Holiday Season.

We had a wonderful break with the family(s) this Christmas. Since we both have siblings whom aren't married yet, we travel on Christmas. Most people think we are crazy, however, it wouldn't be fair to break the Jensen or Dillard family Christmas traditions. We stayed at the Jensen's house for a couple of nights including Christmas Eve. We had a great time in the country side, reading, eating, golfing, drinking, talking, & laughing. No one liked me on Christmas morning because I was awake at 6:30 am ready to rock-n-roll on the gifts "Santa" had left us. I was waking everyone up by 7 am...needless to say...it was really because we were on a time table to get to the Dillard's house. We left JC and hauled booty...ummmm, BUT I got pulled over and received a speeding ticket ON CHRISTMAS DAY people, so hauling booty quickly turned to driving like a grandma and getting passed by every car on 71 booty. We finally got to my parents and had another magical Christmas along with special family time. The day after Christmas I went shopping with my mom...what a mistake...sheesh, the Galleria was PACKED. While we shopped, my hubby and Pops played golf. And of course...we ate some fabulous Mexican food on Friday night at Little Pappasito's. We left Saturday to come back to our home and have our Christmas. It was so much fun opening gifts 3 times!!! I am so thankful to live in the middle of both of our families, so we do not have to seperate our holidays. We are blessed beyond belief!!! Come on 09...

Christmas is too soon!

It seems like I have been unable to come up for air the past 2 months...I swear it was September 1st yesterday! I share an Event Planner role at my office and this year we had to take on the whole process of event planning because our EA was let go. It has been fun, BUT a lot of work...a lot of thankless work. We had our Thanksgiving luncheon, a Santa's workshop with 70 children (and their parents), & finally a Holiday Party. All of these occurring within 3 weeks of eachother. I am down right T-I-R-E-D. I slept all weekend and still seems like I am lacking sleep. The events were fabulous and I am glad the stress and rush is over...until Springtime.

I HAVEN'T BOUGHT ONE CHRISTMAS GIFT! Well, I fib...I have one...and have 7 more people to buy for by next Tuesday. Oh my goodness...I have no idea when to go, where to go, or what to buy for that matter. My life has been rushed, stressful, overwhelming, & late the past 2 months I haven't even thought of gifts. I have a week to get it all done...looks like the outlet mall at midnight will be my home this weekend.

As for the Holiday Season, I love it! I love how jolly everyone is around me. I love all the parties, the gifts, MY BIRTHDAY, the food, shopping, egg nog with crown, Christmas trees, wreaths, fresh poinsettas, UGG boots...and the list goes on and on. I am thankful that Eric and I have jobs and the ability to provide gifts to our loved ones this year. I am thankful to be able to spend quality time with friends and family throughout the season. And lastly, I am thankful for the Reason for the Season, Jesus Christ.

Wishing everyone a special Holiday Season!

Little bit of this, little bit of that.

I haven't been blogging only because I have been swamped at work the past month. I plan our company events with a great friend\coworker and we have been running around like chickens with our heads cut off. We have 2 more events then it's the end of the year, yay!

I am so excited for Thanksgiving. We are going to my parents' ranch in South Texas! Eric and I are very fortunate in that our families love and adore one another. We all spend Thanksgiving together, so Eric and I don't have to choose.

I was reading another blog I love and she had a fun filled survey blog, so I am going to copy her. Thanks Cara!

8 TV SHOWS THAT YOU WATCH:
1. House
2. Kitchen Nightmares
3. House Hunters
4. Sports Center
5.Extreme Home Makeover
6. Divine Design
7. The Office
8. Intervention

8 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS:
1. Matt's El Ranch
2. Vespaio
3. Maudie's
4. Hut's
5. Fleming's
6. China Hill
7. Suzi's
8. Hyde Park Grill

8 THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEKEND:
1. Hung up all the piles of clean clothes that have been our guest bed for about 2 months
2. Went shopping for a bunch of Christmas things for my office
3. Took care of my sick doggie
4. Ate at my favorite restaurant ever, Matt's
5. Bought the world's most expensive Santa suit.
6. Watched some football.
7. Laundry
8. Worked out

8 THINGS I LOOK FORWARD TO:
1. Being off on Wednesday!
2 Baking a bunch of fabulous things on Tuesday night
3. Seeing my family at the ranch!
4. Thanksgiving food and alcohol!
5. My Birthday
6. Christmas gift shopping, so much fun. The ulimate best time to people watch. :)
7. Christmas
8. New Year's!

