Dress Cleaning

Yesterday at lunch I had a few errands to run and also was excited to pick up my wedding dress from the dry cleaner's. I nearly had an aneurysm when they, ahem, couldn't find it. What? What do you mean you can't find my dress? I suggest you keep looking!

Now I may not always keep my dress. I may sell it, I used to always think I'd do this...now I'm not so sure. I may repurpose it. I've thought it would be neat to make a christening gown out of the train to pass down to my children and grandchildren. I've also considered donating it for a charitable cause. However, parting with my beloved, gorgeous, wedding gown because the dry cleaner cannot find it is not what I wanted.

Luckily the dress was still being cleaned. Apparently they thought they could do more to it so they keep working on it. I'm fine with that, but let me know it's not going to be ready on time. Especially since I was even two days after my arranged pick up. But I am happy that it will be clean. The bottom got pretty dirty from being outside all day and evening. Plus I had little kid feet prints on my train, and perhaps I had a little wine and brownie on the front. Besides, it's not like I'm going to wear it this weekend or anything, well, probably not.

Tuesday Top Ten

Top Ten Things I Love About Our House

1. It's spacious! We were so lucky to get more than we dreamt of when we found this house. There are two living spaces, a large eat in kitchen, three bedrooms, a bonus room for the office, two (soon to be three) baths, and an oversized garage so J can have a workshop.
2. Location. I was skeptical since I've never lived in the family part of town but rather the trendy and nice apartment parts of town, but I love it. It's so close everything and easy to navigate. It's very close to both of our jobs, and of course Target and West Towne Mall.
3. The floor. I love our wood floors and even the tile floor in the kitchen and den.
4. The laundry room. I'm so happy to have a laundry room rather than have it in a hallway where I hear the noise all the time.
5. The patio. I love spending time with my husband on the patio where we can enjoy our backyard. I hope to add a little landscaping to it next year.
6. The potting shed. It's so cute and serves such a purpose.
7. It's cozy. I love the cottage feel you get when you look at it.
8. Guest rooms. I love having enough space to have guests so that they can be comfortable and enjoy visiting us. I also like that one of the guest rooms can be my project room for all of my sewing, etc.
9. The office. I love having a dedicated office space. It's so nice not to have a desk in the kitchen or corner of a room. (Not to mention J's desk is the size of a small farm so it wouldn't fit!). It looks very sophisticated too!
10. It's a home. J and I have made an empty house a cozy little home together. A place where we enjoy spending our time and having our friends and family join us. A place where we can build our lives together and enjoy being husband and wife.

Guess What I Got?

Stop what you're doing and dance a jig, because I have exciting news! Are you ready? Are you sure? Sit down.

MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND BOUGHT ME A CHINA CABINET!

Doesn't that make you want to pee your pants with excitement? I nearly did! (As JC would say, "Good thing I'd already pee'd those before!").

Yesterday my husband sent me a picture of a gorgeous antique china cabinet. I immediately responded, "Don't tease me!" It's no secret I've been wanting a china cabinet for quite sometime. Just ask Mrs. Y. The day she got hers I went crazy setting it up. I was like a fat kid in a candy store unwrapping all of her stuff and putting it away for her. I was also quite envious of Mrs. H's cute little cabinet when we visited them. J replies that it's not a tease and he likes the set. It also has a matching table with chairs which he loves. We went to look at it last night and the 45 year old piece is in nearly excellent condition. It is absolutely gorgeous. It is a very timeless and classic style with an oak finish.

Although J told me that by purchasing this furniture he was in no way condoning the fact that I/We "need" a china cabinet, but that he also liked the rest of the set and it was very nice antique pieces. Not to mention a deal! So, my darling little hubby bought it for me on the spot. Is he the best or what? It's being delivered tonight and will be set up and dazzling by the weekend.

We now have more antiques to add to our collection and that is very exciting, and I HAVE A CHINA CABINET! I will have to post pictures soon.

What a Wonderful Weekend

This weekend was so nice and relaxing. J and I finally were able to spend a weekend at (gasp!) home! Don't get me wrong, I love when we are able to visit friends and family and we are so blessed to have so many friends and family to visit. However, it's nice to just enjoy our home and relax.

