Here is a quick list of the 2012 "goals" that I've made for myself...
Personal:
1. Run a half marathon. This means training. And lots of it. I'm going to go with the White Rock marathon, more than likely. It gives me almost a full twelve months to train.
2. Lose 50 lbs.
3. Read all the books that I currently own as of 1/1/12.
4. Blog. I'd really like to focus on my book blog and this blog, so readers, hold me to it! I'm going to commit to 3 - 5 blog posts a week. I'm going to attempt to do a weekly recap in photos (to correspond with the 365 photos in one year challenge) AND Friday Five. This will help keep me motivated and accountable.
5. Find a church.
6. Become more active in the Fort Worth book club that I found.
7. Do something for myself. Must be relaxing! I'm going to shoot for once a month.
Marriage:
8. Do unexpected "just because" stuff for Marcus. At least once a month.
9. Learn to pick my battles.
10. Increase intimacy by communication. (Good goal, Krista! We need this too!)
Family/Friends:
11. Make it a point to have more "girl's days out" with Carie and Lindsey! I miss my friends.
12. Spend time with my mom, doing girlie stuff, just getting out of the house, SOMETHING! At least once every few weeks.
Home
13. Decorate our master bedroom/bathroom.
14. Organize the kitchen.
15. Go through the 2012 "declutter calendar" and achieve at least 10 items each month.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
New Year's Resolutions - Recap
As with the end of each year, I always try to reflect on the year as a whole, recap the things that happened, set goals for the next year, and think back on the goals for the previous year. As with any year, it had it's ups and downs.
2011 Recap:
Multiple moves.
(I moved my essential stuff from Dallas to Fort Worth, then moved Marcus' essential stuff from Dallas to Fort Worth, moved all of our furniture into TWO storage buildings (one in Dallas, one in Fort Worth), moved the stuff out of storage into our house, spent the last three weeks gathering all the rest of our crap to move into the house. I'm pretty much done with moving for awhile.)
One new job.
One new house.
One year ago, on December 31st, 2010, I drank my last Dr Pepper. I've successfully made it almost a year without touching another "regular" soft drink. For the first 4 - 5 months, I didn't drink any soft drinks, but I've slowly let them creep back into my life.
12 5Ks. I started out with one a month, and did very well with that until November and December. A move, finals, etc. didn't allow me to do one a month, but I ran several in certain months, so I'm counting it as a goal ACHIEVED!
75 books read. Well, not quite, but almost. I should reach this goal. I have three more to go! Well, really like 1.5 to go. :o)
2011 Recap:
Multiple moves.
(I moved my essential stuff from Dallas to Fort Worth, then moved Marcus' essential stuff from Dallas to Fort Worth, moved all of our furniture into TWO storage buildings (one in Dallas, one in Fort Worth), moved the stuff out of storage into our house, spent the last three weeks gathering all the rest of our crap to move into the house. I'm pretty much done with moving for awhile.)
One new job.
One new house.
One year ago, on December 31st, 2010, I drank my last Dr Pepper. I've successfully made it almost a year without touching another "regular" soft drink. For the first 4 - 5 months, I didn't drink any soft drinks, but I've slowly let them creep back into my life.
12 5Ks. I started out with one a month, and did very well with that until November and December. A move, finals, etc. didn't allow me to do one a month, but I ran several in certain months, so I'm counting it as a goal ACHIEVED!
75 books read. Well, not quite, but almost. I should reach this goal. I have three more to go! Well, really like 1.5 to go. :o)
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Pecan Pie
I thought I'd go ahead and share my mom's pecan pie recipe. It's seriously one of the BEST pecan pies we've tried, and I think between my mom, mother-in-law, and I, we've tried a few.
Mom's Pecan Pie (not sure where she got the recipe to be honest... but if I find it, I'll source it)
1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 large eggs, slightly beaten
1 heaping cup of pecans, chopped
9 in deep pie shell
In a large bowl, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, salt, butter, and vanilla, and mix well. Add slightly beaten eggs and blend well. Stir in pecans. Pour into the unbaked pie shell. Bake in a pre-heated 350 degree over for 45 minutes, or until set. Remember to cover pie crust edges with aluminum foil.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Simplify Your Life - Week 3
So I'm a few days late in posting this, but last week's "simplify your life" tip didn't work out so well. I did great the first couple of days - but after that, I realized that checking my e-mail first thing in the morning was probably the most effective use of time. Eventually, I'm going to check my mail, and checking it while waiting on the shower, means that I'm not checking it later. So yeah, while I loved the idea behind it, it just wasn't good for me. I'm still using the "one hour" with no technology rule, so I'm 50% engaged in this process.
So week three is to start your day with exercise. Psht. Wouldn't that be nice?! I've been attempting to do just that for MONTHS! I'll give it one last try. At least this is the challenge the week BEFORE Thanksgiving, not during. LOL.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Blog Design
I'm working on updating my blog... and doing some new design features. Eventually, I'd like to design my own background, header, etc. but while I'm getting to that point, there's going to be some "growing pains" so please be patient with me.
I realize that the header is currently blank. :o)
<3
Christina
I realize that the header is currently blank. :o)
<3
Christina
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Simply Your Life - Week 2
Week one went fairly well. It was nice to just turn off the tv, put up my phone and laptop, and just chill for an hour each day. Mostly, I did homework, but I was giving myself the time to set aside to focus on something I wanted to do too, so I actually started and finished two books. It's amazing what you can get done in an hour. :o) I'm definitely KEEPING this part of the Simply Your Life challenge in my daily activity!
So... for week two... this is going to be a definite challenge. The "tip" is to avoid checking your e-mail first thing in the morning. I'll admit, it's going to be tough. I check my e-mail, on my phone, while I'm waiting for the shower to warm up in the morning. I don't know what I'll do now to pass the few minutes it takes. Read? Just relax? Who knows! But, I'm up for the challenge.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
A personal challenge...
On Facebook today, a friend posted a link to this article... it's 16 tips to simplify your life (and increase your productivity) and of course, I'm intrigued.
Since I know that I'd NEVER accomplish all 16 steps at one time, I'm going to try them one at a time... adding a new step each Wednesday until maybe I've accomplished them all.
So for week 1... my personal daily challenge is this...
1. Turn off all technology for 60 minutes a day and focus on doing your most important work.
Wish me luck. :) I'll report back next Wednesday with the 2nd "tip" and let you know how the first week went.
Since I know that I'd NEVER accomplish all 16 steps at one time, I'm going to try them one at a time... adding a new step each Wednesday until maybe I've accomplished them all.
So for week 1... my personal daily challenge is this...
1. Turn off all technology for 60 minutes a day and focus on doing your most important work.
Wish me luck. :) I'll report back next Wednesday with the 2nd "tip" and let you know how the first week went.
The Great Vegas GTG 2011 - Intro & Thursday
When Marcus decided to join the Army, I decided to join an online message board of women who are military spouses and some even military members themselves. While friendships weren't instantly formed, we all bonded over the joys of being military wives, the stresses of being military wives, some marriages, a couple of divorces, children, dogs, etc.
At some point, in the beginning of this year, Southwest Airlines was having a flight special and a couple of girls got super cheap flights to Vegas. They extended the invitation to everyone, and "The Great Vegas GTG 2011" was born.
After months of planning, lots of Facebook status updates, and hours of research and communication, the trip went by WAY TOO FAST! Las Vegas 2011 Recap: Thursday, October 20th... I woke up at 4:00a to get dressed, grab my stuff, and head to the airport. Marilyn was volunteered by Marcus (I think) to take me to the airport because he didn't want to be up that early. Hah. My flight to Vegas left DFW at 6:58a, and landing in Vegas at 7:50a. It was a relatively non-eventful flight, which is always great when you are as scared of flying as I am. I get to Vegas, grab my luggage, and take a $25 cab fare to our hotel... theHotel at Mandalay Bay. I had a wonderful breakfast at theCafe, explored the hotel (every single square inch), and hung out by the "beach" area reading a book until Krista sent me a text to tell me she was on her way.
Krista was the first person to arrive after me. She called me when she got into the check-in line. I recognized her immediately... it wasn't hard, she was the only blonde in line! Hah. As she checked in, the hotel told her that her room was ready, as was mine, so we headed up to the 24th floor to settle in for the next four days! Krista was exactly as I pictured. It's weird, because we really don't have that much in common... I wonder if we could be more polar opposites, but we clicked, and I had a wonderful time laughing and joking with her! After we got our luggage upstairs, we headed to the Irish Pub in Mandalay Place. At first, I thought the food was okay, but I think that was just because I was starving... it was not good.
After lunch, we just killed time until Tonya called to tell us she was there! Oh my gosh. Tonya is NOT at all what I expected, she's better. Hah. I haven't laughed that much and that hard in a really long time, but Tonya is a hoot. She says what she means, and means what she says, and I completely respect her for that. We got Tonya upstairs, settled in, and went to grab her some lunch. Now that she's annouced it to the world, I can annouce it. She's PREGNANT with her third baby! :o) And she's the cutest pregnant lady. We literally just sat around, laughing, joking, in tears at points, relaxing and waiting around on everyone else. :o)
The next group of people to arrive were Emily and Shannon. They flew in around the same time, so they shared a shuttle to the hotel. We met them at the elevator entrance while going to meet Ashley in the parking lot to bring all of our liquid beverages (and some clothes) into the room.
At some point, in the beginning of this year, Southwest Airlines was having a flight special and a couple of girls got super cheap flights to Vegas. They extended the invitation to everyone, and "The Great Vegas GTG 2011" was born.
After months of planning, lots of Facebook status updates, and hours of research and communication, the trip went by WAY TOO FAST! Las Vegas 2011 Recap: Thursday, October 20th... I woke up at 4:00a to get dressed, grab my stuff, and head to the airport. Marilyn was volunteered by Marcus (I think) to take me to the airport because he didn't want to be up that early. Hah. My flight to Vegas left DFW at 6:58a, and landing in Vegas at 7:50a. It was a relatively non-eventful flight, which is always great when you are as scared of flying as I am. I get to Vegas, grab my luggage, and take a $25 cab fare to our hotel... theHotel at Mandalay Bay. I had a wonderful breakfast at theCafe, explored the hotel (every single square inch), and hung out by the "beach" area reading a book until Krista sent me a text to tell me she was on her way.
Krista was the first person to arrive after me. She called me when she got into the check-in line. I recognized her immediately... it wasn't hard, she was the only blonde in line! Hah. As she checked in, the hotel told her that her room was ready, as was mine, so we headed up to the 24th floor to settle in for the next four days! Krista was exactly as I pictured. It's weird, because we really don't have that much in common... I wonder if we could be more polar opposites, but we clicked, and I had a wonderful time laughing and joking with her! After we got our luggage upstairs, we headed to the Irish Pub in Mandalay Place. At first, I thought the food was okay, but I think that was just because I was starving... it was not good.
After lunch, we just killed time until Tonya called to tell us she was there! Oh my gosh. Tonya is NOT at all what I expected, she's better. Hah. I haven't laughed that much and that hard in a really long time, but Tonya is a hoot. She says what she means, and means what she says, and I completely respect her for that. We got Tonya upstairs, settled in, and went to grab her some lunch. Now that she's annouced it to the world, I can annouce it. She's PREGNANT with her third baby! :o) And she's the cutest pregnant lady. We literally just sat around, laughing, joking, in tears at points, relaxing and waiting around on everyone else. :o)
The next group of people to arrive were Emily and Shannon. They flew in around the same time, so they shared a shuttle to the hotel. We met them at the elevator entrance while going to meet Ashley in the parking lot to bring all of our liquid beverages (and some clothes) into the room.