8 THINGS ON MY WISH LIST:
1. Gold Toy Watch.
2. Lose 25 more pounds.
3. A new couch
4. Black Coach flats.
5. A new fabulous camera with a trendy strap
6. My kitchen floor to be redone.
7. Vacation in 2009
8. A trip to somewhere cold in February!

1. Where is your cell phone? In my purse.
2. Where is your significant other? Thinking work.
3. Your hair color? Brown, I am going to dye it Chocolate.
4. Your mother? Ranch
5. Your father? Ranch.
6. Your favorite thing? Family and friends
7. Your dream last night? Um, that Marley (my Dog) had a bunch of sores all over his body and no one knew where they had come from, weird.
8. Your dream/goal? To be the best at everything and not to complain or be negative.
9. The room you’re in? Office
10. Your hobby? Shopping, Talking, Typing, Photography, Football, Golf (1\2 way) Loving, Swimming, Working out, Baking
11. Your fear? Losing someone I love
12. Where do you want to be in six years? Happy and somewhere away from Texas!
13. Where were you last night? At the casa.
14. What you’re not? Evil.
15. One of your wish list items? A new awesome camera
16. Where you grew up? Katy, Texas
17. The last thing you did? Travel reports
18. What are you wearing? Black pants and red sweater (Wish is was cold outside). :(
19. Your TV? Living room and bedroom.
20. Your pet? Marley is sick, so probably asleep.
21. Your computer? A POS!
22. Your mood? Optimistic!
23. Missing someone? Always.
24. Your car? VW.
25. Something you’re not wearing? Flip flops even though I could since it's 100 degrees outisde. 26. Favorite store? Toss up...Target or TJ
27. Your Summer? Bloody hot!
28. Love someone? Definitely!.
29. Your favorite color? Green .
30. When is the last time you laughed? About an hour ago
31. Last time you cried? Saturday night

What to think.

Well, everyone voted and watched the results last night in an anxious state of mind. I couldn't watch because I knew what the outcome was going to be in this year's election. I am not sure what to think right now....sadness, hope, anxiety, empathy...and the list goes on and on. Today, I feel sorry for my parents who are going to be working to pay their taxes, for the men and women who chose to join the military to fight for our country who will be brought home in the near years, and lastly for the poor people because they will NOT be taught anything in the future and will be given anything and everything they need. My husband, my family, my friends and I work damn hard for our money and to just think it will be redistributed makes my stomach turn. I am sure there will be decent changes in the next 4 years; I am sure a lot of the promises the new President has made will not come to fruition; I am sure we should all come together and join as one and have hope in this beautiful country; However, as of today, I am lost in a nation along with millions of others. Hope? I guess that's the only word...

Bad Sunday.

This is a sad, sad story, but I have to tell it one...because I am proud of myself, two...because I cannot believe people are so cruel.
It started with going to get a pedicure and relaxing Sunday late morning. After the pedi, I had scheduled to take some shoes back to Academy, then go to the grocery store....instead....I was stuck in traffic..................a dog had been hit by a car. I pulled up and my eyes filled with water because the poor doggie was covered in blood and just laying there. The man that hit him was standing over him, there were about 4 other people along with a police officer. I kept saying to the people this doesn't look good and someone needs to take this dog to an emergency clinic. Well, no one responded. The police officer stated, "I am trained to NOT transport animals. I will call animal control. It will take approx 2-3 hours for them to get here." 2-3 HOURS ARE YOU FLIPPIN KIDDING ME...this dog didn't have that long to live. I looked at the man that hit the dog and he stated, "I am not taking the dog anywhere." I looked at the others and they stated "We are on our way to Indiana." I said, "Great, I will take the dog." I added a few horrible, mean, cruel words to the man that hit him, but I would rather not post about that on here. We put the dog who might I add was bloody, had pooped on himself because of a high temprature into the back seat of my car. I rushed him to the Vet hospital, so he could receive the care he needed ASAP. The owners of the Vet hospital were so grateful for what I did because they said most people just don't care. Which leads me to my next point...who on this Earth would be so inhumane and leave a living species there to die.? It pains me so much to think people are so careless, have so much hate, and no care in the world. No wonder our society is where it is today...some people just need to crawl in a hole and never come out again. As for the doggie, I released him to the Vet clinic. They are going to take care of him with the care and love he deserves. I am now working on getting him a new home by contacting rescue groups. If you know anyone or would like a new dog, let me know. He is a precious angel that deserves another chance at life!

Size denial.

