The End and The Beginning

Today is my last day off before 3 days of work and then I'm back to school on Monday. Today is the last day of 2009. Today is the last day of the decade. Goodbye 2000's, Hello 2010's (or whatever the heck we're calling them).

2009 was a good year. I won't go into the whole decade, because honestly, I can't remember all that. I love New Years because of the celebration of things past and the hopefulness of things to come.

This is what I am looking forward to in 2010:

-Graduating! This is numero uno on my list- being done with my Bachelors in April. Although I am stoked to be almost done with school, the nerves have started to kick in a bit about job searching. Hopefully I will be able to find something good by May. Going along with this is quitting my current job when I graduate, so I won't be working weekends anymore.

-Buying a new house! We want to put our house up for sale sometime in January and buy something by April. The house we live in now is actually the NewlyHusband's. He has owned it for a little over 5 years and I just moved in here before we got married. It's not a bad house, but we would like something a little newer, in a different part of town, that we can really make ours.

-Getting healthier. Notice this one does not have an exclamation point, because I am not really looking forward to it. I like good food and I don't have a whole lot of motivation to work out. However, I do not like myself when I look in the mirror. I get depressed about this body that I've never had before. It's hard getting rid of all your jeans because they no longer fit and donating all your shirts that are too fitted. The NewlyHusband is doing a Biggest Loser competition at his job, so we are planning on getting up early together every morning to hit the gym. Getting healthy will also include drinking less soda and way more water and thinking a bit more about what I put in my mouth. I will never be a health nut when it comes to food, but I can at least make a little bit better decisions.

-Being more responsible in my walk with God. I do not currently go to church because I work every Sunday, but I need to make an effort to actually read my Bible and talk to God more.

-Learning to cook more. I would love to make something new at least once a month to put a little variety in our meals.

-Seeing our good friends get married in May.

-Celebrating our first anniversary in August with some sort of vacation.

So, here's to 2010! May it be a great year for us all!

Lessons on Cherry Pie

Well hello again! Christmas is over, the in laws have left, and I'm enjoying my last couple days of freedom before school starts again (my last semester!!)

Christmas was wonderful. We spent Christmas morning at our house with my in laws. The NewlyHusband and I then went to my parents to exchange gifts, where eventually we were joined by the rest of the family, including his parents. It was wonderful to be able to spend Christmas with both our families in the same spot, so we didn't have to worry about splitting our time. We had 17 people total at my parents house!

As this was my first Christmas as a wife, I do believe I was allowed some kitchen mishaps...and I had one. I decided to make a cherry pie. How hard can that be, right? I bought two pre-made pie crusts in the tins and took them out of the fridge to get them to room temp (that's what the directions said to do.) What they don't tell you is that if you are using one of the pie crusts as the top, you should probably take it out of the tin before you thaw it or it will just crumble in your hands. It did crumble. But I wasn't going to just give up! I filled the bottom with two cans of cherry pie filling and pieced together the other crust on top. It was ugly as hell, sure, but I thought it would still taste good, so who cares. I put it straight in the oven (mishap #2- apparently you're supposed to put it on top of a cookie sheet first). Checked it 15 min later and half of the top had fallen onto the bottom of the oven. At this point, I decided to give up on the pie and throw it away. I put on some oven mitts, grabbed the pie, and went to throw it in the sink.

Right before I got to the sink, the pie folded in and fell. Covered the sink, the counter, the cupboards, the floor, and the new Christmas socks I was wearing. I really wish I had a picture of our kitchen covered in cherry pie. So there ya go. This is the life of a newlywife.

In other news, my nieces and nephew's mom found out she is pregnant again, so I will be getting a fourth niece or nephew. And.... the guy that was the best man at our wedding proposed to his girlfriend at Christmas. So that was really exciting news!

Hope everyone reading had a wonderful holiday. I am off to find a dress to wear tomorrow night!

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas

It's almost Christmas, guys! I seriously love this time of year and just like a little kid, it feels like this week is taking forever. Our house is decorated, all my shopping and wrapping is done. Although the NewlyHusband's is not...he's out finishing right now. The in laws are here to spend Christmas with us and our house is currently full of cookies.

I really don't have much to say today, but just wanted to say a very Merry Christmas to all of you! I hope your holidays are amazing, full of friends, family, and food!

Shopping, Grades, and Breaking Up With Friends

I shopped till I dropped yesterday. I went to the Town Center here, which is this huge outdoor mall. I shopped for about 4 hours! My shopping for the NewlyHusband is completely done now. I can't tell ya what I bought though, because the NewlyHusband makes his way over to this blog every once in a while. *Hi honey!* I think I may be done Christmas shopping altogether. It feels good. Now for all the wrapping. We also put our tree up last night and decorated.

Great news guys! (Not that anyone really cares but me, but it's my blog and I'm happy, so I shall post)- I got my grades for this past hellish semester. In my American Revolution and Constitution class, I got a B. In my Irish History class, I got a B+, and in my Modern China class and Global Environmental History class, I got A-'s. I'm sooo glad that semester is done and over with and so stoked that I got all A's and B's.

Now, as for breaking up with friends. Have you ever had this come up before? You have a friend that you used to be really close with, but for some reason, you're just not anymore. In all harsh honesty, you would be okay just not talking to them anymore. You don't want to catch up, you don't want to hang out, you certainly don't wish them ill or have any dislike toward them, you just don't click with them anymore. But the friendship just won't go away. Don't you wish you could just call them up and say "Ya know, we had some really great times together. It's not you, it's me, but I think we need to break up as friends. No hard feelings. I really hope you have a great life without me in it."

I have a "friend" like this in my life. We were really close for a while, but not so much anymore. The things he says and does kind of annoy me. I just don't see a need to keep up with each other anymore. I think we are in two very different points in our life.

What are your thoughts on this? Have you ever had a friend you wanted to break up with, not for any particular reason, just cuz you didn't want to be friends anymore? That sounds so kindergarten, I know. Are they still in your life or did you break up with them? Lemme know!

Christmas Break!

So I know I promised to write my dream Christmas list on Friday. But Friday sucked and I had no time to blog as I was writing a 13 page paper all day. Seriously this last week seemed like one of the longest of my life. Researching and studying Monday-Wednesday. Two finals on Friday which consisted of a total of 3 essays and 5 short answers. Boy, was my hand hurting by the end of it all.

Buttt now I'm officially on Christmas Break! Woohoo! I have lots of planned blog posts coming up, so look for me to be much more blog active in the next few weeks. As for today, I am going to share an award I got from the fabulous Brittany over at Tales of a Southern Belle and her Beau. Her blog is one of those that I look forward to reading every day. Thanks Britt for the sweet award!

For this award, I am supposed to list 10 things that make me happy and then tag 10 blogs that make me smile.

So, 10 things that make me happy:

1. The NewlyHusband. I know, I know, how obvious. But it's true. My life would certainly be less amazing without him in it.

