we'll probably take it though.
*What is key to your marriage?
I believe we have a strong marriage because we don't hold each other's faults against that person.
*What is an activity that you each like but do not do together?
He really likes paintball, but I'm afraid of bruising so I don't go with him. I love to hunt, but he has a hard time killing a fly.
*Ever thought about getting a dog?
Yes, but we don't have the time or energy for a dog. He would want a yellow lab, but I wouldn't. I prefer a medium size dog or a swiss mountain dog.
*How many children do you want?
Probably three.
*What are your current financial goals?
Pay as much as possible towards our house and contribute to my 401(k). Adding funds to our baby/car fund has been slow.
What You've Been Waiting For...
Hurray for our the annual mRs Christmas photo! This year we recreated our first date picture by wearing the same clothes and striking a similar pose. The inspiration for this photo came from my weightloss and being able to fit into the dress again, which I bought in July 2007. Wow, huh?!
I mailed out Christmas cards on Friday, so they should be arriving on Tuesday for most people I think. I really hope everyone likes them and appreciates the "homemade" aspect of them.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Christmas Cards
Here is this year's assortment of Christmas cards!
I was inspired to make my own Christmas cards this year by Pinterest and my friend Jazz Kirkham, has her own creative card business. I bought a package of 50 cards and envelopes at Michaels on sale. I also purchased a pad of Christmas scrapbook paper, stamps and ink. When you open the card, the top half has our Christmas letter. It's very short, only three paragraphs, and not the novel it normally is. The bottom half will have our picture, which we can't take until the 30th at least. We're going to recreate our first date picture because I can fit into that dress again. Here's the picture from July 13th, 2007.
Yesterday I took it to a dry cleaner & tailoring business to have the zipper replaced. It's costing me $25 because it is an invisible seam. It will be ready to pick up on the 29th, so we'll take our picture November 30th. I'm so excited! I won't be able to wear the dress for much longer due to my weight loss, so this Christmas picture is going to be extr special to me.
Here's our Christmas picture from 2010.
This was taken September 1st, 2009, and we used it as our Christmas picture in 2009.
Here we are on our porch when we lived in Jacksonville in 2008. This was our first holiday season together because Marshall, my handsome Navy boyfriend at the time, had been deployed August 07-January 08.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Preview of 2012?
Today we went to the RenFest, which is 2.5 hours away from Austin. I wanted to do 2 things: get a Scottish music CD, and get a couple's tarot card reading like last year. I wanted the same reader as last time, and thankfully he (Frank) was there.
He shuffled the deck a few times, then cut it into three smaller decks. I chose the middle; Marshall chose the left, and the right ended up representing our relationship.
I went first. He laid out 3 rows of 3 cards, each representing 4 months of the year. The bottom or closest cards to me represented the begining of the year. My significtor was the Emperor. My first card was the 9 of Pentacles. My third card was the High Priestess. My 7th card was the Knight of Wands. Next was another Pentacles I believe. My last card was the 3 of Wands. Bottom line? 2012 is going to be a GREAT year for me. The cards say I'm going to be wrapping up a family or financial issue that I had been a part of in the first 2 months or so of the year. By April, I'm going to see my goals clearly and go after them. The spring and summer months will bring me material gain, and I'm going to be getting what I've been working towards. Things will slow down in August-September for a short period due to the Knight of Wands. This could be a minor health issue like mono or the flu compared to breaking a femur and being out of action for months. The last part of the year I also reap what I sow, sort of like watching my ships come sailing into port.
I'm particularly interested in what is going to happen during the summer because I've also been told: I see you winning something big!! It is hard to pinpoint what exactly but I feel it is some type of recognition or promotion within your career. I see the month of JULY associated with this. I don't know what this can be because in my correct job, there isn't any room to move up. My job is important and not in jeopardy of being eliminated, but there is no where for me to go unless I switch to a different department, and I just don't see that happening consiering I've been doing customer service for over 2 years now, and it takes a lot of time to bring a new person up to speed. On a side note, the same person who gave me the insight above in italics also had this to say today when I asked for a one tarot card draw reading: For this general read the guides are telling me to tell you "ASK FOR IT AND YOU WILL RECEIVE IT"... I see you being hesitant to ask for something whether it be in a relationship or work... But you need to ask because whatever it is .. it is ALL YOURS! Again, I have no idea would this could mean about my job!! Will I be getting a new job? Something with career advancement perhaps? I don't even know what I want my next job to be? I don't know what to ask for even if it will be all mine! *Sigh
Marshall's one year spread unfortunately did not look as rosey as mine. Bottom Line? You're going to come to some tough decisions, be depressed about them, come to a revelation, then do something stupid due to repressed desires that affects everyone and causes change, but your family is going to love you any way. Frown face. His most influential cards were the reversed Page of Cups followed the Tower card. 5 cards were reversed, Marshall figured out was like a 1 in 10 quintillion chance of happening. Poor guy has been a little disturbed all evening because of it. He's drinking wine and watching a crazy Norwegian sci-fi movie on Netflix.
Regarding our relationship, the most shocking cards were the last three representing September through December, ironically right after Marshall is suppose to do something crazy. We were to not make an attachments to trips scheduled for the later part of the year because they will end up being canceled. Do not have emotional ties to them, like going home for the holidays. Looks like we'll be taking our Wyoming cabin trip in the spring instead.
It's really odd how I'm suppose to have a great year, but Marshall isn't, and our relationship in 2012 will be about middle of the road. We know 2012 will be challenging with us planning for Marshall to be doing an internship June-mid-August in a city at least 4 hours away. If there's one thing I know, it will be that hard work always pays off. Let's see what comes true.
He shuffled the deck a few times, then cut it into three smaller decks. I chose the middle; Marshall chose the left, and the right ended up representing our relationship.
I went first. He laid out 3 rows of 3 cards, each representing 4 months of the year. The bottom or closest cards to me represented the begining of the year. My significtor was the Emperor. My first card was the 9 of Pentacles. My third card was the High Priestess. My 7th card was the Knight of Wands. Next was another Pentacles I believe. My last card was the 3 of Wands. Bottom line? 2012 is going to be a GREAT year for me. The cards say I'm going to be wrapping up a family or financial issue that I had been a part of in the first 2 months or so of the year. By April, I'm going to see my goals clearly and go after them. The spring and summer months will bring me material gain, and I'm going to be getting what I've been working towards. Things will slow down in August-September for a short period due to the Knight of Wands. This could be a minor health issue like mono or the flu compared to breaking a femur and being out of action for months. The last part of the year I also reap what I sow, sort of like watching my ships come sailing into port.
I'm particularly interested in what is going to happen during the summer because I've also been told: I see you winning something big!! It is hard to pinpoint what exactly but I feel it is some type of recognition or promotion within your career. I see the month of JULY associated with this. I don't know what this can be because in my correct job, there isn't any room to move up. My job is important and not in jeopardy of being eliminated, but there is no where for me to go unless I switch to a different department, and I just don't see that happening consiering I've been doing customer service for over 2 years now, and it takes a lot of time to bring a new person up to speed. On a side note, the same person who gave me the insight above in italics also had this to say today when I asked for a one tarot card draw reading: For this general read the guides are telling me to tell you "ASK FOR IT AND YOU WILL RECEIVE IT"... I see you being hesitant to ask for something whether it be in a relationship or work... But you need to ask because whatever it is .. it is ALL YOURS! Again, I have no idea would this could mean about my job!! Will I be getting a new job? Something with career advancement perhaps? I don't even know what I want my next job to be? I don't know what to ask for even if it will be all mine! *Sigh
Marshall's one year spread unfortunately did not look as rosey as mine. Bottom Line? You're going to come to some tough decisions, be depressed about them, come to a revelation, then do something stupid due to repressed desires that affects everyone and causes change, but your family is going to love you any way. Frown face. His most influential cards were the reversed Page of Cups followed the Tower card. 5 cards were reversed, Marshall figured out was like a 1 in 10 quintillion chance of happening. Poor guy has been a little disturbed all evening because of it. He's drinking wine and watching a crazy Norwegian sci-fi movie on Netflix.
Regarding our relationship, the most shocking cards were the last three representing September through December, ironically right after Marshall is suppose to do something crazy. We were to not make an attachments to trips scheduled for the later part of the year because they will end up being canceled. Do not have emotional ties to them, like going home for the holidays. Looks like we'll be taking our Wyoming cabin trip in the spring instead.