November Goals
As I sit here, ready to type out my list, I realize how hard I am on myself. I'm my own worst critic (aren't we all?) and I feel like a failure if things don't go exactly as I've planned them. I mean, really, how often does life go exactly as we plan it? Virtually never. Yet, each month, you'll find me back here posting another list of goals that I may or may not get to. At least I'm working towards something, right?
"The tradegy of life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tradegy lies in having no goal to reach." ~ Benajamin Mays
For the month of November, I'm going to try something different... instead of breaking my goals down into distinguished lists, with categories, I'm just going to randomly write down the things I want to accomplish and complete this month.
"The tradegy of life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tradegy lies in having no goal to reach." ~ Benajamin Mays
For the month of November, I'm going to try something different... instead of breaking my goals down into distinguished lists, with categories, I'm just going to randomly write down the things I want to accomplish and complete this month.
- Enjoy Thanksgiving... no stress, no drama, just fun.
- Make a Christmas "gift" plan with Marcus, and knock out as much as we can during Black Friday shopping.
- Replace my windshield due to the massive crack, thanks to a rock from I-30.
- Buy new tires.
- Mark off five things from my 101 things to do in 1001 days list.
- Make at least a "B" on my ACCT 5311 test on November 21st.
- Enjoy spending time with my parents and friends for Marcus' 33rd birthday!
- Cut the fabric for Carie's "gift."
- Cut the fabric for the quilt.
- Close on our house!
- Pick out paint colors for at least the master bedroom.
- Do some kind of fitness related activity 10 times this month.
- STOP STRESSING!
October Goals Recap
I think the ONLY thing I managed to accomplish in October was going to Vegas... and having a blast! I realize that I owe all of my blog readers (all 5 of you) a Vegas post, and I promise I'll get to that this week, hopefully.
Health:
School:
Personal:
Health:
- Do something healthy. Ideally, I’d accomplish getting back into running, going to the gym, increasing water consumption, cooking at home, but hell, who am I kidding?! I’ll be lucky to eat, period.
School:
- Try not to drown, and keep up!
Personal:
- Have a blast in Vegas, and leave all the darn stress behind when I get on the plane.
- Finish the blogging challenge… or give up on it. One way or another, make a decision.
- Finish 5 things on the 101 things to do list.
- Cut out the fabric for Carie's "gift" and the square quilt.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 11
Put your iPod on shuffle and write 10 songs that pop up.
- My Kinda Party – Jason Aldean
- Earth Song – Michael Jackson
- Own The Night – Lady Antebellum
- Pocketful of Sunshine – Natasha Beddingfield
- Simple Things – Amy Grant
- You – Bonnie Raitt
- The Greatest Man I Never Knew – Reba McEntire
- Every Time I Hear Your Name – Keith Anderson
- Wild At Heart – Gloriana
- Dream – Michael Buble
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
October Goals
You know, at this point, I’m not even sure why I make this stupid “goal lists” each month. I can
NEVER EVER accomplish more than about 3 of them, and those goals tend to always have to do with school. Ugh. In my best Jessie voice, “There’s not enough time. There’s never enough time.” Ahhhh!
Health:
School:
Personal:
NEVER EVER accomplish more than about 3 of them, and those goals tend to always have to do with school. Ugh. In my best Jessie voice, “There’s not enough time. There’s never enough time.” Ahhhh!
Health:
- Do something healthy. Ideally, I’d accomplish getting back into running, going to the gym, increasing water consumption, cooking at home, but hell, who am I kidding?! I’ll be lucky to eat, period.
School:
- Try not to drown, and keep up!
Personal:
- Have a blast in Vegas, and leave all the darn stress behind when I get on the plane.
- Finish the blogging challenge… or give up on it. One way or another, make a decision.
- Finish 5 things on the 101 things to do list.
- Cut out the fabric for Carie's "gift" and the square quilt.
101 Things... #11
Part of my agreement with myself to do the 101 things in 1001 days was to actively blog about the progress I made on my list. I felt like blogging would help me be accountable to myself, and actually, maybe, possibly get some of the "to do" items checked off my list before the 1001 days is up.
#11 on my list... have a "family" picture taken. You see, the reason for this item is because my husband HATES taking pictures. I think he'd rather have a root canal or have his leg hairs pulled out one by one. He simply hates it. Now, part of that is my fault, because most of the time I don't like pictures that are taken of myself.
So... on Facebook, a photographer friend by the name of Mia Coelho (Mia Coelho Photography) was hosting a giveaway for 50% off of a session fee. Well, I won. Uh, crap. I don't know how Marcus was ever convinced to take the pictures... I know my mom and his mom too, probably, had a hand in helping me convince him. But regardless, on September 24th, 2011, we took our first professional "family" picture!
[gallery link="file" columns="1"]
#11 on my list... have a "family" picture taken. You see, the reason for this item is because my husband HATES taking pictures. I think he'd rather have a root canal or have his leg hairs pulled out one by one. He simply hates it. Now, part of that is my fault, because most of the time I don't like pictures that are taken of myself.
So... on Facebook, a photographer friend by the name of Mia Coelho (Mia Coelho Photography) was hosting a giveaway for 50% off of a session fee. Well, I won. Uh, crap. I don't know how Marcus was ever convinced to take the pictures... I know my mom and his mom too, probably, had a hand in helping me convince him. But regardless, on September 24th, 2011, we took our first professional "family" picture!
[gallery link="file" columns="1"]
September Goals - Recap
I keep doing these lists, because it somewhat holds me accountable, even though I know I don't have the time to accomplish these goals. One of these days, I will though. :) So I'm sticking with this... maybe.
Health:
• One 5K. This will be #9 for the year!
• Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday). I have to get back to doing this one, religiously, if I’m going to do the Half Marathon on 11/6.
• Try THREE new, super HEALTHY meal(s) this month.
• Lose 5 more lbs!
• Menu plan and COOK at home, at least four times a week.
School:
• ACCT 5311 – Stay caught up with reading, homework, and prepare for exam on 9/27.
• ACCT 5314 – Stay caught up with reading, homework, chapter study guides, and prepare for exam on 9/28.
• ACCT 5315 – Stay caught up with reading. Finish G/L project by 9/15. Finish First Half of Team Project by 9/30.
Personal:
• Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
• Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
• Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
• Organize closet, desk, ROOM!
• Finish the 30 Day Blog Challenge, even though it turned into a 90 Day Blog Challenge.
• Finish 5 items from the "101 Things" List.
Crafty:
• Get to work on Carie’s project! (Can’t tell you what it is, because of course, it’s a SECRET!)
Health:
•
• Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday). I have to get back to doing this one, religiously, if I’m going to do the Half Marathon on 11/6.
• Try THREE new, super HEALTHY meal(s) this month.
• Lose 5 more lbs!
• Menu plan and COOK at home, at least four times a week.
School:
•
•
•
Personal:
• Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
• Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
• Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
•
• Finish the 30 Day Blog Challenge, even though it turned into a 90 Day Blog Challenge.
• Finish 5 items from the "101 Things" List.
Crafty:
• Get to work on Carie’s project! (Can’t tell you what it is, because of course, it’s a SECRET!)
Friday, September 2, 2011
September Goals
I really enjoy making these goal lists for no other reason than to feel like I have a direction and a slight purpose. LOL.
Health:
• One 5K. This will be #9 for the year!
• Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday). I have to get back to doing this one, religiously, if I’m going to do the Half Marathon on 11/6.
• Try THREE new, super HEALTHY meal(s) this month.
• Lose 5 more lbs!
• Menu plan and COOK at home, at least four times a week.
School:
• ACCT 5311 – Stay caught up with reading, homework, and prepare for exam on 9/27.
• ACCT 5314 – Stay caught up with reading, homework, chapter study guides, and prepare for exam on 9/28.
• ACCT 5315 – Stay caught up with reading. Finish G/L project by 9/15. Finish First Half of Team Project by 9/30.
Personal:
• Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
• Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
• Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
• Organize closet, desk, ROOM!
• Finish the 30 Day Blog Challenge, even though it turned into a 90 Day Blog Challenge.
• Finish 5 items from the "101 Things" List.
Crafty:
• Get to work on Carie’s project! (Can’t tell you what it is, because of course, it’s a SECRET!)
Health:
• One 5K. This will be #9 for the year!
• Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday). I have to get back to doing this one, religiously, if I’m going to do the Half Marathon on 11/6.
• Try THREE new, super HEALTHY meal(s) this month.
• Lose 5 more lbs!
• Menu plan and COOK at home, at least four times a week.
School:
• ACCT 5311 – Stay caught up with reading, homework, and prepare for exam on 9/27.
• ACCT 5314 – Stay caught up with reading, homework, chapter study guides, and prepare for exam on 9/28.
• ACCT 5315 – Stay caught up with reading. Finish G/L project by 9/15. Finish First Half of Team Project by 9/30.
Personal:
• Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
• Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
• Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
• Organize closet, desk, ROOM!
• Finish the 30 Day Blog Challenge, even though it turned into a 90 Day Blog Challenge.
• Finish 5 items from the "101 Things" List.
Crafty:
• Get to work on Carie’s project! (Can’t tell you what it is, because of course, it’s a SECRET!)
July Goals - Recap
Yes, I know it's September 1st... and I'm just now recapping July goals. That means I didn't even BOTHER with August goals. I did warn everyone that I might not be able to keep up. I did okay though.
Health:
Health:
* One 5K.
* Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday). (This is a HUGE deal for me this month. I have to get back in the gym. No more excuses!!)
* Try one new, super HEALTHY meal for the entire month. Just one!
* Lose 5 more lbs!
* Menu plan and COOK at home, at least three times a week.
School:
* Finish International Accounting research paper and ACE my International Finance Final!
* Drop Business Law for Accountants, since it's no longer needed. Woo hoo for having Summer II off.
Personal:
* Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
* Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
* Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
* Relax and have some fun this summer!
Crafty:
* Get to work on Carie's project! (Can't tell you what it is, because of course, it's a SECRET!)
* Craft some sort of jewelry organizer/holder.
Friday, July 1, 2011
July Goals
July is going to be an interesting month... to say the least. My goals are going to be lofty, and I probably won't accomplish many of them, but I'm going to make the goals and hopefully I'll cross a couple of things off my to do list. Between starting a new job, relocating, AND going on vacation, I'll be lucky to remember who I am by July 31st.
Without further ado... here are July's goals. :o)
Without further ado... here are July's goals. :o)
Health:
* One 5K.
* Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday). (This is a HUGE deal for me this month. I have to get back in the gym. No more excuses!!)
* Try one new, super HEALTHY meal for the entire month. Just one!
* Lose 5 more lbs!
* Menu plan and COOK at home, at least three times a week.
School:
* Finish International Accounting research paper and ACE my International Finance Final!
* Drop Business Law for Accountants, since it's no longer needed. Woo hoo for having Summer II off.
Personal:
* Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
* Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
* Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
* Relax and have some fun this summer!
Crafty:
* Get to work on Carie's project! (Can't tell you what it is, because of course, it's a SECRET!)
* Craft some sort of jewelry organizer/holder.
June Goals - Recap
Ugh. Another um, interesting month. A lot of things have happened in June, so much that my head is still spinning. On June 20th, I was offered a position as an Accountant with a CPA Firm on the other side of the metroplex. On June 21st, I put in my notice with my current position. I won't actually start the new position until July 25th, but in the meantime, we're contemplating a relocation, which will leave Marcus and I 60+ miles apart 70% of the time. It's going to suck. But anywho, here's a recap on Jule goals...