2. Great conversations. I love it when you get into a conversation with someone and neither of you can stop talking. There are no awkward silences, but plenty of "I know!"'s and "That is SO true!"'s cuz you are on the exact same page.

3. The Christmas season. The reason for the season, Jesus' birth, makes me incredibly happy. I also love the music, the shopping, the crisp air (something we don't always have here), the general hustle and bustle, the wrapping, the decorations, seeing the look on someone's face when they open a really great gift.

4. Keeping with that theme, New Years Eve. New Years Eve is my second favorite holiday. I love the celebration that comes with ending one year and beginning a new one. Celebrating memories from the past and goals from the future. And it has become even more special, since that was the night that the NewlyHusband proposed to me.

5. Game nights. Game nights are my fave, especially the ones that end with me on the floor laughing. Give me some snacks, a drink, fun friends, and a board game (or card game), and I am a happy camper.

6. Dinner. Dinner is my favorite time of the day. The NewlyHusband and I do not get much time together, but we make sure to have dinner together pretty much every single night. I start thinking about what's for dinner before I even eat lunch. If something gets in the way of my dinner plans, I get very dissapointed.

7. Blogging. It's not something I ever thought about doing or wanted to do until I read The Heir to Blair and and Live it Love it. These girls were my blogging inspiration and gave me hours upon hours (ok I lie, days upon days) of entertainment reading their archives. I now really enjoy putting my thoughts out there for others to see and enjoy the connections I've made.

8. Music. I work out better with my IPOD, I clean better with my IPOD. I need music to get me going. I need music in my car. And yes, I sing and jam along. I sing my heart out in the car, I dance in the shower. Music just makes me happy.

9. Church. I have not been since the middle of March, because I work every Sunday, and this kind of depresses me. I am so so excited that I can go to the 11pm Christmas Eve service. I cannot wait to be done with this job and start going every Sunday again.

10. Vacation. My favorite thing in the world is just getting away. I love the feeling of being away from home, experiencing new things, having no responsiblities, even if it's only for a few days. The feeling of being on a trip is a feeling that nothing else compares to.

I am going to be a rule breaker today and only tag 5 blogs, because I need to get my butt off the couch and get moving. Along with the 5 below, don't forget to check out the 3 great blogs mentioned above.

1. Carissa Jaded. Heeeee-larious! Her blog makes me laugh out loud daily. I love it.
2.It Starts With Us. I have only recently started following Nate's blog, since joining It Starts With Us, but I highly recommend it. It will make you think and if you like what you see, it's easy to join in!
3.More is Better. Another blog to make you literally LOL.
4. Not That Kind of Girl. This chick has some bravado and is a complete inspiration to get out there and try something new.
5.Strawberry Swing and Other Things. A newer blog with some yummy recipes and some even yummier fashions.

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas

Only a hippopotamus will do...

Ok I don't really want a hippo for Christmas- they're violent, aren't they? When I was little, I wanted Shamu for Christmas. My mom told me we didn't have a big enough backyard...ahh the dissapointments we face as children. Anyways (yes I know there's not an s on "anyway" but that's how I like to say it), let's get to the point...My Christmas list! Lots of bloggers have posted their Christmas lists lately and who am I not to jump on the bandwagon? Today, I will post my realistic Christmas list. The stuff I actually want, ya know, in case anyone's paying attention. Tomorrow, I'll post my dream Christmas list (the stuff I'm not near spoiled enough for).

My Christmas List for 2009

Cashmere sweater from Kohls- they're on sale for 30 bucks people! And 100% cashmere. Score!

Knee high socks- I need socks to wear with my boots, so my boots don't rub against my legs. I like fun socks, not plain socks.

Scarves (Or is it scarfs? I never know)- It doesn't get too cold here in Florida, but I do need a scarf every once in a while and I only own one. This one from AE would do, but I'm not picky

A nice coat. I have one leather jacket for when it's really chilly and a bunch of hoodies. A nice pea coat would be fab, maybe this one from Aeropostale or something similar but a bit longer would be better.

A study guide for the PHR, which I plan on taking after graduation

A cookbook for beginners or for picky eaters.

And of course, gift cards so I can go shopping myself! My favorite part of after-Christmas is getting to go shopping with the gift cards I got for Christmas. I also like getting restaurant gift cards, so the NewlyHusband and I can go out to eat without feeling guilty.

It Starts With Us- My First Mission

Go here to see my post on joining It Starts With Us.

The first mission I received was this:

Give someone a picture that you know they'll enjoy.

I was excited about this one. I knew this would be really easy for me, since we just got married and had really great professional pictures of some of our friends.

How I accomplished the mission:

I found professional pictures of 4 couples that came to our wedding and sent them to the couples through email.

Response/reaction to mission:

I knew that I would love to receive a professional picture of the NewlyHusband and I from someone, so I figured others would too. I got really great responses, such as "Thank you for thinking of us." "That was so sweet. "I love the picture." It made me feel good that something so small and easy to do put a smile on someone's face.

It also gave me the idea to frame some of the professional picures we have of my aunt and uncle, grandma and grandpa, etc and give them as Christmas gifts. A cheap, personal gift, that I think they will love.

So join in if you'd like. Give a picture to someone that you know they'll enjoy. It's quick, it's easy, and it may just brighten someone's day.

4 Months

It's December 8th- the NewlyHusband and I have been married 4 months today. On November 8, I showed you all a glimpse of our fabulous honeymoon. So I decided to carry on the tradition and on each one of our monthiverssaries, show you a little part of our wedding or wedding events. Since I started at the end with the honeymoon, I decided to come back to the beginning today- the proposal.

The NewlyHusband proposed to me on December 31, 2008. For New Years Eve, him and I and my best friend and her husband went to the Comedy Zone to celebrate- they do an hour comedy show and then dancing till 1 am. I certainly was not expecting a proposal. The first slow slong to come on was Tiny Dancer by Elton John. So we went onto the dance floor and he started telling me that he loved me and how he wanted to marry me. And I'm like Yeah I want to marry you too one day. We've had the talk before, so I thought we were just talking casually about it again. Until...He got down on one knee in the middle of the dance floor!! I couldn't believe it. When he said "Will you marry me?" I said "Shut up!" Haha- I was just so shocked. I then nodded my head excitedly and ran off the dance floor and hugged my best friend.

It was just the absolute best night. People were congratulating us, the dj made an announcement, and since we didn't get a picture someone offered to take a re-enactment photo. So the NewlyHusband got down on one knee in the hallway outside of the bathrooms and we got a picture. We ran into a lady that worked there a couple months later and she said "Oh yeah! You're the ones who got engaged in front of the bathroom!" Poor NewlyHusband was all romantic and proposed in the middle of the dance floor and this lady thought he pulled out the ring for the first time in front of the freakin restrooms.

