Peace out, 2010!

Guess what? I've already celebrated the New Year! At 10 am this morning, the Hubs and I rang in the New Year "together." It was midnight in Korea so via Skype we wished each other a happy New Year.

                                         (photo by Brian Salmon)

2010 has been an incredible roller coaster ride. I have been so blessed that for the most part the Hubs was here for the whole thing. Ok in Army speak that means that he was only gone for a few days to couple weeks at a time. It was nothing compared to 15 months in Iraq. In 2010, we said goodbye to some very dear friends, both lost a grandmother, and at the end of the year sent the Hubs on a plane to Korea. But it wasn't all bad, we also got to see the Hubs sister and her husband three times this year! They live in Memphis, and with four crazy schedules we are lucky to see them more than once a year. 

Other major highlights of the year included lots of time spent with friends and family, finding out we were having a baby and moving into a new apartment that we love. 

So what does 2011 have in store? 

- In two short weeks, I will officially be unemployed and will become a full-time stay at home mommy and wife. 

- BABY SNICK! We are just weeks away from meeting her. I get more excited and nervous with everyday. 

- The Hubs getting to come home for a few days to meet Baby Snick

- 30th Birthdays! Yep it's the big 3-0 for the Hubs and I this year. Crazy! 

- A new job in the Army for the Hubs. 

I hope that each of you have great things in store for your 2011! Happy New Year! 

Snowmen

What do snowmen and handstands have in common? My brother! The snow (before our Christmas snow) left my brother goofing off with a snowman. I love that kid!

Nothing is Better Than Family

What an amazing Christmas! I am seriously one spoiled loved woman. The best part was getting to spend the weekend with mine and the Hubs' families. On top of everything else, I got my white Christmas! 6" of it to be exact. My parents neighborhood was transformed into a winter wonderland.

34 weeks as of Christmas day

Poor Bailey was covered in snowballs.

Christmas snow

*All pictures are by me and my brother.

I'm back

Hello, lovelies! Well when I said I would be taking a hiatus, I did not intend for it to last this long. Time has flown and here we are. Seriously, who approved Christmas being here already?

Here's what has been going on lately:
1) The hubs left on a jetplane and is getting settled in Korea. The 14hr time difference has been a challenge, but we are making it work.
2) Mommy and Baby Snick had another Dr. appt. Both are doing great and right on track. We will hit 34 weeks on Saturday. Where has the time gone?
3) Christmas shopping has been completed and baking is in process. Last night was mint, chocolate chip cookies and salsa. I know odd combo for a night. I ran out of time, and the salsa was a quick fix. Tonight's baking includes chocolate covered cherry cookies, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, and molasses spice cookies. Can you tell that my Dad and brothers are spoiled loved?
4) My "replacement" has started at work. I've been training her for the last week and a half. She is catching on relatively quickly, but it's an odd adjustment. It's very strange to train the new "you." Honestly I'm not sure if I'm having a harder time training her or simply adjusting to being unemployed in a couple of weeks. Yes, I know mommyhood is a full-time job, I just haven't not had a paying job since high school. Strange!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful week and is ready for Christmas! I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a white one. Feel free to cross your fingers as well!

It's That Time of Year

Yep, it's that time of year when everything gets insanely busy, life sneaks up on you, and there just aren't enough hours in the day. December has snuck up on me. Forget Christmas shopping, we are in the middle of getting the Hubs, myself and our apartment prepared for the Hubs' departure to Korea. This means packing his household goods, mounds of paperwork, possibly buying a car this weekend, saying goodbye to friends, and a long list of other things.

During this process, I will be taking a brief hiatus from the blog. I promise to be back soon. In the meantime, I hope everyone is having a great start to the Christmas season.