Another stressful, unproductive month! Ugh.
Here are June's goals.
Another stressful, unproductive month! Ugh.
Here are June's goals.
Health:
* One 5K.
* Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday).
* Try one new, super HEALTHY meal for the entire month. Just one!
* Lose 5 more lbs!
School:
* Finish International Accounting research paper by 6/30 so that I can enjoy the Fourth of July holiday!!
Personal:
* Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
* Go to IKEA and buy Expedit bookshelf.
* Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
* Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
Crafty:
* Get to work on Carie's project! (Can't tell you what it is, because of course, it's a SECRET!)
* Post pictures each week of Level 2 cake decorating!
* Post pictures each week of Level 3 cake decorating!
Friday, June 17, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 10
First love and first kiss, huh? How embarrassing!
I won't go into too many details on this one, because well, I'd rather not. His name was Matt, it was 8th grade graduation, and we kissed in front of our parents. How lame! I think it was supposed to be a joke. He was from Tampa, FL. I saw him a couple times after that weekend, but haven't heard from him since. No big loss, right?
First love... the first guy that I will always consider my first love was Brandon S. He was my high school boyfriend, and I went with him to his senior prom as a sophomore. The last I heard, he joined the Army and had gotten married, but I haven't heard from him in YEARS!
I won't go into too many details on this one, because well, I'd rather not. His name was Matt, it was 8th grade graduation, and we kissed in front of our parents. How lame! I think it was supposed to be a joke. He was from Tampa, FL. I saw him a couple times after that weekend, but haven't heard from him since. No big loss, right?
First love... the first guy that I will always consider my first love was Brandon S. He was my high school boyfriend, and I went with him to his senior prom as a sophomore. The last I heard, he joined the Army and had gotten married, but I haven't heard from him in YEARS!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 9
Today's topic (day 9) is... "how you hope your future will be like."
Well, let's see. This post reminds me a lot of day 2, where I'd like to be in the next 10 years. It doesn't differ much from that.
#1. I'd like to own a home, so that I can spend time (my free time) dabbling in home decorating, furniture refinishing, etc. And mostly, because I'd like a stable place to call home.
#2. A successful career as a CPA.
#3. A child or two. Maybe even a foster parent if biological children aren't in my future.
#4. Debt free. Or close to it.
#5. Still as super close to my mom, Lindsey, and Carie as I am now. :o)
I'm not super big into material things, so I don't need a 2 caret diamond ring, a fancy Mercedes or Lexus. But really - I just want to be happy. Content with my life, my career, and my relationship.
Well, let's see. This post reminds me a lot of day 2, where I'd like to be in the next 10 years. It doesn't differ much from that.
#1. I'd like to own a home, so that I can spend time (my free time) dabbling in home decorating, furniture refinishing, etc. And mostly, because I'd like a stable place to call home.
#2. A successful career as a CPA.
#3. A child or two. Maybe even a foster parent if biological children aren't in my future.
#4. Debt free. Or close to it.
#5. Still as super close to my mom, Lindsey, and Carie as I am now. :o)
I'm not super big into material things, so I don't need a 2 caret diamond ring, a fancy Mercedes or Lexus. But really - I just want to be happy. Content with my life, my career, and my relationship.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 8
Day 8 Blog Challenge: A moment you felt the most satisfied with your life.
Easy. The day of my college graduation with my Bachelor's degree. You see - I was the first person in my family to complete that degree. I had the backing of my entire family who couldn't have been more proud to see/hear/know that I was finally achieving that dream. Graduation and walking across the stage was still surreal though, and I can't wait to do it again with my second Master's!
Easy. The day of my college graduation with my Bachelor's degree. You see - I was the first person in my family to complete that degree. I had the backing of my entire family who couldn't have been more proud to see/hear/know that I was finally achieving that dream. Graduation and walking across the stage was still surreal though, and I can't wait to do it again with my second Master's!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 7
Day 7 Challenge... Your Zodiac Sign, and if you think it fits you.
I was born on May 11th, so that makes me a Taurus. There are certain aspects of the Taurus sign that really fit me, and some that couldn't be more off base.
I went to this website to find out more about the Taurus sign.
Taurus Strengths:
dependable (yes), persistent (uh huh), loyal (very), generous (extremely), patient (not so much)
Taurus Weaknesses:
stubborn (extremely), lazy (ha! have you met me?! i'm so far from lazy), possessive (i can be), materialistic (i try not to be, but i probably am), self-indulging (sometimes)
I don't know that I agree with the fact that I'm not a leader - because I am. But many of these traits fit me to a t! I don't mind being alone, in fact, I usually enjoy it. I want things done my way. I'm stubborn to a fault, and demand perfection, but mostly of myself.
A Taurus is an excellent friend. Taurus has few close friends as opposed to many acquaintances. The few people they hold dear to them are guarded and protected. Their friends are treated like family and they are fiercely loyal and dependable. Taurus loves to be the host or hostess. Although not a total social butterfly, they can be shy around strangers, the people who Taurus let into their lives are lavishly catered to when Taurus decides to throw a party, they decorate and present everything lavishly. Taurus will always pamper themselves and their close group of friends.
This is VERY much me as far as the friendship aspect goes. I only have a few close friends, and I honestly wouldn't trade it for the world. I have two amazingly close friends in my life that I truly consider sisters. I do love to host parties, mostly for the planning aspect of it. And I definitely pamper myself and my friends when I can.
Taurus is a strong business person. Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. They have a knack for finance and their financial advice is prized. They know where money is to be made and have the ability to manipulate and set the path for their own success. Taurus are not frivolous spenders but they like to live lavishly and surround themselves with nice possessions and foods, which all adds up resulting in large spending habits. They will not spend all their money and cause their business to fail because if they do, their security and stability will be gone and this will cause them great stress.
This is mostly true, but I only say that because I'm not a business owner. I am in the financial field, so I guess that's a positive attribute of a Taurus. :o) Hopefully, I picked the right career! I do like to live "lavishly," I suppose, and I'm definitely a food snob. Hah.
Taurus are deeply sensitive, the slightest comment or negative remark will be taken personally and they can easily get offended or hurt. Their stubborn streak results in laziness. They can be very lazy when someone gives them orders or wants them to do something they do not want to do. They are not lazy when it comes to themselves,
I do tend to take things too personally, when I should probably be more opt to let them roll of my back. I'm stubborn, I won't lie, and while the website determines that that stubborn streak turns to laziness, I think it's the fact that I'm not willing to be push around. I don't mind doing the things I'm asked at work, home, etc. and I definitely pull my weight, but I'm not willing to succumb to anyone's demands especially when they talk down to me.
Taurus are not fond of change. In fact, is change is imminent, they get very nervous and worried. They do not like anything new because anything new is unknown and Taurus fears the unknown. Taurus needs order in their lives and when they do not have order, they get very anxious. Taurus will cut themselves off from the unfamiliar in order to avoid the feelings of insecurity that arise when new experiences and situations are present. Taurus do not express their feelings openly and their inner self is contained and secretive. Many people do not know how sensitive Taurus really is, they hide it well. As a result, they are often emotionally hurt when the wrong things are said, they take things too personally sometimes. Taurus avoids talking about their emotions and many people never really know how they feel.
Change doesn't necessarily bother me, but I do feel anxious when I'm unsure of the change. For instance, currently we are unsure what we're going to do with our apartment, if we're going to move, renew our lease, etc. and that thought makes me nervous. But only because if we move, we're moving the weekend of the first class of the Fall 2011 semester where I'm taking 9 hours, and I hate to give up the reigns to something important like moving to anyone else. It's the control side of me.
Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. Solid and persistent, just like the bull, which is Taurus' well suited symbol. Taurus's have a well known reputation for being stubborn, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The stubborn streak can cause Taurus to butt heads and conflict with other strong character types. Taurus are not fond of change. They like the familiar and routine comfort of life. Taurus is easy going and not one to pick a fight but should some poor souls attempt to provoke Taurus, the wrath will be known, for they have a temper underneath the calm surface. Taurus are very responsive to their surroundings. They like decorations, color, anything that appeals to all the senses. Taurus like possessions and the Taurus home is nicely decorated with lots of things. Taurus are down to earth, they do not like gaudy, flashy or over the top things. They prefer comfortable and creative settings and objects. Taurus likes security, in every aspect of their lives from home, to love, to career. Taurus can be secretive, opinionated and stingy. Taurus tend to be self-indulgent and lazy, Taurus are master procrastinators of the astrology zodiac! They do however have a strong, persistent drive that comes to life when they chose, and no one would ever know that they are lazy. The secret to this is that their laziness is pushed aside when it comes to themselves.
I would say that honestly, for the most part, the Taurus symbol couldn't fit me any closer if I wrote it myself.
I was born on May 11th, so that makes me a Taurus. There are certain aspects of the Taurus sign that really fit me, and some that couldn't be more off base.
I went to this website to find out more about the Taurus sign.
Taurus Strengths:
dependable (yes), persistent (uh huh), loyal (very), generous (extremely), patient (not so much)
Taurus Weaknesses:
stubborn (extremely), lazy (ha! have you met me?! i'm so far from lazy), possessive (i can be), materialistic (i try not to be, but i probably am), self-indulging (sometimes)
Taurus is not the one who ventures out into the unknown and leads the way, Taurus is the one that will follow the leader and strengthen and build upon the discovered, in other words they are the one that will "dot the I's and cross the T's". This perseverance is given to them by their stubborn streak. Taurus stubborn streak is what gives their independence. They like to do things their way. They are perfectly fine on being alone, this way things get done they way they want them to be done. Taurus is not a follower, but they are not the brave one either. Taurus is perfectly independent. With their perseverance, they get things done and can do quite well for themselves.
I don't know that I agree with the fact that I'm not a leader - because I am. But many of these traits fit me to a t! I don't mind being alone, in fact, I usually enjoy it. I want things done my way. I'm stubborn to a fault, and demand perfection, but mostly of myself.
A Taurus is an excellent friend. Taurus has few close friends as opposed to many acquaintances. The few people they hold dear to them are guarded and protected. Their friends are treated like family and they are fiercely loyal and dependable. Taurus loves to be the host or hostess. Although not a total social butterfly, they can be shy around strangers, the people who Taurus let into their lives are lavishly catered to when Taurus decides to throw a party, they decorate and present everything lavishly. Taurus will always pamper themselves and their close group of friends.
This is VERY much me as far as the friendship aspect goes. I only have a few close friends, and I honestly wouldn't trade it for the world. I have two amazingly close friends in my life that I truly consider sisters. I do love to host parties, mostly for the planning aspect of it. And I definitely pamper myself and my friends when I can.
Taurus is a strong business person. Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. They have a knack for finance and their financial advice is prized. They know where money is to be made and have the ability to manipulate and set the path for their own success. Taurus are not frivolous spenders but they like to live lavishly and surround themselves with nice possessions and foods, which all adds up resulting in large spending habits. They will not spend all their money and cause their business to fail because if they do, their security and stability will be gone and this will cause them great stress.
This is mostly true, but I only say that because I'm not a business owner. I am in the financial field, so I guess that's a positive attribute of a Taurus. :o) Hopefully, I picked the right career! I do like to live "lavishly," I suppose, and I'm definitely a food snob. Hah.
Taurus are deeply sensitive, the slightest comment or negative remark will be taken personally and they can easily get offended or hurt. Their stubborn streak results in laziness. They can be very lazy when someone gives them orders or wants them to do something they do not want to do. They are not lazy when it comes to themselves,
I do tend to take things too personally, when I should probably be more opt to let them roll of my back. I'm stubborn, I won't lie, and while the website determines that that stubborn streak turns to laziness, I think it's the fact that I'm not willing to be push around. I don't mind doing the things I'm asked at work, home, etc. and I definitely pull my weight, but I'm not willing to succumb to anyone's demands especially when they talk down to me.