Friday night J had to work late so I ran errands, picked up some gifts and craft supplies, and fabric shopped. I found some great fabric we'd been eyeing (that coordinates with our already chosen and bought den fabrics) and it was on sale! After having a late dinner together we were able to relax and chat until bedtime.

Saturday morning we slept in (until a whopping 8am--welcome to the life of old people!) and then went out to enjoy the day, do a little yardsaling, and do things around our lovely home. I also began some lunch preparations for Sunday and baked some banana bread. Saturday evening I took my darling hubby out to one of his favorite restaurants for an early birthday dinner and then to another location of his choice for dessert. His birthday is actually this weekend but we won't be able to have dinner just the two of us.

We attended early service at our church on Sunday, and it was so nice to be there. We've been out of town for two weekends and were not able to attend and I really missed it. I don't mind attending other churches when we're out of town, but mine is truly my favorite and I miss the worship and the service when I'm away.

The Rev's (my adopted parents) came over Sunday after church for lunch (hence the Saturday afternoon prep). It was so exciting to spend time with them and have them to our house as guests. They were very helpful in our buying process and were very excited to see what we'd done with it since they'd seen it last. I couldn't ask for a better adopted family. Words can't express how wonderful they are and how thankful I am to have them in my life. They've helped me so much mentally and emotionally, not to mention letting me live with them. I truly love that family and it was a joy to have them in our house.

Sunday afternoon J and I hung his new bike racks in the garage (a birthday present from me that he was with me when I bought so I let him have it early), worked on my bike a bit, and took a little ride. We just enjoyed our day and our house and it was so relaxing and rejuvenating. I actually felt like I had a weekend and it actually didn't seem to fly by.

Although this coming weekend will be busy, it will be nice. J and I are going to a minor league baseball game on Friday night and his parents are coming to spend the day with us on Saturday and treat us to dinner for his birthday. After that we'll have the R kids until Tuesday which will definitely prove some excitement. I'm not sure J knows what he's in for.

125 Things

One Hundred and Twenty-Five Things

(because A only did 101, and 125 seemed like a good stopping point)

