Life With Heather

Book Club Friday

2012-01-27T07:00:00.001-06:00

This week for Book Club Friday I'm sharing a book that I actually won on a giveaway Heather hosted.

And what an exceptional book it was...

The description via Goodreads:

"Flat-Out Love is a warm and witty novel of family love and dysfunction, deep heartache and raw vulnerability, with a bit of mystery and one whopping, knock-you-to-your-knees romance.

Something is seriously off in the Watkins home. And Julie Seagle, college freshman, small-town Ohio transplant, and the newest resident of this Boston house, is determined to get to the bottom of it.

When Julie's off-campus housing falls through, her mother's old college roommate, Erin Watkins, invites her to move in. The parents, Erin and Roger, are welcoming, but emotionally distant and academically driven to eccentric extremes. The middle child, Matt, is an MIT tech geek with a sweet side ... and the social skills of a spool of USB cable. The youngest, Celeste, is a frighteningly bright but freakishly fastidious 13-year-old who hauls around a life-sized cardboard cutout of her oldest brother almost everywhere she goes.

And there's that oldest brother, Finn: funny, gorgeous, smart, sensitive, almost emotionally available. Geographically? Definitely unavailable. That's because Finn is traveling the world and surfacing only for random Facebook chats, e-mails, and status updates. Before long, through late-night exchanges of disembodied text, he begins to stir something tender and silly and maybe even a little bit sexy in Julie's suddenly lonesome soul.

To Julie, the emotionally scrambled members of the Watkins family add up to something that ... well ... doesn't quite add up. Not until she forces a buried secret to the surface, eliciting a dramatic confrontation that threatens to tear the fragile Watkins family apart, does she get her answer. "

This book was absolutely fantastic. Seriously, I couldn't sing it's praises more. Jessica Park (the author) really knows how to capture your attention and keep it there. I absolutely fell in love with the main character and the slightly odd family she lived with. Just an amazing, AMAZING book. Good read it now!

Some Blog Link-Up Love

2012-01-26T07:00:00.001-06:00

With all this blog bullying & drama going around (I'm still dumb-founded by this. I can't believe women, GROWN women, are starting this chaos. Why even be in the blogosphere if all you want to do is stir the pot? Are you that jealous of someone and have so many insecurities that you have to put other people down? Grow up.) I decided that I would share a little blog love today by sharing link-up's that fellow bloggers host. I'm all about showing a little love to a fellow blogger, we need to encourage each other!

First off we have Neely's & Amber's It's OK Thursday.

You know you all have those moments, the moments you do something silly or eat something that's not on your diet and go "oooohhhh it's OK!" Well now you can post all those thoughts and link-up with these two fabulous women. They are currently rallying for 100 link-ups, so why not help them out? In fact, they host this each and every Thursday so go link up with them today!
We also have one of my favorite link-up's, Heather's (doesn't she have a lovely name!) Book Club Friday.
If you're a certified book nerd, or just self-proclaimed like me ;), you rreeaalllyyy need to link-up and show us what you're reading! My to-read list has grown tremendously since she started this. Heather host's this on Fridays, so just go ahead and write that book review :).
There is also a really fun challenge coming up in honor of Valentine's Day - Neely, Amber, and Casey are hosting the Fabulous Valentines Challenge.

The Challenge starts this upcoming Monday, the 30th, so go ahead and start writing those posts! A complete list of topics can be found here.

And please, oh please, if I didn't feature your link-up today don't have hurt feelings! I plan on doing a few more of these in the coming weeks :).

So go spread some bloggy love people! Happy Thursday!

Workout/Running Progress #2

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

It's been 3 weeks since I started my resolution to get up and start moving more started, and I'm proud to say I've been on a pretty consistent streak since.

Yes there are some days that I just don't go, but I don't berate myself when I get home. Take for instance last week, I went to the gym two days and ran one. Those three days were killer workout days for me. On Tuesday and Wednesday I worked myself out so hard I was sore til Sunday, I even ran through all that sore pain on Thursday and ran the longest I have in a long time! I'm proud of myself, even if I didn't go to the gym as much as I would've liked last week.

I'm still trying to find a workout "schedule" of sorts that works for me. I have figured out that doing weights before cardio is highly beneficial. After I do a sweaty cardio session the last thing I want to do is lift weights or do squats, so I get that all out of the way beforehand. I've also found that I feel better when I do around 40 - 45 minutes of cardio. 30 minutes just doesn't seem long enough for me.

Running is also going great. I'm starting to find the pleasure in just pounding away all your worries for the day. I'm also pushing myself to run a little harder, faster, and longer. I want a good time for this 5K in a week and a half!

Source: thehealthychange.tumblr.com via Hanna on Pinterest

All I can say is hallelujah for starting to find the joy in a sweaty workout session!

Nathan's Takeover

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

I have some exciting news to share.

By some stroke of genius I have conned Nathan into doing a Question & Answer post for the blog!

So I need lots and lots of questions from ya'll for him to answer!

So ask away and I'll send them to him to answer - hopefully I can have the answer portions up sometime next week or the week after.

Can't wait to hear all those questions!

Weekend Rewind

2012-01-23T07:00:00.001-06:00

Ohhhh Monday you come too quickly. I've seriously tried to like you but we just can't be friends. I'm always just too tired, you make my life crazy at work, and it's depressing thought on how far away Friday is.

On that note, how was everyone's weekend? Great, glorious? I hope so :).

Mine was uneventful, but that's exactly how I like em'. Friday Nate and I lounged at the house where we proceeded to pass out around 9:00. At the ripe age of 23 we've found ourselves old fuddy duddies, but by Friday we are both so tired. Getting up for work at 5:15 is no bueno and it's usually 4:30 for him. Woof is all I can say.

On Saturday I was the sucker who had to get up at 6:30 and make sure my sister got to her 8:00 AM ballgame. I'd like to tell my parent's employers to piss off with these Saturday workdays. Heather likes sleep on Saturday! Anywho, afterward our grandparents treated us to breakfast and then I went home and passed out watching TV. I was also the lucky girl who's boyfriend made her Mexican Rice and a Quesedilla for dinner. Seriously he's the best. A man who can cook is a god in my book, because we all know this chick just does not like cooking.

AND I found out this weekend the pure joy that comes from a pint of Haagen Dazs Butter Pecan ice cream.

{via}

Wowza is all I can say. I will seriously have to limit my intake of this deliciousness, this wee carton packs on the calories!

In all that sleeping and eating we managed to watch Friend with Benefits...

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and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Nathan would disagree, he said it was too "chick flick" for him. I thought FWB was much better than No Strings Attached, maybe I just like Justin & Mila better than Ashton & Natalie? Speaking of Mila, how gorgeous is she? I've always thought she was just so pretty. Girl crush right here.

Before I get off on some wild tangent, how was your weekend? Did you do anything fun?!

Book Club Friday

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

It's FFFFFFFFFFRRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIDDDDDDDDDDAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYY!!!!!

Can you tell I'm excited? I'm so tired, it's unreal. These 8 A.M. Saturday basketball games my sister is having are killing me, this chick needs a sleep in day!

Anywho, it's time for Book Club Friday!

This week I'm sharing "Can You Keep a Secret" by Sophie Kinsella.

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Description via Goodreads:
"Meet Emma Corrigan, a young woman with a huge heart, an irrepressible spirit, and a few little secrets: Secrets from her boyfriend: I’ve always thought Connor looks a bit like Ken. As in Barbie and Ken. Secrets from her mother: I lost my virginity in the spare bedroom with Danny Nussbaum while Mum and Dad were downstairs watching Ben-Hur. Secrets she wouldn’t share with anyone in the world: I have no idea what NATO stands for. Or even what it is. Until she spills them all to a handsome stranger on a plane. At least, she thought he was a stranger.…Until Emma comes face-to-face with Jack Harper, the company’s elusive CEO, a man who knows every single humiliating detail about her..."

I'm a big Sophie Kinsella fan. I've read all of the Shopaholic books and adored each and every one of them. So it was no surprise to me when I really enjoyed this book. Sophie has a very unique way of getting her characters into some unreal predicaments and this book had plenty of them, plus hilarity to boot. Her books are few that actually make me laugh out loud. "Can you keep a secret" has intrigue and romance rolled into one, I really enjoyed it. If you are a chic-lit fan definitely give this one a try!

Running Playlist

2012-01-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

I'm a firm believer that music makes a workout. If it weren't for music I wouldn't be able to push through many of my runs. With an upcoming 5K happening for myself on February 4th I decided to make a new playlist for myself that I wouldn't listen to til that day.

These tunes are upbeat and peppy, sure to have me ~~dancing~~ running all the way to the finish line.

Pitbull - "I Know You Want Me"

Foster The People - "Pumped up Kicks"

Nicki Minaj - "Super Bass"

LMFAO - "Sexy and I Know It"

Robyn - "Dancing On My Own"
Anyone else heard of this chick?! Nathan said she is all the rage in Europe. She has some killer beats, I just forget her name all.the.time.

Eeeeekkkkk, just listening to these songs gets me amped up for the 5K (even if I'm slightly terrified because I haven't been running that much lately).

What tunes get you keep your running or push you through your workout?!

Currently:

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

While browsing through Pinterest a few weeks ago I found this neat idea and saved it for a blog post. It's just a simple list of the things currently happening in my life.

Currently:

Listening: the song "Let me Down Easy" by Billy Currington on Pandora.

Eating: I had a barbecue sandwich earlier, it was quite yummy :).

Drinking: H20 of course!

Wearing: work clothes - polo shirt and jeans.

Feeling: like I should've worked out today, but things beyond my control didn't allow me to hit the gym.

Weather: too warm for winter and windy.

Wanting: to be a couch potato and watch endless amounts of crappy tv.

Needing: a shower, I smell like a tire (I work in a tire factory).

Thinking: I'm proud of myself for not posting something that would've ended up in hurt feelings, even though this person puts me down daily.

Enjoying: country music on Pandora.

If you're wondering why this sounds like I wrote it at night, I did. On Monday night to be exact. Scheduled posts are a beautiful thing :).

Not Originally Planned...

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

I'll be honest here, this wasn't suppose to be my post for today. I have originally planned and written a huge rant/vent on how a certain person in my immediate family continues to put me down about certain things in my life. But after some thought and reflection I deleted the post. There is no need for me to harbor on with this negativity, I just need to move on.

With that, I want to thank my wonderful boyfriend Nathan for being constant shoulder to lean on.

If it weren't for him I drown in this negativity that surrounds me. He truly is the sunshine in my life.

Weekend Recap

2012-01-16T07:00:00.001-06:00

Can I just say I hate those weekends where you're constantly on the go go go. Sorry to have a pity party the first thing on a Monday morning, maybe it's the crankiness from not getting to sleep in the least little bit this weekend? Hopefully next weekend won't be the same.

I'm hoping all of ya'll had a great weekend. Mine was pretty low key but jammed packed with things to do. On Friday Nate and I had pizza and a movie night at my abode. The flick we chose for the night was Water for Elephants.

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Surprisingly I loved the movie. I was really thinking I was going to hate it since I wasn't a big fan of the book. I just didn't see what all the fuss was about for the book. I didn't enjoy it.

Saturday involved me getting up way before my appropriate waking hour for a Saturday to watch my sister play basketball and then we celebrated my nana's birthday. I also finished a really good book.

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Look for a review next week!

Yesterday was a cleaning day, yuck, enough said.

Did you do anything fun this past weekend?

Book Hype

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

To all you readers out there, are these books worth the hype of reading?

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I want the God's honest truth, for those of you who have read them, were they good? Bad? So so?

I'm so afraid to venture out of my chic lit and historical fiction world for these books. I'm not really a sci-fi dark/mystery type of gal. But maybe I need to broaden my horizons?

Truth be told - I've already bought The Hunger Games, it was really cheap for the Kindle so I just bit the bullet and pressed "buy." Please tell me I won't be disappointed!!

Also, I'm pretty much open to any book suggestions you have. I'm always looking for a good book to read!

Workout/Running Progress

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

One of the ways I'm going to hold myself accountable to using my gym membership and running this year is to blog about it. No better way than to write about it, right?

The first week of the new year went really well in the workout department and I actually found myself excited to go to the gym. Odd for a sloth like myself. Actually, I wouldn't classify myself as a sloth. It's not like I'm a flippin' couch potato who doesn't move except to eat, use the bathroom, and shower. I'm quite "active" but I've never been one to workout regularly.

Anyways, on to my progress. I went to the gym 5 times this week and ran 3 days. I took one "off" day and the other day I didn't gym it up I whooped up on my mama on the Wii playing Just Dance 3 (and boy will it make you sweat and look like a fool all at the same time).

Sadly all 3 running days were on the awful dreadmill. The weather did not cooperate with me whatsoever in that department this week. Unfortunately I'm going to have to get used to that since it's winter and all. I'm just a little anxious how my 5K is going to go - my times on a treadmill and outside are completely different. Hopefully I can get a little running action on outside in the next month.

Did you get any good workouts in this week?

It's OK Thursday!

2012-01-05T07:00:00.002-06:00

Happy Thursday! This week is totally insane at work this work, like 5 levels of crazy, so at this latter end of the week I don't think my mind can handle a very well thought out post. Instead, I'm linking up with Neely & Amber for It's OK Thursday!

It's OK...

...to want to pound your head on the keyboard at work because you're so overwhelmed and have no idea where to begin.

...to have so many made for TV movies on my DVR that I never know when I'll get to watch them. I just don't have the heart to delete them.

...to wonder how some people afford their expensive clothes habit. I must be missing something. How do you afford such fabulous clothes?

...to have zero plans this weekend and I'm jumping for joy about it. These past two holiday weekends have had me going, going, going. I need a little chill time.

...to have a slight addiction to Goodreads. So many books, so little time. P.S. - if we're not friends on Goodreads, you can add me here. :)

...to watch Live with Kelly almost religiously every night. Is this a sign of old age?

And most importantly It's OK that I'm so flippin' glad that today is Thursday. Only two more days of the work madness for the week. Hallelujah!

Movie Review - Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-06:00

This past weekend Nate and I went to see a movie that I've been dying to see now for 3 weeks, Sherlock Holmes A Game of Shadows.