Bittersweet Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is possibly my favorite holiday. I love the warmth of the day. My family will stand in the kitchen together preparing ridiculous amounts of food while laughing and soaking up our time together. This will be the first year that we get to celebrate with my Dad's son/my brother T. It's been an interesting journey, but I truly love having two brothers. But Thanksgiving will be extra special this year for several other reasons. It will be the first year in three years that the Hubs sister will be home. It will also be the last holiday that we will have with the Hubs for awhile. Unless we get a miracle call in the next few hours, the Hubs will be on his way to Korea in the next couple of weeks. There are many things that we will miss over the next year starting with Christmas. However, tomorrow and all weekend I be truly thankful for all that we have. For having this holiday, for our precious Baby Snick that will be here soon, for all the memories that we have made since he came home from Iraq, for our incredible Grandmothers that will be greatly missed this Thanksgiving. In our four years in the Army, I have learned to take each day as it comes. To be especially thankful for the extra special days that we do get together i.e. holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. Don't get me wrong there will be moments of great sadness this weekend as the Hubs says "See ya Later" to family, but in the end we will all be thankful for the time that we have been given.

I hope each and everyone of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with family, friends and delicious food. I encourage you to let go of differences tomorrow and simply savor the time with family.

Happy List

(source)

It's one of those days. So instead of complaining, I'm going to focus on the positive. Here's whats making me happy this week:

~ Root Beer

~ Seeing family next week

~ Reading an old favorite book

~ Stolen moments with the Hubs

~ Planning surprises

~ Baby Snick's room especially her closet

~ Bailey's way of always making a person feel special

~ Hitting the 7 month mark

Advice from a Magazine

This morning while eating my cinnamon toast crunch (current crave) and reading Reader's Digest, I cam across this little tidbit of wisdom. "Treat your spouse like you do your pet." Wait! What?

I should greet my spouse like I do my dog. Apparently the Hubs wants me to talk to him in my dog voice and tell him what an adorable, fuzzy, good boy he is. Also while we are at dinner with friends, I should scratch the Hubs head when he makes corny jokes.

I shared the article with the Hubs this morning. He was not amused. Sorry Reader's Digest - Fail!

Fabulous

(photo by Me)

Oh what a weekend:

- stayed in my pj's all day Saturday

- watched movies with the hubs

- got Baby Snick's room ready for her furniture to arrive TOMORROW! We had to move out a desk and adjust placement of a the Hubs ugly lazy boy

- found out my Dad picked up our bassinet. Such a sweet story and as soon as I can see it and take pics, I will share.

- put together a surprise care package for a family member who has a delicious secret. Sorry I'm sworn to secrecy for now, but can't wait to spill the beans.

- finished a book and started a new one (technically an old one because I've already read it twice).

- made Devils Food cupcakes with Rainbow Chip icing. Seriously the best icing ever. The hubs and I destroyed those cupcakes.

- gave Bailey a bath and cracked up while she ran around and rolled all over the carpet. Seriously, hilarious!  

Happy Veteran's Day

photo by a friend

In honor of my Grandpa (Vietnam War - 3 tours), Papa (Korean War, my husband (OIF) and our numerous friends that served with him, Happy Veteran's Day.

Finally Here

Yep that's right lovelies, the weekend is finally here. I thought it would never come. This week has felt never ending. C'est la vie.

(source)

Tonight the Hubs and I are kicking off the weekend with a date night. A little Italian food and a (hopefully) funny movie should get it started just right. Tomorrow I will be hitting up a local holiday fair for a little early Christmas shopping. Sunday will be spent with friends and football. Weekends don't get much better than this folks!

What do you have planned for the weekend?

Happy Clouds

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Does anyway else feel that the weather should match your mood? Yes I'm aware this makes me incredibly narcissistic silly, but I always feel better when the weather matches my mood. If I am sad, it should be cloudy and rainy. If I am happy, the sun should beam across the earth. I'm really not that self-centered, I promise. But seriously, wouldn't it be nice if your little area of personal air space could reflect your mood. Plus, what a great heads-up for those around us!

This rambling does have a point. Today, I woke up, and it was cold and rainy. Somehow this made me feel better, since this week has been awful - work was horrible, the Hubs was in the field and more family illness. It was nice for the weather to finally align with everything else. Once I saw it was raining, I decided it would be a good day. Aren't you starting to feel sorry for my husband?

It might have also helped that I get to have dinner with another Army wife friend who moved in the spring. I can't wait to see her and eat at my favorite restaurant in town. Hey, I am still pregnant so food helps make me happy.

I hope that at some point today or even tomorrow that you have that Ah hah! moment, where you also know that today (or tomorrow) is going to be a better day. And if you are already having a great day, I hope it continues right on through the weekend.