You would think I am talking about clothes, right?!? Well, I am talking about shoe size denial. I have gotten past the fact that I can no longer wear a size 8 in clothes, BUT I never thought I would need a size 8 OR BIGGER in shoes. A few months ago, I was having some health issues and needed to get my crap together, therefore, I have been exercising 6 days a week including swimming, weights, and other cardio. It was time for new sneaks since I hadn't bought a new pair of "exercise" shoes in about 3 years. I did some research on the best running shoes for my feet and came to the conclusion that Asics would be the chosen ones. I went to Academy bought my 7 1\2's in the Asic Nimbus and went to the gym...the visit was VERY VERY short lived because I couldn't move my feet...they were numb, throbbing, red, and swollen. They down right hurt like hell. I couldn't figure it out, so I went to Run Tex (An Austin Weird store that studies your feet) to get their advice (only advice because their shoes are about $30 more than Academy). And the denial began...The salesperson told me the shoes I have been wearing are the wrong size. Drum roll....I needed a 9 or 9 1\2. I was flabbergasted at this claim. I DIDN'T NEED that big of a size in shoes. I have worn 7 1\2 my whole entire life. I know, I know you need a bigger size in athletic shoes, but 2 sizes bigger...I don't think so. I left there a little baffled, went to Academy and compromised on my shoe size: an 8 1\2. I am going to the gym tonight, so we will see if Mr. Salesman at the Keep Austin Weird store was actually correct.

Maine's Beauty

Eric's parents live in Denmark, Maine 6 months out of the year (I know...must be rough.) They live there from June to November and return to Texas for the winters. We hadn't seen them since May, so us and the brother-in-law made a trip this past week. I was AMAZED! #1~ I was amazed because of how much work they had done on their house, #2~The milk farm closed early, #3~The maginificent leaves on the trees! Living in Texas my whole life, I never have been surrounded by FALL leaves. The leaves here change from green to brown...no in between BUT in the Northeast the leaves look like fire. The red, yellow, orange colors are picturesque. I couldn't stop taking pictures. I loved it!

We ate lobster ($4.89 a pound might a add, so cheap.), ate junk food, wore scarfs & hoodies, took romantic walks along the dam, fished, drank, read, visited a pumpkin patch, shopped, long drives on roads that lead to no where, acted like 4 year olds and rode a swing, chased dogs, played scrabble, watched UT whoop OU, watched the Red Sox lose (Mainards LOVE the Sox) and thoroughly enjoyed eachother's company....I am so grateful they live there during the Fall...it will be in the family forever and a great place for many more to enjoy!

Make-up Madness

My entire life I have always been a "make-up jumper" meaning I jump from one make-up line to another because I am never 100% satisfied (I think this may have to do with the fact that my beautiful mother LOVES make-up.) Or because I have roseacea. The Roseacea causes my face to always be red...I get the comments of "Man, you got a lot of sun this weekend," um actually nope, my face is ALWAYS red, but thanks for noticing. I have been doing some research on products that help with the redness and found quite a few items that help. I wanted a one-stop shop, so I visited the new Ulta by our house, which has all the high dollar lines now and of course cheap lines too. I was there for almost an hour and a half searching and searching and finally made my decision. I bought Eucerin's Red Face moisturizer, which is GREEN...yea, I know quite odd. The green actually neautralizes the red tones, so my skin looks WHITE...it's incredible. Since I have to use Sensitive Skin make-up as well, I went with Lorac wet\dry powder. It doesn't contain parabens and the other bad stuff that other products contain in all their make-up. I love them both...it's only been 2 days and I can see the difference; I can only imagine how WHITE my face will be in a month. Good bye Clinque!

Weekend Fun

For Eric's 30th birthday gift, I gave him a golf weekend getaway in San Antonio at the Westin La Cantera. I wanted to give him something special that he would remember forever...I definitely did just that. He was shocked when I gave him his gift AND super excited because he was going to have a weekend full of golf. We had a magical weekend. We ate, shopped, golf'd, relaxed, swam...all things relaxing. The golf was fantabulous...they were setting up one of the courses for a PGA tournament. Some of the holes had grand stands behind the greens as well as grand stands at the tips (PGA tee box). Eric loved every minute of being a "PRO" for a round of golf. It was hysterical! The hotel was super duper nice and had amazing food and pools. =)

I love how much fun Eric and I can have together, just the 2 of us. I see many married couples that have children because they are missing something within their marriage, or couples that constantly have to be with other people because they are unable to entertain themselves with eachother. Eric and I don't have any of these issues and I am so thankful for that. We have such a strong marriage based on eachother and no one else. We love being with just the 2 of us...laughing, dancing, listening, drinking & loving.