1. Pink is my favorite color, not because it's cool now, but because it always has been.
2. I used to have pink walls and pink carpet. (Gotta love the 80s/90s)
3. I could live on peanut butter products, green beans, and cheerios.
4. I'm MARRIED!
5. I like to pretend I have a green thumb and work hard to have pretty flowers, well, my husband does!
6. I'm from the mountains of West Virginia and although I never plan on going back, it will always be "home", however, Tennessee is definately my home too. I love this place.
7. Most of my family could be certifiable.
8. I have only one first cousin.
9. I have nearly 40 second cousins.
10. My Grammy and Pappy spoiled me rotten, and they were/are proud of it.
11. I have one adorable and fabulous little brother who is a very caring, generous, and thoughtful young man, not to mention handsome!
12. I have an amazing crew of friends known as The Bracelet Girls.
13. I love those girls.
14. I'm not an animal lover, but sometimes want a dog, a big dog, preferably a St. Bernard.
15. My husband is extremely smart and I think that is sexy.
16. He's also very outdoorsy and into hiking, biking, fishing, backpacking, camping, etc.
17. My idea of camping: on an air mattress next to the "bath house" with running hot water and outlets for my curling iron. I think those days are now over.
18. A goal has always been to get my Master's Degree.
19. I'll be getting that soon.
20. Even for a stay-at-home mom, I deem it necessary.
21. Writing is a amongst my favorite activities and have ideas for a couple of novels and a memoir.
22. J and I have plans to visit his friend in Northern Ireland and while we're there see what else Europe has to offer.
23. My motto: If you can't sing, sing loud!
24. I used to have a window seat in my bedroom in West Virginia. I had a tea set in it and liked to have tea with my dolls.
25. My friend Buffy and I also pretended it was a McDonald's drive-thru.
26. I thought I'd marry Joey McIntyre and my BF A.G. was going to marry Jordan Knight. They were going to be doctors and we'd live side-by-side in matching mansions and a huge horse farm.
27. C (Mrs. O to be) is my best friend from childhood.
28. Little Brother used to think she was his sister too because she was always (always!) at our house.
29. We often had "bar chats" that only we'd understand.
30. Although I don't have a sister, Ta and I are convinced we're twins.
31. We also convinced an entire cruise ship we were twins: LaLa and TaTa Twin.
32. I'm not sure where such a white, white girl gets such a booty, but I've got it.
33. My engagement ring (and wedding band) are the most gorgeous things I've ever seen.
34. I love children but don't want any for several years.
35. I adore the R, S, and O kids.
36. Our garage looks like a DeWalt showroom with all of my husbands fancy gadgets and power tools.
37. Yes, as a matter of fact I can use power tools!
38. Lazy afternoons at the lake are wonderful.
39. I don't know that I'll always live in TN, but I think I'll always live in the South.
40. However I'll entertain the idea of Cincinnati or a medium to large coastal New England city.
41. Dressing up is fun for me.
42. Dates with my husband are amazing.
43. Rachel Ray is a genius and one day I hope it doesn't take me 45 mins to an hour for a 30 Minute Meal.
44. My hubby and I like to visit seaside towns and lighthouses. Love lighthouses!
45. I look forward to traveling with my husband and have the next several years of vacations all planned out.
46. I love to shop, especially for other people!
47. It really is the little things.
48. Brownies are a food group.
49. Speaking of, I still have my Brownie Girl Scouts uniform.
50. I love taking and framing pictures. One day I'll need to scale down the amount of pictures in my house...one day.
51. The Rev's are the best adopted family a girl could have.
52. My in-laws have a big farm and I enjoy all the goodies from the ground to the bushes to the orchard.
53. The month of July is the worst--it's just too hot, humid, and mosquito-ish for me. August is moving right up there with it.
54. I love visiting the beach, especially in the fall and winter.
55. Saddle Oxford shoes were my favorite growing up. I had them in every color.
56. There is indeed a Heaven, and likewise, a Hell.
57. I believe in miracles, I believe in dreams, and I believe in myself.
58. Not always the latter...but my husband pushes me along.
59. I appear to be a confident person, but actually, I'm not.
60. The song "I Hope You Dance" is a true favorite. It's timeless and offers great advice.
61. I wish that song for my little brother.
62. My grandparents quite possibly hung the moon.
63. I'm certain they feel likewise about me, and that's a nice feeling.
64. I love to learn.
65. I'd be a professional student and go to school forever with a wall of degrees if I could.
66. In light of the above, C'mon powerball!
67. Sorority was a wonderful experience and proved to give me lifelong friends.
68. Some of my best college memories are with my roomie, A.
69. When I was younger I wished I wore school uniforms.
70. I wanted to be like Samantha from the American Girls.
71. I hope my children have to wear uniforms by the time they get to school.
72. If I were a teacher, I'd want year-round school so that I could take vacations several times during the year.
73. I'm an absolute anal-retentive, OCD, neat and organizational freak.
74. This leads me to believe I'm adopted
75. Absolutely under no circumstances is it acceptable to open Christmas gifts early.
76. Wedding planning was a favorite time in my life and I could do it professionally.
77. Being engaged was amazing and fabulous and married life is even better.
78. I LOVE going to weddings and being in weddings.
79. Rarely do I have the patience to watch a movie, but still feel the need to purchase them. I'm trying to break this habit.
80. I'm very crafty.
81. Often too crafty for my own good.
82. I like to bead and make jewelry. The beauty of it is when you're tired of it, you cut off the end and can start all over.
83. I enjoy sewing and monogramming.
84. The above is teaching me patience.
85. Painting is another hobby.
86. Not Picassos, but canvas's and other random objects.
87. Reading is a favorite pastime.
88. Unfortunately I don't find enough time or make enough time to do it as much as I'd like.
89. Celebrity Gossip is a guilty pleasure.
90. Children are an absolute delight.
91. Pie, my "niece", is perhaps the most adorable and by far smartest little girl ever.
92. History and tradition are important to me.
93. I hope that J and I infuse our children with hertitage and tradition and a strong sense of family.
94. My family is absolutely precious, crazy, but precious.
95. Mrs. Bex is my oldest friend in the whole world and I know that we'll always be as tight as just-out-of-the-dryer jeans.
96. That path hasn't always been easy, but I know God led me down it for a reason.
97. Faith is important to me.
98. Sometimes I only have my mustard seed.
99. I very well may be one of those people who always need a project going on.
100. J is afraid of this.
101. Mrs. R, Mrs. O, and Mrs. S, are some of the women I look up to most.
102. Being with the Rev's is like looking in a mirror.
103. Being an MDA Camp Counselor created some of my most wonderful memories and lifelong friends.
104. Yearly trips to Florida with my grandparents were a favorite for me. Disney World, Sea World, The Zoo, and The Beach were always on the agenda.
105. Visiting the lake house with my other grandparents were great summers during my childhood. Swimming, boating, and games were in abundance.
106. Logic isn't a strong point for me, although I tend to overanalyze.
107. Pre-career jobs I've had include: tutor, babysitter, gymnastics instructor, dean's assistant, and nanny.
108. Being a nanny was my favorite, followed by the gymnastics instructor.
109. Decorating really thrills me.
110. I could redo my entire house every year and love it.
111. Re-creating looks is fun with anything from clothes to rooms.
112. Opinions are like noses, everybody's got one.
113. Be respectful of those who have ones that differ.
114. Sometimes people suck.
115. Sometimes you don't think someone sucks, and they suck completely!
116. Yard Saling and Antiqueing are among my and J's favorite Saturday morning activities.
117. After waffles of course.
118. We actually own a few real antiques: our kitchen chairs, the buffet, J's desk, a sitting chair, and perhaps a dresser in our room.
119. Old things thrill me. I enjoy turning trash to treasure.
120. J and I are big on refinishing furniture and repurposing items.
121. I don't believe in only doing things for special occasions.
122. For example: china. For me, every day is special enough for J and I to use our china.
123. We also use cloth napkins, and candlelight dinners are also a regular in our house.
124. I love surprises! For me and for others. I like to do things that make other people feel special.
125. Each day is a reason to celebrate: live, laugh, love!