It's really odd how I'm suppose to have a great year, but Marshall isn't, and our relationship in 2012 will be about middle of the road. We know 2012 will be challenging with us planning for Marshall to be doing an internship June-mid-August in a city at least 4 hours away. If there's one thing I know, it will be that hard work always pays off. Let's see what comes true.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
What November Means
What does November symbolize and why?
Season
Is it the illegitimate child of Ol' Man Winter? It's technically an autumn month but with snow, naked trees, grey clouds and the first mug of hot chocolate, it seems more like the official kick-off to winter. I use to loathe the month of November when I was a child because everything just looked dead and lifeless with the brown trees against the dull steal colored sky. Nothing exciting seemed to come with the new month. It was another countdown to a single day. Why couldn't there be other exciting days in November besides Thanksgiving? Well, I take that back. Every at my school looked forward to being off the Friday after Thanksgiving too. :)
Feelings
Grateful. Thankful. Humble. Meek. Gorged. Eager. These are just some of the adjectives we feel throughout this 11th month. We are grateful for our families, our jobs, God's blessings. We're thankful we have a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, and food on our plates. We humbly bring ourselves to say our feelings this one time a year because it no longer is taboo to share something sentimental. We gorge ourselves on turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, deviled eggs--you name it. We whip out our wallets for anything that has "pumpkin" in it because it is just so damn tasty. Then we become eager for Christmas shopping and decorating. So eager in fact that we now start listening to Christmas music at least a week before T-day.
Harvest
I think harvest decorations are cute, but believe that the average person is so far removed from actually working hard all year long for the food they grew themselves to harvest it in the fall and be satisfied knowing that they won't go hungry over the long winter. I love the rich hues of harvest colors and they make me feel very cozy and maternal, like I want to gather laughing children inside and we all read a book by the fire.
November is an unique month and each person will have his/her own opinion towards it. I just like thinking of all the different possibilities.
Season
Is it the illegitimate child of Ol' Man Winter? It's technically an autumn month but with snow, naked trees, grey clouds and the first mug of hot chocolate, it seems more like the official kick-off to winter. I use to loathe the month of November when I was a child because everything just looked dead and lifeless with the brown trees against the dull steal colored sky. Nothing exciting seemed to come with the new month. It was another countdown to a single day. Why couldn't there be other exciting days in November besides Thanksgiving? Well, I take that back. Every at my school looked forward to being off the Friday after Thanksgiving too. :)
Feelings
Grateful. Thankful. Humble. Meek. Gorged. Eager. These are just some of the adjectives we feel throughout this 11th month. We are grateful for our families, our jobs, God's blessings. We're thankful we have a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, and food on our plates. We humbly bring ourselves to say our feelings this one time a year because it no longer is taboo to share something sentimental. We gorge ourselves on turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, deviled eggs--you name it. We whip out our wallets for anything that has "pumpkin" in it because it is just so damn tasty. Then we become eager for Christmas shopping and decorating. So eager in fact that we now start listening to Christmas music at least a week before T-day.
Harvest
I think harvest decorations are cute, but believe that the average person is so far removed from actually working hard all year long for the food they grew themselves to harvest it in the fall and be satisfied knowing that they won't go hungry over the long winter. I love the rich hues of harvest colors and they make me feel very cozy and maternal, like I want to gather laughing children inside and we all read a book by the fire.
November is an unique month and each person will have his/her own opinion towards it. I just like thinking of all the different possibilities.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Goals in a Million Years
Isn't it funny how after time has passed, one looks back and says, "if you would have told me X amount of time ago that'd be doing this Y, I would have slapped you silly! I wouldn't have believed it." Tonight I'm putting it in type that by the time I'm 30 (T minus 5 years, 1 month, 8 days) I want to be able to pull myself up on a surfboard and surf a wave. I don't know how I could afford to go to Hawaii or California to surf let alone build up enough upper body strength to push myself up on a board. It's definitely one of those tasks that I don't ever see myself in my current state ever being able to do even though it is still physically possible.
It makes you wonder what great things you're going to achieve in your life and you just don't know it yet. :)
It makes you wonder what great things you're going to achieve in your life and you just don't know it yet. :)
Friday, October 28, 2011
Detour
Plan A
Marshall finishes degree and gets job in or near Austin.
Sarah becomes a SAHM when applicable.
Pay as much of our house off as possible.
Move from Austin to somewhere with seasons (Idaho, Oregon, or Colorado) around 2019.
Plan B
Marshall finishes degree and gets job away from Austin in Texas.
Sell house and buy new house close to Marshall's job.
Sarah becomes a SAHM when applicable.
Marshall works for 4-5 years at job, then we move to somewhere with seasons (see options above) around 2020.
We've been talking more and more about what would be best for Marshall and our family once he graduates from Texas State University sometime in 2014. If he pursues the foundry industry, we don't foresee being able to stay in Austin due to the lack of employment opportunities. How would we feel about moving many years before we thought we would in Plan A? What are the drawbacks? What are the benefits? Do we really want to stay in Texas longer than necessary? By necessary I mean Marshall gets free college while in Texas, so we would not want to move out of state before he is through. I am yearning to get back to winter.
We feel that Marshall landing a job with perfect working conditions--minimal stress, constantly changing responsibilities, stimulating environment, etc--is extremely important to us. If we have to move in order to achieve this, we're not going to put up a fight. Would I love to hightail it to Idaho and build a permanent nest in the woods by Lake Coeur d'Alene? Of course! Is it worth Marshall getting valuable job experience and staying in Texas and delaying such a move? More than likely. These thoughts have been heavy on my heart lately, and I just wanted to share with you a possible detour that we may take.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Food, Flowers, Friends
This is what our homemade vegetable pizza on Saturday looked like before it went into the oven. We have tomatoes, bell better, olives, zucchini and red onions.
This is my southwest quiche with eggs, salsa, blackbeans, diced ham, bell peppers and cheddar cheese.
Hubby brought me flowers and a new hairdrier last week. I love the autumn colors of the bouquet. He bought me a new hairdrier because I can't do my hair without it, and we thought our previous one had died. Odd enough the unit was fine, but the power to the sockets in the bathrooms somehow got disrupted and so the hairdrier wasn't turning on. He fixed it though so now we have a his and hers.
I came home from work the other day and found Misti and Santa Ana sharing my blankets. Apparently my side of the bed is hot real estate in the Cat World. I love how they are best friends!
Walking My Tushie Off
Last week 10/10 through 10/17 I walked 25 miles. I started going for a 3.5 mile walk each night with my neighbor across the street. I went every day but Saturday, but walked twice on Sunday. I had a great result on the scale on Saturday morning. I am going to keep this up. My new goal is to lose another 15 pounds by the end of the year. I'm currently at 42.6--hurray!
Saturday, October 15, 2011
More Wishful Moments
4. To be at the celebration held upon the Great Pyramids' completion. Do you think the Pharoahs would have gone all out? Do you think it was written about but the scrolls lost? I wonder what that party would have been like.
5. I think it would have been fascinating to attend a Native American gathering of nations well before Columbus discovered the western hemisphere. All the dancing, music, jewelry, horses, paintings, spears and contests that would be there. Perhaps a young girl from one tribe becoming smitten with a young fellow from another and wondering if she'll ever see him again. Then coming back home to one's tribe and recounting all that had happened would have been pretty neat in my eyes.
5. I think it would have been fascinating to attend a Native American gathering of nations well before Columbus discovered the western hemisphere. All the dancing, music, jewelry, horses, paintings, spears and contests that would be there. Perhaps a young girl from one tribe becoming smitten with a young fellow from another and wondering if she'll ever see him again. Then coming back home to one's tribe and recounting all that had happened would have been pretty neat in my eyes.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Moments in Time
I want to write about 101 moments in time that I wish I could have experienced. They are in no particular order.
1. Standing on the sidelines while the first steam engine train was being prepped to make its maiden voyage across the country to the west coast. Hearing the engine start and seeing the giant plume of smoke burp from the vehicle's crown. Thoughts racing of how this will change the country, people's lives, the economy, life as it was known. Watching the wheels budge ever so slowly as it takes baby steps towards its ultimate purpose of reaching the Pacific Ocean. Catching out of the corner of your eye to look of bewilderment on a wagon driver's face as he thinks about how this mighty machine will impact his livelihood. Feeling the cheers, excitement, and exhuberance secrete from the audience as it pulls away from the depot. I wish I could have been there.