30th

The hubby is 30 and I think I made it as special as can be for him. We had a blast with all of our peeps! E walked into the restaurant not knowing who was going to be there to celebrate with him and his face was priceless. I loved seeing the joy in his eyes when he saw his best buds sitting there ready to get the night started. Of course, we digressed downtown and partied the night away. It was a memorable night not only for E, but me too! Cheers to 30!

I...

I AM … striving to be the best wife.

I WANT…to live on the East Coast or the Caribbean.

I HAVE … the most loyal & giving parents.

I KEEP … most things to myself.

I WISH I COULD … find a new career or win the lottery, lol.

I HATE … liars.

I FEAR … losing someone I hold dear to my heart.

I HEAR … too many male voices.

I DON’T THINK …. that either President nominee is that great.

I REGRET … nothing.

I LOVE … Eric with all my heart.

I AM NOT … giving up.

I DANCE … when I feel crazy.

I SING … horribly.

I NEVER … tell someone I am going to do something and let them down.

I RARELY … see my brother.

I CRY WHEN I WATCH … the Biggest Loser!.

I AM NOT ALWAYS … perfect.

I HATE THAT … Austin has horrible traffic.

I’M CONFUSED ABOUT … my future.

I NEED … a long vacation.

I SHOULD … volunteer more.

Eric.

I cannot believe Eric and I have been in eachother's lives for 7 years...it seems like yesterday I met him on the cruise headed to Cozumel. He was a young buck back then...was able to stay up late, drink till the sun came up, and was down to do anything. Now, he is embarking on a whole new era in his life, HIS 30'S!!! Eric turns 30 this Saturday and I cannot believe it. Of course, I always knew I married someone older, but it's amazing to see so many changes in my husband and best friend.

~He is such a devoted man not only to me, but his job, his family, his friends and to the random people he meets daily. He strives to do the best he can and make everyone happy. He is one that is loyal and will always be there for the ones he loves. He has always been independent (So his mother tells me), but becomes dependent when he doesn't feel well. He has the bluest eyes you have ever seen on a man with brown hair. I have never seen brothers have as close of a relationship as Eric and Brian. He is a constant thinker. He believes he is a failure if something isn't perfect. He loves golf. He loves my family. He and my brother are JUST A LIKE. If I said, we are moving tomorrow, he would pack his bags. He misses the snow, but loves Texas fall days. He misses UT and all things college. He says he loves my cooking, but likes to give advice. He loves red wine. He loves Italy. He loves to travel with just me, so we can grow and enjoy eachother's company. He could sit on the couch for days, but would complain about his back hurting. He is like a father to our dog, Marley. And the list could go on and on, but the one thing I know for sure...Eric has a strong passion for all things his life holds now and in the future and I adore him for that.

I love him with all my heart and I know the next 30 years will be filled with love and joy.

Happy Birthday Love! Cheers to 30.

Weather.

Ike has taken a turn, so our tree will be safe, YES! However, I want to discuss this further...how can meterologists feel they do well for people in this world when 80% of the time their forecasts are completely incorrect. Anyone can bet if they say 100% chance of rain for your area, it's really only 70% chance of rain...if they tell you a hurricane is going to hit your town, it most likely isn't going to hit your town. Weather is probably by far the hardest thing to predict because it's nature, but I wish the weather people would admit that MOST of the time it's a guessing game and they get paid to guess. I wish the best for everyone that was notified this morning about mandatory evacuations...I know Austin is going to be a packed place this weekend into next week!

Our BFF, Ike.

Growing up in Houston, we always were prepared to get hit by a hurricane or at least be very near a hurricane. This season has been quite active already, but thankfully the storms haven't been as severe as they could be since the Gulf is so hot. Living in Austin, I NEVER thought we would need to be prepared for A HURRICANE! Yes, we have lakes, rivers, springs, and ponds, however we are 200 miles away from the Gulf Coast. Things will change on Saturday...they are expecting Ike to hit the Texas Coast and Move up towards Central Texas still remaining as a Category 2. I am excited about all of this and nervous at the same time. I love rain and wind with lightning and thunder, however I don't want our 40 ft tree in the front yard to collapse in half either on our house or in the middle of the street! This poor tree...We had it bolted and looped together from each side of the split. I don't know if it can sustain 50 mile an hour winds...it's a strong little booger, just not that strong. We are true WEIRD Austinites and don't want to or didn't want to take it down. Now, I am second-guessing myself...say a little prayer for our beloved tree AND whatever it may fall on! =(