Oh, Monday!

(source)

I do not have the energy or patience to deal with you. I hope you are all having a better start to your week.

Recently...

Visited Charleston

Had my first baby shower

Hit the 26 week mark

It's been a busy couple of weeks. Hope everyone is having a great weekend. 

A few things left unspoken...

Let's talk pregnancy, people! This post by Amanda over at MODG started me thinking about all the awkward and strange things that happen while you are pregnant.

1) Umm hello, less space! I swear if one more person tells me I should eat more because I'm eating for two I'm going to scream. Yep I get it that there is an extra person inside me. Know how I know? Because my stomach is now in my throat, and I have no idea where my lungs went. You trying eating a lot when your stomach is pushing up against your ribs.
2) Maternity apparel for short people - It's practically non-existent. And what is out there - seriously, I'm pregnant not dead, and no I don't want to pay $100 for "designer" maternity jeans. Just because I'm pregnant does not mean that I'm suddenly going to dish out lots of money on clothes that I'm going to wear for only three months. Especially frumpy crap (I'm talking to you WAY too long shirt) or over-priced tees. Thanks, but no thanks! Maternity designers ( I use the term loosely) - help a short chic out!
3) Your body is no longer yours. Yep that's right - baby has taken control. From what you like to eat to your emotions, you no longer have control. It's like an alien lives inside you going "You no longer like sweet stuff. Today you like salty stuff." Seriously your body is not your own. Hey, I warned you.
4) 1,200 different opinions/facts: Yep everyone suddenly has an opinion from your well-meaning friends to the internet. Great, no problem. EXCEPT - everyone's opinion is different. Not even the different baby emails that you get will be consistent on baby growth and development or your growth and development. Seriously, isn't this supposed to be scientific stuff?
5) People want to touch your belly - Weird! And think it's cute that you are gaining weight! It's like an alternate universe where a beer gut is the trendy thing to have.

But despite the cons, I just try to laugh about it all. Why? Because there is a tiny lil miracle growing inside me.  A soft little kick in the belly, and I'm reminded that it's all going to be worth it in the end.

It's Fall, Ya'll

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Well, it's supposed to be. We are supposed to hit almost 90 today. Umm, it's October. Oh well, I'm sure cool temps will be back soon. In the meantime, how was everyone's weekend?

I started my weekend with a Heartwalk for the American Heart Association. I am always blown away by the number of people that show up in support of these events. Awesome! I also did a lil shopping for Baby Snick. It's so hard to resist adorable, pink lil girl clothes. I also did some cooking - lasagna and Brunswick Stew. Both from scratch and both delicious! Last but most importantly, I got lil girl's room ready for the furniture to go in. It's already a precious room. I can't wait to get it fully set-up. Oh how quickly the time is going!

Happy Monday, friends! It's going to be a good week!

Love Is...

(weheartit)

I'm sure we have all seen this email, but I just thought these answers were amazing. Love defined by children between the ages of 4-8. Just as a disclaimer, only my favorites made it on the list below.

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different.You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.'

Billy - age 4 (I love this because the Hubs say my name differentely than anyone elses.)

'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other..'

Karl - age 5 (So cute)

'Love is what makes you smile when you're tired.'

Terri - age 4

'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.'

Danny - age 7 (My parents do this ALL the time.)

'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss'

Emily - age 8 ( I hope in 8 yrs Baby Snick is saying that about the Hubs and I.)

'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.'

Bobby - age 7 (I just want to hug this kid!)

'If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,'

Nikka - age 6

'My mommy loves me more than anybody.You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.'

Clare - age 6

'Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.'

Elaine-age 5 (So true!)

'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.'

Chris - age 7

'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.'

Mary Ann - age 4 (My lil fuzzball must really love me because i leave her everyday, and everyday she showers me with kisses.)

'When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.'

Karen - age 7

'You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.'

Jessica - age 8

Tell someone you love them today, and remember if you mean it - say it alot!