2. To be an unnoticed servant in the palace of Queen Elizabeth I of England, perhaps polishing silverware or laundrying day after day, and only see Her Majesty once. However, that one episode, leaving such an imprint of being privelidged enough to among the company of angels, was the shining jewel in your memory that never dulled as age stole your youthfulness and narled your hands so you could no longer work. To exerpience such a level of delight would be humbling.
3. To be the first sailor to spot the Spanish Armada on the southern horizon on her way to tackle the pescky English. Shouting below and alerting one's superior that the enemy has been idenified. Like a game of "Telephone," a lower class mate would frantically knock on the captain's personal cabin's door and stutter the news that the Spanish have been seen, not knowing the number of ships, only relaying what one was told. Cowering at the boom of the leader's voice as orders are cried out. The spotter in the crow's nest watching his mates scatter around like ants over a juicy pie crumb would know that he was the flame that sparked the first shot in the battle. Being a part of history that nobody would ever remember.
1. Standing on the sidelines while the first steam engine train was being prepped to make its maiden voyage across the country to the west coast. Hearing the engine start and seeing the giant plume of smoke burp from the vehicle's crown. Thoughts racing of how this will change the country, people's lives, the economy, life as it was known. Watching the wheels budge ever so slowly as it takes baby steps towards its ultimate purpose of reaching the Pacific Ocean. Catching out of the corner of your eye to look of bewilderment on a wagon driver's face as he thinks about how this mighty machine will impact his livelihood. Feeling the cheers, excitement, and exhuberance secrete from the audience as it pulls away from the depot. I wish I could have been there.
2. To be an unnoticed servant in the palace of Queen Elizabeth I of England, perhaps polishing silverware or laundrying day after day, and only see Her Majesty once. However, that one episode, leaving such an imprint of being privelidged enough to among the company of angels, was the shining jewel in your memory that never dulled as age stole your youthfulness and narled your hands so you could no longer work. To exerpience such a level of delight would be humbling.
3. To be the first sailor to spot the Spanish Armada on the southern horizon on her way to tackle the pescky English. Shouting below and alerting one's superior that the enemy has been idenified. Like a game of "Telephone," a lower class mate would frantically knock on the captain's personal cabin's door and stutter the news that the Spanish have been seen, not knowing the number of ships, only relaying what one was told. Cowering at the boom of the leader's voice as orders are cried out. The spotter in the crow's nest watching his mates scatter around like ants over a juicy pie crumb would know that he was the flame that sparked the first shot in the battle. Being a part of history that nobody would ever remember.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Ready for Halloween?
I'm almost there!! I'm hosting a Halloween party at the house on the 29th, and all my new friends from meetup are invited. I'm working on decorations here and there, but got a lot accomplished this long weekend. Here is what I've been able to complete so far. Let me know what you think!
I'm very proud of my bats.
This is our new entertainment center.
I'm very proud of my bats.
A nice Halloween bouquet.
The witch shrine with candles lit.
Close up of the bling letters.
Door wreath!
Upclose.
I'm covering up all our picures with Halloween themed silhouettes.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Not on the Road Again
This weekend was set aside for a trip to Albuquerque, New Mexico to go to the International Balloon Festival; however, we decided to cancel and stay in Austin. We decided it was too much of an opportunity cost in regards to Marshall missing his classes. We were unable to get a refund for our hotel room, and I could refund the meal Groupons I had already bought.
So, I'm off of work for three days, and I'm catching up on house projects. Yesterday I finished painting our second living room yellow! This morning I'm going to vacuum, and then Marshall is going to move our new bookcases in place on either side of the fire place. I'll take a picture and add it later today. Now I just need to prime and paint a (relatively) small area in the kitchen, and it will be all done!! The next painting project will be finishing up the outside border around the house (white and blue).
Today I want to go to the gym, get a massage, do meal planning, go to a Halloween store, plan my Halloween costume, buy material for curtains for the kitchen window, place books on the new bookshelves and do more painting if possible. We'll see how much I get checked off my list. :)
So, I'm off of work for three days, and I'm catching up on house projects. Yesterday I finished painting our second living room yellow! This morning I'm going to vacuum, and then Marshall is going to move our new bookcases in place on either side of the fire place. I'll take a picture and add it later today. Now I just need to prime and paint a (relatively) small area in the kitchen, and it will be all done!! The next painting project will be finishing up the outside border around the house (white and blue).
Today I want to go to the gym, get a massage, do meal planning, go to a Halloween store, plan my Halloween costume, buy material for curtains for the kitchen window, place books on the new bookshelves and do more painting if possible. We'll see how much I get checked off my list. :)
Cantaloupe Ice Cream with Pecans
September 4th was my one year anniversary of starting my 101/1001 list. I was able to accomplish or further contribute to the following.
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. (12/12)
*I went to a Nutty Brown Cafe benefit concert on th 10th, and bought food and basic living essentials to be donated to the Bastrop Fire victims.
2. Visit DC for at least four days.
*Technically it was 4 days, but we didn't get to do 4 days of sight-seeing. I don't think we'll get a chance to go back any time soon, so I'm marking this one complete since in the beginning I wasn't too specific on what I had to do in order to do the task.
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. (5/10)
*We had just returned from DC, and before heading home, I wanted some Amy's Ice Cream. I had cantaloupe ice cream with chopped pecans, and it was amazing! I absolutely loved it!
37. Visit an art, history, and science museum.
*While in DC, we went to the National Museum of American History.
41. Lower my BMI to 26.8.
*My current BMI is 30.4. I need to get under 30.0 to no longer be considered obese. I'll be there before the end of October! At my wedding was at 38.0.
54. Go to a zoo in a different city.
*On 9/12/11 we went to the National Zoo in DC. I made a little video of one of the pandas for my mom. :)
I have now completed 28 tasks and 10 are in progress.
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. (12/12)
*I went to a Nutty Brown Cafe benefit concert on th 10th, and bought food and basic living essentials to be donated to the Bastrop Fire victims.
2. Visit DC for at least four days.
*Technically it was 4 days, but we didn't get to do 4 days of sight-seeing. I don't think we'll get a chance to go back any time soon, so I'm marking this one complete since in the beginning I wasn't too specific on what I had to do in order to do the task.
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. (5/10)
*We had just returned from DC, and before heading home, I wanted some Amy's Ice Cream. I had cantaloupe ice cream with chopped pecans, and it was amazing! I absolutely loved it!
37. Visit an art, history, and science museum.
*While in DC, we went to the National Museum of American History.
41. Lower my BMI to 26.8.
*My current BMI is 30.4. I need to get under 30.0 to no longer be considered obese. I'll be there before the end of October! At my wedding was at 38.0.
54. Go to a zoo in a different city.
*On 9/12/11 we went to the National Zoo in DC. I made a little video of one of the pandas for my mom. :)
I have now completed 28 tasks and 10 are in progress.
Friday, September 16, 2011
DC Day 3
We went to bed around 1am and had to get up at 6:45am. Marshall wore khaki pants, black shoes and belt, and a navy blue shirt. He looked really good. We arrived at the right building at 8am, and the hearing began around 8:30am. We left around 9:30, so the hearing was probably 45 minutes, not bad. Marshall and Capt Sloane did an excellent job with the case. Marshall was very eloquent with his word choices. We feel that whatever the verdict is, it will be fair because they couldn't have presented a better case than what they did.
We took a nap until 1pm, then got moving. We had lunch at Market to Market right outside the Federal Triangle metro station. Then we found the National Museum of American History. I liked it, but I wish they would have had an exibit about the wild west and homesteading because I like that era. We made it to the National Musuem of Natural History, but I started to not feel very well, and we decided to call it a day. We found a brewery near by, and had dinner there.
We returned to the hotel and watched some shows on Netflix together before going to sleep. I packed all of my things the following morning, but it seems I forgot my phone charger. Booo. :( It's a good thing I have an extra one at work though!
Thursday morning we left the hotel at 8am and got to the airport around 8:35, way ahead of schedule. Our flights didn't leave until 11am, but I didn't know how busy the security lines would be. There wasn't even a line! I finished my book on my first flight, and then just jotted down some notes like Christmas gift ideas, grocery list, etc on my second flight from Detroit to Austin. I arrived at 4pm, and Marshall got in at 3pm. I got some Amy's Ice Cream--cantaloupe ice cream with chopped pecans. It was soooo good!