BTW, if you are thrilled by weather check out this website~www.stormpulse.com

Everslacking blogger

I think I am probably the worst blogger EVER! I get really excited when I read others' blogs because it's amazing how people can come up with things to write about everyday. I think it helps when you have a child...OR I live a very boring life. Onto it...
About 2 months ago, Eric found a job listed on Craigslist...IT'S IN COSTA RICA!!! I was super pumped about this job because I am dying to move out of Texas. Don't get me wrong, I love Texas and I will always call Texas home, but that's the problem...I am too devoted to it. So onto the job, the job is building custom homes on a new golf course in Southern Costa Rica. Eric received an email right after applying asking some detailed questions about his experience, as well as his Spanish speaking abilities. After this email, we didn't hear anything about the position UNTIL last Wednesday...Eric received an email stating he is a finalist for the position! This is a huge accomplishment in itself because over 200 people applied for the position. Again, he had to answer some detailed questions about working visas, moving dates, etc. Even if he doesn't get this job, it's okay because it at least gives me hope that moving away is in our Future!

Officially obsessed with the Beijing Olympics

I love the Olympics! I cannot get enough of these games. We watched all the coverage from beginning to end all weekend. The weekend started with a magical opening ceremony and ended with one of the best swimming races in the history of the Olympics. Our boys brought home the Gold! Take that Frenchies...the French were talking too much before and couldn't think about talking at the end. USA's last swimmer, Lezak, was behind, but with his drive, devotion, and Phelps screaming at the top of his lungs PULLED OFF THE WIN! Eric and I were yelling at the TV with excitement. It was truely amazing...I love swimming and these games...must add Phelps to my loves too, hehe. I cannot wait to get home to watch the live coverage tonight. If you haven't watched, just turn on your tube and you will soon become addicted. GO USA!

Confessions of a CF Husband!

I have to admit...I am a BLOG STALKER! I love reading about other's people's lives and not only learning from them, but just admiring them at the same time. I found Nate's blog through Cara's blog (who is from Katy, however, I have never met her, just stalk her Blog, hehe, but she knows that I do, so it's ok!). Cara and Nate's wife live their lives with Cystic Fibrosis. I have to admit I NEVER knew much about CF until I began reading their blogs, as well as others CF'ers. CF is an illness that is not curable (YET!) and many CF'ers have to undergo a lung transplant in their lifetime. So, onto the point of this blog...Nate's wife, Tricia, has an unbelievable, miraculous, every adjective available story and I want you to read about them. They are trying to raise money not only for CF, but Lymphoma too! Please take a few minutes to read their story, it truely is AMAZING (WARNING: You will probably shed a few tears, as I do EVERYTIME I read it). Give a $1 to help find a cure!

New trendy face

I had glasses, actually progressive bifocals, in college, but I stopped wearing the glasses about 3 years ago because the lenses were sooo scratched. I haven't really noticed a detoriation of my eyesight until about 2 months ago. I would have a headache everyday after work and when I returned home the TV would be blurry (It's an LCD HD, so there is NO REASON for it to be blurry), so I was discussing with my mother about going to TSO to get an eyeexam. She asked me "Are you squinting a lot to see anything?" I said, "No." Well, I then caught myself squinting. My beautiful mom made me aware that I would get wrinkles at an early age, so I went straight to the doc and received my prescription. He told me that I am near sided in both eyes, far sided in my left with an astigmatism, LOL. I chose to go with close up glasses since 90% of my time is reading a computer. I got some oh so fabulous Armanis...I just love them...I have never seen anyone with these glasses, so I feel good about that one...possibly I will start a new trend kind of like Mathew Mchonagey only tucking in 1\2 of the front of his shirt.

Fabulous fun in H-tizzle

We had a wonderful weekend in Houston visiting my brother, a few of his buddies, the parental unit, the Chinese girls, and our buddies. We tried to fit everything into 2 days, which was tough, but we succeeded.

As for my parents and the Chinese girls, WOWZA! They were watching 27 Dresses when we arrived and my parents were sitting outside starring into the darkness speechless with a beer in tow. 2 of the girls got into a fight and one "bowed" up on the other and my mom had to break it up. The 2 older girls are NOT happy being in Houston and they will not communicate about it. The translator attempted to help my mom by listening and speaking things back to her. Needless to say, that doesn't work very well. We received our gifts from Lucy who is 13 years old. She is a doll! She speaks the best English out of all of them. She gave me a bookmarker that has a Chinese theatre mask on it and a "hangy" thing that I am going to use as a Christmas ornament (how cool...from China). The girls went to sleep soon after they called their parents in China, showed us their dollars, and told us they love and follow the Communist leader, NO ?'S ASKED. It was an interesting 30 minutes and I just pray my parents make it through it. BTW, my mom took them shopping to the Galleria and bought them some clothes on Saturday...thinking that would win their hearts. We will see about that one!