Pictures from that night for your viewing pleasure:

Beginning of the night

Re-enactment photo

NewlyHusband, Me, BFF's Hubby, and BFF

Coming up on our 5 monthaverssary: Professional Engagement Photos!

It Starts With Us

If you are a member of 20SB, you probably got the email about their partnership with It Starts With Us. Because, ya know, I totally needed yet another website to join, I decided to join their A Team. Basically, the goal is to participate in small weekly missions to help people out, make a positive impact in people's lives and maybe make a difference. They email you a mission each week (that should take less than 15 minutes to complete). You do the mission and then you can discuss the impact in their forums and/or blog about it.

I will be starting a weekly post about whatever the week's mission is and how I accomplished it. I find myself being selfish more often than selfless and I believe this is at least a little something I can do to think about someone other than me. Join in if you'd like!

It's not a way to brag about doing something good. It's a way to bring attention and get people involved in doing something nice for others. Read more about It Starts With Us at the links above.

Christmas Spirit?

Where is it? Do you have it? How bout you- do you? A lot of the bloggers I read have written posts lately about how they are just not in the Christmas spirit this year. I feel the same way. I've been listening to Christmas music, but it just feels wrong. I've worn Christmas socks. I've shopped (some) for Christmas presents. I even wrapped a present today and mailed it out to my Secret Santa (If any Nesties are reading this- yes I sent it out a day late, but it is out!)

But... still no spirit. When the NewlyHusband gets home tonight, we are going to watch Four Christmases with Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon. Maybe that will help. We can't put up our tree until the 14th (when I will be on Christmas break). I'm sure that will help. And it has gotten a little cooler here, although I think it's 78 degrees (F) right now. It may just be that I am so concentrated on getting done with the semester that I have no room left for the holidays. Holiday shopping is the best thing to get me in the mood and although I've done a bit, I just really don't have the time. And I need a shopping buddy. Going by yourself just isn't as fun.

Are any of you feeling the Christmas spirit yet? What gets you in the mood for the holidays?

A Different Kind of Holiday

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We spent Thanksgiving at the NewlyHusband's parent's house. I tried some new foods (which is a big deal for me!): squash casserole, cornbread dressing, and pumpkin pie. The power actually went out at 2 am on Thanksgiving morning! A car hit a power line and the electricity didn't come back on until about 10:30 am. The NewlyHusband and I enjoyed some time on the pier at the beach where his parents live while the power was out. We watched a bird that had taken a shrimp from a fisherman's bait bucket and just kept hopping around with this shrimp in his mouth. I think he was scared that if he put it down to eat it, another bird would snatch it. A rational fear, I think, since the other birds seemed to be following him pretty closely. We had dinner, watched some football and ice skating, and then went to see NewlyHusband's sister and niece for a bit. A very relaxing Thanksgiving.

On Friday, we went shopping (in the late morning- no way we were getting up at 3 am and fighting the crowds.) We went to Target where I got 2 pairs of gloves for $1.50 and the game Apples to Apples for 10 bucks. I've never played it before but heard it was a blast. We then went to the mall. I wanted to go to Old Navy to check out their 50% off outerwear sale, but man it was a madhouse in there. We picked up some Christmas gifts and we each got a new pair of shoes. I got these:

for 15 bucks! We drove home Friday late afternoon and crashed early after a quick stop at Kohls.

Poor NewlyHusband hasn't been feeling well since we got back. He has very bad allergies and his parents smoke in their house which really exaggerates his allergies. It was so nice to have a couple days off to spend with the NewlyHusband and his family. Now it's back to school. This week is my last week of classes and next week is finals. Sooo I better get busy!

But I'm Thankful Too

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving (American Thanksgiving, that is, don't want to leave out you Canadians who already had yours!). I believe that everyday, we should all take a moment to think about what we're thankful for. I read something once that said we should be thankful for our pile of dirty laundry that needs to be washed because it means we have clothes and thankful for the weight we have gained, because it means we have food, etc. That is such a great way to think.

So, dear readers, some of the things that I am thankful for, both big and small:

• that I found my faith in God a little over four years ago. If God is all you have, God is all you need.


• my amazing husband. Read some of the reasons I love him here.


• my family. Although we certainly have our flaws, there is lots of love there and to me that is most important.


• my job. I complain a lot about working every weekend, but I am incredibly thankful that I am employed right now.


• prescription sunglasses. I wear my sunglasses all.the.time. Even if it's cloudy- if they're not on my eyes, they're on my head. I feel weird and semi-naked when I don't have them.

I am thankful for many other things, but those are the ones that automatically came to my mind.

This will be the first year I have not had Thanksgiving with my mom. We are heading to the in laws. It will be different, but I am looking forward to spending the holiday with people that have taken me in and loved me as their own.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm Tired

I realize it's Thanksgiving week and there's some unspoken rule that we should all write about what we're thankful for. In an effort to not conform, I've decided to kind of do the opposite and write a post of the things I'm tired of. But no worries, I do have plenty of gratitude, so look for a post of things I'm thankful for tomorrow.

I'm tired of:

• my pants being too tight
• my neck being in constant pain
• homework and studying
• not speaking my mind
• being afraid
• working weekends
• missing church
• living on the westside
• my vision getting worse
• things breaking
• not having enough time

What are you tired of?

Let's Catch Up, Shall We?

I don't have much time, cuz I need to write a paper that's due tomorrow, but I just wanted to catch up with you all a bit. So, expect a bunch of randomness in this post.

-I went to Martini Fest Friday night with a couple girls. Martini Fest is an event here where you get a small martini glass and they have over 50 different booths, all with different types of martinis that you can sample. Best ones- American vodka and lemonade and one that was Bubblegum vodka, cranberry juice and gingerale. Yum! Worst one- caramel martini with chocolate sauce. Ick!

- I just registered for my last semester of college classes! WooHoo! That just feels amazing. My last semester will consist of these 4 classes: a seminar on the 1890's, Nazi Germany, Industrial Organizational Psychology, and the Sociology of Work. (Should be better than this semester which was Irish History, American Revolution/Constitution, Modern China, and Global Environmental History).

- I have 3 weeks left until the end of this semester. I cannot wait to have 3 weeks off of school. I'll probably be back to blogging every day then. I also plan on going to the gym Mon-Fri during Christmas break and painting some rooms in our house.

-Seriously guys, I'm not exaggerating when I say school is just wearing me out. Being a history major means lots and lots and lots of reading and writing. It is just very hard to keep up with. When I finish this blog, I need to read a chapter and a half in a book called The Belfast Diaries for my Irish History class and write a study guide for it, write a 5 page paper on the Okefenokee Swamp, and read something for my Environmental History class (I don't know what yet).

- We are going to a 1st birthday party for our friend's little girl on Saturday. We also have a housewarming party to go to. I took Saturday off so I can attend both, which I'm way excited about!