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Being so in love with these movies is quite odd for me. I'm not really an action movie kind of gal, set me down with a cute romantic comedy and I'm all set, and that's why I was dead set on not watching the first Sherlock Holmes movie about two years ago. Surprisingly, I loved it and thought it was absolutely hilarious...

..And the second installment didn't disappoint whatsoever. It had the Sherlock hilarity, was action packed, and was overall a great movie. I don't think they could have picked two better actors to play Sherlock and Watson, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law have amazing chemistry with each other onscreen.

I highly recommend you see this movie, especially if you enjoyed the first one!

Why I Blog

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-06:00

I watched a video the other day that really put my blogging life in perspective. It's from The Bloggy Boot Camp site which the lovely Neely had a link to on Twitter or Facebook, and it really got me to thinking about why I blog.

I'm not going to lie, the past few months I really toyed with the idea of completely shutting down my blog altogether. For some reason I just wasn't getting the satisfaction of it like I use to. I was too caught up in the numbers part - I don't have a huge following, few comments, etc.. But after watching the above video it really got me to thinking....why in this world do I blog, and the answer was...
I blog for my own personal gratification.
Yes, we all tend to get caught up in the numbers, but honestly that's not what matters. I find when that happens I hate blogging. I get jealous of so many other bloggers because of this, even of the blogs I love dearly. When I first started this little blog almost 3 years ago it wasn't about my following. No matter how crappily written posts I wrote, I did it for one thing, me. I'm slowly but surely getting back to that, and surprisingly enough I find more motivation and inspiration to write when I write for the sole purpose of writing for myself.
I sincerely hope that I find more joy in blogging in the coming months than these past few, because sometimes I've really just wanted to hit the "delete" button.
Before I turn this into a pity party, why do you blog?

2012 Resolutions!

2012-01-02T09:44:00.006-06:00

Happy 2012 Ya'll!

Today I'm going to share my resolutions for the New Year. This year I wanted to make attainable goals, not ones that are so outrageous that I know I'll never complete them. With that here are my goals for 2012...

1. Run 3 days a week.

Source: google.com via Liz on Pinterest

I started my running journey about March of last year, and let me just say it wasn't easy. It took me a long time to work myself up to even run a mile and I'm glad to say those days are behind me. I want to make running a priority because I do enjoy it, it's just getting me to do it. I'm running a 5K in Nashville on February 4th so I really need to get myself into high gear. Only a month left!

2. Read 50 Books

Source: bookshelfporn.com via Melati on Pinterest

I'd like to classify myself as a book nerd, but I don't think I could take it that far. There are far more people who read more than me. I only really read at night before bed, on vacation, and if I'm traveling a long distance in the car. Even though I don't read "a lot" my some people's standards I did read 40+ books last year so I bumped up my goal to 50 this year. Pretty attainable I think! Do you have any suggestions of any books that are must reads?

3. Learn to use my camera in Manual Mode

Source: photo.tutsplus.com via Beth on Pinterest

I have a fancy schmancy camera that I really don't know how to use. I park it in auto mode and I'm not satisfied with that. I want to grow into my photography and I'd really like to venture out and have a few sessions. In order to take really professional looking photo's I need to learn the in's and out's of my camera!

4. Scrapbook

Source: bigscrappingdeal.com via Andrea on Pinterest

I have a fancy Cricut now and I have no excuse to not finish up my Out West trip this year. That's my goal...and to get up to 2010 in my family album. I'm really going to have to set aside time for this, no excuses!

So, friends, what are you resolutions/goals for this New Year?

Remembering 2011

2011-12-30T07:00:00.001-06:00

Holy end of year batman!
Can you even believe that 2011 is coming to an end? I honestly believe that this had to be the quickest year ever. Maybe that's what happens when you get older? Who knows.

I'm notorious for always saying at the end of the year that it was nothing great, just same ol' same ol'. Don't we all? I had nothing momentous happen this year, well, you could count being with Nathan for half a decade - I mean that's a feat in itself (love ya babe!). But in the real spectrum of things, it's the "little" moments that make our life complete. The big things only happen once in a while. So for this past year I'm going to look through all the small moments that have made my year.

January

Flippin' Snowmaggedon of 2011 hit with a whoppin' 5 inches of snow.

That much snow is pretty unheard of in my area of Tennessee. It took an hour to get to work that day. Please God don't let us have that much snow again.

March

My mama turned 40!

Yes, I'm 23 and my mama's 40, you do the math. I was the daughter of a teenage mother and turned out just fine. Now for those kids on Teen Mom, I dunno 'bout that.

April

I ran my first 5K!

...and haven't ran one since! Never fear, it's on the agenda for this year!

Nathan and I also took a little anniversary vacation to Pigeon Forge to celebrate 5 years together.

And of course there is no picture of us to commemorate. That boy needs to start taking photos with me, PRONTO!

May

In May I took a two week road trip of a lifetime with my grandparents. We traveled from Tennessee to Arizona up to Nevada and then aaalllll the way back again. I will always hold this trip close to my heart for numerous reasons.

June

Our family (well, actually my Grandparents) got a new addition with this little girl (who isn't so little anymore, she's actually a beast...).

Miss Lady B.

September

Most of my Fall was spent in a blur going here and there to watch my cousin Senior year season Volleyball games.

October

I played photographer for a some of my cousins senior pictures.

November

I pulled an all-nighter to watch Breaking Dawn to be utterly disappointed. Note to self: I'm wwaayy to old to be doing that crap anymore.

December

Nathan and I took another lovely trip to Pigeon Forge for a Christmas getaway.

And last, but not least, spent Christmas with my family!

See my year wasn't anything grand, unless you count that huge trip, because that was pretty huge in my book!

The older I get the more I notice how life isn't about the great big aspects of our life but the small ones, and I wouldn't have it any other way!

2011 Books in Review

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

Back in 2010 I made a resolution to read more. I was still in college and found every excuse in the book not to read, even though I'm a huge bookworm. That year I made a goal to read 12 books, 1 book a month. At the end of year I had read 23, almost double my goal.

{if you want to see my post of what I read last year, click here!}

Since I blew last years goal out of the water, I made a heftier one this year - 36, 3 a month. I'm proud to say, I also beat that goal. I know it's a little odd to be that excited about beating a reading goal, but there are just too many good books out there to not be reading, ya know?

So here's how it's gonna go:

If the title is bolded it's a MUST read.

If the title is italicized it was okay, but nothing spectacular.

If it's just plain type, either I didn't remember or didn't really enjoy it.

"Somebody Else's Daughter" Elizabeth Brundage

"Definitely Dead" Charlaine Harris

"All Together Dead" Charlaine Harris

"The Lucky One" Nicholas Sparks

"Something Borrowed" Emily Giffin

"Something Blue" Emily Giffin

"From Dead to Worse" Charlaine Harris

"She's Out of Control" Kristin Billerbeck

"Dead and Gone" Charlaine Harris

"Saving CeeCee Honeycutt" Beth Hoffman

"Sweet Little Lies" Lauren Conrad

"Sugar and Spice" Lauren Conrad

"The Bridge of Peace" Cindy Woodsmall

"With This Ring I'm Confused" Kristin Billerbeck

"Water for Elephants" Sara Gruen

"Mini Shopaholic" Sophie Kinsella

"In her Shoes" Jennifer Weiner

"American Wife" Curtis Sittenfeld

"Twenties Girl" Sophie Kinsella

"Dead in the Family" Charlaine Harris

"The Harvey Girls" Lesley Poling-Kempes

"Mennonite in a Little Black Dress" Rhoda Janzen

"The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes" Diane Chamberlain

"Vision in White" Nora Roberts

"Bed of Roses" Nora Roberts

"Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk" David Sedaris

"Savor the Moment" Nora Roberts

"Happy Ever After" Nora Roberts

"Sweet Valley Confidential" Francine Pascal

"Baby Proof" Emily Giffin

"One Day" David Nicholls

"Love the One Your With" Emily Giffin

"How to be a Hepburn in a Hilton World" Jordan Christy

"Hot Commodities" Jim Rogers (NOTE: this is a Finance book, NOT light reading - nerd right here!)

"When you go Away" Jessica Barksdale Inclan

"Heart of the Matter" Emily Giffin

"A Sister's Secret" Wanda Brunstetter

"A Sister's Test" Wanda Brunstetter

"A Sister's Hope" Wanda Brunstetter

"Maid to Match" DeAnne Gist

"Safe Haven" Nicholas Sparks

"The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide"

"Can you Keep a Secret?" Sophie Kinsella

"I don't Know How She Does it" Allison Pearson (I'm actually still reading this book but will finish by year-end)

From the looks of all the bolded and italicized books on this list, it seems I've had a lucky year in the reading department!

Have you done a lot of reading this year? What was your favorite book for the year?

Merry Christmas Recap

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

I'mmmmm bbbaaaaccckkkk...

...and sharing my favorite Christmas gifts I received this year!

I'm going with my top 3 this year, if not, we'd be here a while. I'm blessed beyond belief with a family that spoils me rotten.

1. Tory Burch Reva's

I have the most amazing boyfriend ever. Enough said.

2. Cricut

Oh how easy this will make scrapbooking now. I've already made a monogram for my mama's coasters. I loved this gift.

3. Arthur Court

Arthur Court is a set of serving dishes. I'm very big into dishes, antique dishes, serving ware...I just don't have a house to put it in, but that's soon to come. I think I literally squealed when I opened this. Mama did good. She didn't even know what design I wanted. It will match my grape/wine theme for my kitchen perfectly!

I told you, I'm spoiled. I also received numerous Amazon gift cards, my Holiday Barbie (I collect), workout gear - really too much stuff to mention.

I hope all of you had a wonderful Holiday! What wonderful things did you get this year?

Merry Christmas to YOU + Book Club Friday

2011-12-23T09:55:00.000-06:00

This is going to be my last post before the big Christmas weekend festivities begin, so I just wanted to wish and each every one of you a very Merry Christmas! I hope you spend lots of quality time with your family, eat lots of yummy food, remember the real reason for the season, and just soak up all the Christmas fun!

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Today I'm linking up with Heather for Book Club Friday!

Today I'm sharing Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks.

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Description via Goodreads:
"When a mysterious young woman named Katie appears in the small North Carolina town of Southport, her sudden arrival raises questions about her past. Beautiful yet self-effacing, Katie seems determined to avoid forming personal ties until a series of events draws her into two reluctant relationships: one with Alex, a widowed store owner with a kind heart and two young children; and another with her plainspoken single neighbor, Jo. Despite her reservations, Katie slowly begins to let down her guard, putting down roots in the close-knit community and becoming increasingly attached to Alex and his family.

But even as Katie begins to fall in love, she struggles with the dark secret that still haunts and terrifies her . . . a past that set her on a fearful, shattering journey across the country, to the sheltered oasis of Southport. With Jo’s empathic and stubborn support, Katie eventually realizes that she must choose between a life of transient safety and one of riskier rewards . . . and that in the darkest hour, love is the only true safe haven."

I really, really liked this book...especially considering that it was a Sparks book. You see, the unfortunate thing about having read almost all N. Sparks books is that they seem to all blend together. They have the same plot...man meets girl or vice versa, they fall in love, someone dies. Boo hoo. But this one mixed in a lot of suspense, which made me love it in the end...even if all the above mentioned three things happened (but not how you think!).

I say GO READ THIS BOOK. It's a good one!

I wish it was Christmas today...

2011-12-21T07:00:00.001-06:00

My boyfriend is silly.
That sentence pretty much says it all about him.

He can imitate any voice and make up lyrics to some random tune in about 5 seconds flat. So you can probably guess that during Christmas his hilarity is at full peak.

At any given moment during this time of year you'll hear him belt out these two songs, but with his own "twist."

Riding in the car, sitting in the bed, watching a show or movie he'll just randomly start singing "I WISH IT WAS CHRISTMAS TODAY!!!" and then imitate whatever that instrument Horacio is playing with his voice and then he just cracks up at himself. But I can't lie, we'll randomly start singing this all during the year...

I'll let you guess which part he belts out.

I only wish I had a video him doing this because it's funny on all accounts. He definitely makes me laugh...and that's a good thing!

Dear Mr. Salesman

2011-12-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

Dear Mr. Timeshare Salesman,

I was having quite a nice ~~morning~~ afternoon nap when you so rudely interrupted by calling our room 3 times in a row. First off, I'm on vacation, if I wanted to answer the phone, I would. By the 4th ring you had us both so pissed off I answered. You feed me some crap, free mugs, coupons, blah blah. Before I agree to have you travel up to our room I explicitly asked, "if you're trying to sell me anything I'm not interested." You tell me, "oh nooooo, we just need you to do an appraisal of your check-in and that's pretty much it." So I agreed and up to the room you come.

15 minutes later we hear a knock on the door. Open the door and here you are holding two mugs and a huge packet of information. The huge packet of information gave you away. You give me the "Ms. Lee" bullcrap and then ask to come in so we can "talk." Well, you see Mr. Salesman I'm no fool. I have a degree in Finance you ding dong, I know what you're trying to do. Since I was pretty much forthcoming telling you on the phone that I wasn't interested in buying anything I politely ask, "are you going to try to sell me something?" You're response, "well not right now..."

Wrong answer buck-o.

This is when it starts going downhill with you and I. Before the "I'm not interested" comes out of my mouth you say, "we just want to know how you find out about us..." Well, if you had done your homework you would have known that this wasn't my first time at the resort and the man who gives me a room is in fact, my grandfather...and that is a frequent of the resort, but that's neither here nor there. I quickly tell you that my grandfather is an owner, I come free, and there is really no reason for me to buy.

Here is how quickly you got deemed an asshole in my book...

You see Mr. Salesman, my papa is one of my favorite people on this planet. When the words, "well you'll have to buy some time soon," comes out of your mouth I literally wanted to slam the door in your face. First off, after saying "I come for free" you should have just walked away...secondly, insinuating that my grandfather is going to die soon (which he isn't, unless some freak accident happens) isn't a good sales tactic.

I'm sure you can gather from the information above that Mr. Salesman didn't come into our room and didn't stay at our door much longer. I didn't even get snappy with him, even though I really wanted to pounce on him after that.