Finally Friday

                                                                      (photo credit)

Like the use of alliteration? I can't remember the last time a week felt as long as this week has. Whew! Am I glad this week is over. Not only because it was a long week, but I've been anxiously waiting for this weekend. We are heading to my parents tonight to spend the weekend. We will be celebrating lil bro's b-day, Dad's new job, and my double-bonus from work. The boys will be heading to a football game tomorrow. I'm not sure what I will do while they are there, but I'm sure I will find something to get into. Perhaps more baby shopping, or house shopping or shoe shopping...see the trend.

Another reason for this weeks countdown, my bestie finds out the sex of her baby today. Our pregnancies are just a few weeks a part so it's been super fun. I'm so excited for my friend. Finding out the babies sex has been one of the most memorable moments while being pregnant with Baby Snick.

I realized I did not divulge the origin of the nickname Baby Snick. My grandmother, who passed this past Easter, used to call me snick. It was short for snicklefritz. She has a large number of grandkids and couldn't get my name out one day so she just said "snicklefritz." The name stuck. Dad and I knew right away what she would have called my baby - Baby Snick. So baby snick she is!



Nostalgia and Rollercoasters

I'm not sure if it's pregnancy or just being stuck in this town too long, but lately nothing has sounded as good as home does. I've been going to visit my parents as much as possible. I think another factor is the friend factor. This time last year I was surrounded by friends that I had really grown to care about. However, starting in January, they slowly started trickling to other duty stations. We stay in touch as much as possible, but different time zones and busy schedules make it difficult. I wasn't prepared for that part of Army life.

On another note, did you know that when you are pregnant you aren't supposed to ride rollercoasters? Could someone please send that memo to my hormones. They certainly have not gotten the message. Poor Hubs, in five minutes flat he can go from the greatest man on the planet to the person driving me the most crazy. He has been very sweet in putting up with me. Yes putting up with me, these hormones are NO joke!

Ending on a happy note, have you seen this video? It makes me smile!



Thanks, Naomi for sharing it. P.S. If you haven't checked out her adorable blog, you really should.

It's a...

Lots going on with our lil family. First and most exciting, it's a ... GIRL! I'm not sure that excited even covers it. Our due date moved up so baby Snick (family nickname) will be here in early February. This week we have really started working on her nursery i.e. cleaning out the crap that is in it. We also should be getting her crib and dresser ordered either this week or next. I have all kinds of ideas for her nursery. 

In other news, the hubs is still waiting to hear about the job change. Keeping my fingers crossed. Oh speaking of the hubs, he felt Baby Snick move for the first time tonight. It was a very exciting moment for us both. While I have been feeling her rumblings for a while, I've been anxiously waiting for the Hubs to get to experience it. It was truly a priceless moment. 

We've almost made it halfway through the week! Here's to a fabulous hump day tomorrow! 

A Day to Remember

Like many Americans, I will stop tomorrow for a moment of silence to remember the many Americans who's lives were so quickly taken that day 9 years ago. It is a day that forever changed our lives. The Hubs joined the army because of 9/11. I am so proud of him for his decision and all that he has done while in the army. Despite the challenges that we have faced over the last three years, I will always be proud of his service to this incredible country. 

On a happier note, tomorrow is also my sister-in-laws one year wedding anniversary. Happy Anniversary, Liz and Wade! We love you guys. Photo is of Liz with her parents. 

*All photos by me. 

Everday should be a weekend day

Just a few more short work hours, and I will be on my way to see my family for the weekend. I love long weekends. Here are a few other things I'm loving today:
Ice cream - seriously after looking at those pics I'm ready to head to the nearest store.
Lil Baby Bump - it's starting to show and I'm starting to love it.
Cooler nights and mornings - there is hope that fall is around the corner.
Dresses - can't get enough of them right now. they are the most comfortable thing to wear at work with the baby bump.
The Hubs and the furball - they make me smile everyday with their silly, sweet personalities.

Got big plans for the long weekend? What are you loving today?

Moved, Training and Baby

I have a confession to make. We have been thinking about lots of other things than baby around our house. Don't get me wrong - we are thrilled. And we do spend lots of timing thinking and talking about baby. However, we've had this little thing called Major Life Changes that we've been dealing with. First, we were looking for a new place. Second, the Army has been throwing us all kinds of curveballs. We are still dealing with those. Hopefully by the end of the month, we will have some answers by the end of the month. The hubs is looking at some major career changers so it's been pretty stressful. Third, we found a place and moved. We were so blessed to have 7 incredible friends come help us. Can you believe we were out of the old and into the new place in three hours? So amazing!