We took a nap until 1pm, then got moving. We had lunch at Market to Market right outside the Federal Triangle metro station. Then we found the National Museum of American History. I liked it, but I wish they would have had an exibit about the wild west and homesteading because I like that era. We made it to the National Musuem of Natural History, but I started to not feel very well, and we decided to call it a day. We found a brewery near by, and had dinner there.
We returned to the hotel and watched some shows on Netflix together before going to sleep. I packed all of my things the following morning, but it seems I forgot my phone charger. Booo. :( It's a good thing I have an extra one at work though!
Thursday morning we left the hotel at 8am and got to the airport around 8:35, way ahead of schedule. Our flights didn't leave until 11am, but I didn't know how busy the security lines would be. There wasn't even a line! I finished my book on my first flight, and then just jotted down some notes like Christmas gift ideas, grocery list, etc on my second flight from Detroit to Austin. I arrived at 4pm, and Marshall got in at 3pm. I got some Amy's Ice Cream--cantaloupe ice cream with chopped pecans. It was soooo good!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
DC Day 2
Even though today isn't over yet, I'll go ahead and post about it. This morning we ate the breakfast buffet downstairs. I did really well considering it was all-you-can-eat. I had half of an omelette with cheese, peppers, onions, ham and tomatoes, one biscuit with about 3 Tbsp of gravy, one turkey sausage link, a banana, 6 oz of apple juice, about 1 oz of light strawberry yogurt, and a cup of grapes. I didn't even have a muffin (ah, the little victories).
Shortly there after we walked to the Navy Yard for our 9:00am meeting with Capt. Sloane, Marshall's attorney for Wednesday's hearing. We were there for about 2.5 hours. A lot was discussed, so we are better prepared for tomorrow. I volunteered to write a testimony of my observations of Marshall's behaviors dealing with his medical condition since leaving the Navy in June 2009. Marshall also need to write up a personal statement. We worked on those 2 documents all afternoon. We took a break at 2pm for lunch. We went back to Justin's Cafe. We shared a pizza while I had some chips and guacamole and he had butternut squash soup (that also came with cinnamon and sugar on top, lol). I took a short nap while Marshall finished his document. I got done with mine around 7pm. Right now Marshall is resting, and we may call it an early night, but we have to send our documents to Capt. Sloane tonight so she can print them out in the morning and bring them to the hearing, which is at 8:00am.
So, no sight seeing today, but we really came here for Marshall's Navy business. Tomorrow we will get some fun in though.
Shortly there after we walked to the Navy Yard for our 9:00am meeting with Capt. Sloane, Marshall's attorney for Wednesday's hearing. We were there for about 2.5 hours. A lot was discussed, so we are better prepared for tomorrow. I volunteered to write a testimony of my observations of Marshall's behaviors dealing with his medical condition since leaving the Navy in June 2009. Marshall also need to write up a personal statement. We worked on those 2 documents all afternoon. We took a break at 2pm for lunch. We went back to Justin's Cafe. We shared a pizza while I had some chips and guacamole and he had butternut squash soup (that also came with cinnamon and sugar on top, lol). I took a short nap while Marshall finished his document. I got done with mine around 7pm. Right now Marshall is resting, and we may call it an early night, but we have to send our documents to Capt. Sloane tonight so she can print them out in the morning and bring them to the hearing, which is at 8:00am.
So, no sight seeing today, but we really came here for Marshall's Navy business. Tomorrow we will get some fun in though.
DC Arrival
Monday, September 12th we flew to DC. Marshall's plane went from Austin to Dallas to DC. Mine went Austin to Atlanta to DC. I woke up at 3:30am and got Marshall up a hour later. I made breakfast tacos. Our taxi was suppose to arrive at 5:00am, then we came to the conclusion that it would probably be cheaper for us to drive ourselves and park our car for 4 days than getting a taxi for there and back. We left around 5:10, and got a call around 5:20 that our taxi arrived. You snooze, you lose, Mr. Taxi Dude! We parked, hopped on a shuttle, checked in, made it through security and had about 20 minutes before my flight started to board. Mine left at 6:58 whereas Marshall's left at 7:15. I didn't get much of a nap on my first flight, and I'm glad I brought a book to keep me from getting bored.
It was really easy to find each other in the airport. Marshall got some coffee, and we headed to find the metro subway system.
We found the metro and learned out to buy the fare card. Our metro exist is one block south of our hotel--so awesome. We checked in, got settled, then headed out the door to get lunch. We found a little place just a block over called Justin's Cafe. Marshall had a roasted eggplant, pepper-type of sandwich with sweet potato fries. He was surprised that they had cinnamon and sugar on them instead of salt. I had a mixed greens salad with pecans, grilled chicken, mozz cheese and green apple slices.
After lunch we went to the National Zoo, and I was surprised it wasn't larger. I didn't even see any polar bears! We did see the panda bears though. When I get back to Austin I will upload the little video I made for my mom who is a panda fanatic.
After the zoo we met up with Bonnie, who is a dear family friend of Marshall's. Her husband Rob came home shortly after we arrived, and their son Josh (who also lives in Austin) was up for a convention, and I finally got to meet him. We had some wine, hummus and bread as we chatted at their house. We went to Acre121 for dinner in Columbia Heights. It was a wonderful evening with them.
It was really easy to find each other in the airport. Marshall got some coffee, and we headed to find the metro subway system.
We found the metro and learned out to buy the fare card. Our metro exist is one block south of our hotel--so awesome. We checked in, got settled, then headed out the door to get lunch. We found a little place just a block over called Justin's Cafe. Marshall had a roasted eggplant, pepper-type of sandwich with sweet potato fries. He was surprised that they had cinnamon and sugar on them instead of salt. I had a mixed greens salad with pecans, grilled chicken, mozz cheese and green apple slices.
After lunch we went to the National Zoo, and I was surprised it wasn't larger. I didn't even see any polar bears! We did see the panda bears though. When I get back to Austin I will upload the little video I made for my mom who is a panda fanatic.
After the zoo we met up with Bonnie, who is a dear family friend of Marshall's. Her husband Rob came home shortly after we arrived, and their son Josh (who also lives in Austin) was up for a convention, and I finally got to meet him. We had some wine, hummus and bread as we chatted at their house. We went to Acre121 for dinner in Columbia Heights. It was a wonderful evening with them.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Song Stuck in My Head
"Wake Me Up When September Ends"
August flew by way to fast, but September is going to come and go at lightning speed because we have so much going on this month. I'm not even close to being ready for October or Halloween yet--help!
Monday the 29th I went to a Girl Scout council meeting for Oak Hill, a suburb of sorts in WSW Austin. I've volunteered to organize the Holiday Bazaar in December. Troops sign up to make crafts to sell at the event, which are bought by other girls and their families to use as Christmas gifts. I love crafts (and Christmas) so I decided to take on the challenge. Plus, I have a few months to get organized. Right now I'm scanning pinterest.com for craft ideas to share with the troop leaders and their girls.
Tuesday the 30th was a special day for Marshall and me. I'm officially a toddler wife (inside story). I got home from work to find a very sleepy hubby on the couch. He took a nap while I talked to my grandmother on the phone for 1.5 hours or so. It was her 88th birthday! Longevity definitely runs in her side of the family. She's doing amazing, and I'm so glad I got to talk to her. At 6:30 I jolted Marshall out of bed because we had to be at the massage place at 6:45. We were about 10 minutes late, but they didn't mind. While he was way becoming noodlefied, I went to Kohl's to look at clothes. I found a pair of jeans that fit me, and not only that, I'll still be able to wear them as a go down a size or two by the end of the year. They gave me a huge self-confidence boost! I picked up Mars and we had dinner nearby at a new (for us) Chinese buffet. I had sushi and edamame, which made me happy. We actually got the same fortune, and it fit Marshall perfectly. We had a good laugh.
Wednesday the 31st was a long day at work--8:00am to 6:30pm. It was the last day of the month and we were trying to squeeze every last dollar out of the facility as possible. I stayed late because I was waiting on a $45K purchase order, which was going to be a nice cushion for the day. It was worth it because the extra hours helped me leave a little early from work today. :) We had veggie tacos with pepper jack cheese, sour cream, bell peppers, onions, avocados, spinach and tomatoes on whole wheat tortillas. We liked it so much we're doing it again tonight, lol.