Taurus are not fond of change. In fact, is change is imminent, they get very nervous and worried. They do not like anything new because anything new is unknown and Taurus fears the unknown. Taurus needs order in their lives and when they do not have order, they get very anxious. Taurus will cut themselves off from the unfamiliar in order to avoid the feelings of insecurity that arise when new experiences and situations are present. Taurus do not express their feelings openly and their inner self is contained and secretive. Many people do not know how sensitive Taurus really is, they hide it well. As a result, they are often emotionally hurt when the wrong things are said, they take things too personally sometimes. Taurus avoids talking about their emotions and many people never really know how they feel.
Change doesn't necessarily bother me, but I do feel anxious when I'm unsure of the change. For instance, currently we are unsure what we're going to do with our apartment, if we're going to move, renew our lease, etc. and that thought makes me nervous. But only because if we move, we're moving the weekend of the first class of the Fall 2011 semester where I'm taking 9 hours, and I hate to give up the reigns to something important like moving to anyone else. It's the control side of me.
Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. Solid and persistent, just like the bull, which is Taurus' well suited symbol. Taurus's have a well known reputation for being stubborn, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The stubborn streak can cause Taurus to butt heads and conflict with other strong character types. Taurus are not fond of change. They like the familiar and routine comfort of life. Taurus is easy going and not one to pick a fight but should some poor souls attempt to provoke Taurus, the wrath will be known, for they have a temper underneath the calm surface. Taurus are very responsive to their surroundings. They like decorations, color, anything that appeals to all the senses. Taurus like possessions and the Taurus home is nicely decorated with lots of things. Taurus are down to earth, they do not like gaudy, flashy or over the top things. They prefer comfortable and creative settings and objects. Taurus likes security, in every aspect of their lives from home, to love, to career. Taurus can be secretive, opinionated and stingy. Taurus tend to be self-indulgent and lazy, Taurus are master procrastinators of the astrology zodiac! They do however have a strong, persistent drive that comes to life when they chose, and no one would ever know that they are lazy. The secret to this is that their laziness is pushed aside when it comes to themselves.
I would say that honestly, for the most part, the Taurus symbol couldn't fit me any closer if I wrote it myself.
Monday, June 13, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 6
30 interesting facts about me, huh? Oh my. This one is going to be tough. They may end up being more random than interesting, but here goes nothing.
1. I was the first person in my family to graduate with a Bachelor's Degree. I was also the first person to graduate with a Master's Degree.
2. I'm only 5'4". I used to wear heels ALL THE TIME to feel taller. Now, I just don't care. I'm a flip flop and flat sandals kind of girl.
3. I'm obsessed with cakes, lately. I've graduated from Levels 1 and 2 of the Wilton Cake Decorating class. I'm in the midst of taking Level 3. I'm not very good, but I enjoy it, so I guess that's all that matters, right?!
4. My favorite color is pink. Someday, when we buy a house, if we have separate closets, I want a pink, black, and silver closet. My husband hopes I change my mind.
5. I have PCOS. It sucks. Luckily, I have THREE amazing doctors who are working to help me get past it/through it/whatever.
6. I'm a momma's girl. Even at 28.
7. I love to read!! I always, always, always have either a book or my iPad with me. And sometimes both! I'm currently reading two books at the same time, because well, I'm just that cool.
8. I'm also a book blogger. Check it out. www.thebibliophilesdigest.wordpress.com I need to make some serious updates though. I'm behind.
9. I have two of the BEST friends a girl could ask for! I wouldn't change either of them for the world, and I thank God daily for both of them. Carie and Lindsey - you both ROCK!
10. I passed the state board exam to get my cosmetology license in 2001. I used it for about 6 months, while working at Toni & Guy. Decided I hated it - and went into accounting instead.
11. I love bananas!
12. I'm attempting to run a half marathon (well, run/walk a half marathon) in November 2011. I'm scared.
13. My favorite food is Mexican food.
14. I'm obsessed with chai tea lattes (or frapps) from Starbucks. So yummy! In fact, I'm drinking one now, while eating a banana.
15. I really want to buy an old piece of furniture and refinish it, but I can't find the "perfect" piece yet. So I'm still on the hunt.
16. I set monthly "goals" for myself. I rarely finish them. But it's the thought that counts, right?!
17. I'm organized to a fault, even my calendars are color-coded.
18. I'm a retired Army's Sergeant's wife. Crazy, huh?
19. I looooooooooooooooove sweets. Probably why my behind is so big, but still! They are my downfall. Must. Have. Sugar!
20. Sometimes, I amaze even myself with how much I've changed physically and mentally over the last few years. It's mind boggling to think of all the things that are different.
21. I hate fish. (I don't mind eating them, well, some of them... mostly just salmon, trout, and tuna) but I will NOT touch them. Imagine trying to go camping/fishing with your husband when you refuse to take the fish off the hook.
22. I want kids. I'd even be okay with adoption or fostering.
23. I type 95 wpm.
24. My graduate paper (not even a thesis) was 82 pages long, including references. It took me an entire semester to write, and was over Apple, Inc. Exciting huh? I told you I loved Apple!
25. Speaking of Apple, I never leave home without my iPad and iPhone. It's an addiction. Clearly, I enjoy being "connected!"
26. I hate watching the news. It's always bad. Nothing good. Always negative. I need some positive news sometimes, people!
27. I check my Google reader for new blog posts from friends/family/strangers several times a day.
28. I get my nails and my toes done, every two weeks, without fail.
29. I'm working on my second Master's. Sometimes, I think I'll never be finished with school. And when I am finished, I'd like to find a teaching position at a local community college or university.
30. I've never been out of the United States, but I hope to change that in 2012. I'm trying to convince the ol' husband we need a 5 year vow renewal ceremony on the beach somewhere.
1. I was the first person in my family to graduate with a Bachelor's Degree. I was also the first person to graduate with a Master's Degree.
2. I'm only 5'4". I used to wear heels ALL THE TIME to feel taller. Now, I just don't care. I'm a flip flop and flat sandals kind of girl.
3. I'm obsessed with cakes, lately. I've graduated from Levels 1 and 2 of the Wilton Cake Decorating class. I'm in the midst of taking Level 3. I'm not very good, but I enjoy it, so I guess that's all that matters, right?!
4. My favorite color is pink. Someday, when we buy a house, if we have separate closets, I want a pink, black, and silver closet. My husband hopes I change my mind.
5. I have PCOS. It sucks. Luckily, I have THREE amazing doctors who are working to help me get past it/through it/whatever.
6. I'm a momma's girl. Even at 28.
7. I love to read!! I always, always, always have either a book or my iPad with me. And sometimes both! I'm currently reading two books at the same time, because well, I'm just that cool.
8. I'm also a book blogger. Check it out. www.thebibliophilesdigest.wordpress.com I need to make some serious updates though. I'm behind.
9. I have two of the BEST friends a girl could ask for! I wouldn't change either of them for the world, and I thank God daily for both of them. Carie and Lindsey - you both ROCK!
10. I passed the state board exam to get my cosmetology license in 2001. I used it for about 6 months, while working at Toni & Guy. Decided I hated it - and went into accounting instead.
11. I love bananas!
12. I'm attempting to run a half marathon (well, run/walk a half marathon) in November 2011. I'm scared.
13. My favorite food is Mexican food.
14. I'm obsessed with chai tea lattes (or frapps) from Starbucks. So yummy! In fact, I'm drinking one now, while eating a banana.
15. I really want to buy an old piece of furniture and refinish it, but I can't find the "perfect" piece yet. So I'm still on the hunt.
16. I set monthly "goals" for myself. I rarely finish them. But it's the thought that counts, right?!
17. I'm organized to a fault, even my calendars are color-coded.
18. I'm a retired Army's Sergeant's wife. Crazy, huh?
19. I looooooooooooooooove sweets. Probably why my behind is so big, but still! They are my downfall. Must. Have. Sugar!
20. Sometimes, I amaze even myself with how much I've changed physically and mentally over the last few years. It's mind boggling to think of all the things that are different.
21. I hate fish. (I don't mind eating them, well, some of them... mostly just salmon, trout, and tuna) but I will NOT touch them. Imagine trying to go camping/fishing with your husband when you refuse to take the fish off the hook.
22. I want kids. I'd even be okay with adoption or fostering.
23. I type 95 wpm.
24. My graduate paper (not even a thesis) was 82 pages long, including references. It took me an entire semester to write, and was over Apple, Inc. Exciting huh? I told you I loved Apple!
25. Speaking of Apple, I never leave home without my iPad and iPhone. It's an addiction. Clearly, I enjoy being "connected!"
26. I hate watching the news. It's always bad. Nothing good. Always negative. I need some positive news sometimes, people!
27. I check my Google reader for new blog posts from friends/family/strangers several times a day.
28. I get my nails and my toes done, every two weeks, without fail.
29. I'm working on my second Master's. Sometimes, I think I'll never be finished with school. And when I am finished, I'd like to find a teaching position at a local community college or university.
30. I've never been out of the United States, but I hope to change that in 2012. I'm trying to convince the ol' husband we need a 5 year vow renewal ceremony on the beach somewhere.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 5
Day 05 - A time when you thought about ending your own life.
Man - what in the world is up with these depressing topics?
I know this is going to sound like the biggest cop out in the entire world, but I honestly can't remember a time I've ever wanted to end my life. I can remember threatening it as a child because my mom didn't let me do something I NEEDED to do, but seriously thought about it, I don't know that it's ever happened. I'm fortunate in that respect, I suppose. Life has never felt so closed in that I needed to end it just to get away from it all. I pray for anyone who is having those feelings.
And please - for ANYONE - who feels like they just can't go on, reach out to someone. Just know that you are LOVED beyond the shadow of a doubt. Or call... 1-800-273-TALK!
Man - what in the world is up with these depressing topics?
I know this is going to sound like the biggest cop out in the entire world, but I honestly can't remember a time I've ever wanted to end my life. I can remember threatening it as a child because my mom didn't let me do something I NEEDED to do, but seriously thought about it, I don't know that it's ever happened. I'm fortunate in that respect, I suppose. Life has never felt so closed in that I needed to end it just to get away from it all. I pray for anyone who is having those feelings.
And please - for ANYONE - who feels like they just can't go on, reach out to someone. Just know that you are LOVED beyond the shadow of a doubt. Or call... 1-800-273-TALK!
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 4
Day 04 - Your views on religion.
I wish I were more of a church going individual. I admit it, I let life, school, stress, and just the want to sleep in ONE day a week prevent me from going to church. I also don't feel like you have to be sitting in a pew in a church somewhere to be religious. But that's just me.
I was raised in a Baptist church, and I loved it. I was at every Wednesday lesson, Sunday school, and church service that followed. I adored the preacher, Brother Roger Marsh. He actually married my parents (well, my mom and step-dad). And his wife, Marsha. He had an incredible family. A couple years into high school, I tried out for drill team captain. I was a freshman, as were many of the others trying out. (We were a small school, and all the seniors were graduating, there were no juniors.) So I made captain. Awesome, right?! Rumors started flying around town about how my mom was sleeping around, leaving my brother and I to fend for ourselves at home. It was NOT the case. My mom has been nothing but an amazing, supportive, loving parent my entire life. The rumors - started by the mom of one of the other girls... who went to our church.