Really - if you are in the sales field...don't use that line to get someone to buy, they'll probably just cuss you...just sayin'.

I'm already trying to figure out how I can mess with the next salesman who bothers me when I go back...suggestions welcome :).

Lazy Vacation...

2011-12-12T07:00:00.002-06:00

A Nathan & Heather vacation is full of...

...napping, we literally wake up, go eat breakfast and then come back to the room and nap for 2 hours or so.

...crappy TV watching. I think we watched 10 or so King of the Hill episodes. They get quite funny after a while.

...relaxing. We were back in the room, in pj's, at 6:00 PM every night. We are such homebodies, on vacation or not.

..me slapping Nathan in the middle of the night to quit snoring or roll over (he's a total beg hog).

With all that, this past weekend in Pigeon Forge was freaking fantastic and much needed...on both of our parts. These mini-vacations make me wish so desperately that me and Nathan were either a.) were married, b.) lived together, or c.) just seen more of each other altogether. I miss him all the time, but all the more so when I see him 24/7 for a weekend and then have to say goodbye. It's not fun only seeing your boyfriend on the weekend, in fact, it actually sucks.

But, spending oodles of time together on trips just reconfirms the fact how much I do love him and why I want to spend the rest of my days with him. It's nice to be on a trip with someone and just be and not constantly be wondering where we are going or what we're going to do. He and I are completely satisfied on the couch watching a show and vegging out...and that's how I know he's the one for me. He's just as lazy as I am :).

Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge: Christmas Wish List

2011-12-07T07:00:00.001-06:00

Today for the Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge we're revealing our Christmas wish lists.
Somehow I've never got much on my Christmas list, but they're always big ticket items...making my Christmas gifts few, but I usually get everything I ask for :).
This year I'm asking for...
Tory Burch Reva's

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I have lusted after these babies for a while now and thankfully that wonderful boyfriend of mine agreed to get them for me this year. He's a sweetie!

Cricut

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I've also wanted wanted a Cricut for a while now. There are so many fun things you can do with this thing, plus it will make scrapbooking so much easier. Nothing is more irritating than trying to finish up a page and not having everything you need.

Amazon Gift Card

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With my new Kindle in hand, I need money to buy books! I've asked for gift cards as gifts from multiple family members. We'll see if I get them!

What are you wishing for this Christmas?

Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge: How Do You Celebrate the Holidays

2011-12-06T07:00:00.002-06:00

Today for Neely and Amber's Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge we're talking about how we celebrate the Holidays.
Honestly, I've been very fortunate in that every year our Holiday celebrations stay the same. We celebrate with my dad's side of the family the weekend before Christmas, we order pizza and open gifts. Pretty low key and enjoyable. Then on Christmas day, we get up early-ish (around 6:30 to 7:00 - we're not early risers) to see what Santa brought and to open gifts. Then we make our way to my papa and nana's house for a spectacular breakfast, then we open gifts and pig out on snacks and desserts the rest of the day. A game of Dominoe's or two is usually involved.
This year, however, is going to be different. Since Christmas Day is on a Sunday this year we will go to church instead of spending the whole day at my grandparents. That whole she-bang will be on Christmas Eve this year, which makes me a little sad, but oh well. We are going to get together at my aunt's house to play games and stuff this year after church, it just wouldn't seem right without spending Christmas day with my mama's side of the family.
I'm also soaking up these traditions because in a couple years they will be changing up when Nathan and I get married. After that, we'll be trying to fit in 4 celebrations in a few days while trying to start traditions of our own. I have a feeling we're going to be stretched thin those first few years.
How do you celebrate the Holidays?

DIY Christmas Wreath

2011-12-05T07:00:00.007-06:00

Today I'm sharing a fun Christmas craft that I saw on Pinterest a few weeks ago. Actually, it was a Halloween craft but I switched it up a bit to accommodate Christmas.

I got the tutorial from this gal's blog, except she was making one for Halloween. Since these wreaths are completely versatile, I bought ribbon for a Christmas version.

What you need:

- Foam wreath (I bought mine in the fake flowers section at Hobby Lobby).

- Ribbon

- Hot Glue Gun

Just a tip, you want to buy 5 to 10 spools of ribbon because this wreath takes a lot of it. I actually had some leftovers but I'm using them for presents, so nothing went to waste! Also, do not buy sheer ribbon - like Cara said, unless you like burning your fingers with hot glue, stay away from the sheer ribbon! I actually bought a spool of semi-sheer and burnt my fingers a few times. Lesson learned.

You want to first wrap your foam wreath with ribbon, just go around and around til it's covered.

Then cut your ribbons into 4" sections...

Next hot glue the ends together - you do want to leave some room though, I glued mine a little bit above the ends. You'll see in the next step why.

Flip open the ends of your ribbon section, put a dollop of hot glue and apply on the wreath in any hap-hazard position.

Just keep putting on the ribbon sections til it's complete!

Just a few tips from me - I glued all of the ends together on my ribbons before I started putting them on the wreath. I tried to do a few section at a time of gluing the ends and putting them on the wreath but I got lost in it all. Also, for me, this wasn't an afternoon craft. It took me a few afternoons. It was still incredibly fun and I really want to make one for Valentine's Day, Easter, Halloween...really, the list is endless.

This was such a fun wreath to make. Even if you think you aren't crafty, you should make still make this...it's not complicated at all!

Have fun!

Book Club Friday

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday!!! I couldn't be more excited for today...this week at work was completely stressful and hectic. Some days I think I would rather have such a physically demanding job that I don't stress about than the job I do have. But then I quickly realize that I'm a wimp and couldn't handle said job :). Anyways, bring on the weekend...if only it were a long one!

What better way to start off the weekend than by linking up with Heather for Book Club Friday? I have added so many books to my to-read list from this link-up it's not even funny. Good things for me though is that I'm anticipating money and Amazon gift cards for Christmas so that I can buy lots of books for my Kindle, I'm excited :).

This week I'm sharing "Maid to Match" by DeeAnne Gist

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Description via Goodreads:

"From the day she arrives at the Biltmore, Tillie Reese is dazzled—by the riches of the Vanderbilts and by Mack Danvers, a mountain man turned footman. When Tillie is enlisted to help tame Mack's rugged behavior by tutoring him in the ways of refined society, the resulting sparks threaten Tillie's efforts to be chosen as Edith Vanderbilt's lady's maid.

But the stakes rise even higher when Mack and Tillie become entangled in a cover-up at the town orphanage. They could both lose their jobs...and their hearts."

The first thing that drew me to this book was that is was fo' free on the Kindle. The second thing was that it involved the Biltmore House. I'm a sucker for anything historical and anything containing the Biltmore Home...that place just fascinates me.

I really, really enjoyed this book. I think it's classified as more of a christian love story but it was good nonetheless. I also loved all the details about the Biltmore it had in it. See, I told you, obsessed.

If you are looking for a light, girly read then I suggest this book. It's just cute :).

Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge: Favorite Holiday Movies/TV Specials

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-06:00

Today for Neely & Amber's link-up it's all about Holiday movies & TV specials.
I'm not going to lie, I watch endless amounts of Christmas movies. My most favorite of all is The Holiday and I have to watch it at least once during December otherwise it just doesn't feel like Christmas.

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I always try to force Nathan to watch it with me every year to no avail. After he went and see it with me in the theater he was done for...he is not a chick flick man by any means.

Another Christmas classic that I find myself always having to watch is The Santa Clause. The original, not the 2 & 3, although I like them too, but they aren't the 90's version I can remember watching when I was little!

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AND I'm slightly addicted to watch all of the made for TV Christmas movie on Hallmark, ABC Family, and Lifetime. Even in all of their silly and cheesy storylines I find them great. I will openly admit that I have at least 10 on my DVR at this moment. My goal this year is watch them all before Christmas and not after like last year. Nothing is more depressing than watching a Christmas movie after the fact.

What are your must see movies during the Holidays?

Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge: Holiday Decorations

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

Oh how I love decorating for Christmas, but most of all I love decorating the tree. I'm pretty sure Nathan called me the crazy Christmas lady when we went in Hobby Lobby two weeks ago for their 50% off Christmas sale. We walked in and about 15 minutes later we walked out with $125 worth of tree decorating supplies. Yes, I did get some looks, but hey I know what I want and I did it in a hurry!
This year I put up my office tree at work again, but with more pizzaz this year. A few new (paisley!) ornaments, new tree topper, and some ribbon. I love how much fuller it looks this year...and how slightly tacky it looks. Next year it will be even more tacky :).

Alright - maybe it's not tacky, it's just bright and bold...something much needed in an office full of men!

On to the house decorations...

I'm a firm believer that each holiday gets the appropriate attention, therefore the Christmas tree and decorations didn't make their appearance until this past weekend.

The meager Christmas Village, we need to invest in some more buildings.

Our tree, nothing fancy and I like it that way. I'll have my fancy tree at Otto Lane...or maybe two or three :).

The ribbon wreath I made. Tutorial coming soon!

Poinsettia garland around my cork board.

My Vera Bradley ornaments hung on my curtain rod. I just started collecting these two years ago, maybe at some point I'll have enough for a tree dedicated solely to them.

With all these talk of multiple trees I'm sure Nathan is dying inside. I've given him fair warning that our house will look like Christmas exploded, and to me 3 trees isn't "too much." Right? If I'm the one putting it up and putting it away he has no room to complain. Ha.

Are all your decorations out yet?

Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge: Favorite Holiday Traditions, New or Old

2011-11-29T07:15:00.001-06:00

My favorite Holiday tradition by far are the Christmas mornings spent at my nana's house. Although, this year will be a tad different since Christmas is on a Sunday and church will be involved. Anyways...Christmas mornings we wake up and open presents at home then make our way next door to my nana's. She cooks a huge breakfast, we open presents, and then drown ourselves in desserts and snacks the rest of the day.

Most of all I enjoy spending the whole day with my family. We are such a close knit group and Christmas is the one day we all come together. It really is sad that Holidays bring the family together when we should make this a priority all year round. I also know these relaxed days during the Holidays will be soon coming to an end soon, once me and Nate say "I do" we'll be trying to combine family time together. Bring on the madness!

What are your favorite Holiday traditions?

She's Double Digits...

2011-11-29T07:00:00.002-06:00

Ya'll I officially feel exceptionally old. My little sister turns 10 today.

{last year on her birthday}

It honestly doesn't feel like she should be 10 years old...it feels like they just brought her home. Time flies I'm telling you.

Some fun facts on this little girl on her birthday:

- She's played basketball since she was 8 and is currently on two basketball teams (which take up a ton of my time - all worth it I guess?).

- She is 10 going on 16, the teenager attitude is coming in full force...3 years early.

- She hates to dress up, if we'd let her go to school in gym clothes every day she'd be totally content.

- She's addicted to WebKinz (stuff animals), her iPod touch, and anything on the Disney Channel. I'm pretty sure I could recite the "Good Luck Charlie" intro by heart.

Now let's hope these next 10 years go much sslloowwwweerr. She's growing up too fast.

Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge: Favorite Gift Received, Ever

2011-11-28T07:00:00.004-06:00

Happy Monday morning to you all. I'm seriously sad that I'm back to work today after having 4 glorious days off. Let the countdown to the Christmas holiday begin.
To start off the Holiday season with a bang I'm linking up with Amber & Neely for the beginning of their Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge. Today we're talking about our most favorite gift ever received. Last year I'm pretty sure was the icing on the cake for my favorite gift. I got my Nikon D3000 camera that I'd wanted forever but just couldn't justify buying for myself. I got it on Black Friday but didn't really "get" it til Christmas. It felt like the most torturous month ever.

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Running a close second to my camera was the year I got my Dooney & Bourke purse. When I was a junior in High School D&B was all the rage and it felt like I was the only one without one. I literally begged my parent's for one. Christmas morning I opened up all my gifts and no Dooney. Sneakily, my mama had wrapped it and put someone else's name on it so that I wouldn't guess that I had gotten it. So sneaky, but it was a great Christmas morning!

What was your most favorite gift received?!

Have yourself a very Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:35:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my dear, sweet, and loving blog friends!

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Today I'm most thankful for each and every one of ya'll. When I started blogging a mere 2 1/2 years ago I never thought that it would bring me such joy and that I would find some great girls to call my friends. Thank you all for being so supportive, each of you are wonderful in your own unique way :).

Well this Thanksgiving is definitely laid back, I had every intention of running a 5K this morning but backed out at the last minute. I'm still a little "off" from my all-night escapade last Thursday night and decided I just needed rest...and that's OK! So today is going to be full of cleaning and TV watching...maybe I'll decide to work on my new blog design....and of course, food and family.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving sweet friends!

Choosing THE Dress

2011-11-22T07:15:00.000-06:00

As women, I like to think each of us has had our wedding day planned out in our head since we were little girls. I know I have. From the dress, the amount of people, color ideas...it's all been floating around since I can remember. But one thing I'm most excited for about my nuptials (which aren't even in the making, we aren't "fianced" yet!) is my dress. I want to feel radiant and beautiful. I want to bring Nathan to tears, or at least attempt to.

With that being said, I'm an avid watcher of Say Yes to the Dress and one of the first questions they ask is, "what style of dress are you looking for?" That got me to thinking, what style do I want? Until here recently I hadn't thought about it, I knew I wanted it to be ravishing and gorgeous, but that was my only criteria. So this weekend while listening to sappy music I decided which style was for me...and that is the fitted A-Line. I knew I didn't want mermaid or fit & flair as I want to be moderately comfortable. I want a little poof and something to show my curves, and I'm almost confident that the A-Line will do that for me. Also, something a tad different...I mean hello, my colors are hot pink and bright orange...I need something fun!

Here are a few contenders...

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I can't wait for the day I slip on the perfect dress and walk down the aisle (in tears) to meet Nathan, and most of all, to start our lives together.

Breaking Dawn: Part 1 Review

2011-11-21T07:15:00.000-06:00

Ok folks, I was one of the thousands (or millions...) that saw Breaking Dawn at midnight on Friday morning. I'm a certified Twilight junkie so, of course, I have to give a review.