I have several real life and bloggie friends that are pregnant. It is all over their blogs and facebook pages. I feel a little guilty. It's not that we aren't super excited for the lil bug. There have just been major things going on. Plus we were in that don't-look-preggo-not-feeling-sick limbo. There were a lot of days when I had to remind myself that I was in fact pregnant. Recently, my pants have been letting me know that I am pregnant. It's a good feeling except that most days I just look like I ate too many wings for lunch. Oh well I'm sure soon I will wish for those days.

I know I continually promise to blog more. It is in the plans as soon as I get this new place in order. Bring on the nesting!

Since we are talking babies today, I leave you with one of the cutest "we're having a baby" announcements that I've seen in a long time. Guess What?

30 List Update

Remember the 30 List? I thought I would give you a quick update. You see one of the lil items on there has been the reason for my blogger absence. I truly do miss blogging and hope soon to be posting regularly. In the meantime, back to the list. So how have I been doing?

Well the GRE/grad school item has been a major fail. I also have not been running as much. In fact, the half-marathon has been indefinitely put on hold. I have been wearing lipstick - silly item on the list but still important.

However, the biggest list success has been the one about expanding our family. I'm thrilled to say that in Feb 2011 we will be welcoming a much anticipated addition to the family. The hubs and I were thrilled to find out in early June that we will be having a baby.

As we wait for this much anticipated event, we have a lot going on. We are moving again. We are still at the same post, but with lil squirt on the way, a move was necessary. The hubs is going after a career change. We will know by the end of Sept what our future for the next year or two holds. Keep your fingers crossed.

I apologize for the lack of posts, but as you can see there has been a lot going on. I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend. We are off to spend some quality time with the Hubs family. Got anything fun planned this weekend?

Happy Birthday, America

(photo by Me)

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free." - Ronald Reagan 

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to the best Dad that a girl could ask for. It was a long time coming, but perhaps that makes me even more appreciative of the man I get to call Dad. 

Simple Things Can Make the Sweetest Memories

Maybe it's because my parents anniversary is on Saturday, or maybe it's because I was looking at wedding photography website. For whatever reason, a few random sweet memories popped into my head from our wedding day.

- All the day into night into wee hours of the morning preparation the day before with my best friend/wedding coordinator.

- My family sitting around a table putting together programs. My brother was "quality control" and literally made them redo several programs. Too funny and yet so sweet.

- Getting my make-up done with just my Mom the morning of the wedding.

- Riding with my Dad to the church. He was adamant that he take me, and it will be a memory I will never forget.

Do you have any random, sweet, unexpected memories from your wedding?

Memorial Day Weekend

(source)

The weekend is finally here! What a week! The Hubs drowned his phone, and our power went out twice. C'est la vie.

Got any fun plans for the weekend? We are headed to the beach with the in-laws. Can't wait! I love my in-laws, but I REALLY love sitting on the beach with a drink in my hand.

When we get home on Monday, we will take a brief moment to think about all those soldiers past and present that have given their lives for this country. I encourage you to take a minute to honor them as well.

Have a great weekend!

The 30 List

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Want in on a lil secret? Last week  I had a birthday. Big ole number 29. Whew! This has led to A LOT of thinking about next years bday. The BIG ONE! Ok well maybe not the biggest one, but it feels pretty monumental. Then again that might be because the Hubs has taken EVERY opportunity to remind me that I will be 30 before he will. Stinker! All this thinking and reminding from the Hubs has resulted in The 30 List. A list of things to have completed by my 30th birthday. If I was really clever, there would be thirty items. However, I'm not really clever.

The 30 List

1) GRE and Grad School - it's time to get off my butt and pick a future!

2) Get in the BEST shape that I can be in!

3) Run a half marathon - this technically goes with the item above. It is a goal that I've already started working on. Rockstar! The half is in March so we will see!

4) Wear more and try more colors of lipstick! I by this lady who wears lipstick beautifully! I  have found that bright lipstick does AMAZING things for my mood. P.S. You've found the right shade when multiple people complement you on it.

5) Add to our lil family! Whether it's a baby or another furbaby, I would love for our lil family to expand in the next year.