Thursday the 1st was really fun. We had a dinner date with some of my new friends, and two other ladies brought their men along; Marshall got along well with both of them, but I didn't doubt he would. We went to Milano's Cafe, which we had never been to before. Excellent, excellent Italian food. The place was BYOB, and we brought wine. We had 10 people total and it was so much fun just talking, sharing stories, and getting to know new people. I told everyone that I wanted to have a Halloween party at my house the last Saturday night in October, and now everyone is really excited. Time to get some tips and ideas from the Halloween Queen, my mother-in-law!
Friday the 2nd--the start of the long weekend that officially closes chapter Summer 2011. Time for the heat to break and let the rain wash the spiders away!! Tonight is going to be low key for us because this weekend we are going to Cypress to visit with Marshall's parents. It's going to be a great weekend because wine and cards are going to be involved. :D
Stay safe everyone!
August flew by way to fast, but September is going to come and go at lightning speed because we have so much going on this month. I'm not even close to being ready for October or Halloween yet--help!
Monday the 29th I went to a Girl Scout council meeting for Oak Hill, a suburb of sorts in WSW Austin. I've volunteered to organize the Holiday Bazaar in December. Troops sign up to make crafts to sell at the event, which are bought by other girls and their families to use as Christmas gifts. I love crafts (and Christmas) so I decided to take on the challenge. Plus, I have a few months to get organized. Right now I'm scanning pinterest.com for craft ideas to share with the troop leaders and their girls.
Tuesday the 30th was a special day for Marshall and me. I'm officially a toddler wife (inside story). I got home from work to find a very sleepy hubby on the couch. He took a nap while I talked to my grandmother on the phone for 1.5 hours or so. It was her 88th birthday! Longevity definitely runs in her side of the family. She's doing amazing, and I'm so glad I got to talk to her. At 6:30 I jolted Marshall out of bed because we had to be at the massage place at 6:45. We were about 10 minutes late, but they didn't mind. While he was way becoming noodlefied, I went to Kohl's to look at clothes. I found a pair of jeans that fit me, and not only that, I'll still be able to wear them as a go down a size or two by the end of the year. They gave me a huge self-confidence boost! I picked up Mars and we had dinner nearby at a new (for us) Chinese buffet. I had sushi and edamame, which made me happy. We actually got the same fortune, and it fit Marshall perfectly. We had a good laugh.
Wednesday the 31st was a long day at work--8:00am to 6:30pm. It was the last day of the month and we were trying to squeeze every last dollar out of the facility as possible. I stayed late because I was waiting on a $45K purchase order, which was going to be a nice cushion for the day. It was worth it because the extra hours helped me leave a little early from work today. :) We had veggie tacos with pepper jack cheese, sour cream, bell peppers, onions, avocados, spinach and tomatoes on whole wheat tortillas. We liked it so much we're doing it again tonight, lol.
Thursday the 1st was really fun. We had a dinner date with some of my new friends, and two other ladies brought their men along; Marshall got along well with both of them, but I didn't doubt he would. We went to Milano's Cafe, which we had never been to before. Excellent, excellent Italian food. The place was BYOB, and we brought wine. We had 10 people total and it was so much fun just talking, sharing stories, and getting to know new people. I told everyone that I wanted to have a Halloween party at my house the last Saturday night in October, and now everyone is really excited. Time to get some tips and ideas from the Halloween Queen, my mother-in-law!
Friday the 2nd--the start of the long weekend that officially closes chapter Summer 2011. Time for the heat to break and let the rain wash the spiders away!! Tonight is going to be low key for us because this weekend we are going to Cypress to visit with Marshall's parents. It's going to be a great weekend because wine and cards are going to be involved. :D
Stay safe everyone!
Going to a Rain Dance
This really awesome guy named Lee is rumored to be coming to Houston this weekend, and everyone's been talking about him like he's our savior or something. He's just going to be passing through, but he's getting a lot of media time. I'm confident he's being talked about every hour on the 8s. We're going to Houston this weekend to see what all the hoopla is about with this dude. It would be so nice if he made his way to Austin though. Maybe he has a cool friend named Nate or Philippe who will be on his coat tails.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Check, Check, and Check!
I can mark off more of my 101 tasks! Hurray!
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. I'm three months behind, ugh. 9 of 12 months completed.
2. Visit DC for at least four days. This is being set into motion. We'll be in DC Sept 12-15th, although the 15th hardly counts for a day. We'll have breakfast at the hotel then head to the airport. Even though this trip was really impromptu, I'm so glad we're going.
16. Help with a Girl Scout troop. On July 31st I met with a Girl Scout Volunteer Organizer and registered as an adult volunteer. I hope to be working with a troop starting this fall!
17. Influence someone to make a 101/1001 list. I suggested doing a 101/1001 list to my personal trainer Paul because he'd recently gotten out of a relationship and had more time to focus on work and such. Well, he went a little overboard with work and doing really long days. He's really liking his list and has already completed some tasks. Awesome!
21. Use my 5 passes to work out with a trainer at the gym. Turns out I only had 3 sessions that came with my membership. I used those, and bought an 11-pack, which I have also gone though. Big fat check mark for this one!
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. I think I'm up to four of 10 now. The last one I tried was white chocolate with reese peanut butter cups--so delicious.
31. Go to a wine tasting event. This past week my mom took us to a vineyard south of Salem, Oregon, and I got to try 6 samples of wine. I really liked their vintage pinot noir. Then she took us (Marshall was there too) to a winery in Salem. I tasted another 4 wine samples (was that 10 oz total?!), and absolutely loved their tropical sunset wine. It's like fruit cocktail syrup with wine, yummy.
50. Have Thanksgiving at my parents' house. Marshall and I recently went to Oregon to visit my parents, sisters and nephew for a few days. Thanksgiving is my mom's favorite holiday to cook, and the day we arrived we had a Thanksgiving dinner that night. Check!
88. Visit 5 Austinite restaurants. Not too long ago my boss Carrie took my coworker Emily and I out to lunch at Matt's El Rancho, a Mexican restaurant. I'm not sure if they have more than 1 location in town, but it is an Austin restaurant. My fifth one is actually happening tomorrow morning. I'm meeting a new friend at the Magnolia Cafe, and Carrie has approved it as an Austin "must go" place. :)
101. Take a glass blowing class. Today was the glass blowing class I organized through a meetup.com group that I joined. 10 ladies participated, and everyone had a blast. I get to pick up my purple and pink ornament on Monday after work. I'll post pictures this week. Check!
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. I'm three months behind, ugh. 9 of 12 months completed.
2. Visit DC for at least four days. This is being set into motion. We'll be in DC Sept 12-15th, although the 15th hardly counts for a day. We'll have breakfast at the hotel then head to the airport. Even though this trip was really impromptu, I'm so glad we're going.
16. Help with a Girl Scout troop. On July 31st I met with a Girl Scout Volunteer Organizer and registered as an adult volunteer. I hope to be working with a troop starting this fall!
17. Influence someone to make a 101/1001 list. I suggested doing a 101/1001 list to my personal trainer Paul because he'd recently gotten out of a relationship and had more time to focus on work and such. Well, he went a little overboard with work and doing really long days. He's really liking his list and has already completed some tasks. Awesome!
21. Use my 5 passes to work out with a trainer at the gym. Turns out I only had 3 sessions that came with my membership. I used those, and bought an 11-pack, which I have also gone though. Big fat check mark for this one!
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. I think I'm up to four of 10 now. The last one I tried was white chocolate with reese peanut butter cups--so delicious.
31. Go to a wine tasting event. This past week my mom took us to a vineyard south of Salem, Oregon, and I got to try 6 samples of wine. I really liked their vintage pinot noir. Then she took us (Marshall was there too) to a winery in Salem. I tasted another 4 wine samples (was that 10 oz total?!), and absolutely loved their tropical sunset wine. It's like fruit cocktail syrup with wine, yummy.
50. Have Thanksgiving at my parents' house. Marshall and I recently went to Oregon to visit my parents, sisters and nephew for a few days. Thanksgiving is my mom's favorite holiday to cook, and the day we arrived we had a Thanksgiving dinner that night. Check!