First off, it could have been the fact I was still annoyed with the loud-ass people who played catch phrase 2 hours before the movie started while I was trying to nap or the fact that I really had to use the bathroom but refused to get up because I was afraid to miss something...but I didn't like this one better than Eclipse. Remember though, I had those two things annoying me plus I was SO tired.

I did love this movie though, it was super sweet and romantic, especially the wedding and honeymoon scenes, which sadly I didn't think got shown enough. I definitely wanted that part of the movie to be longer. They also played out the whole pregnancy/birth/Bella turning into a vampire excellently too. The birth scenes were definitely gross, but it's exactly how it was in the book. If you are Twilight nerd you are going to love this movie - I did.

I also have fallen in complete love with a song from the soundtrack and I absolutely bawled like a baby during the part is was playing in the movie...and it was during the part where Edward and Bella were, you know, getting down and dirty, so people probably thought I was some freak. But that's not why, the song is beautiful and reminds me of my Nate so much. I guess that's why I cried so hard - they were happy tears.

Oh goodness, I just love it :).

Did you go see Breaking Dawn at midnight or sometime this week? Did you love it?

Plenty to be Thankful for: I'm THANKFUL for the Blogoverse

2011-11-17T07:30:00.001-06:00

I'm linking up again today for the Plenty to be Thankful for Challenge!

Today we're listing what we're thankful for about the blogoverse.

I never thought when I started blogging 2 1/2 years ago that it would slightly change my life. I've met so many wonderful women, learned about some fabulous products, and poured out my heart numerous times.

For those who don't blog, I get this response often, "why would you want to write about your life like that?" All I can say to the nay-sayers is that they honestly wouldn't understand. Most of the time I'm not writing about my "life", yes I give glimpes into it, but I never delve into the innermost thoughts of my mind. There are a lot of things in my life that are highly personal that I could never write about on my blog. I know where to draw the line.

I'm so grateful for all the friendships I've made - the kind words, advice...I basically don't have the words. Most of the time you women leave me speechless with everything ya'll do for each other. I've "met" a really great blogging community and I'm thankful for it everyday.

What are you thankful for about blogging?

Ultimate Twilight Link-Up AND Plenty to be Thankful for!

2011-11-16T07:30:00.003-06:00

Wow, 2 link-ups in one day and I couldn't choose which one I wanted to do more. Therefore, I'm doing both.

First, I'm linking up with Star & Tara for The Ultimate Twilight Fan Link-Up.

I'm sure Nate is cringing right now :).

Here are the 5 questions I chose to answer:

Are you going to see Breaking Dawn at the midnight release?

- Why yes I am. Midnight premiere and having to be at work at 7 AM the next day. Oh the life of a Twilight junkie. It's all worth it and I've done it before. After 24 hours of being awake you don't seem to notice the sleep deprivation.

Scene you're most looking forward to in Breaking Dawn?

- The wedding for sure...

Favorite book in the Saga?

- I love all the books, but the Twilight is my favorite. It's the original and the best.

Are the books or movies better?

- That's a really hard question, but sadly I'm pretty sure it's the books. The movies are great and it's really wonderful see the story come to life, but the books have so much more detail, making them better.

Your craziest fan moment?

- I bought a shirt and wore it. Yes, what in the hell was I thinking? That isn't me, at all.

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and now the Plenty to be Thankful For Challenge!

Today I'm Thankful for my Hometown, that is...
-Definitely too small sometimes. It seems at some point in your life that everyone knows what you're doing before you even know.
- Seems full of rednecks hillbillies at moments. Especially during Elementary School basketball games. They're 5th and 6th graders, people, it's not the freakin NBA!
- The nursery capital of the world, it's all trees trees trees around here. Google it.
- Lacking a Starbucks, the nearest one is 30 minutes away. Not cool.
- Home, and even though it sometimes seems small and hick...I never want to live anywhere else.
What are you thankful for today lovies?

11/11/11...a post full of wishes

2011-11-15T18:11:00.000-06:00

I had this post planned for Friday since it was 11-11-11 and all, BUT I got home late on Thursday night and I just went straight to bed. Therefore, I'm better late than never.

Since Friday was a pretty big date that doesn't come around very often, I thought I'd post a few of my current wishes...

I wish...

I were out of debt.

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I live for the day that my car and student loans are paid off. It just really sucks working primarily to pay off a car and student debt. The month I don't have a car payment I'm letting myself go on a major shopping trip. I'll be due for one.

I had more time to read.

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Between work, watching TV, blogging, reading blogs - reading a book hits the back burner. There are very few times I just sit and read...and that's why my to-read list has 60+ books on it. I do make time for one of my favorite past times before bed, always. I can't sleep without reading a little bit beforehand.

That I could just relax.

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Here lately I can't seem to just sit back and relax. I just find myself so ancy, when I watch TV or movies I'm constantly glancing at the clock to see what time it is. I can't just watch TV and enjoy it, I always feel like I should be doing something productive. I think I need a vacation.

I were at the beach.

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Speaking of vacations, I haven't been to the beach in 4 years and I miss it. I'm begging Nathan to take me at some point during 2012. I need the sand between my toes, the sound of the waves crashing, and a book in my hand. Bliss.

Did you make a wish this past Friday?

Plenty to be Thankful for Challenge: I'm Thankful for my Guilty Pleasures

2011-11-14T07:30:00.000-06:00

Today I'm being thankful for my guilty pleasures via the plenty to be thankful for blog challenge that is hosted by some pretty amazing women. With Thanksgiving knocking at our door, we should all take a moment and take note of all the things we are thankful for, big or small.

So today, I'm thankful for my guilty pleasures...which are...

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Endless amount of TV.

I'm officially a television junkie. The Fall premiere's are one of my favorite weeks of the year. So many shows, so little time. My current favorite's are Revenge, Once Upon a Time, Pan Am, and my old faithful, Gossip Girl. I also have a slight addiction for made-for-tv movies, I DVR so many that it takes me forever to watch them, but I just can't delete them.

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My BlackBerry.

I don't have cell service at home (I know - what third world country am I living in?), so when I'm at work or anywhere else my BlackBerry is usually attached to my hand. I'm constantly checking my Twitter feed and blog updates. I need to quit - I know people at work think I'm getting nothing done, but I am, so that's all that matters. Nathan and I also have a rule when we're together, no cell phones. It's tough but totally necessary.

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Vera Bradley anything.

I know Vera Bradley isn't for everyone, but for me it's an addiction. For the past couple of years or so all I carry are Vera purses. I simply love them.

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Bath and Body Works.

I should be outlawed from this store. Whenever I go in, I come out spending wwaayy too much money. Right now my current obsessions are Vanilla Bean Noel, the perfect Christmas scent. Good thing they always send out coupons, otherwise I'd be so broke.

What guilty pleasures are you thankful for?

Why I don't want children...right now...

2011-11-10T07:30:00.000-06:00

Let me tell you all a little something about myself, some of you already know this and some do not. Nate and I have both come to the conclusion that we don't see our lives with a child or children in it.

I know to some this sounds harsh and completely selfish, and you may be true, but I personally don't think everyone should have a child - me being one of them. I've always had this inkling that I'm not really a baby person. Yes they are cute and all, but when a baby gets handed to me I don't know what to do...and if I ever get asked to hold one my answer is an abrupt no. It's not that I don't want to, it's that I'm awkward and thinking, "what in the hell am I suppose to do if it starts crying?!"

Another big determining factor in our decision is that I've played a major part in raising my sister. I know, she's not my child, but I feel like I should do all that I can to help since both my parent's work a lot. I take her to my nana's every single morning, I attend every basketball game, softball game...pretty much anything she's in, my butt is in the stands watching her. Also, take for instance last night, I made sure she had a shower, cooked her supper, helped with homework - if that isn't a mother figure what is?

With that being said, do I think I'll never ever want children? No. Who knows, Nate and I could get some more age on us and decide that a young one would make our lives complete. But right now as of the moment and for the years ahead, we know the decision to be parents just isn't for us...and if people like down on us for that, then so be it.

A letter to my sister

2011-11-08T07:30:00.000-06:00

To my 9-year old (almost 10!) sister, Hannah...

As your big sister, by 13 1/2 years, I feel that I should spread some worldly wisdom your way. Since, in your words, I'm "old" now...

Never let anyone bully you. I'm pretty sure they don't, because let's be honest, you talk everyone's head off, but that just makes you a people person...and that's ok. I think there is enough people person for you and me both in that little body of yours. But remember, bullies are people who deep down hate themselves and are putting you down to make themselves feel better. Just tell them you have a 23 year old sister that you're pretty sure could make them cry, that should do the trick.

Don't let anyone talk you into doing something you don't want to do. I've spent my entire life doing what everyone thinks I should be doing, not what I want to be doing. If you won't stick up for yourself, I will.

Continue to do good in school. I know you're bored out of your mind, but continue to excel. The one regret I have from my childhood is not applying myself more in school. It would have better prepared me for college. Remember, you want to be a Vet...so learning to study will be useful for you.

Keep playing basketball to your heart's content. Never let anyone make you feel like you have to play ball, because you don't. As long as you enjoy it, keep playing the game. You'll never know how much I enjoy seeing you get on that court and play. I teared up when you made your first shots this year because I know how determined you were to make them.

And last but not least, know that I'll always love you. Even though I get mad at you for back-talking me, leaving the house a wreck, and for not shutting up that mouth of yours...you still feel like my child (even though, thank God, I didn't birth you). You came into my life in the most unexpected of times but you've made my life better.

Love,

Sissy

Workout clothes woes...

2011-11-07T07:30:00.000-06:00

This past Friday, Nate and I had some time to kill before our dinner reservations. So being the genius I am, I decided I needed new running clothes for the Turkey Trot I'm running on Thanksgiving. This is when the madness ensued.

When did freakin' workout clothes get so expensive?!?!

We started off at a new sports gear store in C'Ville. I was sorely disappointed. They were so overpriced on everything. Just to prove it, I got a running shirt almost identical to the one there right across the street for almost $20 less, it was ridiculous. I won't be going back.

So then I hauled my butt to Old Navy. Seriously, I shouldn't be allowed in that store. I find too much that I want. Lucky me found a pair of compression pants that I liked, and after Nathan told me to quit being whiney and that I in fact wouldn't look stupid in them, I bought them.

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They are very similar to this pair, not exactly, but you get the drift...and I do in fact love them. Somehow Nathan is always right.

THEN I got the bright idea that I need a shirt and maybe a pair of shorts. Why? Why do I get such thoughts?! We drove across the street to Hibbett's and found an Under Armour shirt (that I'm pretty sure I want in every color) and a pair of Tempo shorts.

I must say I'm highly satisfied with my purchases. However, I'm not satisfied with the freakin price tag. The compression pants, shorts, and long-sleeved running shirt were around $100 all together. Really?! I about choked up a lung. Am I the only one who finds this ridiculous? I don't pay that for most outfits.

Oh the things that agitate me...

Book Club Friday!

2011-11-04T07:30:00.000-05:00

Oh happy day, it's Friday! Seriously - I LIVE for my Friday's, the day is (usually) calm and laid back and I tend to get a lot caught up at work. But more importantly, it also means two days of relaxation OR if you're me and this weekend will include zero relaxation. But you only live once, so enjoy all the things you can right?!

Since it's Friday I absolutely have to link up for my favorite linky...Book Club Friday!

Today I'm sharing "One Day" by David Nicholls

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Description via Goodreads:

Emma and Dexter meet for the first time on the night of their graduation. Tomorrow they must go their separate ways. So where will they be on this one day next year? And the year after that? And every year that follows? Twenty years, two people, ONE DAY.

Going to be honest here, I wasn't that impressed. It seemed like the book drug on f-o-r-e-v-e-r, it could have been condensed A LOT and I would have been happy. I guess I'm not used to reading books written by males. They have a different point of view I guess.

If I were you I'd not read the book and see the movie instead, hopefully it'll be better. I was truly disappointed in the book.

What have you been reading?

It's OK Thursday!

2011-11-03T07:30:00.000-05:00

It's time for some it's OK Thursday fun with Neely & Amber. I haven't participated in a while and I'm feeling a big list of random is in order for today...and that's OK :).

It's Ok...
...to not have a hair cut or color in close to three months. This living like a broke college kid is so NOT for me. How many more months of car payments?!?!
...to want to read, watch TV, and finish up a Christmas wreath than read blogs this week. I'll catch up on Saturday or sometime ~~later~~.
...to shamelessly promote In My Twenties blog. For November we're sharing what we're thankful for. Neely had a super sweet post yesterday and I have one today. You need to go read, now, we're pretty awesome!

...to have had a Kindle for nearly a month now and I'm just now reading my first book on it. I've had other "real" books to read.

...for my mama to have an iPhone and me not. How did that happen?! Okay, I'll admit I really don't want an iPhone...I can't depart with my beloved BlackBerry.

...to love Sundays for Pan Am and Wednesday's for Revenge. Seriously ya'll it's the BEST two shows on TV right now. GO WATCH!

Happy Thursday!

Why I sorta, kinda miss college

2011-11-01T07:30:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have those days where you kinda sorta were back in school? I must say being out of college 2 years, I do. It's not that I miss the studying, because God knows I don't. I miss the breaks, Fall break, Christmas break, the super long Summer break. Is it just me?

I guess seeing all these college bloggers/tweeters saying there are on fall break brings back a little bit of nostalgia in me. I miss the feeling of knowing that for two whole days/weeks/months you don't have to study and pretty much shouldn't have a care in the world. I would actually take off work those days just to get some rest. In the big girl world, there are none of those and it's kinda depressing.

Maybe I just need a day or two off work...which won't be coming since this girl took her two-weeks vacation in one pop (note to self: never do that again!). I think I'm majorly burned out and need my flame recharged.

Come on Thanksgiving, I need a 4 day weekend!

A look through Halloween past...

2011-10-31T07:30:00.029-05:00

Happy Halloween everyone!

If you have something fun planned fun planned for tonight be careful and take extra precaution, remember there are lil' kiddos running around out there :)! Nathan and I are having a low-key Halloween, just sitting at his mom's for the very few trick-or-treater's she has. I debated on dressing her dog Edd up as a little devil, but no luck on the costume, it would have fit his personality so well, ha.

Since I'm a pretty big bore in the Halloween department, I thought I'd share a little bit of the Halloween's gone by...of me and my sister.