Pluto is no longer a Planet

Since 1930 Pluto has been the little, last planet known at the end of the Milky Way solar system. That has changed. Pluto was stripped of it's planet status when astronomers developed new historic guidelines on what constitutes a planet. So after 76 years, Pluto got a demotion.

The new rules for a planet is as follows:

"a celestial body that is in orbit around the sun, has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces so that it assumes a ... nearly round shape, and has cleared the neighborhood around its orbit."

Apparently Pluto is oblong and overlaps with Neptune. Who knew?

Pluto is now considered a dwarf planet and apparently there could be dozens of other dwarf planets. Third grade was a long (long!) time ago, but I don't remember dwarf planets.

Sadly, my third grade paper mache model of the solar system is outdated now. Wow--I'm old.

Tom Cruise: You are Crazy

I commend Paramount for firing (well, not resigning the contract with) Tom Cruise. He is crazy. His recent behaviors have not exhibited anything that I would want representing my company. Now that Sumner Redstone has spoken the Tom Cruise posse is firing back that the remarks are unjustified and out of context. Hardly. Besides, when you are an employee and work for/with someone you should exhume a certain behavior to maintain those relationships and remain in good standing. Tom Cruise, thinking, "Oh I'm Tom Cruise", did not consider the affects that his bizarre and ridiculous actions would have on his career. Sumner Redstone and Paramount have full right to deny the renewal of his and anyone else's contract whom they don't see fit as a representative of their company. Tom should just go back to his Risky Business days of dancing and singing in his undies.

Tribute

The 5th anniversary of September 11 is coming up. Go check out the 2,996 Project and sign up to be part of 2,996 volunteer bloggers who will join together for a tribute to the victims of 9/11. Each person will pay tribute to a single victim and they need more bloggers. I was the 2,690 so go now and be 2,691!

Even if you don't blog go check it out. The purpose is to honor the lives and pay tribute to the victims of 9/11 and seeing this sight will definately touch your heart.

Tact

Tact is having the ability to tell someone to go to hell, and have them happy to be on their way.

Tuesday Top Ten

I can't think of anything for my Tuesday Top Ten. There isn't much going on at this moment. So here, without rhyme or reason, are:

Top Ten Random Thoughts in My Head

1. Should I order those pillows from Pottery Barn? I need to get inserts so that I can cover pretty cushions for the den.
2. I need to put my wedding announcement in hometown newspapers. One down, four to go.
3. I need to pay my PRSA dues.
4. I still haven't emailed my Sorority Nationals, again. Of course, given the history they're in no hurry to get back with me.
5. Don't forget to order the cute pics recently uploaded to shutterfly.
6. Tonight I'm going to go to Target, go to the grocery, and perhaps assist my husband in painting the potting shed. Oh, and I should do laundry, too.
7. Look for the sofa and leather ottoman receipts which are most likely on my desk. Of course given the sight of my desk you'll probably find kangaroos, beachside condos, and third world countries under there as well.
8. What on earth am I going to get my husband for his birthday? I have a few ideas, but I can't make big decisions.
9. I'd like to curl up in my bed and take a nap. I could use a good book, a little TV, and perhaps my hubby to play with my hair.
10. I think I could use a cup of coffee.