Sorry this wasn't the most interesting post! Bear with me, ya'll!

Posts Are Coming

Hey guys,

Just wanted to write a quick post to let you know I do have some posts coming and that I haven't forgotten about my lovely blogosphere. I have just been feeling so overwhelmed lately and not really known how to deal with it. There's been lots of tears.

See ya soon!

Dinner, Shopping, and Dissapointment

It's....Recap time! I don't get a weekend, so since the NewlyHusband was off for Veterans Day, Tues/Wed was kind of like my weekend.

Tuesday evening, we went to Bonefish for dinner to celebrate making it past 3 months of marriage. I know, I know, monthaverssary's are kinda dumb but we realize that a marriage takes work and darn it we want to celebrate being married and happy- we don't want to take that for granted. I shall now proceed to make your mouth water with what I had. I had a Bonefish Martini, which is vodka, champagne, and cranberry juice. It was tasty but man was it strong. Some of the sips felt like I was taking shots of straight vodka. We shared Bang Bang shrimp for an appetizer. Lemme tell you, I don't too much care for shrimp, but this is amazing! I wish I could describe the taste. The online menu describes it as "tender, crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce." For dinner, I had the Lily's chicken- chicken breast with lemon basil sauce and goat cheese- with a side of herbed jasmine rice. It was a really nice date night.

Wednesday, we got up somewhat early to drive to Orlando. We were going to check out Ikea. Have you guys ever been there? It is incredible. 309,00 square feet, 2 stories of homegood heaven. The whole top story is set up as showrooms. The closets...ohmygosh...the closets. I wanted to just move into the store. They also have a little cafe and a small Swedish grocery store in there. We spent 4 hours there. We didn't really go to buy anything though, just check it out. We did leave with 2 table lamps, a ceiling light for our kitchen, and an apron for me.

After Ikea, we decided to head down to CityWalk at Universal for a drink at Margaritaville. As soon as we started pulling in, I decided I wanted to actually go into the park and ride the rides. I put on my best pouting act, but it didn't work. Haha- we did decide we'll have to go back down there just to go to Universal and Islands of Adventure. I loovvvee roller coasters and I haven't been to Universal in at least 5 years. I had the Pomegranate margarita at Margaritaville though and it was fab! While there, I found a coat I liked at the Billabong store, but it was more expensive than I would have liked, so we decided to head to the Orlando outlet mall to see if I could find something cheaper.

Here is where the dissapointment part comes in- I always thought that outlet mall meant cheaper stuff. I thought it was last season or overstock or whatever. Yeah...turns out everything at the outlet store is the same price as in the regular store. What the heck is the point of having an outlet then? NewlyHusband got some new shoes at the Nike store, but after a while, my feet were hurting and we headed home.

It was a really nice way for the NewlyHusband and I to spend some time together and it was especially nice to get out of town, even if only for a day. I can't wait till we have weekends off together again. 5 and 1/2 months!

Blog Award!

One of my absolute fave bloggers, Brittany at Tales of a Southern Belle and Her Beau gave me the Kreativ Blogger award. I would like to thank the Academy... No really thanks Britt! I feel special. And of course there's no such thing as a free lunch (or award as the case may be). So let's go over the rules, shall we?

1. List 7 things about myself others might not know.

2. Pass this award on to 7 other bloggers.

So, here goes. 7 things about moi:

1. I brush my teeth really hard...like so hard I actually broke a toothbrush in half while brushing one time. Oops!

2. Although I am usually very messy and disorganized (my car is always a mess, I tend to leave stuff out, let's just say I'm far from a neat freak), I keep my closet incredibly organized. It is seperated into tank tops, short sleeve, 3/4 sleeves, long sleeve, jackets, scrubs, skirts, and long shirts. I get annoyed if something is out of place.

3. I am an awful studier. I just don't like to study. Thankfully I am a very good test taker, so my grades don't suffer too much for it.

4. I really want to be a stay at home mom when The NewlyHusband and I have kids. It is important to me, however I know I will feel weird not bringing in money.

5. I love kittens and puppies. I miss my cat dearly (she lives with my mom cuz NewlyHusband is allergic.) Although I would love for us to be able to get one, part of me is glad NewlyHusband is allergic, cuz I like not having anything to take care of.

6. I am a crazy list maker. I make grocery lists, to do lists, lists of goals, lists of wants, pros and cons for decision making, etc etc. I tend to make these lists and then never look at them again. I am a list maker, not so much a list crosser outer.

7. I hate that I haven't gone to church since March because I have to work every Sunday. I miss it so much.

Alrighty then, there ya have it. Now time to give some other bloggers this nice award.

1. The Continuing Adventures of a Recreation Addict

2.Chelsea Talks Smack

3.Mrs Southern Belle

4.Menopausal New Mom

5.Vanessaings

6.How to Survive Life in the Suburbs
7.Chris and Danielle Lenz

If You're Happy and You Know It

Vent, vent, vent. I feel like that's all I've been doing lately. I feel like I've been a Negative Nelly, so let's bring some rainbows and puppys to this blog. (Disclaimer: there will be no actual rainbows or puppies on today's blog post. Sorry to dissapoint.) 3 months ago today, the NewlyHusband and I were heading to Mexico for our honeymoon. I absolutely loved the place we went. It was complete perfection. We stayed at an all inclusive resort for 7 days and 6 nights. So behold- the fabuliciousness that was our honeymoon:

Zip lining

Swimming in a cenote

Rappelling

Beds on the beach

Beautiful sunrises

Mayan ruins

Snorkeling

Iguanas that roamed the resort

Swing bars (and I mean a bar with swings as seats, not a bar you go to to trade partners)

Carts with champagne and chopped fuit

Private dinner on the beach

I've got my magazine, my sunscreen, and my champagne ready to go relax on a beach bed. This was pure bliss.

This was the last thing I did right before we checked out: got a plate of chips and guac and a margarita and brought it to the beach bed. Perfect way to say goodbye to our honeymoon.

Hope you all enjoyed the pictures half as much as we enjoyed our honeymoon!

Be A Man (or Woman)

Warning: possibly offensive language in this post

What the fuck is wrong with people? Recent news both from my area and around the country

- 12 soldiers killed and many more wounded at Fort Hood. We thought we had to worry about our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan? Apparently, we have to worry about them on base too.

-7 year old Somer Thompson kidnapped and found dead in a landfill (I posted about this one a couple weeks ago.) It's not safe for our kids to walk home from school.

-Man shot while sitting on his porch. He was not the intended target. News article said he was at the "wrong place, wrong time." We can't even feel safe on our own front porch.

-2 young men stabbed to death outside a nightclub in what one would consider one of the safest parts of town.

-Father kills his 11 year old daughter and 16 year old son before killing himself. Him and his wife were going through a divorce. This is not the way to deal with your problems, dickhead.