{Me - Halloween 1997}

{Hannah, Halloween 2004}

{Hannah, Halloween 2006}

{Hannah, Halloween 2008}

And now seeing how many pictures there are of Hannah on Halloween versus me, well, I see who my mother loves most. I searched high and low for pictures of me and I found two, one of which I posted and the other, well...there was no way I was posting that 6th grade awkwardness at its finest.

And can I just say how much Hannah has grown up? She'll be 10 this November, 10 you guys! That just doesn't seem real, she should still be a baby! At least then she didn't have the attitude of a teenager and back talk all.the.time. She's not even my child, I shouldn't have these issues. I'll stop now before the rant continues....

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

An Anniversary + Book Club Friday!

2011-10-28T07:30:00.004-05:00

First off, it's mine and Nathan's 5 1/2 year anniversary! Yes I am that girl who celebrate's half-anniversarys and that's totally OK. I cherish and every day we have together, the bad days, the anniversarys, the wonderful days. Each day is worth fighting for when you're with someone you love.

So with that, Nathan, I love you very much and you truly are my everything...best friend and boyfriend all rolled into one. I can't for many more years together!

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Now on to Book Club Friday!!!

This week I'm sharing "A Sister's Secret" by Wanda Brunstetter, description via Goodreads:

"Putting her rumschpringe (running around years) behind her, Grace Hostettler returns to Holmes County, Ohio; joins the Amish church; and begins a new life with a new romance. The next four years are nearly idyllic for the oldest Hostettler child— except for the hidden pain she bears from a carefully harbored secret. Her peaceful world is shattered the day she runs into Gary Walker—an English man who knows enough about her past to destroy her future. Gary’s arrival in Holmes County coincides with a series of startling attacks against the the Hostettlers. Is Gary at the root of this evil? Amishman, Cleon Schrock, plans to marry Grace, but is unaware of her past. When evidence of Grace’s deception arrives on her family’s doorstep, will Cleon abandon the woman he loves? Will one woman’s secrets destroy an entire Amish community? Can love and faith triumph over shame and deception?"

First off, this is a book I wouldn't normally read. Yes I have been known to read Amish novels in the past but I just didn't go to the bookstore and pick this one up. My mama read this book before me and it was just sitting there, so I read it. It really is a cute, clean book with a little intrigue. What is slightly agitating, though, is the fact this book is the first book of a series...the "mystery/intrigue" goes on throughout the whole trilogy. I'm on book three and still don't know "who dunit." I guess that's how the writer wants you to stay hooked, but I'm not sure I would have read the series otherwise. But now, I have to know how it ends. If you like a very clean, slightly romantic, cute book this one is for you!

Could I?

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have those things you enjoy doing but you never think you're good enough to put yourself out there and actually do it? I do, all the time, and instead of hiding behind a wall, I actually think before too long I'm going to put myself out there and test the waters.

I'm sure you have no clue what I'm talking about and that's because I don't like to toot my own horn. I guess you could say I'm not good at putting myself out there for a fear of rejection or that I'll look just stupid. Is that silly of me? I don't think so, but maybe I'm just too critical of myself.

So let me begin at the start...
All throughout High School I spent my summers glued to the computer designing graphics, editing, and overall playing around with web design. It was something I truly enjoyed and I never felt that time was wasted. I would have loved to have majored in Graphic Design in college, but one, you had to take calculus and there was no way that was happening...and two, there isn't really a market for that kind of thing around here. Therefore, I majored in something utterly boring, otherwise called Finance.

Do I regret my decision? Yes. Do I think it's too late to go back and change that? Yes.

But, I do feel there is a way to cure the designing itch I have and that's to start my own Blog Design side business. No I'm not 100% sure if I'm ever going to start this but it is an idea and it's the first time I have put this out publicly (you like that major run-on sentence, don't you?).

I think I have a big ball of anxiety lodged in my chest over this already, but that's a good thing. Why live life in the shadows, when you could be doing something you love, right?

So, what do you think? Should I jump on in?

Book Club Friday!

2011-10-21T07:30:00.000-05:00

Somehow I've not linked up for Book Club Friday in a lloonngg while and I have no clue why, it's my favorite link-up for the simple fact that I love to read! My to-read list has blown so much out of proportion since Heather started this lovely Friday tradition. I don't think I'll ever get all of these books read, but I'm gonna try!

This week I'm sharing, "Heart of the Matter" by Emily Giffin

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Description via Goodreads:

"Tessa Russo is the mother of two young children and the wife of a renowned pediatric surgeon. Despite her own mother's warnings, Tessa has recently given up her career to focus on her family and the pursuit of domestic happiness. From the outside, she seems destined to live a charmed life.

Valerie Anderson is an attorney and single mother to six-year-old Charlie--a boy who has never known his father. After too many disappointments, she has given up on romance--and even to some degree, friendships--believing that it is always safer not to expect too much.

Although both women live in the same Boston suburb, the two have relatively little in common aside from a fierce love for their children. But one night, a tragic accident causes their lives to converge in ways no one could have imagined.

In alternating, pitch-perfect points of view, Emily Giffin creates a moving, luminous story of good people caught in untenable circumstances. Each being tested in ways they never thought possible. Each questioning everything they once believed. And each ultimately discovering what truly matters most."

I'm going to be honest here, I wanted to love this book. I've loved every book Emily Giffin has wrote, but this one I just didn't love and to be truthful I have a few gripes. One - I didn't like how she intertwined the stories between the "wife" and the "other woman." I felt sorrow and pain for both women and sometimes it just got confusing. Two - the book was a bit depressing, which made it so unlike her other books. Yes she has written about some sad topics before, but this book took it to a whole other level. To me, nothing happy happened in this book.

If you really enjoy Emily's book I'd say give it a go just to say you've read it but don't expect to be blown away.

What have you been reading?!

Things that make me happy...

2011-10-19T07:30:00.000-05:00

I'm a simple girl really. It doesn't take much to make me happy. A good book, a day filled with television, sleeping til 8:30 or 9:00, staying in on the weekends...really it's the simple pleasures in life that make me the happiest. This week I'm feeling extra cheerful for some reason, so I'm going to list a few of my "happies" this week!

My first semi-official photography session.

Alright, so maybe it was of my cousin and maybe I didn't get paid for, but it was so fun nonetheless! It makes me feel so incredibly old to know she's going to be graduating High School, she was just in the 6th grade when I graduated! My how time flies, she is such a beautiful girl and so easy to photograph!

Bath & Body Christmas Scents

Source: bathandbodyworks.com via Heather on Pinterest

Can you believe that B&BW have already brought out their Christmas collection?! Vanilla Bean Noel is my absolute favorite with Christmas Candy Apple running a close second. It's time to stop up!

I'm loving all the wonderful TV Shows this season, especially Pan Am & Revenge!

Source: google.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Sheryl on Pinterest

Honestly, I was a little hesitant about Pan Am and I didn't even start watching til this past week. Thanks to good ol' Hulu I was caught up with the past three episodes in a matter of minutes. Revenge, well, I've loved it from the start!

What's making you happy this week?

I have a case of the wants...

2011-10-11T07:30:00.000-05:00

Not all things about blogging are hunky dory, well for me anyways. I have a problem when other bloggers post about all the fabulous trips and goodies they buy because that gives this girl a big case of the wants. Please tell me I'm not the only one.

There are certain products that just blow up the blog and twit scene, for instance...Erin Condren Planners. You know that girl has gotten some extreme business from us bloggers. The need for one went around like wildfire. I ended up buying one, because they're awesome...and the fact that I had a crazy case of the wants.

Well...I can't say that my case of the wants stopped with the Erin Condren planner, because oh boy it did NOT. Now I want...

{via}

The madness could just go on and on forever. At the moment I've talked myself out of buying the Naked Palette and the TOMS - oh the buyers remorse that would ensue if I bought them. However, the Kindle, well I just couldn't hold out on it any longer. Thanks to Neely, I've gotten one that's almost new and for cheaper...I knew there was a reason I'd held out so long on buying one.

So, tell me...does reading other blogs sometimes give you a big ol' case of the wants?!

Some People Just SHOULDN'T Be on Facebook

2011-10-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

First of - this is not (let me repeat, NOT) directed toward my blog friends which I also have added on Facebook. This is directed completely towards people in my ridiculously po-dunk hometown.

Am I the only person that Facebook drives crazy 99.9% of the time?

Alright, maybe not Facebook...but my "friends" on Facebook.

You know you have those people who drive you crazy but you can't seem to delete them. Somehow I have quite a lot of them, maybe it's time to bite the bullet and delete them? Anywho, the new thing with my batch of people was "OMG, I need to post some ridiculous status because if I don't Facebook is going to make me payyyyy!!! Ohhhh nooooo!!!"

Did I sum that up pretty well? I think so. For your viewing pleasure here is the actual status that was posted, "IT IS OFFICIAL. IT WAS EVEN ON THE NEWS. FACEBOOK WILL START CHARGING DUE TO THE NEW PROFILE CHANGES. IF YOU COPY THIS ON YOUR WALL YOUR ICON WILL TURN BLUE AND FACEBOOK WILL BE FREE FOR YOU. PLEASE PASS THIS MESSAGE ON, IF NOT YOUR ACCOUNT WILL BE DELETED IF YOU DO NOT PAY"

First off, paying for Facebook might be a good thing. It would certainly cut down on the idiocy on there. I for one will never, ever pay for Facebook. The only money this girl is putting towards social media is for my blog. Second of all, you're seriously afraid of having to pay for Facebook? It's really that big of a deal? Get a different hobby or quit being nosey...take your pick.

So being the smartass I am I had to post a comeback. I unfortunately can't take credit for it but, to me, it was hilarious..."IT'S OFFICIAL!!! FACEBOOK WILL BE MOVING INTO YOUR HOUSE RENT FREE STARTING THIS TUESDAY IF YOU DO NOT POST THIS ON YOUR WALL. FACEBOOK WILL EAT ALL THE FOOD IN YOUR PANTRY, THROW TRASH IN YOUR FRIDGE, PROBABLY DRAW ALL OVER YOUR FACE WITH SHARPIES WHILE YOU ARE ASLEEP AND STOP UP ALL YOUR TOILETS. THIS IS ALL OFFICIAL. IT WAS EVEN ON THE NEWS, NOT NEWS THAT YOU WATCHED BUT OTHER NEWS ON A DIFFERENT CHANNEL. POST THIS ON YOUR WALL AND FACEBOOK WILL NOT DO THIS BUT YOU MUST DO IT TEN SECONDS AFTER READING THIS MESSAGE. SAVE YOUR CHILDREN AND SAVE YOUR FAMILY."

Maybe I was just adding to the madness but I honestly think I got the point across.

C'mon people don't be dumb! Facebook shouldn't be this big of a priority.

A Break + Giveaway Winner!

2011-09-30T07:30:00.000-05:00

Happy happy Friday lovelies! I couldn't be more excited that this week is coming to an end. I'm tired to the extreme!

On a happy note (to myself) I'm taking a Twitter & Facebook break this weekend, so if you find yourself missing me, never fear I'll be back Monday...but I'll still be catching up on blogs since the weekend is pretty much my only opportunity. I really just want to take this weekend and relax...far, far away from some aspects of social media. I need to get some things accomplished, like knock out TV shows on the DVR and finish a blog design...priorities, people, priorities.

Have a GREAT weekend!

---------------------------------------------

And oh yeah, I have a giveaway winner to announce too don't I? :)

Well...I couldn't be more happy that this lovely lady won.

And she isssss.........

Ashleigh from Life as I know it!!! Congratulations girl...e-mail me at hdlee21@gmail.com to claim your prizes!!!

What I'm Loving Wednesday!

2011-09-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

Wow...it's been quite a lloonngg time since I've linked up with Jamie for WILW! But, I'm back now...so let's get on with it shall we?

I'm {loving} the two new candles I got at Bath & Body Works, Creamy Pumpkin and Sugared Donut. They both smell sooooo good and the sleeves I got for them ain't half bad either. Seriously...if love candles you need to make a trip to B&BW...now.

I'm {loving} all of the volleyball game's by cousin is having. It's her Senior year and we're an extremely close family...I talk to her and my aunt pretty much everyday. I can't imagine not seeing almost all her games. It makes me a little nostalgic for my Senior year and sad that she's a Senior. She makes me feel o.l.d..

I'm {loving} the Giveaway I'm having! It's consists of Burt's Bees, Essie Polish, and a fabulous set of pens...pretty nice things if you ask me. It's end tomorrow night so hurry up and get your entries in!

I'm {loving} that I finally broke down and bought an Erin Condren planner. It's all the talk on blogs and Twitter right now and with each and every person who I've seen get one...my need for one grew. Thanks to two lovely bloggers who gave me a coupon code, I got it for $25! That's much better than $50...I just couldn't handle that price tag.

What are loving on this Wednesday?

Thou Shall or Shall Not Get Married?!

2011-09-27T07:30:00.000-05:00

I'm not married. Sadly.

Most of you know that I've been with my boyfriend, Nate, for going on 5 1/2 years. Yes...no ring...no nothing. But, it's not our time yet. My time will come and I'm ok with that.

However, I'm not ok with the responses I get from people when I say anything about Nate and I getting married. I get a variety of comments...all as bitchy as the next.

I get the "If he really loved you and wanted to marry you, he would've done it by now."

Well...thank you for that blow to my heart. Nathan and I started dating two weeks before I graduated high school AND he was still a junior. We were in high school...kids...so were we supposed to get hitched about two years into the relationship when were both 19? Ummm...NO. I can guarantee if that had happened we'd be divorced. I think he's smart for taking his dear sweet time asking me. We're still slightly young and have time. That's all you need to know. You don't know anything about Nathan...so just hush.

And then there's the "I don't see why you're in such a rush...marriage isn't all it's cracked up to be."

Well I'm sorry you hate your husband. You should've thought of that before you married him. Just a thought, but aren't you supposed to be happy for those wanting to get married? I personally think it's an exciting part of life...so why would you tell someone otherwise? I know marriage is going to be hard and trying, but doesn't it make it all worth it waking up and spending your life with someone you love? I think it will be.