Weekend, Weekend

What an eventful weekend. There were two weddings out of town, two friends in town, and J's brother home from the USAF for a week. Needless to say, we were quite busy!

Friday night we went to Morristown for Lynsey and Brian's wedding (see details below) and then on to Kingsport to stay with J's parents. Saturday afternoon we went to Stephanie and Jayson's wedding in Johnson City. Saturday evening J's dad took us all to the Outback. We spent Saturday night at J's parents house and Sunday after church was family lunch at his grandparents. And oh-my-goodness his grandmother made chicken and dumplin's YUM! We left after lunch to return home and have dinner with Mr. and Mrs. S and Mr. and Mrs. Y since the S's were in town..

Lynsey's wedding was so much fun. I enjoyed getting to chat with her pre-ceremony. She looked gorgeous and had the coolest wedding shoes on earth! I thought I'd broke the mold with pink shoes and Brooke followed up with her periwinkle shoes but Lynsey's were by far the best. Her dress was a two-tone ivory and champagne so it exuberated a goldish tint. Her shoes were kitten heel sandals that were gold with a the strap being covered in multi-colored sequins. They were awesome. (The sequins were the same as the ones on my ballet flats that J lovingly call the ugly shoes!) Lynsey's flower girl dresses were fabulous too. They were the same two tone as her dress and had coral sashes and bows around the middle that matched the bridesmaids. It was too cute. She also had fabulous food and especially fabulous lemonade at the reception. The ceremony was precious and Lyns was very emotional. (I can totally relate!) Luckily for her, she is beautiful when she cries. I thought it was also special that Brian's ring was his grandfather's. It had been gold and they had it dipped to be white gold and match Lynsey's. Lyns and I go way back to the days of CHS Cheerleading and I was so happy to see her get married.

The wedding on Saturday was long-time friends of J. It was at the gorgeous Carnegie Hotel in Johnson City. It was a Jewish wedding which was really neat because I'd only seen those on TV and in movies. They broke the glass and we got to yell "Mazel Tov!" at the end. (Hey--it was very exciting for this sheltered southern girl! I love learning about new traditions and cultures.)The bride's dress was gorgeous with a two-layered train. She had both her parents walk her down the aisle which I think is really special. The dresses and accents were a really pretty indigo color that looked very nice in the formal ballroom we were in. Her flowers were calla lilies and were so elegant and beautiful in her bouquet, the bridesmaids bouquets, and the centerpieces. There were two long stemmed callas in a tall vase with indigo rocks at the bottom. I loved it! J and I enjoyed the reception with an old friend of his and some family of the bride that were from Sacramento and were very friendly and entertaining to talk to. We had such a good time. I absolutely love going to weddings.

Sunday night dinner with the S's and Y's at the C's home was wonderful. The food was delicious and the company even better. We looked at Brooke's wedding pictures and talked about everything (and everyone!) we could think of. Our chats/discussions are always interesting given we're all newlyweds so we have an abundance in common to gab about. It's amazing how much we are all alike and how our lives are so synonymous. I love it when one of us is telling a story and then we all begin to cackle because we realize that we do/have done the same thing. It's nice to know we're either all normal or all very abnormal. Either way, I'm glad to be part of such a fabulous crew of "bracelet girls." I realize how much I truly treasure these girls when in their presence. It's such good therapy to spend quality time with them. They are wonderful ladies and I have no clue how I'd ever make it without them. I hope we can have another great evening together with Missa and Ellen this fall/winter. It will be great to have us all together again.

One of these days J and I are going to not be out of town for the weekend or not have a million and one things to do in town. It will be nice to relax and enjoy the place we call home (and pay a mortgage!). For now though, I'm happy that we are blessed with amazing family and friends to visit with and spend our time.

Memphis Man Breaks Leg, Crocs are to Blame

Associated Press--A man in Memphis found the one and only puddle in his driveway while wearing his crocs and promptly fell and splattered across the pavement resulting in a broken leg. Upon a trip to the ER the nurse noted that she says many an injury as a result of the ridiculous foot apparel.