-7 month old baby found in a box underneath a bed.

-5 teenagers set another teen on fire.


You have got to be kidding me. I am appalled that we have so many messed up people in this world. Because you have to be screwed up in the head in order to committ any of these crimes. If you have a problem, you need to stand up and be a man (or woman) and deal with it. These are not ways to deal with problems, people. I just.don't.get.it. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by these heinous crimes.

I Don't Belong

in the South, that is. I know I've written about how much I love the north before, but please indulge me again.

I get why we are here. It's cheaper in the south in general plus taxes are much lower (no state tax at all- holla!) The NewlyHusband has a great job. Our families are close. But there is something in my heart telling me I belong up north.

Things I don't get/don't like about the South:

Typical Southern Food - Now don't get me wrong- I can down some fried chicken, but I'm talking more along the lines of grits and sweet tea. Ick

The Sun and the Sand- I am white people, like really pale white. I do not tan. I burn like a lobster. And yes, I did go to a Mexican beach resort for my honeymoon, but I stayed in the shade 90% of the time. The beach just isn't fun to me. I'd rather sit at the pool bar (in the shade of course!)

The intensity that surrounds college football- I mean I just don't get it. You didn't go to the school. Why do you care so much? And also why is it necessary to get dolled up in a dress and heels to tailgate and watch a game?

The North...oh the north. I miss it and want to live there, especially this time of year. It is only this week finally down into the 70's.

Things about the north that I love:

Apple picking and hay rides- that is the definition of fall for me

Boston Red Sox- It sucks not having a MLB team where we live. (And yes this is Wally in the backseat of my car on the way to the ALCS in Tampa)

And just in general (although this goes against what most would say), I have actually found people nicer (and less fake) up North than down here.

I realize these are dumb and irrational reasons, but like I said it's more of a feeling than anything else. And I realize I have it kinda good down here, so I'm not trying to complain (too much!) And to remedy this feeling, I have decided that we should take a trip somewhere up north every fall so I can get my fall in and not drive the NewlyHusband crazy with my complaining about the south. Any ideas on where we should go?

Oh and ps, my hubby is a born, bred, and raised Southerner, so I still love you southerners. :)

Shoe Envy

The older I get, the more I love shoes. I used to be ok with one sneaker, one flip flop, one brown dress shoe, and one black dress shoe. But now...oh I how I desire to go shoe shopping. I do live in Florida, so I'm mostly a flip flop gal. I have multiple pairs of flip flops. I have my one pair of sneakers that I wear to work, and a few heels but nothing too fancy. I realize I don't need fancy shoes right now as I wouldn't really have anywhere to wear them, but I still lust after them. So I thought I'd share with you some of the shoes I've seen lately that I want and maybe you can lust with me.

First of all, I have been on the hunt for boots lately as it does get a little chilly here in the winter.

Here's the pair I just bought:

I really need a brown pair of boots but haven't found any that don't look too much like cowboy boots.

Heels that I will never buy, but love:

And flats that I want, but for some reason this kind of shoe never stays on my foot:

Ahhh...a girl can dream, right?

Us

Because school is kicking my butt, as mentioned in my previous post, and is truly the only thing going on in my life right now, and I'm sure you don't want to read a post about my classes, I've decided to do a little questionnare about me and the NewlyHusband. Cuz you know you guys are just dying to know more about us. I got this from The Tale of a Southern Belle.

1. What are your middle names?

Mine is Jo and I can't tell you his cuz even people in his real life don't know it. It took him months to tell me.

2. How long have you been together?

Married for 2 1/2 months, It's been a little over 2 years since we became boyfriend and girlfriend, and a little over 3 years since we were practically dating but without the titles. It was complicated.

3. How long did you know each other before you started dating?

A little over a year

4. Who asked who out?

Like I said, the whole "dating" process was complicated, so it's not like either one of us asked the other on a date. As for being in a relationship, he asked me to be his girlfriend by saying "If you want the title, you can have it." Haha it really was more sweet than it sounds, and he did a much better job of asking me to be his wife.

5. How old are each of you?

I am 24. He is 37.

6. Did you go to the same school?

Nope

7. Are you from the same home town?

Negative

8. Who is the smartest?

I'd say we're both about the same

9. Who majored in what?

He majored in Finance with a minor in History.

I am majoring in History with a minor in Psychology.

10. Who is the most sensitive?

Him

11.Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?

Boston or Mexico or the Bahamas. I'm amazingly bad at geography, so I actually don't know which one would be furthest from us.

12. Who has the worst temper?

In the past, I may have said him. But actually maybe me.

13. How many children do you want?

1 or 2. But not yet!

14. Who does the cooking?

We both do. He usually cooks on the weekends or the days I have later classes. I usually cook on the my days off.

15. Who is more social?

Oh definitely him. I am very social if I am with people I know very well. But put me with people I don't know and the quietness comes out. He's the kind of guy who will sit down next do you and know your whole life story by the time we leave. It's one of the things I love about him and that balances out my more antisocialness.

16. Who is the neat freak?

Neither one of us, but him more than me. I am sooo not a neat freak.

17. Who is the most stubborn?

Neither one of is is really stubborn.

18. Who wakes up earlier?

Definitely me. I try to get up around 6 on weekdays to do homework and I have to get up at 430 on weekends for work.

19. Where was your first date?

We never really had one. The first place we went together was the poker room and Chilis, but it was more as friends.

20. Who has the bigger family?

Me for sure. Thanksgiving and Christmas with my family is usually about 15 people. His is 6 at the most.

21. Do you get flowers often?

No. I got them more when I had an office he could deliver them to, which makes sense. So maybe when I graduate and get a real job, they'll make an appearance again. Not a big deal though.

22. How do you spend the holidays?

Well before we got married, we would spend Thanksgiving apart, with our own individual families. Christmas, we would spend the day apart with our individual families and then have our Christmas together on Christmas Evening. New Years, we like to spend at the Comedy Zone (where he proposed last year!)

This year will be strange. We will spend Thanksgiving with his parents, then possibly have an after Thanksgiving dinner on Monday with my family. Christmas- his parents are spending at our house so they will probably come to my family's Christmas night for dinner. New Years- I have to be up at 430am to work New Years Day, but we'll probably still do the Comedy Zone.

23. Who is more jealous?

Neither of us is too jealous, but probably me more so than him.

24. How long did it take to serious?

A year and a half or so

25. Who eats more?

We eat about the same

26. What do you do for a living?

He is an auditor. I am a college student, working part time at the moment.

27. Who does the laundry?

Whoever has time

28. Who's better with the computer?

Him I guess. We usually just call someone else when we have a problem.

29. Who drives when you are together?

Usually him.

30. What is your song?

The song we danced to at our wedding was You Move Me by Garth Brooks

And a wedding picture to finish this off, because well I'm an attention whore like that.