88. Visit 5 Austinite restaurants. Not too long ago my boss Carrie took my coworker Emily and I out to lunch at Matt's El Rancho, a Mexican restaurant. I'm not sure if they have more than 1 location in town, but it is an Austin restaurant. My fifth one is actually happening tomorrow morning. I'm meeting a new friend at the Magnolia Cafe, and Carrie has approved it as an Austin "must go" place. :)
101. Take a glass blowing class. Today was the glass blowing class I organized through a meetup.com group that I joined. 10 ladies participated, and everyone had a blast. I get to pick up my purple and pink ornament on Monday after work. I'll post pictures this week. Check!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Modified September Plans
We added another vacation to September. Yep, this brings the count to 2. Marshall has a Navy hearing in Washington DC on September 14th, so we'll be in DC the 12-15. His ticket was picked up by the Navy, but I had to pay for mine. I didn't want him going alone, especially since it's a pretty nerve wracking ordeal. We've also wanted to travel to DC together.
We're still going on our car trip to NM at the end of September for the Intl Balloon Festival. Dang, September is going to fly by!
We're still going on our car trip to NM at the end of September for the Intl Balloon Festival. Dang, September is going to fly by!
Hostess
I recently hosted a baby shower at my house for a friend at work who is due with a girl at the end of September. We had california rolls, lumpia and edamame. I even made Weight Watchers sangria. For dessert I made rice krispie treat cupcakes with strawberry frosting. I added sprinkles and a strawberry 'A' for Alice, the baby's name. Her middle name is going to Sakura, which is Japanese for cherry blossom (hence the theme). Here are the pictures I remembered to take of my prep. I made the mom-to-be bibs and receiving blankets, and got her some things that she'll need on the first day home (aka diapers and wipes).
Marshall's Birthday
Marshall turned 28 on July 28th (golden year), and I got him the second Flight of the Concords CD. He was actually thinking of getting me the CD just because. Ha, I got to it first!! :p The following night Marshall's dad came up from Houston as a surprise to Marshall, and we all three went to a murder mystery dinner downtown. We all had self-imposed aliases: Marshall and I were Jeremiah and Agnes Frownski, and Jeff was Popeye. He really enjoyed that one, lol. We had a great time and will probably do it again next year when they do a new mystery theme. Here's a picture of us from our night out.
Wedding Anniversary
July 31st was our one year wedding anniversary! We had such a beautiful wedding in Idaho last year. 
All the bouquets together.
The bridal party (yes, that's Jenn skipping).
Planting our unity tree.
The alter.
Sealed it with a kiss.
Uncle Jet doing the Airplane!
Marshall's parents got us a present to celebrate!
Here's Marshall getting excited about what's inside.
It's a bottle of champagne and 2 crystal flutes that have our names and wedding date on them. I have the best mother-and father-in-law. :)
Home Decor
While Marshall's been solarizing the backyard this summer, I've had my own house project to do. I painted our great room (living room, dining area, and kitchen) yellow. I added copper and white curtains to the living room windows. The papasan chair pillow is red. The cats love the curtains! Although their claws have gotten suck on the threads of the white oness, they've done really well at not damaging the copper ones. Eventually we will replace the carpet with hardwood floors.
Monday, July 25, 2011
End of July
Last week was very busy for me at work. I think I worked something like 50 hours, even pulling two 12-hour days back to back. We had a big audit by a huge potential client (has anyone heard of Samsung before?!) on Thursday, so we were frantically trying to get our shop looking marvelous. I think we pulled it off, lol. I won't know if Samsung liked what they saw and will be sending us business anytime soon, but at least all the craziness is over.
This past weekend I went to San Antonio to spend Saturday night with a friend from North Dakota as it is her birthday this upcoming Wednesday. We went to dinner, and I got to play with her 11 month old daughter. Of course we talked non-stop. It was nice to take a drive away from the city.
On Sunday I went grocery shopping while Marshall slept. All summer he's been preparing meals, cleaning, and doing house projects while I've been at work. I decided I would take something off his list while he slept. This week for dinner we're having:
*Lasagna with eggplant, vegetables, and ground turkey
*French onion soup
*Eggplant Parmesian
*Lemon chicken with stir fry pasta
*Grilled chicken breasts with fruit salsa
*Cobb salads
I also started working on presents for Melissa's baby shower that I'm hosting on August 7th. So far I made a receiving blanket that doubles as a towel and 2 bibs. I need to go get some more thread so I can finish up more sewing projects for her. :) I'll post pictures when I have everything completed.
Tonight has a relaxing night. We watched Sunday's episode of True Blood together. I made pico de gallo while Marshall put together the lasagna. Can't wait to have some in a little bit! Tuesday night I have a personal training session at 6pm. Wednesday is free at the moment, and Thursday is the big day--Marshall's 28th birthday! I have one present for him that he's going to love. His bigger birthday present is a murder mystery date downtown on Friday night. Shhh, he doesn't know this but his parents are coming up from Houston as a surprise. We haven't seen them since April, so it will be a really great evening with the four of us together.
Saturday I'll go to the gym after my WW meeting, but other than that the weekend is still wide open. Sunday is our one year anniversary of our wedding in Idaho. I can't wait until we move there in 8 years, lol. :p We haven't decided on what we'll do on Sunday together yet. I guess we better get crackin' on that, huh?
July is always a good month, but I feel that the end really signifies the beginning of the climb towards the holidays. Kids will be counting down the last few days of summer while parents save up to buy school supplies. Then it's all about dec'ing out the house for Halloween. We'll probably stay in Austin for Thanksgiving since I want to run the Turkey Trot 5K on that morning, and I've volunteered to work the day after Thanksgiving incase my co-worker Emily wants it off. Then of course the big event of my birthday is next--I'll be 25--followed closely by Christmas and 2012. This year will be another good one for us, but I can't wait until '12 because then we're closer to Marshall being finished with school...and babies. :D
This past weekend I went to San Antonio to spend Saturday night with a friend from North Dakota as it is her birthday this upcoming Wednesday. We went to dinner, and I got to play with her 11 month old daughter. Of course we talked non-stop. It was nice to take a drive away from the city.
On Sunday I went grocery shopping while Marshall slept. All summer he's been preparing meals, cleaning, and doing house projects while I've been at work. I decided I would take something off his list while he slept. This week for dinner we're having:
*Lasagna with eggplant, vegetables, and ground turkey
*French onion soup
*Eggplant Parmesian
*Lemon chicken with stir fry pasta
*Grilled chicken breasts with fruit salsa
*Cobb salads
I also started working on presents for Melissa's baby shower that I'm hosting on August 7th. So far I made a receiving blanket that doubles as a towel and 2 bibs. I need to go get some more thread so I can finish up more sewing projects for her. :) I'll post pictures when I have everything completed.
Tonight has a relaxing night. We watched Sunday's episode of True Blood together. I made pico de gallo while Marshall put together the lasagna. Can't wait to have some in a little bit! Tuesday night I have a personal training session at 6pm. Wednesday is free at the moment, and Thursday is the big day--Marshall's 28th birthday! I have one present for him that he's going to love. His bigger birthday present is a murder mystery date downtown on Friday night. Shhh, he doesn't know this but his parents are coming up from Houston as a surprise. We haven't seen them since April, so it will be a really great evening with the four of us together.
Saturday I'll go to the gym after my WW meeting, but other than that the weekend is still wide open. Sunday is our one year anniversary of our wedding in Idaho. I can't wait until we move there in 8 years, lol. :p We haven't decided on what we'll do on Sunday together yet. I guess we better get crackin' on that, huh?
July is always a good month, but I feel that the end really signifies the beginning of the climb towards the holidays. Kids will be counting down the last few days of summer while parents save up to buy school supplies. Then it's all about dec'ing out the house for Halloween. We'll probably stay in Austin for Thanksgiving since I want to run the Turkey Trot 5K on that morning, and I've volunteered to work the day after Thanksgiving incase my co-worker Emily wants it off. Then of course the big event of my birthday is next--I'll be 25--followed closely by Christmas and 2012. This year will be another good one for us, but I can't wait until '12 because then we're closer to Marshall being finished with school...and babies. :D
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Back from vacation
I had a great 4 days visiting my best friend Heather in North Carolina last week. I flew out on Wednesday morning and came home on Sunday afternoon. Yes, that means I've only worked 4 days this month so far, lol. I had a great time though. I got to meet her friends, so now I can put faces to names. I got to see her house, which she's had for just over 2 years now. I met her pets Baron and Milo. Most importantly we had time to talk, ramble, giggle, and even cry happy tears. She introduced me to spaghetti squash and beat me 2 out of 3 games of Scrabble. We got our hair cut and had pedicures (isn't that the definition of Girls' Weekend?); I even colored my hair. It now has a slight red tint to it. She helped me style my new shorter hairstyle, which my husband calls my pixie cut. It was a complete surprise for him, hehehe.