6) Take more photographs! I love, love, love to take pictures, but have gotten slack lately and haven't been taking as many.

7) Perfect my golf game! I say this as if I just golf all the time. I actually just started playing, but I love it. Plus it's something that the Hubs and I enjoy doing together.

8) Appreciate all the sweet lil things the Hubs does for me! Lil things like cleaning my old, nasty golf clubs while I was at work yesterday. They look so good now!

9) Try at least one new recipe every week! I love to cook and bake, but make a lot of the same things over and over again. It's time to get brave and try new things. Plus I have a zillion cookbooks with recipes just dying to be made.

10) Take advantage of being so close to dear friends and family! We were recently reminded how temporary our current location could really be. It really made me appreciate how lucky we are to be so close to so many people that we love.

I will keep ya updated on my list. And maybe, just maybe I will continue to add to the list until I have 30 items. Won't I look clever then!

Massive Monday

Do Mondays ever feel overwhelming to anyone else? Mondays are a day of revelation for me. A vast reminder of the things I was going to do over the weekend that definitely did not get done. Bummer! Oh well after the incredible weekend that we had I'm not going to worry about the things that didn't get done.

After such a great weekend, I'm ready to curl up for a nap. I'm sure the pouring rain is not helping either. We really do need the rain, however my office has a corrugated steel roof. Rainstorms get quite noisy around here. The patter of the rain on the roof can be hypnotic and before I know it I'm about to doze off. Today is definitely one of those days.

Must stay awake!

Weekend

I love weekends with my lil family! Hope you are spending it with someone you love. 

Funky Friday

Yep it has been a funky week, and so far Friday is proving to be funky also! Oh well! The good news is that The Hubs and I have a weekend of fun planned! It is after all my birthday weekend! Technically my birthday is tuesday, but we are doing a lot of celebrating this weekend. My bestie and her hubby are coming to town tomorrow. Watch out F-ville because two crazy girls are going to be on the lose with a whole gaggle of military men! Let the craziness commence!

Speaking of the military, I just want to grab myself some perspective at the moment. The Army has really thrown us for a loop this week. Oh c'est la vie! Anyway what I want to say is that it's all about perspective. While the Army often reschedules our lives for us, it has provided some great things. The Hubs and I both have made AMAZING friends thanks to the Army. We have insurance and a roof over our heads. The Hubs has job security. But more than all that, I've learned to appreciate who my husband is and all that he does. I don't think I would have seen that side as much if he had a different job. Plus I wouldn't trade our military friends and "sons" for anything in the world!

Wishing and Hoping

(source)

Oh to be a kid again! Today of all days, childhood feels so nostalgic and welcoming. Maybe for just a few minutes, I can grasp the feeling of my hair blowing in the breeze while being pushed on a swing.

New Colors

Do you ever have the urge to rearrange your furniture? Why is it that we have this inate urge to change our environment? I thinking changing around a blog comes from that same urge. So you play around, see what you like, pick something for awhile and then (potentially) go right back to where you had everything before.

What do you think of the new colors around here? I am just starting to appreciate the color yellow. Hey I'm blonde and fair skinned. Bright yellows tend to make me look dead like vampire dead. Not flattering! Anywho, I wanted something lighter and uplifting, easy on the eyes but pretty. Thoughts?

Stay tuned for my birthday wish list. I can't ignore it any longer. It's creeping up so I'm preparing a list. It makes life easier on everyone! ;)

Only Here

Only in an Army town would you here the following conversation.

Pregnant Lady: Yep I'm six months pregnant.
Other Lady: So your husband dropped you one before he left, huh?

Only in my town, folks. Only in my town.

Midweek Slump and Cotton Candy

Do you feel it? The why isn't it Friday nag? I do. Today I am so ready for it to be Friday. We are taking a fun little road trip to Charlottesville, VA this weekend. I'm looking forward to friends, big hats and sundresses, horse races and all the usual Charlottesville fun. I'm just so ready to get out of town that I wish time would speed up.