Right after we were pronounced man and wife

At the end of the reception

I've Been Lurking (and Blog Award!)

I have been a bad blogger lately....a total blog lurker. I haven't posted in a few days and I've been reading my Google Reader but not really commenting. I apologize for that. School has been kicking my butt lately and although it will probably continue to kick my butt until December 11 (my last final this semester), I will try to be better. So anyway, now that I have gotten that out...

The absolutely fabulous Brittany tagged me with the Tag You're It award. Thanks Britt!

The rules:

1. Answer with 5 answers.

2. Tag 5 friends.

1). What were you doing 10 years ago?

a. I was a freshman in high school

b. I was dated a guy named Jon for 3 months

c. Hanging out with my best friend at the time, Cortney

d. I had my first real kiss on the bleachers at the Homecoming Game

e. I painted my face and colored my hair for high school football games

2). What 5 things are on your to-do list for today

a. Write a blog (ha almost done with this one already)

b. Get a pedicure

c. Finish reading "The Burning of Bridget Cleary" for a test I have tomorrow.

d. Cook something good for dinner

e. Go to Target for ziplock bags, water, Rock Stars, and taco flavored pizza rolls

3). Snacks you enjoy

a. Fruit snacks, like the shark kind

b. Cookies

c. Ice Cream

d. Chips and salsa or cheese dip

e. Apples

4). Places You've Lived

a. Florida

b. South Carolina

c. Virginia

d. New York (upstate, not city)

e. Arizona

5). What are 5 Things you would do if you were a billionaire?

a. Travel

b. Buy a fab house

c. Be able to buy all the clothes and shoes I can't afford now

d. Donate to charity

e. Make sure mine and the Newly Husband's families were taken care of.

Oops! I almost forgot to nominate 5 people:

1. Just A Titch

2. Caramel Covered Photographs

3. Dara On The Hunt

4. Michelle's Diary

5. How to Survive Life in the Suburbs

Missing Girl

What in the world is wrong with people? There is a seven year old girl missing in my town. They believe she was abducted walking home from school on Monday. My heart breaks for her and her family. I really have no words, but I wanted to put this out there for all to see.

Amber Alert

Update: They found a child's body, but are not positive it is Somer's.

Update 2: They are now saying it was a little girl's body they found in a landfill. Although they have not come out with a positive id, they have changed this from a search and rescue to a criminal investigation.

How does this happen? You are walking home from school Monday and they find you in a landfill Wednesday. What kind of horrible person could do something like this?

Last Update: They did ID the body as Somer Thompson. Horrible.

The Newly Husband

Warning: This is going to be a sappy post. It will contain information on why I love my husband. If it's not something you want to read, it's all good.

Last night, something happened that really showed me why I married the man I did. I always go to bed earlier than the Newly Husband. Our sleep schedules are just different. I get whiny if I'm not in bed by 10. He can't fall asleep earlier than 1 am. So last night, I was incredibly tired (as I always am on Sunday nights) and went to bed. I laid in bed for a bit, frustrated that I was sleepy but couldn't fall asleep. I shuffled out into the living room and told the Newly Husband why I was frustrated. He had his laptop on his lap. As soon as I told him what was up, he put the laptop on the ground, opened up his arms to me, and let me fall asleep on his lap. He didn't even hesitate in stopping what he was doing (fantasy football I'm sure) and opening himself up to his wife.

I know this may seem small, but it is the daily small things that make me realize how blessed I am to be married to him. When I come home from a 12 hour day at work, he has a glass of wine poured for me and dinner on the stove. When I have a lot of homework, he cooks, cleans, and even offers to go to the grocery store. This man takes care of me in so many different ways.

He is hilarious. No one knows the total goofiness of my husband but me and I love it. I love that he dances and sings songs about mowing the grass.

If we have a day off together (very rare), he appreciates it and makes sure we do something fun.

He asks what I want and looks out for my needs before his own and I hope that I do the same for him. We were once told that a relationship cannot be 50/50. It has to be 100/100 and he gives 100%.

He hands over the remote, even during Monday Night Football (yaknow, as long as the Jags aren't playing).

Although he does a great job showing me he loves me, he also tells me he loves me. Sometimes I need to hear the words.

He gobbles up the dinner I make and tells me how good it is, because he knows I'm insecure about my cooking skills.

He makes me feel sexy on days I feel nothing but ugly.

He is a big brother to my little sister, who needs a good male influence in her life. This is so precious to me.

He goes to my family gatherings even when I have to work and can't make it. On the same note, he encourages to me to go to things his friends are doing, even when he is out of town.

He talks about me when I'm not around. Sometimes this one makes me nervous, but it makes me feel good that he is proud enough to have me as his wife that he wants to tell strangers at the poker table about me.

He has his guy time and wants me to have my girl time.

Although I moved into his house, he works hard to make sure that I feel like it's my home too.

I know this may seem like nothing to the people reading this, but to me it means so much. I went through relationships that weren't right for me and breakups that I thought broke my heart, but I truly feel that we learn what we need to learn in those wrong relationships so that we can be the right person in the right relationship.

Procrastination Will Be the Death of Me

I would place a bet that I could win "Biggest Procrastinator in the USA." Seriously, it is quite sad. It is a big flaw of mine and something I am not proud of. I can waste a whole day on the computer, even though I tell myself I won't. The Knot, The Nest, Facebook, blogs, email... It's bad. Is there therapy for procrastination? If so, I'm there. Every day I tell myself "Today will be the day that I am productive and do not procrastinate." Every day it doesn't happen. I found a quote that says "What I do with today is very important because I am trading a day of my life for it." I can't remember where I got it, so if I stole it from you let me know and I'll give you credit. That spoke to me. But still...I can't seem to stop. I hate myself for it. I know that no one can help me but myself, so I don't know why I'm blabbing about this on the blog. Maybe it helps to just write it out.

And so I leave you with these:

Reality Stars That I Hate

Look, I don't hate anybody in real life. Sure there are people who annoy the hell out of me and people who I have no desire to hang out with or even come into contact with ever, but there is no hate in this heart. There are, however, three reality tv "stars" that I feel this hatred towards. Maybe it's easy to take out aggression on these people who insist on aggravating me on my television set. Maybe these people just shouldn't exist (no really that may be too harsh). And yes, I know that I make the choice to watch these reality shows and that I could turn them off if I wanted to.

So, here goes: my top 3 hated reality tv "stars"

Number 3- Natalie from last season's Big Brother. This chick was awful- she was incredibly annoying, slept in the HOH room every week even though it took her until the end to actually win HOH, thought she was better than everybody. And the kicker- the episode where her boyfriend showed up and proposed. She showed no excitement and then lied about it even happening. She was 10 times more excited to win HOH than to accept the marriage proposal. Thank goodness she didn't win. The hate has died down now that I am not watching her three times a week.