On Saturday, Eric and I went to Escalantes and then ck'd into our hotel, Hotel Icon. I love this hotel. It's an old bank that was transformed into a hotel. Everything is very romantic with lots of reds, blacks, and silver. When I ck'd in, the lady said, 'have you been here before?" Well, yes we have actually we stayed here on our wedding night 3 years ago. She then proceeded to ask if I remembered the room number because she was going to give us that room!!!! Are you kidding me? Well, of course Eric and I looked at eachother and had NO IDEA what the room # was...oh well, we still had a fabulous room with an imaculate bathroom. Onward to the Astros game, yep it was too much fun...Needless to say, it's not a secret we like to party like rockstars!

We had a great weekend with great friends!

Hope ya'll enjoyed your weekend.

My parents have children, Chinese chilens.

My dear parents are oh so giving not only to their children, but to everyone around them. They received a phone call about 3 months ago from a lady at their church stating a Chinese gov't official was going to be visiting the church with interest in sending kids over for the summer; she wanted my mom to attend the meeting. So, of course my mom attended and agreed to house some of the children\teens. Not just one Chinese teen, BUT 4!!! There were strict guidelines each teen had to meet to be accepted into the program, one was they had to speak English. Well, Well...the girls got to my parents on Wednesday AND they don't speak English. My brother and I were laughing hysterically because my parents basically FREAKED! I think it's just because the girls were nervous and need to get aclimated to their new environment...we are hoping. The girls are 14 years old and come from well-to-do families. One girl's name is Lucy (How Cute!) and she is obsessed with Paris Hilton, hilar. Eric and I are driving to Houston for the weekend, making a side visit with Bird (aka, my brother) to my parents this evening...should be interesting! I will post some pictures on Monday of the girls known as my Chinese Sisters.

Photography

I have to laugh at the new picture I have put with my title...Eric always takes pictures of us because he doesn't like to ask people to take them, hence, why his arm is in the picture. I know I could have cropped the picture to take out his enormous white arm, however, it adds a little character and reminds me of why our vacations are hysterical and so much fun. I love him!

Interesting

What were you doing 10 years ago?
~I was 16, so I was cruising around in my new little car...taking friends places...goin to parties and Katy football games on Friday nights...swimming for KHS....being a teenager =)

Things on my To-Do List today:
~Figure out why we haven't received Marley's meds in the mail
~Figure out why I haven't received my WPC stuff in the mizail
~Get ready for the weekend
~Do some usual weekly reports
~Fill out a company survey
~Drink Wine
~Watch HGTV, while the hubby plays poker

What are some snacks you enjoy?
~Anything salty, IE: pickles, chips, almonds, peanuts, popcorn (Really healthy ingredients)

What would you do if you were a millionaire?
~Travel the world!!!!! Give my family anything they wanted, Buy a house on each Caribbean island, YES!

Name some of the places you've called home:
Katy, Texas
Fulshear, Texas
San Marcos, Texas
Austin, Texas
~Do you see a trend?!? All in Texas...where is that change?

What are some jobs you've held?
~Lifeguard
~Nanny\Babysitter
~Swim Coach
~Preschool Teacher
~Billing Coordinator
~Executive Assistant
~Engineering and QA Assistant

Who are you tagging? All of you that just read this.

WPC

WPC=Wedding Planning Certification! We were in Houston leaving for our trip to the Caribbean when I saw these 2 women sitting with bags that had "Designer Destination Weddings" written on them. I thought to myself and outloud...wow, what a fabulous job. I said to Eric, "I would love to be a wedding planner." He agreed that it would be a wonderful experience. When we reached St. Thomas, we went to a beach known as Magen's Bay. While sitting there, a wedding planner was setting up on the beach...next we noticed the groom and then the family and then the bride. I had a rush come over me and realized I needed to investigate a new career in wedding planning. When we arrived home, I immediately searched on the internet different ways to become certified in the wedding industry. I have found my class and am going to enroll this weekend. I am not sure how long the whole certification will take me, but I have enough downtime to hustle. This will be a new and exciting journey for both Eric and I!

Where?

BTW, our trip was to the US Virgin Islands, which includes: St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix.