It's taken me a lot of years to be okay with the back stabbing, gossiping of "church-going" Christians, but I've come to realize that people are still human, and they make mistakes. I would love to find a church near our home, but I haven't made that move yet. I should. I know in my heart that it would make me feel more at peace to hear a message that I so desperately need to hear every week.
But for now, I study on my own at home. And I pray. Constantly. For strength, for wisdom, for courage, for my friends, family, and strangers who are going through tough times. Because I really do believe in the power of our Savior.
I wish I were more of a church going individual. I admit it, I let life, school, stress, and just the want to sleep in ONE day a week prevent me from going to church. I also don't feel like you have to be sitting in a pew in a church somewhere to be religious. But that's just me.
I was raised in a Baptist church, and I loved it. I was at every Wednesday lesson, Sunday school, and church service that followed. I adored the preacher, Brother Roger Marsh. He actually married my parents (well, my mom and step-dad). And his wife, Marsha. He had an incredible family. A couple years into high school, I tried out for drill team captain. I was a freshman, as were many of the others trying out. (We were a small school, and all the seniors were graduating, there were no juniors.) So I made captain. Awesome, right?! Rumors started flying around town about how my mom was sleeping around, leaving my brother and I to fend for ourselves at home. It was NOT the case. My mom has been nothing but an amazing, supportive, loving parent my entire life. The rumors - started by the mom of one of the other girls... who went to our church.
It's taken me a lot of years to be okay with the back stabbing, gossiping of "church-going" Christians, but I've come to realize that people are still human, and they make mistakes. I would love to find a church near our home, but I haven't made that move yet. I should. I know in my heart that it would make me feel more at peace to hear a message that I so desperately need to hear every week.
But for now, I study on my own at home. And I pray. Constantly. For strength, for wisdom, for courage, for my friends, family, and strangers who are going through tough times. Because I really do believe in the power of our Savior.
Friday, June 10, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 3
The topic of today's blog challenge is how I feel personally about drugs and alcohol. And let me just say that this is a heavy topic for my heart on a Friday.
I'm not even certain where to begin...
Drugs and alcohol are devastating to so many families and relationships. They can literally destroy relationships, break apart families, tear children from their parents. When a person literally becomes dependent on this substances to survive, they tend to isolate themselves from the people they love and who love them in return. Now let me just say this... I have no problem, whatsoever, with the occasional drink with dinner, a beer at a sporting event, or just a beer each night when you get home. My step-dad drinks one beer every single night. My husband drinks a beer a week, maybe.
If you have ever been impacted by someone who has a substance abuse (drugs or alcohol) problem, you understand exactly what I'm talking about. Often times, these individuals will sell precious jewelry, their children's toys, whatever they can to find the funds to buy the "fix" they need. It's heartbreaking how dependent people can become to their addiction to survive. I hate it.
In my honest opinion, alcohol and drugs become such an addiction and they should be treated as such. Most people do not have the will-power to willing put them down and walk away. They need help. Whether it's in-patient treatment, weekly group meetings, the support (to an extent) of family and friends to break the cycle. Parents need to realize that no matter how big your home is, no matter how fancy of a car you buy your child, they are not immune to the peer-pressure of drugs and alcohol. Having an open line of communication will tell you more than anything. Be parents. Say no to your children. It's really okay and they are going to turn out okay, but that doesn't mean that they won't ever use drugs and drink alcohol.
It's a debilitating addiction. And I hate it.
I'm not even certain where to begin...
Drugs and alcohol are devastating to so many families and relationships. They can literally destroy relationships, break apart families, tear children from their parents. When a person literally becomes dependent on this substances to survive, they tend to isolate themselves from the people they love and who love them in return. Now let me just say this... I have no problem, whatsoever, with the occasional drink with dinner, a beer at a sporting event, or just a beer each night when you get home. My step-dad drinks one beer every single night. My husband drinks a beer a week, maybe.
If you have ever been impacted by someone who has a substance abuse (drugs or alcohol) problem, you understand exactly what I'm talking about. Often times, these individuals will sell precious jewelry, their children's toys, whatever they can to find the funds to buy the "fix" they need. It's heartbreaking how dependent people can become to their addiction to survive. I hate it.
In my honest opinion, alcohol and drugs become such an addiction and they should be treated as such. Most people do not have the will-power to willing put them down and walk away. They need help. Whether it's in-patient treatment, weekly group meetings, the support (to an extent) of family and friends to break the cycle. Parents need to realize that no matter how big your home is, no matter how fancy of a car you buy your child, they are not immune to the peer-pressure of drugs and alcohol. Having an open line of communication will tell you more than anything. Be parents. Say no to your children. It's really okay and they are going to turn out okay, but that doesn't mean that they won't ever use drugs and drink alcohol.
It's a debilitating addiction. And I hate it.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 2
Day 2 of the 30 Day Blog Challenge is to write about where I want to be in 10 years. :o)
Ten years from now seems like such a long time from now, but if the next ten years go by as fast as the last ten did, it'll be here before you know it. It's interesting that I'm writing this blog post now, because my ten year high school reunion is this year, and as I look back to how much I've changed since graduation, I wonder how much my life will change in the next ten years.
Really, I feel like I have accomplished so much in my life so far, and I can't really imagine that I'll ever be able to accomplish as much going forward - but that certainly isn't going to stop me from trying!
In ten years, I hope to be a practicing Certified Public Accountant, possibly with my own accounting firm catering to small business clients in the DFW Metroplex. I've considered the possibility of going back to college and getting my PhD, but I'm not certain if I'll pursue that goal or not. It's definitely an option though.
I would desperately like to pay off all of my college debt in the next 10 years. It's a doable goal, but I'd like to be mostly debt free (maybe with the exception of a mortgage and a car note) by this date in 2021.
I hope to have a home, a child or two, with a garden, a big back yard or some land, a couple of dogs, and just all around be happy with where I am in my life.
Ten years from now seems like such a long time from now, but if the next ten years go by as fast as the last ten did, it'll be here before you know it. It's interesting that I'm writing this blog post now, because my ten year high school reunion is this year, and as I look back to how much I've changed since graduation, I wonder how much my life will change in the next ten years.
Really, I feel like I have accomplished so much in my life so far, and I can't really imagine that I'll ever be able to accomplish as much going forward - but that certainly isn't going to stop me from trying!
In ten years, I hope to be a practicing Certified Public Accountant, possibly with my own accounting firm catering to small business clients in the DFW Metroplex. I've considered the possibility of going back to college and getting my PhD, but I'm not certain if I'll pursue that goal or not. It's definitely an option though.
I would desperately like to pay off all of my college debt in the next 10 years. It's a doable goal, but I'd like to be mostly debt free (maybe with the exception of a mortgage and a car note) by this date in 2021.
I hope to have a home, a child or two, with a garden, a big back yard or some land, a couple of dogs, and just all around be happy with where I am in my life.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 1
Day 1 of the 30 Day Blog Challenge is to write about my current relationship. :o)
When I was about 19, I started talking to this boy on AOL. Well, let me back up even a bit further than that. When I was 19, I was in a group chat room with a bunch of girls, we were all AOL friends, because you know, that was the "cool" thing to do back then. One of the girls proceeded to tell me that a certain boy (who shall not be named) called me a bitch. Um, what?! At 19, I was pretty fearless, and I didn't take too kindly to someone who did not know me calling me a bitch. So I promptly asked for his phone number, and I called to tell him how it was, and how much I did NOT appreciate him calling me names. I think he laughed. I would have too.
Fast forward a couple of months, and this same boy and I start talking on AOL, which lead to a phone call, which lead to a meeting at Discount Tire in Denton. Random - I know, but I had to get news tires, and he picked me up so we could go have lunch at Tia's Tex Mex. (Remember that place?! Man, I loved it!) That night, we went to dinner with his family to celebrate his birthday as well as his brother-in-law's birthday at Johnny Carino's. And yes, you heard that right, first date with his family. LOL. He had just gotten out of the Navy and was living with his mom at the time, so after dinner, we went back to his mom's house, and watched Black Hawk Down. I went to sleep pretty quickly. Whoops. Nothing happened, nothing at all. I slept on top of the covers, still wearing my jeans and belt and all the clothes I came with. But his mom was not happy. I didn't blame her.
The next night - Friday night - we went to TGIFridays to celebrate his actual birthday. I didn't even have to pay because I had just lost my job, and didn't have any money. So he took me out to dinner to celebrate his birthday. From then on - we were pretty inseparable, even moving into our first apartment together some three months later. But it quickly became a DISASTER! We were young. I was 19, he was 24. And we fought ALL THE TIME. We moved in together in February, broke up in March, and lived together essentially as roommates until I moved out in October of 2003.
A rocky relationship ended up back together, and we moved to Albuquerque in May of 2004. We broke up again in August or September. Got back together again by Thanksgiving. Moved back to Dallas, but lived apart in January 2005. He moved in with me in April 2005, we broke up in August or September of 2005, he moved out in February 2006. LOL. See a pattern here?!
After some soul searching on both of our parts, some time apart, some time spent ACTUALLY dating one another, lots of phone conversations, and lots of tears, we finally got back together in July 2006. And we're stronger than ever (except for the stint of drama and frustration that almost led to our divorce in 2009 - stupid Army).
We started a relationship as kids - and we ended up being forced to grow up together. He's my absolute best friend in the world, and one person I know I can always count on! (Luckily - I have a few!) I wouldn't trade the stresses, the arguments, the frustration, and the fights for the world, because I know that it helped me grow up. We will celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary on September 1st, 2011 and our 9th dating anniversary (our first date, that is) on November 21, 2011. It's amazing that we've been together so long and been through so much, and we've still managed to come out on the other side stronger people and a stronger couple.
When I was about 19, I started talking to this boy on AOL. Well, let me back up even a bit further than that. When I was 19, I was in a group chat room with a bunch of girls, we were all AOL friends, because you know, that was the "cool" thing to do back then. One of the girls proceeded to tell me that a certain boy (who shall not be named) called me a bitch. Um, what?! At 19, I was pretty fearless, and I didn't take too kindly to someone who did not know me calling me a bitch. So I promptly asked for his phone number, and I called to tell him how it was, and how much I did NOT appreciate him calling me names. I think he laughed. I would have too.
Fast forward a couple of months, and this same boy and I start talking on AOL, which lead to a phone call, which lead to a meeting at Discount Tire in Denton. Random - I know, but I had to get news tires, and he picked me up so we could go have lunch at Tia's Tex Mex. (Remember that place?! Man, I loved it!) That night, we went to dinner with his family to celebrate his birthday as well as his brother-in-law's birthday at Johnny Carino's. And yes, you heard that right, first date with his family. LOL. He had just gotten out of the Navy and was living with his mom at the time, so after dinner, we went back to his mom's house, and watched Black Hawk Down. I went to sleep pretty quickly. Whoops. Nothing happened, nothing at all. I slept on top of the covers, still wearing my jeans and belt and all the clothes I came with. But his mom was not happy. I didn't blame her.
The next night - Friday night - we went to TGIFridays to celebrate his actual birthday. I didn't even have to pay because I had just lost my job, and didn't have any money. So he took me out to dinner to celebrate his birthday. From then on - we were pretty inseparable, even moving into our first apartment together some three months later. But it quickly became a DISASTER! We were young. I was 19, he was 24. And we fought ALL THE TIME. We moved in together in February, broke up in March, and lived together essentially as roommates until I moved out in October of 2003.
A rocky relationship ended up back together, and we moved to Albuquerque in May of 2004. We broke up again in August or September. Got back together again by Thanksgiving. Moved back to Dallas, but lived apart in January 2005. He moved in with me in April 2005, we broke up in August or September of 2005, he moved out in February 2006. LOL. See a pattern here?!