(source)

In the meantime, I'm stuck with rainy, overcast nastiness here in good ole NC. I can't complain too much. The Hubs and I had a fabulous weekend and first part of the week. Sunday he bought me cotton candy and The Sleeping Beauty. Nothing makes you feel like a kid again than cotton candy from a carnival. We've also had a fun date night at a wonderful local Italian place. Last night we watched Across the Universe, we both love The Beatles and really enjoyed the movie.

The One About the Feet

(weheartit)

The Hubs: Are your feet stinky? 

Wifey: I don't know... you tell me? *sticks foot in his face*

The Hubs: Yep they are stinky! 

We might be weird, but we always have fun! 

Happy Thoughts

Wow what a ROUGH week! Instead of laminating on the week, I thought I would share a few things that are making me happy today. 

   (weheartit)

1. Fresh produce from the local Farmer's Market

2. My furbaby Bailey and her sweet kisses. 

3. The way the Hubs makes me laugh especially when I want to cry. 

4. Gorgeous spring weather this weekend

5. Champagne

6. Playing at the park with the Hubs and Bailey

7. Best girl friends that know exactly what to say when you need a laugh. 

8. The perfect cup of coffee

9. The best family a girl could ask for. 

10. Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate! 

Engagement Session

Two weekends ago I had the pleasure of taking engagement pictures for Priscilla and Trey. They were such a fun couple to photograph. Below are a few of my favorites - enjoy!

Sicko?

Sorry for the No sporatic posts all year lately. It's going to be another bad week friends. I know. I know. trust me I'm hanging my head in shame, but also asking for you to send your positive thoughts our way. Our lil yorkie, Bailey, seems to be sick. I am taking her to the vet later this afternoon. We could also use some additional positive thoughts (greedy aren't I) as I have an appointment tomorrow that I am incredibly nervous about. As it's a very personal appt, I'm just going to leave it at that. Thanks!

I hop everyone is having a fabulous week. It looks like we are going to reach 80 degrees tomorrow. Spring is officially here!

Dear Fairy Godmother,

If at all possible, please transport me to back to Maui. 

(photo by me)

Since that won't be happening, I will settle for a nice glass of wine and a delicious dinner made by the Hubs. Isn't he wonderful? Before I even got home, he offered to make dinner. Despite a horrid week and not being in Maui, I'm a pretty lucky girl! 

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! 

Spring is in the Air!

                                                                 (buy it here)

I hope you are having the beautiful weather that we are having here. It would seem that spring is finally right around the corner. 

Speaking about spring, check out the beautiful print above and the pendant below. I'm loving the beautiful prints at Maleah Matthews Photography shop at Etsy. I'm not sure where to even start. 

                                                                       (buy it here)                            

Have a great rest of the weekend. 

Wednesday Wisdom

Well ya'll we made it halfway through the week! Whew! I don't know about you, but I thought it would never get here. I hope everyone's day is going well. I'm just thrilled that we did not get snow today!

Today I would like to leave you with this little tidbit that has been getting me through lately. I have no idea who the author is, but I got it off of an email from a soldier over stationed in Iraq. I figure if she can find paradise in the desert then I can find paradise where I'm at also. What about you?

"Anywhere is paradise; it's up to you."

Goodbye, Winter!

It seems that winter is still clinging to the Southeast. I know it's still February, and this is normal. I'm just so ready for Spring. For budding flowers and trees, light jackets and pretty dresses, flip flops and long walks outside, warm winds and sunshine.

In an order to brighten my own mood and hopefully your's at the same time, here are a few of my favorite things that I'm happy about today.

~ Sunshine. It might be cold but at least the sun is out.

~ the Hubs' best friend coming to visit.

~ Upcoming weekend vacations

~ 5 Hour Energy Drink

~ Awesome co-workers

~ Bailey. She makes everyday a happy day.

~ Manicures and pedicures

~ Lipstick. I'm learning to wear it and love it.

Green Catalogs

I was thrilled to open my work email this morning and see this lil bit of info. Catalog Choice is a great, green way to cut back on paper waste. Some awesome (Anthropologie to name one) companies are working with Catalog Choice to lower some of the excess in catalogs that go to your mailbox every year. I know that I love looking at a catalog as much as the next person, but really when I can see the same thing online - is it neccesary? For me, it's not.

It's Valentine's Weekend people, show the earth a lil love too.