12 Days of Bliss!

Eric and I were blessed and fortunate to be able to take a 12 day hiatus to the Carribean. Our trip was AMAZING! Everything was perfectly planned before we got there and we had no worries. The USVIs are beautiful and feel like home. I know most people don't understand it, but I have traveled to many many places and I never feel a deep connection; I feel a deep connection to the USVIs. The people, the attitude, the beaches, the economy, the work ethic, the food, and the list goes on and on. While on the islands, Eric and I had many "epiphanies" about our lives today and our future. Our new motto is...~POSITIVE is How I Live~I hope to have many returning trips to this magical place or even a new home there!

"i..."

i am: excited for what my future holds.
i think: about a lot of things constantly.
i know: my husband loves me no matter what.
i want: my vacation to be here already.
i have: a wonderful family.
i wish: my parents and brother lived next to me.
i hate: jealousy.
i miss: my family.
i fear: loss.
i feel: tired and worn out...that time.
i hear: a vacumn cleaner.
i smell: popcorn.
i crave: mexican food.
i search: deep down to be a better person, daughter, and wife.
i wonder: when we will decide to have children.
i regret: not moving away from Texas when I graduated from college.
i love: the weekends!
i ache: once a month.
i care: but sometimes don't show it.
i always: drink water.
i am not: a super model.
i believe: in love.
i dance: when no one is watching.
i sing: but cannot carry a tune.
i don’t always: hold back what I am thinking or feeling.
i fight: rarely.
i win: at who talks the most.
i lose: at running.
i never: hold back.
i confuse: Eric.
i listen: to everyone.
i can usually be found: at home.
i am scared: rats, snakes, flying bugs, anything that slivers.
i need: Eric.
i am happy about: my 12 days of bliss!

The ever so BEASTLY fountain.

It must be Spring time because all of our neighbors are out in their yards every Saturday at the butt crack of dawn starting their mowers and weed eaters. It's a joyous noise...WRONG! Well, we showed them...haha. We were up extra early on Saturday and Sunday because we are staying in to conserve money before our lovely 12 days of bliss; So, on Saturday E started up the blower at about 9 am and then the weedeater started and finally the mower and alas the blower again. I am sure no one cared around us because they were probably thinking to themselves, "we should be outside completing the weekend chores as well." We decided to move to the back yard and work on Sunday. We planted more flowers, pruned all the veggies, mowed, raked AND finally dug the hole for the LARGEST, HEAVIEST fountain ever built by mankind (We were given this beautiful beastly thing from my parents when they built their new home). The fountain hole has been dug and it's going to look great under the world's UGLIEST tree that Eric was trying to kill on Sunday, BUT we must figure out how the actual fountain sits. It may seem easy, however, it's quite a puzzle. We decided to quit the "trying to figure it out" task and called it a day. The back yard is really coming together and now we just need patio furniture, so we can sit and enjoy (will be calling the parental units for that one). To end the Sunday, we had a nice dinner and some wine and I am sure our lovely neighbor was checking out our back yard through his fence holes...

Fabulous site that will make you giggle!

I found this great website by reading other's blogs:

www.pioneerwoman.com

This website is developed by a lady that lived in Los Angeles as a child, went to college there, then married a cattle ranchman. Crazy life!!! She has great insight into photography, gardening, cooking, and relationships. I thoroughly enjoy the site and I think you will too...it will make you giggle =).

Countdown that will NEVER end!

So, I have had a countdown clock on my myspace page since Christmas time for our vacation to the Caribbean. I swear it doesn't seem to end!!! I know I posted it when I had about ummmm...150 days UNTIL 12 Days of Caribbean bliss, But gee-mi-knee-Christmas, it's still not here. I am just constantly thinking about it and wishing it were tomorrow. We received the condo keys, maps, etc in the mail about a month ago (yes, really early). I have my travel folder set up with our airline information, car rental information, and of course a recipe list. We have our finances down to the penny for the trip. AND we aren't leaving any time soon...the wait is killing me. I am going to send hubby a countdown clock too, so he can go through the same agony as me. =)

Homecoming Celebration!

A dear friend of mine, Garrett, was deployed to Iraq nearly a year ago. It was a shock to us all because he and I sat in our work kitchen talking about "how it will be a while before I get shipped off." The time came the following weekend when he was told he would be deployed in the summer months. At work, we had a mini celebration with breakfast tacos and then another celebration with cake to make sure Garrett knew he would be missed. He left in the May-June time frame of 2007 to go through some training in California and North Carolina, then he was off to Iraq. After he left, his sweet girlfriend, Leah, was left behind (if you will). She had moved in from Louisiana to be with G and now he was leaving her (because he had to). I made sure to always be there for her...when she was crying she would IM and say "I am crying right now." I would always try to make her smile and send me IMs that said LOL. Leah and Garrett's family were sooo very strong during the deployment. While he was in Iraq, it was nervewracking because you just never knew what was going on 100% of the time. He would get on IM and not really communicate that much (we are sure he was told to keep secrets, hehe.) BUT, Leah and the Brazell's made it through the year long deployment. Garrett and his unit returned to Austin safely on Saturday. I was fortunate to be there for his return and it will be something I remember forever. There were newborn babies there that had never met their fathers, fiances that were planning weddings without their men by their side, and lastly family and friends that were overjoyed with the homecoming of their marines. Welcome Home Men! =)

Must be Spring!