Number 2- Heidi and Spencer Pratt from The Hills. I was going to just sat Spencer, because he is the world's biggest douche, but Heidi too because she puts up with it. The Hills is the show I watch when I've already watched all the other On Demand shows that I watch and there isn't much else that interests me. We could probably write a whole blog on the dickhead things Spencer has done, but how bout just the most recent? When he and Heidi were house shopping, he brought her to a house to look at. She said she didn't like it, but there were some aspects she liked. He said "Good. Cuz I already put an offer in." Dude bought a freaking house without talking to his wife about it first. My husband would be hurtin if he did this. Last episode, Spencer kicked a little kid out of their house that Heidi was watching and playing with, telling the kid to "say goodbye forever." My hate for him really does continue on to her though, because she married him and she puts up with all he does. She deserves the crappy marriage.

Number 1- And most fresh in my mind, Tracy from this season's Biggest Loser. How the hell does she keep winning challenges and controlling the game? That's gotta be the devil's work or something. She screws everyone over every episode, is a complete liar, and an annoying crybaby. I almost threw the remote at the tv last night when they didn't send her home. And now I dislike the whole blue time, because with all their whining and bitching about Tracy, they still didn't send her home. They also deserve everything they get. If I ran into her in the street, it would take a lot of self control not to punch her.

And yes, I do realize I am a complete loser for writing a whole post on reality tv.

The Good and the Bad

It was a great weekend and it was a sad weekend. And today is shaping up to be a frustrating day. Let me explain.



I went to a surprise birthday party on Saturday night. Now, I have to leave my house at 6am every Saturday and Sunday for work, so as you can imagine, I usually don't go out Friday or Saturday night. And I wasn't planning on it Saturday. But some friends called and I couldn't turn it down. The NewlyHusband was out of town golfing and it was his friend's surprise party, so I figured I better represent for us. It was a blast! I stayed till midnight, which I know doesn't sound that late, but is for this chick that likes to get her sleep before work. Here's the birthday boy's shirt.

Monday was Columbus Day and since the NewlyHusband is lucky enough to work in a financial institution, we had a day off together. We did a tour and tasting at San Sebastian Winery. Always wonderful to have a day off with the hubby!


Now on to the not so good. First of all, the reason I am home writing this blog post right now instead of in class where I should be is because my car battery is dead. I was running late as usual this morning, ran out to my car thinking if I hurry I can make it to class on time, stuck the key in the ignition, and got that awful sound that is the car saying "Idiot. You left your trunk open, which means the inside light was on all night long. So, yeah, I'm not starting up for you today." There is no one around to jump my car, so I will probably be missing all 3 of my classes today. Not good. 2 will be handing back midterms and they all take roll.


And on to the worst part of the weekend. We were pretty slow at work on Sunday, so I was able to catch most of the Red Sox game. They scored more runs in the first 3 innings than they had in the last 2 games comined, so I was hopeful. They put Pap in in the 8th, so I'm thinking "We got this. We're in it for at least one more game." Andddd I don't know what happened. Papelbon was not all there. And so, my beloved Sox got swept by the Angels. And now I need to root for those Angels to beat the Yankees. Until next season, Sox. See ya in Spring Training.

More Things That Frustrate Me

I promise ya'll I am a positive person. I like to see the glass half (or more) full. I like to take something negative and find the good in it. However, I am using today to tell you about more things that irk me.

1. The shuttle bus drivers on campus- Really dude- you do know that you have a shuttle crammed full of college students? Half us are standing up, bag full of books on shoulder, one hand grasping the little rope thingy that hangs down. Yet you feel the need to slam on your brakes every 30 seconds. And when pulling out from the stop, is it really necessary to start going, slam on the brakes to pick someone up you see walking, start going, slam on the brakes again for someone else. Just go damn it. I am trying not to vomit because of your shitty driving. And getting thrown back and forth is not helping matters. Just because we are stuffed onto this bus, it does not mean that we don't fly when you hit the brakes. K Thanks.

2. Fake wedding websites for tv characters- I love The Office, I do. And I truly enjoyed the Pam and Jim wedding episode. It was great. But I have some breaking news for you (please don't cry, it will be ok)... Pam and Jim are NOT REAL PEOPLE. They are characters played by actors. So do they really need a wedding website with registries, location info, pictures, and a guest book? People go on to this site and sign their guestbook, saying things like "Congrats! So happy for you guys." I don't watch Grey's Anatomy, but the chick on there that got married had a wedding website too. Seriously, past the age of 8, should I really have to be telling you that the people on tv aren't real?

Those are the main two things annoying me lately. The NewlyHusband is going on a golf trip tonight, so I have a frozen pizza, a Hersheys dark chocolate bar, and a yet to be determined chick flick planned for tonight. Ahhh...

The Heat

Seriously, it is fall. It is October 8th. It is 92 degrees. What the hell?

My Google Reader

Since I am new to this whole blogosphere, I am constantly adding to my Google Reader. I love finding new, fun blogs to read. And I'm sure that you all love finding new blogs to read also. So I have decided to devote this post to the blogs I have in my reader and hopefully give you some new reads (Oh! Don't leave here though, k? K.) I couldn't put all of them in here, so I picked just 12. Hope you enjoy!

1. Live It, Love It Who doesn't have LiLu in their reader? Seriously, almost every blog I've clicked on has this blog on their blogroll. She can be counted on to post daily throughout the week, so you never have to go too long without her. She is hilarious and seems like the kind of girl everyone wants to be friends with. She does a special called TMI Thursdays, which you absolutely have to check out. It has become a phenomenon in the blogosphere and many other bloggers play along. This is the girl who inspired me to blog.

2. The Heir to Blair The Heir to Blair is the only blog other than Live It, Love It that I have actually read all the archives on. It is a pregnancy blog and she actually just passed her due date, so the little one should be here any day now. I promise this is the funniest pregnancy blog you will ever read. She is extremely witty and just, well, fabulous. She balances the funny with the sincere in a way that makes you want to read more.

3. Just A Titch I was drawn to this blog initially because my old roomie calls me Titch. I've stuck around cuz there is something about Amy that is just very readable and relatable. She is a teacher, which leads to some really funny stories. She blogs about herself and her life and is another one of those gals that just by reading, you could see yourself being friends with. Her blog posts almost always make me laugh.

4. Caramel Covered Photographs. I have only recently found this blog and I love it. She is such a sweetie, and a lot of time when she posts something, I think "Me too!"

5. 2 Dogs and a Blog Kari is a newlywed, like me, blogging about her life. Just a very real blog andplusalso she posts Recipe Tuesdays. Yum! Her most recent is a hot chicken casserole that I may have to try to make next week.

6. A Lion Inside Me Among other things, Sessa posts about her adventures in journalism school. I'll just say that I don't think I could ever do it. Lots of laughs.