Horrible Wifey Blogger

I know...I know! A whole week between blogs is soo not acceptable. In my defense, I've been sick. Like can't get off the couch, my head is going to blow off sick aka migraine. Life sucked. In other life sucks news, our NYC trip has been canceled. Thanks to the weather and the Army, we are being forced to reschedule for a later date. Oh well as with anything in this military life, we roll with the punches and keep plans flexible.

In happy news, this week I discovered this blog! CheapChicas is pretty much the greatest thing ever! A blog dedicated to style with all items under $100...Why did I not know about this in college? Go check her out! I've already found several pieces to buy.

Happy Wednesday...We made it half way through! ;)

Puppy Love and French Cooking

Tonight I discovered the joy that is puppy love! Those big sweet brown eyes were almost too much to resist. No worries ya'll the Hubs will be fine with it when he finds out. You see I am the object of Nenus' affection. Nenus, by the way, is a very, sweet, and loveable dog that just happens to think that I'm the bees knees. Be jealous! 

My dear friend J and I watched Julie & Julia tonight. I'm usually not much of a chick flick type girl but I loved this movie. It was cute and inspiring. It also made me want to head to the nearest book store, grab Julia Child's cookbook and start cooking all kinds of deliciousness. If you haven't seen the movie yet, you should! I promise it's good.  

Wrap It Up

Well another week down and a weekend ahead. How was your week? Here is a little wrap up of mine:

- Monday: Exhausted from such a fabulous weekend with the in-laws.

- Tuesday: 2 yr wedding anni, surprise flowers and a delicous grilled dinner

- Wednesday: Woke up thinking it was Thursday - bummer!

- Thursday: Woman & Wine party - fabulous fun and wine! What more could a girl want?

- Friday: Realized that karma will get you everytime! I've been bad mouthing a friend's wedding for about a week now. Said friend just asked me to help her pick out the pics for her wedding album. I just might have learned my lesson - maybe.

Any good plans for the weekend? We are supposed to get ice. I'm kind of hoping we do. Getting iced in the Hubs and Bailey sounds fun. If not a little retail therapy and girl friend time is in the works. Oh and we have the weekly cookout to look forward to! Have a great weekend.

Someone else said it better

"For it was not into my ear you whispered but inot my heart. It was not my lips you kissed but my soul." ~ Judy Garland

(Photo by Brian Salmon Photography)

Yesterday was the Hubs and I's two year wedding anniversary! Where, oh where has the time gone Iraq ? It was a fabulous day of the Hubs locking himself out of the house, surprise roses and a delicious dinner from our own kitchen. Last year we were on opposite ends of the world on our first wedding anniversary, so it was wonderful just being in the same room together. Sometimes the simple days are the best days!

Last weekend the Hubs and I headed to the beach to spend the weekend with my parents. We were so lucky to wake up to a beautiful sunrise the first morning we were there. The next morning we woke up to a completely different scene...

I haven't seen that stormy of a sea in a long time, but it made for some great pictures. This weekend the in-laws are coming to visit. I'm looking forward to lots of good eats and fun times. I truly have the best in-laws. We always have a good time!

Whether sunny or rainy, I hope your weekend is great.

*All pics by me. 

Nuggets of Wisdom

When the outfit that you are wearing makes you look like you are pregnant, don't wear that outfit.

Eating Cadbury Cream Eggs will not help you look less pregnant in said outfit.

Wine cures everything. Just saying. You can also substitue coffee and chocolate for wine depending on your need.

Don't mess with an angry pms'ing woman unless you have flowers in one hand and chocolate in the other.

Happy Hump Day

It's finally Wednesday! This week feels like it is dragging by. I've limited inspiration right now. With that said, here are some current likes and dislikes.

Likes:
- Sunny beautiful day with slightly warmer tempatures.
- Heading to the beach for my Mom's birthday this weekend.
- The "new arrivals" at Anthropolgie. Yes, please!
- Seeing my bestie tonight
- Chatting with my boss on Yahoo because we have nothing better to do.

Dislikes:
- Having nothing to do at work makes for a tres boring day!
- My brother has still not emailed me back about my Mom's birthday gift!
- Walking the dog when it's 22 degrees outside.
- The after Christmas financial slump. Hello fabulous sales, too bad I have no money.