Oh and this "Don't marry him if you don't like something about him...he won't change it."

Well, FYI I don't want to change Nathan. He's who he is...yes, there are things that annoy me about him, but isn't every man out there going to be like that? I want to marry him for he who is and how he treats me...not if he can clean a house. That's my job...because no man should ever be made to do that. You're just gonna have go back through and re-do it, haha. Yes, he is a child...he's wishy-washy...his cleaning habits are on the bad side, but that's him and I love him for it. I don't want to change anything about him. He's Nate.

So all you married folks or those wanting to....did you or do you get comments like these, or is it just me?

Fabulous Fall Blog Challenge - Day 6

2011-09-26T07:30:00.000-05:00

Today's topic for the Fall Challenge is Fall TV Shows.I tuned in for a few of the new premiere's this past week and got back to watching a few of my "old faithful's."
So for NEW shows I'm really liking these two shows...

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I heard from a lot of other Tweeters who watched it live (let's be serious, I DVR everything and watch it during the weekend. My weeknights are too jammed packed to watch TV) that it was slightly confusing. They were right...I did have to rewind a few times, BUT it was so good and suspenseful. I can't wait to see how the story line plays out.

{via}

The premiere was hilarious. Do yourself a favor and watch.

For RETURNING shows...

{via}

I've been hooked since the first episode. So who do you think's pregnant? I really can't wait for the premiere tonight (yes, it'll probably be THAT show I watch the night it comes on...it's just that good).

What are you watching this Fall? Go link up with Neely & Amber and tell us!

A Few of my Favorite Things GIVEAWAY!

2011-09-23T07:30:00.000-05:00

I'm super blessed for all my loyal follower base. I never thought when I started blogging that I would "meet" so many fabulous ladies, get amazing advice, and learn so many things along the way. Just recently I hit a follower milestone of sorts. I reached 200 followers. I'm the girl who never thought that 5 people would follow her blog, much less 200 - so in appreciation of all my followers I'm hosting a little giveaway.

All the items I'm giving away are a few of my favorite things in everyday life. I figured if I love these products then someone else will too!

So, what are the goodies?

2 Essie Polishes (Merino Cool and Carry On)

-I'm a nail polish fanatic! I love all colors and types, I'm not biased!

Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

- My favorite! I have some in my purse, lunchbox, desk...it's everywhere.

PaperMate Profile Pens

- I use these to write in my planner, and I know a lot of you all have lovely new Erin Condren planners. These pens would be useful!

It's nothing big and extravagant but I know if someone was giving this away I would be all for it!

Here's how you enter:

{MANDATORY}

Be a follower of my blog.

{ADDITIONAL ENTRIES}

Follow me on Twitter.

Tweet this, "@hdlee21 is having a giveaway for reaching 200 followers! - leave a link, no link no entry!

Blog about this giveaway - please leave a link!

You can leave all entries in one comment if you so choose!

Simple enough, right? Good luck everyone!

Fabulous Fall Blog Challenge - Day 4

2011-09-22T07:30:00.000-05:00

If I could, I would've linked up every day for this wonderful link-up hosted by the wonderful Neely & Amber. However, my cousin's volleyball games are slowly eating away at my free time, but it's all worth it!

This is the first day I'm linking up and today's topic is Fall Decorating. Decorating is my favorite thing about Fall. We don't go all out or anything, just a few touches here and there.

My Pumpkin Pie candle from Yankee Candle and a Creamy Pumpkin candle from Bath & Body Works. Isn't the sleeve for B&BW candle adorable? I just had to have it...and if you haven't smelled the Creamy Pumpkin candle...omigoodness it's divine! Get.it.NOW!

Nothing big...but still has Fall touches. We have garland's and corn stalks outside but I had a big blogger failure and didn't go outside to take pictures. For one, I didn't want to go outside and two, the corn stalks had fell.

I've done forewarned Nate that our house will look like Fall exploded when we get married. His response, "As long as I don't have to clean it and help put it out and put it away." Ohhhh men.....

Weekend Review

2011-09-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, I know...I'm recapping the weekend a day late. So sue me. Sunday night after I got done cleaning upstairs & downstairs, ironing, paying bills, then going outside to wash my car (FYI - it's raining right now, if you ever need rain just wash your car...it's bound to rain then) I was exhausted. So instead of sitting down and writing my posts for the week I sat in the bed and watched the last two episodes of Pretty Little Liars, it was a good trade-off.

This weekend was pretty low key. Lots of snuggling and relaxing was involved and it was perfect. Like I mentioned in my post on Friday, I attempted to cook and it came out pretty good if I say so myself. I did have a little help, but that's just because I have a wonderful man...and he loves me :).

The pasta alla betsy was definitely worth trying, but a word to the wise (like Katie told me!) you don't need to skimp on the spices. It really needed more salt or something. It lacked in flavor. Other than, pretty good.

We also watched Take Me Home Tonight.

{via}

Eh, it was okay. I was expecting it to be more funny. Just because Topher Grace is funny in That 70's Show doesn't mean he's funny in everything else I guess. You win some you lose some.

SO - how was your weekend?

Holy Cow - Heather's Cookin'!

2011-09-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I will admit, I'm 23 years old and my cooking abilities are severely limited. Not without due cause though. My mama is an excellent cook, albeit a wonderful greasy, southern cook...but you get my point. I've never had to cook and my mother would just rather me be out of her kitchen if you catch my drift. Well, things have got to change...because for 1. I intend on getting myself hitched one day and I want to cook for my man and 2. I've actually taken an interest in recipes...and believe me that's a new calling.

So tonight I'm taking it upon myself to cook...and Nathan is my guinea pig. He loves me and will say it's good even if it's not...maybe, if he knows what's good for him.

So am I cooking you ask?

Well, I was perusing recipes on Pinterest, because let's me honest there is a bookoo of them and they all look fabulous. I stumbled upon something called Penne Alla Betsy from The Pioneer Woman. It's got pasta, tomato sauce, and heavy whipping cream involved...three of my favorite things so I was all in. Hopefully the end results look like this:

Source: thepioneerwoman.com via Heather on Pinterest

Please, dear God let it be good!

Heyyyyy it's OK!

2011-09-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's time to link up Neely & Amber for It's OK Thursday!

It's ok...

...to skip out on the county fair on Saturday to clean your boyfriend's house. I love him...and he needs help.

...to be super excited about said cleaning adventure and the fact that you get to mow. I love mowing for some unknown reason.

...to have a tradition of watching the fairest of the fair pageant (it's a big deal) each year with your aunt and nana.

...to take time out of your lunch break every day to read. What can I say, I'm a book nerd.

...to unplug your DVR when it made an ungodly sound at 2 AM Monday morning, then forget to plug it back in...therefore not taping the Bachelor Pad Finale. FAIL!

...for your sister to be more afraid of you than our mama. I'm more strict...and she's 9, she needs structure.

...for Volleyball games and Basketball games to consume your life in the Fall. It's cherished memories with your family.

Happy Thursday!

I'm Thankful For...

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

I saw this little article in a christian publication I receive monthly and I instantly loved it and feel I need to share it. It honestly really made me think.

"I Am Thankful for Hot Dogs"

I am thankful for...

the wife who says it's hot dogs tonight because she is home with me and not out with someone else.

the husband who is on the sofa being a couch potato because he is home with me and not out at the bars.

the teenager who is complaining about doing dishes because it means she is at home, not on the streets.

the taxes I pay because it means I'm employed.

the mess to clean after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.

the clothes that fit a little too snuggly because it means I have enough to eat.

my shadow that watches me work because it means I am out in the sunshine, and for a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning, and gutters that need fixing because it means I have a home.

all the complaining I hear about the government because it means we have freedom of speech.

the parking spot I find at the far end of the parking lot because it means I am capable of walking and have been blessed with transportation.

my huge cooling bill because it means I am comfortable.

the lady behind me in church who sings off key because it means I can hear.

the pile of laundry and ironing because it means I have clothes to wear.

weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day because it means I have been capable of working hard.

the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours because it means I am alive.

- submitted by Frances Shipp, Weaver High School, Weaver, Alabama.

This article was such a huge encouragement to me with the whole "attitude adjustment" I'm putting myself through. I honestly use to complain a lot...I'm slightly overweight, I'm tired, sometimes life just isn't fair...the list could go on and on. Don't we all feel like that sometimes? This article has shown me that I don't need to take everything so seriously and see the good things in every day.

I hope you find a little encouragement in this also!

Book Club Friday!

2011-09-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday everyone! I hope you all enjoyed your 4-day week, at least it wasn't a 5-day work week.

As always I'm linking up with Heather for Book Club Friday!

Today I'm sharing "Baby Proof" by Emily Giffin, here is the synopsis via Goodreads:

First comes love. Then comes marriage. Then comes . . . a baby carriage? Isn't that what all women want?
Not so for Claudia Parr. And just as she gives up on finding a man who feels the same way, she meets warm, wonderful Ben. Things seem too good to be true when they fall in love and agree to buck tradition with a satisfying, child-free marriage. Then the unexpected occurs: one of them has a change of heart. One of them wants children after all.
This is the witty, heartfelt story about what happens to the perfect couple when they suddenly want different things. It's about feeling that your life is set and then realizing that nothing is as you thought it was--and that there is no possible compromise. It's about deciding what is most important in life, and taking chances to get it. But most of all, it's about the things we will do--and won't do--for love.

I felt like I had a lot in common with the story-line. Nate and I both do not want children, we have discussed the possibility of maybe when we're older, but right now we just don't see it.

However, the story doesn't quite go like the whole arrangement Nate and I have and the main character in the book had to figure out a lot about herself. I think I enjoyed it so much because I could relate, doesn't that make for a good book?

I'd definitely recommend you to read this, it's so good...as all Emily Giffin books are!

Do You Have a Bad Attitude?!

2011-09-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

For work we have to take this "class" about teamwork. All in all, it's a little cheesy and takes up time...but whatever. While I was reading the material for the class a chapter came up about a bad apple, you know those people who have horrible attitudes. You know those people - the ones who never have anything good to say, are just plain mean, have a constant pity party...the list could go on and on.

Then I thought about my attitude and thought, "oh God, I could seriously be a person with a really horrible attitude." I have a sort of snappy personality, so snappy that Nathan calls me a rattlesnake - I could bite at any moment. In actuality, I don't take stupidity well, and I tend to express my emotions verbally. Also, I could be nicer to people - it's not my strong suit...if you get on my nerves, it shows.

Anyways - the author of the book said our attitude doesn't choose us we choose it. Interesting fact, right? You know you've had those mornings or day...those that just do not go right and then you take everyone down with you in the process. According to the author, you don't have to act like you're having a horrible day..and you know what, he's right.

There are days for me that are a complete crap storm and those are the days that I usually want to slap someone. For my own sake, though, and for the people around me to not say, "Heather, why do you have to be so hateful?", I'm going to try and change my attitude - for the better.

Hey, at least I can say the class taught me something.

Book Club Friday

2011-09-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Another Friday (hallelujah!), another day to link-up with Heather for Book Club Friday!!

This week I'm sharing Sweet Valley Confidential by Francine Pascal.

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Here is the synopsis via B&N:
Now with this striking new adult novel from author and creator Francine Pascal, millions of devoted fans can finally return to the idyllic Sweet Valley, home of the phenomenally successful book series and franchise. Iconic and beloved identical twins Jessica and Elizabeth Wakefield are back and all grown up, dealing with the complicated adult world of love, careers, betrayal, and sisterhood.

I read this book significantly later than most people...most read it when it first came out, and the reviews were horrible. After reading I see why. This was the most un-Sweet Valley-esque book ever written. When you think of Elizabeth & Jessica Wakefield you think of two twins/best friends...well let me just tell you this book has about none of that, except for the last 50 pages. When I was a kid the books were light-hearted and just all-around fun books to read, this was one wasn't. It was depressing and simply not how you thought these two would turn out. Another big pet peeve with this book was that it had so much frustration built up and then bam, in less than a paragraph all of what the 150 pages before was about was over. Overall this book was poorly written...and I am saddened by that.

So my recommendation to you is to save the $10 and not buy this book, just leave Elizabeth & Jessica the way you knew them as kids. Trust me.

Hey, it's ok!

2011-09-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's time to link up again with the fabulous Neely & Amber for It's OK Thursday!! It's OK...

...to always drive 10+ mph over the posted speed limit, I don't like going slow...ok?!

....to have about a zillion made-for-TV movies DVR'd. I'll get to them.

...to pile up your to-read list with fabulous books, once again...I'll get to them!

...to love the fact that my boyfriend loves Bed, Bath, & Beyond. I get to spend his money on goodies for me, ugh...US! :).

...to not really look at Twitter over the weekend.

...to shamelessly plug the blog you write with four more fabulous women, In My Twenties. It's pretty awesome and you should be following us! This month starts a new topic and for September it's all things Fall!

...for my Labor Day plans to involve laying by the pool for 3 days straight, cannot freakin' wait!!

Happy Thursday loves!

Tennessee Beauty

2011-08-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

One thing I've noticed about myself here lately is that I take a lot for granted. My boyfriend, my family, my job, the beautiful state where I live.

Really, I may be just a tad bit biased, but I do believe that Tennessee is one of the most beautiful places in the United States. How can you beat views like this?

I live about 15 minutes from this look-off and one of my childhood best friends lives in this valley, her house is one of the little white speckles.

This was taken out of my bedroom window one night after it had come a storm. The sunset was so breathtaking that night.

This is the view off my back-porch, it's so serene and peaceful.

I'm actually a bit sad about leaving the mountains behind when I get married, the house me and Nate will live in definitely doesn't these kinds of views. But I guess that'll make going home even more special.

Do you love the scenery where you live?

Book Club FFRRIIDDAAYY!!!!

2011-08-19T07:30:00.000-05:00

Since I haven't participated in Book Club Friday in a while, errrr...a month, I decided...why not?! I was reading a series of books for about a month and I didn't want to write a review on just one books...I'm weird like that.

So for about the whole month of July I was reading The Bride Quartet series by Nora Roberts, which consists of "Vision in White", "Bed of Roses", "Savor the Moment", and "Happy Ever After."