After some soul searching on both of our parts, some time apart, some time spent ACTUALLY dating one another, lots of phone conversations, and lots of tears, we finally got back together in July 2006. And we're stronger than ever (except for the stint of drama and frustration that almost led to our divorce in 2009 - stupid Army).
We started a relationship as kids - and we ended up being forced to grow up together. He's my absolute best friend in the world, and one person I know I can always count on! (Luckily - I have a few!) I wouldn't trade the stresses, the arguments, the frustration, and the fights for the world, because I know that it helped me grow up. We will celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary on September 1st, 2011 and our 9th dating anniversary (our first date, that is) on November 21, 2011. It's amazing that we've been together so long and been through so much, and we've still managed to come out on the other side stronger people and a stronger couple.
30 Days of Blogging
There's a challenge floating around the blog-o-sphere that deals with 30 days of blogging. Basically, the idea is that you have a list of things to write about every day. :o) So I'm going to try it. Let's see how successful I am.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
June Goals
Another month has come and gone. I figure one of these days I might actually accomplish a great deal of the goals I set out each month. Will June be it? :o) A girl can dream...
Here are June's goals.
Here are June's goals.
Health:
* One 5K.
* Do at least 3 training runs a week (including Saturday).
* Try one new, super HEALTHY meal for the entire month. Just one!
* Lose 5 more lbs!
School:
* Finish International Accounting research paper by 6/30 so that I can enjoy the Fourth of July holiday!!
Personal:
* Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
* Go to IKEA and buy Expedit bookshelf.
* Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
* Catch up on book reviews on book blog.
Crafty:
* Get to work on Carie's project! (Can't tell you what it is, because of course, it's a SECRET!)
* Post pictures each week of Level 2 cake decorating!
* Post pictures each week of Level 3 cake decorating!
May Recap
So as I sit here in shock and utter disbelief that today is June 1st, I realize that I must recap my May goals. Another failed month my friends. LOL.
So here were the goals...
Overall, not too bad, but I definitely have some projects I still need to work on! I must get busy. I honestly had a "slacker" month, where once finals were over, I didn't really want to do anything. Will June be better?
So here were the goals...
Health:
* One 10K (or a 5K if I can't make the race this weekend due to homework. BOO!)
* Make it to the gym at least 3 days a week!
* Try one new, super HEALTHY meal each week.
* Lose 5 more lbs!
School:
* Finish and turn in TWO research papers for ACCT 530.
* Finish and turn in final research paper for ACCT 595.
Personal:
* Get my car cleaned up - oil change, etc.
* Pack up sweaters, and ship to Kelly.
* Organize the apartment, since we're staying here another 5 months.
* Consolidate student loans from BS/MBA.
* Post pictures each week of Level 2 cake decorating!
Crafty:
* Get to work on Carie's project! (Can't tell you what it is, because of course, it's a SECRET!)
Overall, not too bad, but I definitely have some projects I still need to work on! I must get busy. I honestly had a "slacker" month, where once finals were over, I didn't really want to do anything. Will June be better?
Sunday, May 15, 2011
What A Weekend!
On Friday, I left work at 1 pm to go see my bestie graduate with her Master's from the University of North Texas! I'm so proud of her. :-) It was awesome to be able to celebrate and share such a momentous occasion with her. We went out to eat with her family at Olive Garden and then headed over to Zen Austin Ranch for drinks to celebrate!
Here is Lindsey holding her "fake degree" until grades are posted and the real one comes. It's kind of disappointing to get that "place holder" but she'll be receiving the REAL thing soon!!
The next picture is of Carie, Lindsey, and I at Zen Austin Ranch celebrating with drinks!
Saturday... I went to Carie's house and did a prom "down do" for her friend, Kim. Then I came home, and hung out around the house until it was time to meet Lindsey, Carie and James, Matt and Tia for dinner and playing at Dave & Buster's for my birthday celebration! My crazy husband won TONS of tickets on the Wheel of Fortune game. :o) When we cashed out all of our tickets (Marcus', Lindsey's and mine) we had 4,781 tickets! Crazy!
Sunday... I woke up early and meet Lindsey and Carie at the movie theatre to see Something Borrowed. It was very cute - and very similar to the book, which is a big surprise. We also got to see a preview for the new HP7 - Part 2 movie! Um! I'm so freaking excited. :o) Then Marcus cooked a fabulous dinner of steak and YUMMY mac n' cheese for my last "hoorah" before dieting and training begins!
It was an awesome low key weekend, and a great end to a stressful semester. It's been so nice to just enjoy life and not be running around crazy working on school or other stuff.
Here is Lindsey holding her "fake degree" until grades are posted and the real one comes. It's kind of disappointing to get that "place holder" but she'll be receiving the REAL thing soon!!
The next picture is of Carie, Lindsey, and I at Zen Austin Ranch celebrating with drinks!
Saturday... I went to Carie's house and did a prom "down do" for her friend, Kim. Then I came home, and hung out around the house until it was time to meet Lindsey, Carie and James, Matt and Tia for dinner and playing at Dave & Buster's for my birthday celebration! My crazy husband won TONS of tickets on the Wheel of Fortune game. :o) When we cashed out all of our tickets (Marcus', Lindsey's and mine) we had 4,781 tickets! Crazy!
Sunday... I woke up early and meet Lindsey and Carie at the movie theatre to see Something Borrowed. It was very cute - and very similar to the book, which is a big surprise. We also got to see a preview for the new HP7 - Part 2 movie! Um! I'm so freaking excited. :o) Then Marcus cooked a fabulous dinner of steak and YUMMY mac n' cheese for my last "hoorah" before dieting and training begins!
It was an awesome low key weekend, and a great end to a stressful semester. It's been so nice to just enjoy life and not be running around crazy working on school or other stuff.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
An Awesome Birthday
I am so blessed. Blessed beyond belief to have so many people that love me and care about me. Yesterday, May 11th, I celebrated my 28th birthday. I can admit that I was kind of dreading it. It's not because it puts me another year closer to 30, it's that simply I wanted to relax, veg on the couch, enjoy the rain, and do nothing. Yet - my husband INSISTED that we go to dinner! I was kind of complaining about it to my friend, Carie. Not that I didn't appreciate him wanting to take me out to celebrate, but that we HAD to do it in the pouring down rain with lightning and thunder.
He asked me yesterday during the day what I wanted for dinner, and since I had Mattito's (mexican food) for lunch - I picked Ziziki's, one of my favorite greek places. Marcus bought me an upgraded DSLR Nikon D-5100 for my birthday, along with my Garmin running watch, so we went to Best Buy after I got home from work to check out the toys and accessories for my new camera. He wanted to look at EVERYTHING from movies, to tvs, to computers, whatever. I was getting impatient. So we leave Best Buy - and head towards another restaurant, at this point, an undisclosed location. We pull up to Fireside Pies in Plano. They have the BEST pizza. And we sit in the car for awhile. I'm like what the heck are you doing!? I'm hungry! And then I said, "Are we waiting on Carie?" He responded with "No. Why would you think that?" I KNEW WE WERE! Hah. So he finally admitted it. :o) I didn't realize Lindsey would be coming because I thought she had a work event. She even told me she was sorry for having to work on my birthday.
So, around 6:45, Carie and Lindsey come walking around the corner of the building with a HUGE Happy Birthday balloon and 7 AMAZING cupcakes from Society Bakery. I received a card and cash (woo hoo!) from Carie, with the stipulation that the money is ONLY to be spent on something FUN! And a card and a Michael's gift card from Lindsey to buy more stuff at Michael's (because I totally needed an excuse!). It was a nice, WONDERFUL, surprise even though I figured it out a bit too quickly. And I feel very blessed to have such fabulous friends. :o)
My "don't want to celebrate my birthday" attitude was certainly turned into a "heck yeah, it's my birthday!"
He asked me yesterday during the day what I wanted for dinner, and since I had Mattito's (mexican food) for lunch - I picked Ziziki's, one of my favorite greek places. Marcus bought me an upgraded DSLR Nikon D-5100 for my birthday, along with my Garmin running watch, so we went to Best Buy after I got home from work to check out the toys and accessories for my new camera. He wanted to look at EVERYTHING from movies, to tvs, to computers, whatever. I was getting impatient. So we leave Best Buy - and head towards another restaurant, at this point, an undisclosed location. We pull up to Fireside Pies in Plano. They have the BEST pizza. And we sit in the car for awhile. I'm like what the heck are you doing!? I'm hungry! And then I said, "Are we waiting on Carie?" He responded with "No. Why would you think that?" I KNEW WE WERE! Hah. So he finally admitted it. :o) I didn't realize Lindsey would be coming because I thought she had a work event. She even told me she was sorry for having to work on my birthday.
So, around 6:45, Carie and Lindsey come walking around the corner of the building with a HUGE Happy Birthday balloon and 7 AMAZING cupcakes from Society Bakery. I received a card and cash (woo hoo!) from Carie, with the stipulation that the money is ONLY to be spent on something FUN! And a card and a Michael's gift card from Lindsey to buy more stuff at Michael's (because I totally needed an excuse!). It was a nice, WONDERFUL, surprise even though I figured it out a bit too quickly. And I feel very blessed to have such fabulous friends. :o)
My "don't want to celebrate my birthday" attitude was certainly turned into a "heck yeah, it's my birthday!"
Defiance
I can admit that I'm not the biggest movie buff, nothing like my husband who collects movies as a hobby. But last night, after my birthday celebration, I climbed into bed and wanted to watch a movie on our Netflix account, so Marcus suggested the movie, Defiance, with Daniel Craig (my boyfriend :o)) and Liev Schrieber.
This movie was one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. And to think I didn't even really want to watch it. I figured it was a "war movie" like all the other movies he likes to watch.
Here's what IMDB.com says about the movie... "Jewish brothers in Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe escape into the Belarussian forests, where they join Russian resistance fighters and endeavor to build a village in order to protect themselves and about 1,000 Jewish non-combatants."
Basically, the movie is about the Bielski Brothers, who escape being murdered by German Nazis during the Holocaust. They flee to the forest to seek shelter and protection. And when word starts spreading through the Jewish communities of the brothers, Jewish people start seeking them out to band together to survive. The Jewish people lived in the forest for probably around 3 years, maybe even more. The movie is about the trials, tribulations, struggles, suppression, triumphs, and achievements of the Jewish people who lived in the community in the Belarussian forest. At the end of the movie (or by doing extra research) you find out that the Bielski Brothers help save 1,200 + Jewish people from the German Nazis.
This movie was one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. And to think I didn't even really want to watch it. I figured it was a "war movie" like all the other movies he likes to watch.
Here's what IMDB.com says about the movie... "Jewish brothers in Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe escape into the Belarussian forests, where they join Russian resistance fighters and endeavor to build a village in order to protect themselves and about 1,000 Jewish non-combatants."
Basically, the movie is about the Bielski Brothers, who escape being murdered by German Nazis during the Holocaust. They flee to the forest to seek shelter and protection. And when word starts spreading through the Jewish communities of the brothers, Jewish people start seeking them out to band together to survive. The Jewish people lived in the forest for probably around 3 years, maybe even more. The movie is about the trials, tribulations, struggles, suppression, triumphs, and achievements of the Jewish people who lived in the community in the Belarussian forest. At the end of the movie (or by doing extra research) you find out that the Bielski Brothers help save 1,200 + Jewish people from the German Nazis.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Another Practice Cake - Mother's Day
My mom has always been super supportive of my hobbies "of the week" as I like to call them. Mostly, I pick up a hobby, enjoy it for a few months, then get bored, and move onto something else. That ultimately means I have a lot of "supplies" for hobbies I haven't touched in months! Maybe even years. Since I haven't been able to showcase my talents (hahahah!) for my mom or my step-dad yet, I decided I was going to make my mom a Mother's Day cake. It was a disaster.