When we bought our house 2 years ago, Eric and I promised to grow a HUGE garden. We have accomplished just that this year. Last season, we planted the garden, but we didn't get much out of it. This year we doubled the amount we planted and it's already looking fabulous. We planted everything from tomatoes, basil, mint (chocolate, orange, peppermint and many more), squash, cucumber, all sorts of peppers and the list goes on and on. Not only do we have a veggie garden, we have a rose garden that is blossoming by the day. I love to look out our kitchen window and see my pink roses. The things we get excited about when we are married, hehe. It's a fun hobby that Eric and I both enjoy! Here are some pics:

To complain or not to complain

I have really been paying attention to my complaints lately. Eric has told me that EVERYONE complains too much, including himself. I never have paid attention to this because #1 I like listening to complaints and #2 I love to complain, well ladies and gents, I am attempting to lower my complaint count. I really really think this is going to be a hard task ESPECIALLY because I dislike my job ever so much. I am going to be positive (think oh well, I am supposed to be here for some reason). I am going to be happy with myself and my situations. We shall see how it turns out! =)

Dear Friends...

One of my dear friends here at work is going through a tragedy, in which the majority of people can never say they have been through...suicide. His father's bff from college to today decided to take his own life. It's been all over the news here in Austin because he was found floating in Town Lake. At the first glimpse of pictures and reports, it seemed it would be investigated as a homicide because of duct tape on the body, BUT after investigating the evidence it's unfortunate to report it as suicide. K continues to say, why, how, it doesn't make sense, it hurts, I feel bad for his family, he left so much behind...all of this is true. No one understands suicide and no one will unless you are the individual contemplating. I have dealt with suicide due to my brother's friends taking their own lives. It's hard, yes. It's indescribable, yes. It hurts, yes. And there is no answer that can solve these mysteries. The only thing one can do is realize people hurt in soo many different ways. People show their feelings in multiple ways through anger, through criticism, through drugs, through alcohol. When someone is crying out, take a moment out of your life and let them know they are loved, let them know you are there, and last, open your heart to listen.

Inspiration!

Author~Unknown.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous "yes."
The professor then produced two glasses of wine from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things; your family, your children, your health, your friends, and your favorite passions; things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full."
The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, and your car.
The sand is everything else; the small stuff. "If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all yourtime and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you."
"Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18. Do one more run down the ski slope. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first; the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand." One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the wine represented. The professor smiled. "I’m glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there’s always room for a couple of glasses of wine with a friend."

Be the Voice!

I have been saying this a lot lately. I have been telling friends, family and coworkers to speak out and say what you want to say. At my place of employment, people are very unhappy, the morale is down and no one is doing much about the whole situation. I am called "The mother of Engineering" because everyone seems to tell me how they feel (I am sure so I will go tell my boss). Well, I did just that...I had a sit down come to Jesus meeting with my boss a couple of weeks ago for 3 hours. I layed it out on the table and told him how I felt (actually being the VOICE for everyone's feelings). Then our President gave a lovely speech about "not caring, blah blah blah" on Friday. I guess a lot of people took this speech to heart and felt disturbed that the leader of the company would make such remarks. Well, my boss had a follow-up meeting yesterday to reassure his department that the President didn't mean anything negative...we all laughed. My boss attempted to show us his care and loyalty, but did it work...we will not know until the 14th employee quits this week...

Scrapbooking...on the internet

Do you love pictures? Do you love the internet? Well, put them together and have fun: http://www.scrapblog.com/

Cannot Wait!

Eric and I are going on vacation in no time and I CANNOT WAIT!!! I have been repeating our plans and adventures over and over and over again. It's quite funny! We sit down for dinner at our little table and I am ready to discuss not only our days, but our future (VACATION future). I am not worried about what happened at work (well, I am in a sense) and I really don't care how much I hate my job...I just want to get to the beach. I think Eric has our itinerary memorized at this point...ok we leave then, we get there at this time, we are going to do this and that, blah, blah. Well, needless to say...I CANNOT WAIT for our 12 day adventure.