7. Dara on the Hunt Dara was posting about her job search and the interesting happenings that come with it. She did get a job though, so I'm interested to see what direction her blog goes in now. She's a lot of fun.

8. Middle Aged Waitress If you have ever served in a restaurant before, you have to check out this blog. I'm sure you will relate. Oh it makes me so so happy I'm out of restaurants.

9. Not That Kind of Girl Not That Kind of Girl moved to Boston from Cali and is blogging about doing things that she would usually not do. If you haven't checked her out yet, I highly recommend it.

10. Tales of a Southern Belle and Her Beau I kinda feel like Brittany and I are blog buddies. Is that weird? Probably. Such a nice girl and I really enjoy her blog.

11. The Other 98 Cents KC blogs about the crazy goings ons in celebrity gossip, etc. She seriously cracks me up, and most of the time I totally agree with her.

12. Vanessaings Vanessa ties the majority of her blog posts to songs and I have found a few great new songs through her blog.

For other great reads (cuz I'm a cheater like that), check out My Husband is Annoying, Lemmonex's Out of the Frying Pan and into the Mire, The Pilgrim Congress, Reinventing Sandy B, and Shopaholic Social Worker

I've Been Tagged! Guilty or Innocent

The fabulous Michelle of Michelle's Diary tagged me in this Guilty or Innocent post. Thanks Michelle!



Here are the rules:

1. You can only say Guilty or Innocent.

2. You are not allowed to explain anything unless someone messages you and asks! (So leave a comment if you have a question.)

3. Copy and paste this into your notes , delete mine and type in your answers and tag your friends to answer this.



Have you:

Asked someone to marry you? Innocent

Ever kissed someone of the same sex? Guilty

Danced on a table in a bar? Guilty

Ever told a lie? Guilty

Had feelings for someone whom you can’t have back? Guilty

Kissed a picture? Guilty

Slept in until 5 PM? Innocent

Fallen asleep at work/school? Innocent

Held a snake? Innocent

Been suspended from school? Innocent

Worked at a fast food restaurant? Guilty

Stolen from a store? Innocent

Been fired from a job? Guilty

Done something you regret? Guilty

Laughed until something you were drinking came out your nose? Innocent

Caught a snowflake on your tongue?Guilty

Kissed in the rain? Guilty

Sat on a roof top? Guilty

Kissed someone you shouldn't? Guilty

Sang in the shower? Guilty

Been pushed into a pool with all your clothes on? Innocent

Shaved your head? Innocent

Had a boxing membership? Innocent

Made a girlfriend cry? Innocent

Been in a band? Innocent

Shot a gun? Innocent

Donated Blood? Innocent

Eaten alligator meat? Guilty

Eaten cheesecake? Guilty

Still love someone you shouldn't? Innocent

Have/had a tattoo? Guilty

Liked someone, but will never tell who? Innocent

Been too honest? Guilty

Ruined a surprise? Guilty

Ate in a restaurant and got really bloated that you couldn’t walk afterwards? Guilty

Erased someone in your friends list? Guilty

Dressed in a woman’s clothes (if you’re a guy) or man’s clothes (if you’re a girl)? Guilty

Joined a pageant? Innocent

Had communication with your ex? Guilty

Got totally drunk on the night before exam? Innocent

Got so angry that you cried so hard? Guilty

I'm tagging just a few blogs that I think would enjoy this and that I think you all would enjoy reading!

Caramel Covered Photographs

Shopaholic Social Worker

A Southern Belle and Her Beau

The Wino and I Know

Yes, I stole the title of my post today from a Jimmy Buffett song.

My little sister turns 21 today! Wow. I feel a tiny bit old because of that. We are going out as a family tonight for Mexican to celebrate (yum!) The NewlyHusband and I got her an ABC Liquor gift card. I got one of those when I turned 21 and it was one of my favorite gifts. You know, we all drink before we turn 21 (oh you didn't? Uhh...yeah me neither- nope not a sip of alcohol till my 21st...ha actually I think I drank more when I was 19 and 20 then when I was 21), but it's fun to be able to actually buy something from the liquor store after you turn 21. I am excited for her, but yeah, if you live in North Florida, just watch your back on the road. Haha.

So, I know you're all dying with curiosity as to what the NewlyHusband and I did with our rare day off together. Yeah, don't lie. You were at your computer, checking your reader every 5 minutes- what did Tara do on Saturday...oh I can't stand the suspense- post Tara post!
Well, I'm here to tell ya. We spent our wedding gift cards and went to Total Wine. Our experience at Total Wine:
We pull up into the parking lot and see all these people with grocery carts. The NewlyHusband and I scoff and converse about what lushes these people must be to need a grocery cart in a store that carries nothing but alcohol. So we walk in and look around in awe, start checking out the wine.... we made it about 2 aisles into the store when the NewlyHusband turns around, walks out, and comes back with a cart. We left Total Wine with 8 bottles of wine, a 4 pack of a new kind of Sam Adams and a 6 pack of Woodchuck raspberry cider.

So the in laws just left and I have lots of studying to do for a midterm tomorrow and another midterm Thursday. Hope everyone has a good Monday!

A Day Off

I work every Saturday and Sunday. The NewlyHusband works Mon-Fri. So we never have a full day off together. Well, we are going to a wedding tonight, so we actually have a Saturday off together. I'm so excited! Now I feel like there is pressure to make sure we do something with the day. Choices:

-Go to Home Depot to look at carpet and tile for the house

-Go to Total Wine (we've never been and I hear it's huge with any kind of beer and wine and liquor you could want). If we go there, we will probably eat at one of the restaurants in the Town Center that Total Wine is in.

-Spend our gift cards that we got for the wedding.

-Go to a museum that we have a BOGO coupon for.

-Mini golf

-Go see a movie

No matter what we do, I don't want to spend the day in the house. Sometimes I wish we lived in a city where there was more to do. We don't have like a "downtown" area where people go to hang out. Our downtown is somewhat scary and there is one area called The Landing that is on the river, but it's basically a couple shops and a few restaurants. Really not much there.

This will be the first wedding we've gone to since we got married, so it should be interesting. Oh and the inlaws are here!

I realize this post is random nothingness. I seem to come up with good blog ideas in the shower or in bed and then forget them by the time I get around to writing. So, to at least give you something good, I did finally make the banana bread I've been talking (writing) about. It freaking rocked.

We have eaten it for breakfast and dessert every day since I made it. Here's the recipe- and as always it's super easy. I'll make you a deal right now that I won't put any recipe on here that is not dummy proof.

Banana Bread

Taken from Cooks.com Never Fail Easy Banana Bread

Ingredients:

1 cup crushed bananas (this amounts to 3 bananas)

1 cup sugar

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups flour

3 tablespoons milk

1/2 cup melted butter

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Mix all ingredients together, adding bananas and melted butter last. Put in a greased loaf pan that has been sprinkled with sugar. Bake at 350 for 1 hour.