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All four of the books are super easy reading - mostly (ok, all of it) fluff. They all followed the same pattern & flow...and were all very, very predictable.

But you know what? I sometimes like that about a book. There are times I don't want to read an emotional, have to think book.

If you're going on a vacation of some sort or just want a chic-lit book to read...this series is for you!

Flashback - Blast from the Past

2011-08-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday night there was absolutely nothing on TV, the only thing me and Nate could come up with to watch was Shrek on Cartoon Network. Then I noticed all the toy commercials and I had a flashback to my childhood...toy style. I remember sitting in on Saturday mornings and watching all the cartoons on the major networks. (do they even still do that anymore?!). The highlight of it all, though, was the toy commercials. Seriously, I used to make my Christmas lists off of them.

Then I got to thinking, toys just aren't what they used to be. Some of the toys I think of when I was younger are...

Barbie

Do kids even play with Barbie anymore?! I was a Barbie fanatic, any kind of accessory, new Barbie...I had to have it and usually did. I still have all my retro Barbie's in a storage tub all dressed. How sad, 23 years old and I still have them..and *cough cough* I collect them too.

Skip It

I was absolutely terrified of this thing. I remember my friend having one and refused to use it. I had a fear of falling at a young age I do believe.

Polly Pocket

Just like Barbie's, I had tons of Polly Pocket's. Can you tell I was the typical girly-girl? I even bought one in Cancun, Mexico when I was 7...yeah, now that I'm older I should have gotten something different.

Tamagotchi

Did you have one of these? They were a definite fad at my elementary school, so much so that they got banned pretty quickly. We'd attach them to our belt loops and play with these suckers all day. After they got banned mine always died because I would forget to "pause" it so that my little creature would quit growing. Odd.

Growing up in the 90's - I wouldn't change it for anything!

"Good Ole' Rocky Top"

2011-08-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

Let me just first say I'm in no way/form/fashion a die-hard football fan. I will catch a glimpse of a game now and then, but that's about it.

However, I bleed Orange so of course I have to catch more than a glimpse of my UT Vols.

I'd much rather watch a SEC game more than a NFL, don't really know why I just enjoy it more. My uncle taught me at a very young age to appreciate UT...he's an ultimate fan, so much so that he has a "UT" room - no kidding.

I've never been to a game, but maybe one day I can talk Nate into going with me - even though he doesn't enjoy football.

Let's go Vols!

Are you a football fanatic? Go link up with Lindsey and tell us about your favorite team!

Book Tube Babble

2011-08-05T07:30:00.001-05:00

Happy freakin' Friday!! I don't know why I'm so excited...this week sorta flew by for me...

Anywho, I've decided to link up again with the lovely Neely and Ashley to talk all things Bachelorette for this week's Boob Tube Babble.

First off let me say that this has to be one of my least favorite seasons of the Bachelorette. This girl was an emotional basket case...and the season all together a batch of craziness. Am I happy with how the show turned out?Yes.I think J.P. is a total sweetie and his smile is so infectious. I honestly do think she made the right choice and I have a really good feeling about them.

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But, I think she did Ben wrong by letting him get down on one knee and proposing. She should of told him beforehand that he simply wasn't the one for her. Ben's behavior afterward, in my mind, was totally justified. Even if Ashley didn't "want to end on those terms." All in all I'm glad this season is dunzo and that Bachelor Pad is back on next week. Let's bring on the Jake & Vienna drama!

Hey, it's ok!

2011-08-04T07:30:00.000-05:00

I can't hide my excitement that the lovely Neely & Amber have started this link-up. These posts have always been a favorite of mine from Neely and I'm super excited to join in on the fun!

Hey it's ok... ...to light your Pumpkin Pie candle from Yankee Candle when it's 100+ degrees outside. It's a little slice of fall heaven. ...to skip the gym because you're absolutely zonked, then retreat to your room and take a 20-minute cat nap. ...to refuse to add another show to your DVR. That's why I'll be watching Project Runway through the internet. ...to limit your computer time when you get home, especially when your job is 100% on the computer. ...of having a fear of getting promoted and leaving my guys in my department AND crying to your boss because their your work family. Yes, it's OK!

Two Things I've Learned

2011-08-03T07:30:00.000-05:00

So, I've been in the blog world for a little over two years and the twitter world for 6 months or so. After a while you tend to pick up on things....

And on a note, this post isn't directed towards any one person and if you're offended...well then sorry.

1. A blog can be a popularity contest.

Honestly haven't you seen it?! And really, there is a difference between the popular bloggers who care about their readers and those who don't. I have really good blog friends who are tremendously popular and I love them, because they're not snotty. I followed tons of those popular blogs back in the day, the blogger who can somehow afford all these fabulous clothes, the blogger who's had too much work done, the blogger who has nothing good to say about anyone but theirself. A few words - get over yourself. Have these people ever replied back to a comment you wrote or anything? I doubt it, and I know it's their personal choice to do those things. But I can tell when someone is bitchy/snotty in real life...and these popular bloggers fit that bill.

Also, if you comment on my blog and say, "Come Follow Me!" I will instantly loathe you. I know you're just trying to gain followers, but this isn't the way to do it. You definitely won't get popular that way - and honestly, that's what you're trying to do.

2. Twitter has become a hotbed for drama.

I thought Facebook fit the bill for that one, but over the course of a few weeks Twitter has far surpassed. When did grown women return back to their teenage ways and resort to high school antics? If you have a problem with someone, let them know. Don't let it go on, and on, and on, and on for hours/days/weeks and just keep repeating yourself. Honestly, it just pisses people off. We're grown women...act like one. And if you really think bullying someone is the answer...it's not, it's the internet - you can disable your blog, facebook, and twitter in an instant (it's a known fact, dolls).

Am I the only one who thinks this? Please tell me I'm not on this planet alone.

Fall on my Mind

2011-08-01T07:30:00.000-05:00

I know I said that I would never complain about the summer heat this past winter when we had 2 feet of snow on the ground, but seriously this heat is outrageous. Ok, not so much the heat, but the humidity. It's enough to suffocate someone. I don't think it's ever been this bad.

With that said, I'm dying for Fall. The crisp weather, the beautiful trees, the scents (particularly my Pumpkin Pie Yankee Candle - which I'm about to break out anyways since it smells so good). I'm just ready.

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One thing I most exited about is breaking out my camera. I'm taking some of my cousin's senior pictures and we decided it would be best to just wait til the weather cools down. I can't wait to snap pictures of her and all those beautiful, vibrant colors.

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Secondly, I'm excited about camping and reading outside. There is something about both that just relaxes me. Nothing better in my book.

Are you excited for Fall as well?

Happy Happy Birthday!

2011-07-26T07:30:00.000-05:00

Today someone very special turns 23.

Happy Birthday Nathan!!!!

See even he's excited, haha!

Love you babe!

Is it alright to cry??

2011-07-20T07:30:00.001-05:00

Saturday I had an episode, an all-out crying extravaganza.

The day before marked the year anniversary of my sweet Brody's venture up to doggie heaven. I didn't cry that day because I was so busy at work I didn't think about it. But Saturday it hit me, hard (and yes, I'm crying as I write this).

As I was driving out to Nathan's Saturday afternoon I had to pass by where I got Brody groomed and the tears started flowing...and the waterworks started.

I miss my little guy.

He was taken way too quickly.

I miss you little guy!

Meet my Boyfren

2011-07-19T07:30:00.001-05:00

So I don't think I've ever went into great details about the future hubby of mine, Nathan.

And I can guarantee when he reads this, he will be cringing knowing that I posted any type of picture of him on my blog. He doesn't like it - at all.

I met my loverboy in high school, go figure. He knew who I was way before I knew who he was, but boy when I did meet him he was someone I would never forget...and it wasn't a good thing. See, he has this way of picking on people, and to this day he still does - which made me dislike him to my core in High School. But somehow, and quickly, did that change.

I was dating a real douche, yes you read that right, when me and Nathan started really being friends. He didn't like how my then boyfriend was treating me and well, sorta stole me away. We rode around town one night talking, gave each other the nicknames of cupcake & muffin (I'll let you guess who is who), and have been together ever since.

I can honestly say he's my best friend - even if he does still pick on me, has a love affair with his car, and has a loud-ass dog (that I love, too!). He's my soulmate and I can't picture my life without him.

House Project: Office

2011-07-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

I think most of you already you know this little tidbit, but Nathan and I have a house...and we have serious work to do. I like to think that I have really expensive taste, ok I know I do, so who walks into Lowe's Saturday evening and gets complete sticker shock...me. Honestly, why does house stuff have to cost so much? I don't understand and I'm sorta pissed I'm gonna have to skimp on stuff that I really want.

On to the topic at hand - Nathan's bedroom will be renovated into my office. I absolutely adore this room. One wall is almost complete floor to ceiling bookshelves and he has plantation shutters in his room, a southern girl's dream. Only drawback, I've had a really hard time deciding how to decorate it. At one time I thought I'd do a neutral color like tan or a darker brown, then I though country chic with pastels and nixed both of them.

Then it hit me - gray and white. I seriously love this color combo and I think it will be a great relaxing place for me. Of course I'll have all the perks, computer, tv, and reading nook - which thrills me!

Here are some pieces that I think I'm definitely going to have to have:

I'm pretty much going for a all white furniture look.

Only problem is - I can't find anything I like (as in wall art, area rug, nook chair, or throw pillows) in any type of gray color, it's driving me batty!!

Do you have any go-to home stores that would help a girl out?!

Book Club FFRRIIDDAAYY!!!!

2011-07-08T08:00:00.002-05:00

I'm a certified book nerd. So, of course, I'm going to link up for Book Club Friday.

And since it's Friday, can I just get a hallelujah? I know I only had to work 3 days this week, and I stayed extremely busy, but there is nothing like a Friday.

Today I'm doing a small review of Saving CeeCee Honeycutt.

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Here's the synopsis from Goodreads:

Twelve-year-old CeeCee Honeycutt is in trouble. For years, she has been the caretaker of her psychotic mother, Camille-the tiara-toting, lipstick-smeared laughingstock of an entire town-a woman trapped in her long-ago moment of glory as the 1951 Vidalia Onion Queen. But when Camille is hit by a truck and killed, CeeCee is left to fend for herself. To the rescue comes her previously unknown great-aunt, Tootie Caldwell.

In her vintage Packard convertible, Tootie whisks CeeCee away to Savannah's perfumed world of prosperity and Southern eccentricity, a world that seems to be run entirely by women. From the exotic Miz Thelma Rae Goodpepper, who bathes in her backyard bathtub and uses garden slugs as her secret weapons, to Tootie's all-knowing housekeeper, Oletta Jones, to Violene Hobbs, who entertains a local police officer in her canary-yellow peignoir, the women of Gaston Street keep CeeCee entertained and enthralled for an entire summer.

Laugh-out-loud funny and deeply touching, Beth Hoffman's sparkling debut is, as Kristin Hannah says, "packed full of Southern charm, strong women, wacky humor, and good old-fashioned heart." It is a novel that explores the indomitable strengths of female friendship and gives us the story of a young girl who loses one mother and finds many others.

Even though this book was very small and a quick read it kept me entertained. It has a great storyline and you instantly fall in love with the CeeCee and all the women around her. It had the same feel as The Help, but I think that's because it is set in the same time period. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars :).

What are you reading this week?

Birthday Recap!

2011-07-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

My birthday was simply ah-mazing.

and sorry - no pictures :).

It was my idea of a simple, relaxing day. I'm not one of those people who want to be on the go go go for their birthday. I like doing whatever I want and that usually includes not getting dressed and getting ready. I'm lazy, for sure.

So what did my birthday include?

- Scrapbooking for 5 hours while watching Season 1 of Gilmore Girls...and I'm missing Disc 2 of that set. I'm distraught, I've GOT to find it!

- Doing absolutely ZERO housework! My mama didn't make me lift a single finger yesterday. I know I loved her for some reason.

- The delicious dinner, per my request, that my mama made for me. Hotdogs on the grill (yeah, I know), a yummy ravioli pasta salad, twice-baked potatoes, and red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese icing. Perfection.

- Wonderful gifts! New Vera Bradley, Tervis Tumblers, Viva La Juicy Perfume, and the Sweet Valley Confidential Book (even though I've heard horrible reviews, I still have to read!).

And that was my birthday. I'm a real exciting girl, huh?

Book Club Friday

2011-07-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today for Book Club Friday I'm sharing a book I read last year, but it was so good I just had to share it.

"What a Girl Wants" by Kristin Billerbeck

My aunt lent this book to me knowing that I would love it and I did. It follows the journey of Ashley Wilkes Stockingdale (name after Gone with the Wind) and her unlucky travels in love. It's a Christian fiction novel so it's very clean (as in no bad language or sexual acts) so if that's not your thing so stay clear, haha. I'll read pretty much anything and I found this book to be a good, light, chick-lit read. Great for the beach!

Words that Hurt...

2011-06-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

To be truly honest, it doesn't take much for some people to hurt my feelings. That "some" being my family and Nathan, most other people could say pretty much whatever they want and I can take it all in stride. But when it comes to my family I just can't, I take everything to heart.

But, there is one subject that anyone can talk about in a negative way and it's going to bother me. This is the getting engaged and married conversation.

The comment I'm getting a lot here lately is, "Nathan's never going to propose to you, he likes being by himself and making his own choices."

Well thank you for that total blow to my confidence. Saying that was like jabbing a knife into my heart and twisting it just to make sure you got it in there good enough. Why, why, why would you say this to someone who has been with there beau for over 5 years? Honestly, I think we're smart for taking our time. We started dating when we were 17, if we were already married I can almost guarantee we'd already be divorced. We've grown up together, been to hell and back, and almost lost each other. When the time is right we'll get engaged...until then if you can't something nice just don't say anything at all.

And another just for good measure, "I don't understand why you get so excited about fixing up that house, it's not your house, and probably never will be."

People around me really know how to make me want to dig a hole and bury myself in it. Can no one be happy that we have a house that we don't have to pay for? Does that just piss people off for some reason?! I don't get it. I can't be happy for our fixer-upper house? Well I'm going to be happy and I'm just going to quit mentioning it ever again, because obviously no one is excited for me. Looks like I'm alone in that boat.