I hadn't seen Heather since my wedding almost a year ago, so this was really fun. It meant a lot to me that she was part of my bridal party and flew all the way to Idaho for the weekend. I'm glad I got to take a turn and visit her this time. :)
I hadn't seen Heather since my wedding almost a year ago, so this was really fun. It meant a lot to me that she was part of my bridal party and flew all the way to Idaho for the weekend. I'm glad I got to take a turn and visit her this time. :)
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Buff Mamacita
I wanted everyone to know that I'm really enjoying my personal training sessions at the gym! My trainer is an awesome guy, and we have the same sense of humor, so our sessions go by really quickly because we're always cracking jokes. I've done a total of 6 training sessions, and I can see (and feel) the improvement in my muscles. I'm making more and more progress each day. I can't wait to find an outfit that will flatter my new body once I reach my goal.
The reason I am doing Weight Watchers is do develop a healthy lifestyle for myself and a healthy body before I become a mother (2013?!). My training sessions compliment this lifestyle, and I'm so proud of myself for diligently striving to reach my goal. I'm going to be a buff mamacita one day!
The reason I am doing Weight Watchers is do develop a healthy lifestyle for myself and a healthy body before I become a mother (2013?!). My training sessions compliment this lifestyle, and I'm so proud of myself for diligently striving to reach my goal. I'm going to be a buff mamacita one day!
How Time Flies
It was 4 years ago today that I met Marshall my husband. I find it amazing on how you can't remember something from yesterday, but you'll never forget the vivid memories of meeting someone for the first time. From that first day I knew Marshall was going to have a place in my life. Now he owns my heart. :D
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Puppy Mode
So I did something that is so unlike the old me--I put myself first. I signed up for another 11 training sessions with Paul. That's right, I spent a lot of money on just me; nobody else really benefits from it but me. Although I still feel awkward that I have no idea to what extent this investment payoff will be in comparison to other ways the funds could have been used, for example, paying extra principle on our mortgage results in less interest paid to the bank. Regardless, I'm optimistic that learning how to exercise and use my body as a machine (more importantly one that I understand and can control) will benefit me for the rest of my life. In the grand scheme of the universe, it's a small price to pay for knowledge. I'm going to be in what I've dubbed "puppy mode" because I'll be following Paul around the gym (right on his heels), probably feel like I'm bigger than I really am (meaning that I can take on more than I'm physically able to), and being in a growing stage.
My goals are to do two resistance/strength training workouts per week, continuous cardio activity for 30 minutes (+/-) three times per week, and on a daily basis, work on stretching, increasing flexibility, and/or strengthening weak muscles (without a doubt my lower back). If I can get more activity in, it only adds to the positive end results. As ambitious of a person that I am, I need to take the time to listen to my body to see if I'm ready for more or less.
Probably my best stretching resource is going to be my pilates DVD with the resistance ban. For doing cardio (inside the house) and working my muscles just a tad bit more, I'll resort to my Punch! DVD. If it wasn't so freaking Africa hot right now, I'd play tennis with my husband outside. When I go for walks or jogs, I'm going to being the jump rope so I can pause intermittenly and give the ol' ticker a boost before continuing on. I'm going to research some creative and fun ways to bring sexy back to balance. =D
On Saturdays after my WW meeting, I'm going to the gym. It's less than a mile away, and I'll feel great for having such a productive morning!
My goals are to do two resistance/strength training workouts per week, continuous cardio activity for 30 minutes (+/-) three times per week, and on a daily basis, work on stretching, increasing flexibility, and/or strengthening weak muscles (without a doubt my lower back). If I can get more activity in, it only adds to the positive end results. As ambitious of a person that I am, I need to take the time to listen to my body to see if I'm ready for more or less.
Probably my best stretching resource is going to be my pilates DVD with the resistance ban. For doing cardio (inside the house) and working my muscles just a tad bit more, I'll resort to my Punch! DVD. If it wasn't so freaking Africa hot right now, I'd play tennis with my husband outside. When I go for walks or jogs, I'm going to being the jump rope so I can pause intermittenly and give the ol' ticker a boost before continuing on. I'm going to research some creative and fun ways to bring sexy back to balance. =D
On Saturdays after my WW meeting, I'm going to the gym. It's less than a mile away, and I'll feel great for having such a productive morning!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
oooo, That's Sore
Last night we went to the gym for the first time since February. We worked out with the machines. Yeah, this morning I could tell that I had gotten the major muscle groups. I'm so sore, but I'm so proud of myself for taking charge at the gym. Hopefull this upcoming week I can start my personal trainer sessions (three free ones with my membership). I hope I heal quickly!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
I Think I Finally Get It
I've been doing Weight Watcher's PointsPlus Plan since the beginning of the year, and I've lost over 25 pounds, which I'm really proud of. The first two weeks of May I wasn't enthused about doing any exercising. Instead I focused on painting our kitchen and second living room. The week of May 16th I kicked myself into gear. Monday night I did the WW Punch! workout DVD and went for a 2.3 mile walk. Tuesday morning Marshall and I went for a 1.5 mile walk. Thursday night we jogged the majority of our 1.5 mile neighborhood "track." Friday morning I did Punch! again before work. Needless to say, my exercises for the week focused on muscle toning and cardio.
This morning at my weigh-in I went up .2, and to be honest, it don't bother me because I knew that it meant I had increased my muscle mass while at the same time loosing fat. My meeting leader Pam is helping all of us overcome our behavior of letting the "little black box" or scale determine if we had a successful week as a fit and healthy person in the fat burning mode. I finally experienced what she has been stressing.
I am going to continue walking, jogging, and Punch! (kickboxing) DVD because I want to strengthen and tone my muscles. I want to fit into smaller pants. I want to wear tank tops and not even think about how my arms look. I want to get a bathing suit for my trip to NC for when I go to the beach. Even if I don't see my weight change very much over the next few weeks, I hope I can celebrate the positive physical changes I'll be seeing.
This morning at my weigh-in I went up .2, and to be honest, it don't bother me because I knew that it meant I had increased my muscle mass while at the same time loosing fat. My meeting leader Pam is helping all of us overcome our behavior of letting the "little black box" or scale determine if we had a successful week as a fit and healthy person in the fat burning mode. I finally experienced what she has been stressing.
I am going to continue walking, jogging, and Punch! (kickboxing) DVD because I want to strengthen and tone my muscles. I want to fit into smaller pants. I want to wear tank tops and not even think about how my arms look. I want to get a bathing suit for my trip to NC for when I go to the beach. Even if I don't see my weight change very much over the next few weeks, I hope I can celebrate the positive physical changes I'll be seeing.
Hurry up July!
This week I bought plan tickets for me to fly to Jacksonville, North Carolina to spend 4 days with my best gal pal Heather. I had extra vacation days to use up, and with her being a teacher, she's off during the summer. My trip is July 6-10, which is only 7 weeks away!
The rest of July is full of fun birthdays. My mother-in-law's is on the 13th; my co-worker Emily's is on the 21st; and my husband's is the 28th. July 31st will mark 1 year since our wedding in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
The rest of July is full of fun birthdays. My mother-in-law's is on the 13th; my co-worker Emily's is on the 21st; and my husband's is the 28th. July 31st will mark 1 year since our wedding in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Listening to Advice
This is sort of an amended section to the previous blog entry regarding Marshall's school plans. My step-dad really encouraged Marshall to continue pursuing a degree. He took a look at some other options at TSU, and saw a Bachelors of Science Technology in Manufacturing Engineering Technology and Marshall's eyes lit up like I had put a giant wheel of cheese in front of him (he's a cheese lover and always says we should get one while we're at the grocery store). The classes are going to help him with this business, and overall, the degree falls right in line with his plan for Delphi Innovations. It will be another 6 semesters, but we'll make it work. I'm hoping this change will help keep him motivated. I really want to throw a graduation party for him one day, ya know?