I bought this really cool pan where the cake ultimately ends up looking like a checker board. Cool, right?! Not! My mom requested a white cake with almond flavoring and a red velvet cake. Me being the overachiever that I am decided that I was going to make both of these cakes from scratch. If you know me at all, you know that I have a hard enough time making a grilled cheese sandwich. Nevertheless, I started my endeavor. Things proceeded fairly well until I got the the cooking temperature and time. The red velvet cake was to bake at 350* for like 25 minutes. The white cake at 325* for 20 minutes. Um, crap. I went with it. LOL. Needless to say, when I pulled the first take out of the oven, the white cake was starting to burn and the red velvet cake was not fully cooked. I didn't realize this at first, because my toothpicks (you know the way you are supposed to check if a cake is done or not) were clean. I left my cakes in the pan for 10 minutes, like I'm supposed to, and went I went to flip them over to the cooling rack, they fell apart. At this point, the clock had just struck 11 pm! Oh forget it, I went to bed. Here's what the cakes looked like BEFORE the oven. :-)
Oh! And while I was waiting on the cakes to bake, I cut out 20 daisies from white fondant, and rolled 10 centers for the middle of the daisies. More on this later...
Moving right along - quite possibly the longest post EVER! But anyways, so Saturday I was running some errands and one of them included the grocery store. While I was opposed to doing a boxed cake for my mom, I was running out of options. So I bought the boxed cakes. They both baked at roughly the same temperature for the same length of time. Home I went to bake some more! Here are the SECOND cakes after being removed from the oven.
Sunday morning, I wake up and decide to go ahead and put a layer of icing on my cake, known as a crumb coating. Um - the only thing this layer did was BRING OUT MORE CRUMBS! The harder I tried to prevent crumbs, the more the crumbs the cake had. After getting the cake iced, it was too freaking humid (or something) but my fondant daisies would not stick to the cake, no matter how hard I tried. I tried gum paste glue, I tried just pushing them basically all the way into the icing, nothing worked. I assume it was because I didn't let my flowers dry enough or something, because I tried to finish them Saturday and put them on my cake Sunday. I don't know what was wrong. But anyways, so to plan B I went.
I finally just put the words "Happy Mother's Day" and four very basic Wilton Roses on the cake, complete with green leaves. I have these imprint things that I imprinted to the side of the cake, but I don't feel like they turned out quite how I wanted them to turn out. In my defense, it was only my first time to use them. Anyways - without further adieu, here is my horrible, no good, very bad Mother's Day cake. In the end, it turned out okay, and I'm really loving the "checker board" cake.
I bought this really cool pan where the cake ultimately ends up looking like a checker board. Cool, right?! Not! My mom requested a white cake with almond flavoring and a red velvet cake. Me being the overachiever that I am decided that I was going to make both of these cakes from scratch. If you know me at all, you know that I have a hard enough time making a grilled cheese sandwich. Nevertheless, I started my endeavor. Things proceeded fairly well until I got the the cooking temperature and time. The red velvet cake was to bake at 350* for like 25 minutes. The white cake at 325* for 20 minutes. Um, crap. I went with it. LOL. Needless to say, when I pulled the first take out of the oven, the white cake was starting to burn and the red velvet cake was not fully cooked. I didn't realize this at first, because my toothpicks (you know the way you are supposed to check if a cake is done or not) were clean. I left my cakes in the pan for 10 minutes, like I'm supposed to, and went I went to flip them over to the cooling rack, they fell apart. At this point, the clock had just struck 11 pm! Oh forget it, I went to bed. Here's what the cakes looked like BEFORE the oven. :-)
Oh! And while I was waiting on the cakes to bake, I cut out 20 daisies from white fondant, and rolled 10 centers for the middle of the daisies. More on this later...
Moving right along - quite possibly the longest post EVER! But anyways, so Saturday I was running some errands and one of them included the grocery store. While I was opposed to doing a boxed cake for my mom, I was running out of options. So I bought the boxed cakes. They both baked at roughly the same temperature for the same length of time. Home I went to bake some more! Here are the SECOND cakes after being removed from the oven.
Sunday morning, I wake up and decide to go ahead and put a layer of icing on my cake, known as a crumb coating. Um - the only thing this layer did was BRING OUT MORE CRUMBS! The harder I tried to prevent crumbs, the more the crumbs the cake had. After getting the cake iced, it was too freaking humid (or something) but my fondant daisies would not stick to the cake, no matter how hard I tried. I tried gum paste glue, I tried just pushing them basically all the way into the icing, nothing worked. I assume it was because I didn't let my flowers dry enough or something, because I tried to finish them Saturday and put them on my cake Sunday. I don't know what was wrong. But anyways, so to plan B I went.
I finally just put the words "Happy Mother's Day" and four very basic Wilton Roses on the cake, complete with green leaves. I have these imprint things that I imprinted to the side of the cake, but I don't feel like they turned out quite how I wanted them to turn out. In my defense, it was only my first time to use them. Anyways - without further adieu, here is my horrible, no good, very bad Mother's Day cake. In the end, it turned out okay, and I'm really loving the "checker board" cake.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Mother's Day
Mother's Day is a day that is meant to recognize all of the amazing work that your mom, grandma, stepmom, etc. do in your life each and every day. It's a wonderful holiday, really. I love being able to spoil my mom and tell her how much I appreciate her on this day. I should do it more often than just one day a year, and I try, but I know that this day is the day that I really focus on nothing but mom. My mom and I have the most amazing relationship. She is the greatest mom a girl could ask for. She's sometimes blunt, but she tells me what I need to hear even if it's not the easiest thing to handle. She was a single mom for much of her life, even when my dad was around, he wasn't super involved in our lives. But even as a single mom, she was completely involved and interested in our lives. I can remember one Christmas in particular that she talked about how it was just us, the three amigos, my mom, my brother, and I. And even though she has since remarried, and the marriage brought in two additional children, I still feel like it'll always be the three amigos. I'm lucky to have the mom I have, and I wouldn't trade her for the world!
But... Mother's Day is also hard for me too. I try not to let it be, but there's no way around it, really. I want kids, there's no denying that. But maybe it's not in God's plan for me. I'm trying very hard to accept that, and know that it'll happen if it's meant to be. But I see so many people who were married (hell, couples who didn't even start dating until after Marcus and I were married) who have kids, who are working on their second child, etc. And I'm bitter. I am genuinely happy for those people who are able to have kids, to announce their pregnancies, and enjoy life with children. But in the back of my mind, I wonder if that's EVER going to be us. And maybe it won't be, but if that's the case, I really wish I could know that now and start working on being okay with it. But then I get to watch the comments on Facebook about how Mother's Day is only about the "mothers" out there, and I want so desperately to be a part of that club.
So yes, I know I suck for being depressed on Mother's Day. But it's life. It's how I feel, and the people that don't like it, can kiss my lovely behind. I really am excited to spend this Mother's Day with my mom. I made her a cake (even though it looks like a disaster) and we're going to her house to make homemade ice cream, coupled with hamburgers, chips, and hanging out. It really should be a good day.
But... Mother's Day is also hard for me too. I try not to let it be, but there's no way around it, really. I want kids, there's no denying that. But maybe it's not in God's plan for me. I'm trying very hard to accept that, and know that it'll happen if it's meant to be. But I see so many people who were married (hell, couples who didn't even start dating until after Marcus and I were married) who have kids, who are working on their second child, etc. And I'm bitter. I am genuinely happy for those people who are able to have kids, to announce their pregnancies, and enjoy life with children. But in the back of my mind, I wonder if that's EVER going to be us. And maybe it won't be, but if that's the case, I really wish I could know that now and start working on being okay with it. But then I get to watch the comments on Facebook about how Mother's Day is only about the "mothers" out there, and I want so desperately to be a part of that club.
So yes, I know I suck for being depressed on Mother's Day. But it's life. It's how I feel, and the people that don't like it, can kiss my lovely behind. I really am excited to spend this Mother's Day with my mom. I made her a cake (even though it looks like a disaster) and we're going to her house to make homemade ice cream, coupled with hamburgers, chips, and hanging out. It really should be a good day.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Cake Decorating - Level 2 - Week 1
I officially made the move from blogger to wordpress. And holy moly, I love it here! I wish I had done this a long time ago! :o) It's so much more user friendly than blogger - and I love the fact that I can easily post, change, add categories (because they are in a drop down menu!), add pictures. Yeah, it's pretty much awesome.
Carie, Lindsey, and I started Level 2 of the Wilton Cake course at MIchael's. In this level, we'll use a lot of fondant, royal icing, and gum paste. This is definitely more of a challenge for me than the first one seemed to be. I have a short attention span, at least by 8:30, when our class gets out. And I feel kind of slow. LOL. I'm not - I know I'm not. And I'm hoping it was just this class, since I knew I had so much to do when I got home.
[gallery link="file"]
Here are my lovely creations. Clearly - making the move to WordPress means that I need to start taking better quality photos, and not use my iPhone anymore. In both pictures, the one on the left is made using a press, basically like a die cut. And the one on the right is used by using a cookie cutter to make the overall shape, using a round ball to "flatten and lift." In my defense (because I really do need it), the one on the right in the right picture feel out of my bag and landed underneath the heater in my car, so it doesn't look so pretty anymore. I need some work.
Carie, Lindsey, and I started Level 2 of the Wilton Cake course at MIchael's. In this level, we'll use a lot of fondant, royal icing, and gum paste. This is definitely more of a challenge for me than the first one seemed to be. I have a short attention span, at least by 8:30, when our class gets out. And I feel kind of slow. LOL. I'm not - I know I'm not. And I'm hoping it was just this class, since I knew I had so much to do when I got home.
[gallery link="file"]
Here are my lovely creations. Clearly - making the move to WordPress means that I need to start taking better quality photos, and not use my iPhone anymore. In both pictures, the one on the left is made using a press, basically like a die cut. And the one on the right is used by using a cookie cutter to make the overall shape, using a round ball to "flatten and lift." In my defense (because I really do need it), the one on the right in the right picture feel out of my bag and landed underneath the heater in my car, so it doesn't look so pretty anymore. I need some work.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Warning! This BLOG POST MAY BE OFFENSIVE.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
Tonight, headlines were made when the announcement of Osama Bin Laden's death rang out across national media outlets. And of course, Facebook being one of the biggest social media networks - my wall instantly filled with comments from all different friends. Many of them expressing gratitude to the "special forces" that took out Bin Laden, but even more of them questioning "what more do we want from Obama."
So here's my soap box...
Let's give credit where credit is due. To the men and women who have spent almost twenty years looking for that SOB! Osama Bin Laden has been on our radar since 1993 and the first World Trade Center bombing. Our search for Bin Laden didn't start when the towers collapsed in 2001 - it began way before that. President Bill Clinton was in office. So maybe we should applaud Obama for having the balls to pull the trigger... or wait a minute... ORDERING SOMEONE ELSE TO PULL THE TRIGGER! But um, yeah, I definitely want more from Obama, and *YOU* should too.
So really - here's what *I* want from Obama.