So a word to the wise, never ever ever say these things to someone who is in the same stage in their life as me. It's either going to A) Piss them off to the point of lashing out at you, B) Make them feel really crappy about themselves, even when they have a fantastic boyfriend C) Quit talking about anything important to them altogether. Seriously, don't make someone else feel like dirt. It's not nice.

"It's my birthday and I'll cry if I want to

2011-06-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Okay - I definitely won't be crying on my birthday, because seriously, birthdays are the best thing, ever. Hello, it's a day dedicated to YOU and you get gifts, and you know - I'm all about the gifts. {that totally just made me seem like like a selfish person - which I'm not}. Believe me, I deserve to get a thank you every now and again for the things I do for my family...and these gifts are great payback I must say.

Anyways {jumping off that soapbox}...my birthday is in exactly ONE WEEK. Alert the media, tell your friends, this missy is turning 23. I somehow keep inching toward that 25 mark, which somehow doesn't seem so bad since I'm so close now. When did I become 23, I just graduated high school, right?!

But with that being said, it's always a *little* harder for me to pick gifts as I get older. I have everything I could want plus a little more, but somehow I always push through and find some awesome gifts that I would love to have, like...

Viva la Juicy perfume

My nana bought me the travel size of this for Easter and I loved it. I quickly sent Nathan an e-mail informing him that this would make an excellent birthday gift, hopefully he obliges.

Vera Bradley Large Tote

Yes I am that person who has a severe addiction to anything Vera Bradley. Every single purse I carry is VB, I can't help it. I need room with a purse. Anywho, I'm always going camping and such with my aunt and uncle and never have anything really big enough to carry my stuff. Problem solved, right?

Tervis Tumbler

For some unknown reason I drink water better if it's in a nice cup, I'm weird, you don't have to tell me. Tumblers are cute and most of all have zero condensation, score!

and lastly, I want to see this movie with my lovey dovey.

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First off, the trailer makes the movie look hilarious, plus other bloggers have said it was awesome. And oh yeah, Nathan, I know you think this is some cheap ploy for me to not spend any money. But this is what I want to do, really it's freakin' Heather-palooza week...don't argue with me. Love ya babe.

Remember, 7 days!!!

A Lesson in Minding Your Own Business

2011-06-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here lately I'm not liking what my blog has become, at all. I keep writing all this meaning-less fluff that is complete crap and.I.hate.it. Unfortunately, I've become so afraid that someone in my hometown would read my blog then go run off and tell someone close to me what I've said.

But now, I'm over that. So if you don't have anything better to do that flap your gums to someone close to me, then you have at that.

If you find this post offensive, then quit reading.

In a nutshell, mind your own business. Go read, find a hobby, do something...besides being nosy.

I know I put my life out there to read and I honestly don't care who reads. But please, when it comes to blabbing, keep your thoughts to yourself.

So, all my loving, loyal blog readers, you'll see a change in my writing from now on. I'm holding back no longer.

This has been your lesson on minding your own business.

Thank you - come again!

Workout Smorkout

2011-06-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

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Me and the gym are having some real issues. Well, I should say that I have a love/hate relationship with the gym. I enjoy the gym most of the time, I love the way I feel after a good workout, and I especially enjoy how energetic I feel after working work constitently for a week or more.

I was doing so good, til my vacation come along. I was working out 5 days a week at the gym and rarely missed. When I went on my two week vacation well that all came to a screeching halt...and I need to accelerate again.

I need help!! What do you do to motivate yourself to actually make it to the gym?!

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My Road Trip - Days 12, 14, 15

2011-06-14T07:30:00.000-05:00

We've finally made it to my last recap of my roadtrip. It's somewhat bittersweet as was the ending to my actual trip. You travel for all those miles, see all those sights, then BAM you're done. I will never forget the memories I made with my nana and papa during that trip. It's something I will cherish for the rest of my days. I hope they understand how lucky I felt to go on that trip with them.

The last leg of our trip we went through Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Oof that's a lot of states.

Welcome to Utah! During the entire ride through the state I kept wondering, how many polygamists I'm seeing and I don't even realize it? Odd I know.

Driving through some beautiful rock formations.

More Red Rock...

Welcome to Colorado!!

We were getting up to higher elevations in Colorado and we kept inching closer and closer to the "s" word, snow.

Tunnels!!!

Ski Slopes, I really think I'd like to take a trip back here one winter to attempt skiing and spend some cuddle time with Nathan :).

More snow...

And now it's on the roads. It wasn't slick or anything, but there was a lot of snow. When we got to the highest elevation in Vail I swear there was atleast 5-10 foot of snow on the ground. It was nuts.

Denver.

Welcome to Kansas, a flippin' windy state! Seriously, the entire time we were there it took me forever to catch my breath outside because of the wind. It was horrible...and cold.

The last picture from my trip, the St. Louis arch. This is another city I'd think I would like to visit and explore. It was huge, but I think it would be fun.

...and we're done! Thank you one and all for allowing me to share my road trip with you all. It's been a blast!

2011-06-13T07:30:00.000-05:00

Do you ever get the sense that you're getting too comfortable in life? That you need to challenge yourself and mix up the day to day?

Well you may not, but I do.

I graduated college a year ago this past May and from the day I graduated til now I've done the same thing just different day. I go to work, come home, read blogs, watch tv, read, go to bed. It's becoming mind-numbing and I need expand my boundaries. You know the wheels hampsters run on? I feel like the hampster running on that thing day after day.

After a while of feeling like that, I started thinking, I need to do something else. You know mix up the flow. So I've decided...

I'm going to quit watching so much TV. I sometimes feel like my brain is rotting with all the crap I watch on TV. It's my weakness and I can't get enough. So I've cut back on the amount of shows I tape. I need to do something else worthwhile with my time. I've always got this big list of things I want to do with my time and I never get around to it. Now I'm going to work on blog designing, editing pictures, read those 30+ books I have on my to-read list, and play with Lady B. I'm sure I'll find that more fulfilling in the long run.

Spend more time with Nate. He should/and is the number one priority in my life. He's the guy I want to spend the rest of my life with and I want to spend more time than just two nights a week with him. It's sometimes hard with his schedule but we need to find a way to make more time for us.

Work out harder. I work out almost every day, but are these workouts as hard as they need to be? No. I need to push my limits and not quit just because I feel weak or think that it's to hard. I'm planning on running a 5K on July 4th and I need to get some serious training in, being a wimp isn't going to get me there.

Study for the GMAT. I've finally bit the bullet and decided I'm going to go back to graduate school to get my MBA. It's something I need/want to do for my career in the long run. It's not the thought of grad school that scares me it's the actual admissions test. I'm terrified that I'm going to fail. I'm not good with that. I need to dedicate atleast 5 hours per week to studying for this puppy and actually set an appointment to sit for it. *shudder*.

Here goes nothing...

Book Club Friday

2011-06-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

Have you read any of the books in the Sookie Stackhouse series?

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I just finished the second to the last book and it certainly did not disappoint. If you like a saucy book mixed with a little suspense and intrigue you would really like these books. I will give you a heads up, all the books have the same flow...but the books are so good it doesn't matter. I usually finish them in around 4-7 days and I constantly want more of them.

Now go read!

& oh yeah, are you on Goodreads? If so, add me (just click on that handy dandy link)! I love to see what other people are reading!

Happy Friday!

Little Miss Lady Bella + Happy Birthday!

2011-06-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

Meet the new addition to our family, Lady Bella!

Isn't she just a big ole' ball of cuteness? I think so, but then again I am a huge dog lover. Really, any dog is cute to me...I'm not prejudice :).

Anywho, Bella isn't "technically" our dog, it's our grandparents. Which is all the merrier by me since I can play, cuddle, and love on her and then someone else gets to take take care of her. Sounds like the perfect situation.

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On to other happenings, today is my Daddy's birthday!

Happy 44th Birthday Daddy-o!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-06-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Happy Wednesday. This week is ddrraaggggiinngg on for no good reason. Might as well put my big girl panties on and suck it up because Friday will get here when it wants.

Since it's obvious I'm in one of the Debbie Downer moods, or am I just being lazy? I don't know, either way, let's see if I can pep myself up while sharing my Wednesday loves.

I'm loving this little girl. Is she not absolutely tee-totally adorable?! I'll have a whole post sharing her first day home tomorrow. On another note, she did not cure my puppy fever (since she's not my dog and all). I still want a little ankle biter...or two or three.

I'm loving that the books I ordered on half.com have all arrived, even though one got cancelled. That's one of my pet peeves. Don't list you have something in stock if you don't have it. It's called an inventory system people! I ordered The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, Mennonite in a Little Black Dress, books 1 & 2 of the Bride Quartet, and wouldn't you have it...Book 1 was the one that got cancelled. Idgits.

I'm loving my honey bunny. He really does make my life complete...his quirks and all. It's amazing what two weeks away from each other can do for your relationship. That's not saying it was bad to begin with, because it wasn't, but when you can't see or really even talk to each other it's close to misery.

What are you loving this Wednesday? Go link up with Jamie and let us all know!

Now go forth and hope that this last half of the week goes quicker than the first!

My Road Trip - Day 11

2011-06-07T07:30:00.000-05:00

Day 11 of my road trip was a lloonngg day.

We ventured to Hoover Dam and then had another night seeing the sights of Vegas.

We had originally went to Hoover Dam the day before, but it was raining, and this girl was not about to get wet. So my papa and nana graciously said they would take me the next day. I thought the dam was very interesting, but honestly I was sorta freaked out the entire time I was there. Because of you know, terrorists, but I'm overly weird about that kind of stuff. The Dam is something you have to put on your bucket list, it's part of American History that should be seen by all.

This is the new bridge over the dam, and I am not a fan of bridges, at.all. I did suck it up and walk across even though this thing wobbled every time a car or semi went across.

View of the Dam from atop the new bridge.

Me on top of the Dam.

That's the bridge we walked across, see...nutso.

Lake Mead. Isn't it a gorgeous color?!

After we sightseed at the Dam we went back to the Condo and relaxed before we headed out onto the Strip.

We ate dinner at the Forum Shoppes again, but in a different section. I've never seen a circular escalator but they had one.

The Treasure Island Hotel. We watched the Pirate show they had, it was neat to see.

During the Pirate show.

At the Mirage watching the "Volcano" erupt.

Now onto my favorite hotel, The Venetian. It was sooo gorgeous. I have an obsession with Venice, Italy so there is no wonder why I loved this hotel so much.

That wraps up my trip to Vegas. I was really sad to leave. Nathan better be prepared to go with me on another trip :).

Next up - HOME!

It's Monday already?!?!

2011-06-06T07:30:00.000-05:00

I know I should be thankful for every day I'm given, but seriously, Monday is for the birds! I guess I shouldn't complain that bad, I'm working a golf tournament for work today...so it's not like I'm going to be beating my head against the keyboard waiting to go home. You always have to have a half glass full approach ya know.

I don't really have anything interesting to report today, so this is going to be a hodge-podge of sorts.

Have you seen the Breaking Dawn trailer?! I die...and for some reason I can't find it on YouTube now?! Whatever...

I finished the second to the last book in the Sookie Stackhouse series yesterday...and the new season of True Blood is coming to dvd in the next few weeks. Yaayyyy.

and before I make this into a whole vampire dedication post...

My birthday is less that one month away and I've already e-mailed Nathan my gift request...

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When did perfume get so expensive?!?!

Well, that's all she wrote for today...have a lovely Monday!!!

Book Club Friday!!!

2011-06-03T08:03:00.000-05:00

I don't think anyone realized how much I get pumped up for Book Club Friday. I love to read and I love getting suggestions. Seriously, my to-read list has exploded over the past two weeks since this link-up began.

The book I just finished was "Twenties Girl" by Sophie Kinsella

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I would give you the description from Goodreads, but honestly it was too long.

Twenties Girl is the story of Lara Lington and the ghost of her aunt Sadie. It's about love, family, and really about finding yourself. I usually find Sophie Kinsella's book hilarious, but with this one something was lacking. I can't really put my finger on what it is. I didn't fly through this book in a week like I usually do, it took me two weeks, which says something. Overall, I thought it was good, a tad drawn out but not nearly as good as her Shopaholic books. It'd be a great book to take to the beach since it's a frilly, chic-lit book.

What have YOU been reading this week?!

My Road Trip - Day 10

2011-06-02T07:30:00.030-05:00

This was the day I was most excited for during my trip, the day we went to Vegas!!! And honestly, it was so hard to choose what pictures to post on here when I wanted to share them all. I am breaking it down into two posts for the two days I was there, and for your reference...two days is not enough to see it all. I needed more time, but I sense a trip in my future. It's going to be a must.

We bypassed part of I-40 on the way to Vegas to venture off onto Route 66 in Seligman, Arizona. It was neat but it was a major tourist trap. I enjoyed seeing the old signs but it was like we were a foreigner in our own land, and foreign people are rude...or it could be we're from the South and don't act like that. Anyways...I took a lot of Route 66 sign pictures out there, I find them fascinating.

Now on to the main part of the day. We didn't stay in a hotel on the strip, we were about a block off, but we ventured out every night onto the Shuttle that transported us to Harrah's, which is basically the heart of it all (you like that run on sentence don't ya?!).

I got the pleasure of choosing the restaurants we ate at each night and when I saw that Cesaer's Forum Shoppes has a Cheesecake Factory I was all in. Nathan better be prepared to take me back.

This was taken from my seat at Cheesecake Factory, it's so unbelievable that you're inside when it feels like you're outside.

Still inside Cesaer's Forum Shoppes.

Yet again...

Outside Ceasar's, it was much prettier lit up at night, but for some reason I didn't get a picture.

This is from the Bellagio, oh it was soooo gorgeous!!

The lobby of the Bellagio.

Outside of the Bellagio waiting on the fountain to start.

Here we go...

The show was absolutely breathtaking, yet again, nothing you can explain. You HAVE to see this for yourself.

The fake Eiffel Tower, I still think it's beautiful.

One of the older hotels, The Flamingo...love the colors!!

I'm not going to sum up my Vegas trip just yet since I'm not finished, but I will say one word about it. LOVE.

Can't wait to share more with you next week!

Up next, Hoover Dam & more Vegas!!!