Monday, May 2, 2011
Early May
On Saturday I reached my 10% goal, which is 10% of my starting weight with Weight Watchers. I was so relieved, but I've been working really hard at trying to make it. My reward is a horseback riding lesson (now I have to save up the money to actually do it)!
On Sunday, Marshall and I participated in Austin's 5K Bun Run (#95 on 101/1001). We just walked it; I had no intention of trying to run, lol. We were part of my Weight Watcher's group (which had the most team members by the way!). I need to find out if my WW group is also doing a 5K somewhere for WW's Walk-It Challenge May 22nd. I would do that one as well.
This week Marshall is studying for three finals on Thursday. His last one will be the following Monday, then he will be done with school until late August. He's decided that returning to ACC, the local community college, would work out just as well as him continuing at TSU. ACC has the same classes; he can drive to campus; and he wouldn't have a $40 bus pass each week. I like the idea of him getting home at a decent hour as well. :) This past semester he didn't get home until 10:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
I have Memorial day off of work, but I won't be taking any vacation until mid-August when we go to Oregon for a long weekend. Work will keep me plenty busy I'm sure. I just have to remember that we're going to have lots of fun at the end of the summer with our trips.
Marshall's parents have started their multi-month bike trip to Alaska. We probably won't see them until July at the earliest. They are going to have a great time. We'll be hearing stories for months to come. :)
At the end of the month, my only nephew turns 1! I can't believe it. Marshall's mom's side of the family is about to welcome another grandbaby this year. He should be born within the next 2 weeks. I will have a new little cousin born in October on my Thiele side. Babies, babies--it's not to think about them. Marshall and I have decided that if we've achieved our list of goals by the time I turn 26, we'll start get the ball rolling on the kiddos. Big smiley face.
On Sunday, Marshall and I participated in Austin's 5K Bun Run (#95 on 101/1001). We just walked it; I had no intention of trying to run, lol. We were part of my Weight Watcher's group (which had the most team members by the way!). I need to find out if my WW group is also doing a 5K somewhere for WW's Walk-It Challenge May 22nd. I would do that one as well.
This week Marshall is studying for three finals on Thursday. His last one will be the following Monday, then he will be done with school until late August. He's decided that returning to ACC, the local community college, would work out just as well as him continuing at TSU. ACC has the same classes; he can drive to campus; and he wouldn't have a $40 bus pass each week. I like the idea of him getting home at a decent hour as well. :) This past semester he didn't get home until 10:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
I have Memorial day off of work, but I won't be taking any vacation until mid-August when we go to Oregon for a long weekend. Work will keep me plenty busy I'm sure. I just have to remember that we're going to have lots of fun at the end of the summer with our trips.
Marshall's parents have started their multi-month bike trip to Alaska. We probably won't see them until July at the earliest. They are going to have a great time. We'll be hearing stories for months to come. :)
At the end of the month, my only nephew turns 1! I can't believe it. Marshall's mom's side of the family is about to welcome another grandbaby this year. He should be born within the next 2 weeks. I will have a new little cousin born in October on my Thiele side. Babies, babies--it's not to think about them. Marshall and I have decided that if we've achieved our list of goals by the time I turn 26, we'll start get the ball rolling on the kiddos. Big smiley face.
Masterbathroom--in Color!
The inside of our house is entirely painted in a neutral, fleshy brown color, and I'm tired of looking at it. I needed a little side project of my own (Marshall has plenty of projects between the garage, yard, and painting in order to put up gutters). I started with the master bathroom, and I was fully intent on doing some sponge painting. How did it turn out?Marshall also installed a new light fixture that we both really like. It was the perfect opportunity, so we took it.
The first picture is of the left side of the bathroom being reflected in the mirror. The second picture is of the right side wall. The bath tub is to the right of the window.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
Bike Ride!
I bought a bike at the end of February, but hadn't found the time to remove the tags until this past Saturday. Marshall and I went for a bike ride, which we have never been able to do before! I need a more comfortable seat (here I come Amazon...), and then I'm sure I'll be out on the trail more often. Owning a bike was one of the tasks on my 101/1001 list. Here are some other updates: 1. I've donated $25 worth of non-perishable food items to our local food bank for 8 straight months now. September will make it 12. 24. I've now tried 3 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's Ice Cream. My goal is ten. My latest was chocolate cheesecake, which was quite delicious! 42. So far I've lowered my BMI by over four points in 2011! 64. I've made 49 notes for my husband to find. I need to kick it into gear if I am going to make it to 1001! Others that are coming up very soon: 49. Go horseback riding (which is my reward when I lose 10% of my starting body weight with Weight Watchers). 66. Read the Freakonomics books (rented from the library 4/17/11).
No Cap & Gown
Marshall has decided that getting a college degree is not in his best interest. I know, I gasped too. He is dissatisfied with how his science classes are taught and structured. He also realized that he does not like the concept of a degree plan. Marshall has decided that getting a degree is beneficial for someone who wants to get a job working for somone else. That is not my husband. He has already started up his own small business, and desires to be self-employed making inventions. The solution? Lessen the school work load by taking classes that Marshall can't learn from a book, and invest more time in the projects he's committed to for his business. He has three more semesters--fall, spring, fall 2012--before his GI Bill (and stipend) are all used up. He's interested in taking mostly communication courses, which will greatly benefit him. Going to college will still be his "job;" however, he will not have enough credit, or the specific courses, to earn a degree. I'm very excited that Marshall may be getting done with school earlier than we originally planned. As long as we live in Texas, he will always get free tuition (military thing), so if down the road he does need a degree, he can go back and get it. I support my husband in whatever endeavor he believes will make him successful and our family prosper. This is one of them.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
20 Packages of Butter and an Island
Strap 80 sticks of butter to your body. Sounds like fun, huh? Find a way to not let the butter melt though as you carry it around for 3 years. Ok, now you can take them off. That's where I am with my weight loss so far--I've lost 20 pounds!
I have lowered my BMI by 4.3 points since my wedding at the end of July. If I follow the plan and get some great exercise in this week, I'll reach my 10% lost goal in 2 more weeks. By the end of May, I will never see the scale read over 200 pounds ever again.
This is how I feel right now. 
I feel like a woman who keeps paddling towards her perfect island, the place she has always wanted to go and be forever. I have this image as the background on my computer as well as a printed picture on my wall at work. I see it constantly, and this image is my reminder to "keep paddling." Coasting along will eventually get me to my island, but if I keep going strong, I'm going to get their faster. Most importantly I will be satisfied with how I acheived my goals.
I feel like a woman who keeps paddling towards her perfect island, the place she has always wanted to go and be forever. I have this image as the background on my computer as well as a printed picture on my wall at work. I see it constantly, and this image is my reminder to "keep paddling." Coasting along will eventually get me to my island, but if I keep going strong, I'm going to get their faster. Most importantly I will be satisfied with how I acheived my goals. When I reach my island, I'm going to enjoy having pictures taken of me and being in home videos. I'm going to be in the best physical shape I can be. I'm going to be ready to be a mother. Marshall is going to be able to give me piggy-back rides. I'm going to be able to run a 10K. Hopefully I will also be able to not be on medication any more either. :)
When I really want to know what I should do about a situaiton or how I should feel, I ask my subconscious, which often pops a picture in my head. My consciousness interprets it, and I trust it is correct. That is another reason why I like this picture so much.
Up, Up and Away
We're going to the International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico this year September 29th-October 3rd!
I wanted to book our hotel room as far in advance as possible because I have no doubt this is a huge attraction for the city. It will be a 12.5 hour drive each way (709 miles). We are driving Thursday and Monday. We're going to spend Friday and Sunday sight-seeing the area and the city. Saturday morning we will be at the balloon festival. I'm going to bring lots of batteries for my camera!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Grumble Grumble
I just received a letter in the mail from a company that I was trying to get a life insurance policy through. They decided not to insure me because of (my less than one year) history of anxiety, labwork, and my medical file from my PCM. I hardly think my managed anxiety is going to be the death of me within the next 20 years. As for my medical file, in October 2009 when I went in for a general physical, the doctor's office called me back a few days later to tell me that some count in my liver was too high. I was told not to drink alcohol, which I rarely do, and not to take Tylenol for pain relief. Next time I went in, bloodwork came out fine. Marshall is going to help me figure out who I need to call to get the specifics. If there is something else that is obviously more serious, creating cause for this rejection, I would like to know what it is.
Grumble, grumble.
Grumble, grumble.
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