I want an economy that isn't in the toilet, and going down faster and faster. Want to know why gas prices are so high? It has VERY little to do with the fact that the price of oil has gone up. The dollar has declined in value, significantly. Why? Because we continue to print money. On January 1st, 2011 - the conversion rate of $1 to Euros was 0.7471. Today, May 1st, the conversion rate is 0.6759. (If you don't believe me - check it out for yourself... Yahoo Finance!) It costs more US DOLLARS to buy the same item, because the conversion rate continues to decline. Can we blame that on Bush?! I mean, Obama was sworn into office in January 2009. We're going on two years, 4+ months, and we're STILL blaming Bush.
And let's not even begin to talk about the unemployment rate... it's currently sitting at 9.2%. And guess what? That doesn't even take into consideration the people that have given up looking for work because they've been unemployed for so long. People are only considered unemployed if... they are looking for work, do not currently have a job, and are available for work (source!). Again - the increase in the unemployment rate must be Bush's fault too, huh? Oh! And for a chart that shows the steady incline of the unemployment rate - check out this website.
Oh! And the push to increase taxes on the wealthy. Did you know that the top 1% of wage earners pay 28% of the taxes? And... the top fifth of households paid 69% of all income taxes that were paid to the IRS. (Source) Small business owners employ 99.7% of the workers in this country (Source). So let's tax the living day lights out of them. You know, because they aren't paying enough in taxes as it is. You take an average business owner that is making over $250,000 (if he's married) and $200,000 (if he's single) a year. Let's then increase his tax bracket, and make him pay more. Oh - and since he's a small business owner, he's probably a sole proprietor, so he doesn't get the income tax breaks. So now that we're taxing Mr. Business Owner more, he's not able to afford to hire additional workers because he's giving the money that could be used for hiring more people to pay Uncle Sam. And you think 9.2% for unemployment is high. Just wait.
I could continue on and on. I expected a lot more out of Obama because of all of the hot air he spewed when he was running for President. Our economy is in the toilet, prices on EVERYTHING have gone up because gas prices have gone up because the conversion rate of the dollar has gone down significantly. More than that, I'm sick and tired of Bush being blamed for everything. The man has been back in Texas for over two years, minding his own business, and certainly not influencing public policy AT ALL! Instead, he's out taking Wounded Warriors for bike rides at Big Bend National Park.
So yeah - I expect Obama be held to the same effing standards that all the liberals held Bush to, and demand the same actions that were demanded of Bush. Yes, I expect more out of Obama than just him issuing an order to kill a man. Of course, I'm happy that Bin Laden is dead, because he's been a huge threat to global peace for many years, but Obama isn't the one that has to live with the fact he took a man's life, even if it is Bin Laden. Yes, he should get credit because he was the President in office that issued the order, I'm not denying that, but he shouldn't get all the glory. And there are some people out there (those that prompted this blog to begin with...) that feel he should.
Warning! This BLOG POST MAY BE OFFENSIVE.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
Tonight, headlines were made when the announcement of Osama Bin Laden's death rang out across national media outlets. And of course, Facebook being one of the biggest social media networks - my wall instantly filled with comments from all different friends. Many of them expressing gratitude to the "special forces" that took out Bin Laden, but even more of them questioning "what more do we want from Obama."
So here's my soap box...
Do *YOU* (whoever *YOU* may be) think that sitting behind a desk in a cushy office really did shit to capture/kill/whatever Bin Laden? Seriously. Let's give credit where credit is due. To the men and women who have spent almost twenty years looking for that SOB! Osama Bin Laden has been on our radar since 1993 and the first World Trade Center bombing. Our search for Bin Laden didn't start when the towers collapsed in 2001 - it began way before that. President Bill Clinton was in office. So maybe we should applaud Obama for having the balls to pull the trigger... or wait a minute... ORDERING SOMEONE ELSE TO PULL THE TRIGGER! But hell yeah, I want more from Obama.
So really - here's what *I* want from Obama.
I want an economy that isn't in the toilet, and going down faster and faster. Want to know why gas prices are so high? It has VERY little to do with the fact that the price of oil has gone up. The dollar has declined in value, significantly. Why? Because we continue to print money. On January 1st, 2011 - the conversion rate of $1 to Euros was 0.7471. Today, May 1st, the conversion rate is 0.6759. (If you don't believe me - check it out for yourself... Yahoo Finance!) It costs more US DOLLARS to buy the same item, because the conversion rate continues to decline. Can we blame that on Bush?! I mean, Obama was sworn into office in January 2009. We're going on two years, 4+ months, and we're STILL blaming Bush.
And let's not even begin to talk about the unemployment rate... it's currently sitting at 9.2%. And guess what? That doesn't even take into consideration the people that have given up looking for work because they've been unemployed for so long. People are only considered unemployed if... they are looking for work, do not currently have a job, and are available for work (source!). Again - the increase in the unemployment rate must be Bush's fault too, huh? Oh! And for a chart that shows the steady incline of the unemployment rate - check out this website.
Oh! And the push to increase taxes on the wealthy. Did you know that the top 1% of wage earners pay 28% of the taxes? And... the top fifth of households paid 69% of all income taxes that were paid to the IRS. (Source) Small business owners employ 99.7% of the workers in this country (Source). So let's tax the living day lights out of them. You know, because they aren't paying enough in taxes as it is. You take an average business owner that is making over $250,000 (if he's married) and $200,000 (if he's single) a year. Let's then increase his tax bracket, and make him pay more. Oh - and since he's a small business owner, he's probably a sole proprietor, so he doesn't get the income tax breaks. So now that we're taxing Business Owner more, he's not able to afford to hire additional workers because he's giving the money that could be used for hiring more people to pay Uncle Sam. And you think 9.2% for unemployment is high. Just wait.
I could continue on and on. I expected a lot more out of Obama because of all of the hot air he spewed when he was running for President. Our economy is in the toilet, prices on EVERYTHING have gone up because gas prices have gone up because the conversion rate of the dollar has gone down significantly. More than that, I'm sick and tired of Bush being blamed for everything. The man has been back in Texas for over two years, minding his own damn business, and certainly not influencing public policy AT ALL! Instead, he's out taking Wounded Warriors for bike rides at Big Bend National Park.
So yeah - I expect Obama be held to the same effing standards that all the "liberals" held Bush to, and demand the same actions that were demanded of Bush. Yes, I expect more out of Obama than just him issuing an order to kill a man. Of course, I'm happy that Bin Laden is dead, because he's been a huge threat to global peace for many years, but Obama isn't the one that has to live with the fact he took a man's life, even if it is Bin Laden. I know many soldiers that would have loved to have the change to do just that, but I don't believe that Obama should get the credit for it.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Month in Review - April 2011
A friend of mine, Amy, does this monthly recap on her blog every month. I really enjoy reading about what she has accomplished each month, so I thought I'd start doing the same Month in Review myself. :o) And, maybe, just maybe, it'll help me attempt to accomplish more each month so I have more to blog about. Hah.
What books and/or magazines did I read this month?
I read Remember Me, The Return, and The Last Story, all part of the Remember Me series by Christopher Pike. For Magazines, I read Martha Stewart Living, Whole Living, Real Simple, and Lowe's Creative Ideas.
What were my disappointments this month?
What movies, television shows, plays, etc. did I watch this month?
I kept up with my weekly television shows - Grey's Anatomy, One Tree Hill, Army Wives, and Vampire Diaries. New movies watched... Love and Other Drugs, You Again, and Hoodwinked.
What fun things did I do with my family and/or friends?
April was a tough month for "fun" mostly because work and school was very intense. We celebrated my best friend's 30th birthday at Blue Mesa with a group of friends. We did the MS Walk in Addison for the MS Society. And, I took Level 1 of the Wilton Cake Decorating class at Michael's.
What gifts did I give and/or receive?
This was actually a big gift month, and that's kind of unusual for April. Marcus bought me flowers, a Blu Ray Player, all of the Harry Potter movies, and Hoodwinked. Just because. :o) We got Lindsey flowers, a Michael's gift card, a book, and dinner for her birthday.
What special or unusual purchases did I make?
Nothing really unusual this month. I bought the supplies for my cake class, lots of ingredients to make icing/cakes. I bought a necklace and a pair of earrings from Etsy.
What illnesses or health concerns did I have?
None. This was a very healthy month for me. :o) I did start the visits to the weight loss doctor this month.
What were my accomplishments this month?
I made it through the month! There was so much going on this month, including three trips to Abilene, so I'm glad that I was actually able to successfully make it through the month of April without any major hardships or failures.
What were my disappointments this month?
Luckily the disappointments this month were minor, and at this point, I don't couldn't even tell you what they were.
Anything else noteworthy to include?
It's in the months when things seem to be the most stressful with work and school that I'm reminded of the amazing friendship I have. I haven't always had friendships that were unconditional, and it's taken me this long and these many years to find it. Carie and Lindsey - if you girls are reading this - thank you for being you. Thank you for being a shoulder to cry on (sometimes literally), an ear to listen, and most importantly, a friend. I wouldn't trade our friendship for anything!!
And... I'm beyond thankful for my marriage. We've had some rough spots in our relationship, but I'm constantly reminded of how much I'm loved and appreciated. And that is wonderful.
Month In Review: April 2011
A friend of mine, Amy, does this monthly recap on her blog every month. I really enjoy reading about what she has accomplished each month, so I thought I'd start doing the same Month in Review myself. :o) And, maybe, just maybe, it'll help me attempt to accomplish more each month so I have more to blog about. Hah.
What books and/or magazines did I read this month?
I read Remember Me, The Return, and The Last Story, all part of the Remember Me series by Christopher Pike. For Magazines, I read Martha Stewart Living, Whole Living, Real Simple, and Lowe's Creative Ideas.
What were my disappointments this month?
What movies, television shows, plays, etc. did I watch this month?
I kept up with my weekly television shows - Grey's Anatomy, One Tree Hill, Army Wives, and Vampire Diaries. New movies watched... Love and Other Drugs, You Again, and Hoodwinked.
What fun things did I do with my family and/or friends?
April was a tough month for "fun" mostly because work and school was very intense. We celebrated my best friend's 30th birthday at Blue Mesa with a group of friends. We did the MS Walk in Addison for the MS Society. And, I took Level 1 of the Wilton Cake Decorating class at Michael's.
What gifts did I give and/or receive?
This was actually a big gift month, and that's kind of unusual for April. Marcus bought me flowers, a Blu Ray Player, all of the Harry Potter movies, and Hoodwinked. Just because. :o) We got Lindsey flowers, a Michael's gift card, a book, and dinner for her birthday.
What special or unusual purchases did I make?
Nothing really unusual this month. I bought the supplies for my cake class, lots of ingredients to make icing/cakes. I bought a necklace and a pair of earrings from Etsy.
What illnesses or health concerns did I have?
None. This was a very healthy month for me. :o) I did start the visits to the weight loss doctor this month.
What were my accomplishments this month?
I made it through the month! There was so much going on this month, including three trips to Abilene, so I'm glad that I was actually able to successfully make it through the month of April without any major hardships or failures.
What were my disappointments this month?
Luckily the disappointments this month were minor, and at this point, I don't couldn't even tell you what they were.
Anything else noteworthy to include?
It's in the months when things seem to be the most stressful with work and school that I'm reminded of the amazing friendship I have. I haven't always had friendships that were unconditional, and it's taken me this long and these many years to find it. Carie and Lindsey - if you girls are reading this - thank you for being you. Thank you for being a shoulder to cry on (sometimes literally), an ear to listen, and most importantly, a friend. I wouldn't trade our friendship for anything!!
And... I'm beyond thankful for my marriage. We've had some rough spots in our relationship, but I'm constantly reminded of how much I'm loved and appreciated. And that is wonderful.
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