Thanks Mrs. S for sharing that humorous story for us all last night. We wish Big Ed a speedy recovery and a croc-free future.

Engaged!

One of my oldest and best friends CC got engaged on Saturday night. Her now fiance, CO, planned a beautiful proposal and presented her with a gorgeous emerald cut diamond ring when he asked her to marry him. I couldn't be happier for the two of them. J and I love spending time with them and cannot wait for the upcoming wedding which will be next summer between her rotations. I love being in weddings and even being invited to weddings. With all the bracelet girls being married as of June, I'm very much looking forward to this joyous occasion.

I'm so excited to help CC with her wedding planning, throw her showers, give her a lingerie/bachlorette party, and be part of the whole process. It thrills me to see that she has found such a wonderful man and that J and I can be part of their lives. We can't wait to celebrate with them on Labor Day weekend.

Congratulations CC and CO!

Super Busy and Silver Hair

I've had a super busy week at work, thus my lack of blogging. I'm leaving early (in just 15 minutes) to attend two weddings this weekend and visit J's family with him. His brother has a short leave from the Air Force.

In other news this week, I've found more silver hairs. They've slowly migrated from the crown of my head and I found on in my bangs. Silver hairs! I'm not that old!

A quick note: when I am busy at work I do enjoy my job a little more. I like the fast-paced environment that comes with working for a large media outlet. However, I've barely had time to read people.com, catch up on personal emails, research a few home projects, and blog! Hopefully next week I'll catch up on that.

Congrats to Lynsey and Brian who are getting hitched tonight! I'm so excited!

Agreement on the MTV Curse

Travis Barker also agrees that perhaps an MTV reality show isn't the best idea for those happy and in love. He said this in a recent People Magazine interview.

PEOPLE: Do you think there's an MTV curse? You and Shanna, Dave Navarro and Carmen Electra, Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson have all split after having reality shows about your marriages.
BARKER: I do. I think putting your relationship out there for people to interpret and have their own opinion about, I think it's crazy. Ours was different 'cause it showed a young couple who could still get down and reach for their goals and dreams. But I still feel like it puts a lot of stress on the relationship.

Read the full story here.

In Atlanta with the H's

It's official--being with the H's is like looking in a mirror!

J and I had so much fun visiting with Mr. and Mrs. H. I never knew Mr. H and J had so much in common. I am so happy that they did get along so well though. It makes the visit much more enjoyable for everyone. I often forget how much Mrs. H and I have in common until we hang out. We have the same viewpoint on most everything. That girl is obviously practically perfect.

I'm not sure Mrs. H and I will recover this week because our hubbies were so out of control. It was quite entertaining, and we couldn't help but laugh, but they are awful, just awful! There's nothing like the Tri-Cities to bond a friendship.

We started with dinner at The Cheesecake Factory before going to our concert. I. LOVE. THE. CHEESECAKE. FACTORY! It may be overpriced cheesecake and overpriced food because they have overpriced cheesecake, but YUM! it is tasty! I quite enjoyed the crabcake I had for dinner as well.

From dinner it was on to see Hootie in Chastain Park. We'd heard you could bring in coolers, etc. Apparently you can have a dinner party as well. People had brought in and sat up tables, had candles, and such foods as bbq ribs, potato salads, etc. It was a full on catered picnic from home. Pretty snaz! Those people had obviously been there awhile which we now know is a must when going to Chastain Park.

The show was awesome. Hootie came thru by singing "You Don't Have To Call Me Darlin'" once again. We had all discussed how Hootie had reached a peak in his career and then regressed to singing covers once again. I still think it's pretty great. I love his voice and his own little renditions to the covers he sings. At the beginning of the concert I was thinking how cool it would be if he would cover Georgia Satellites and sing "Keep Your Hands To Yourself." The very last song of the encore was...are you believing this...KEEP YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF!
I should have said something at the beginning because no one will believe I have Hootie telepathy. It must have been because I was wearing a straw cowgirl hat to match Hootie's straw cowboy hat. All in all, it was such a great concert! I do wish Hootie had done his reprise of Nelly, Blackstreet, and Lauren Hill like he did last summer. Betsy and Adam would have enjoyed that. I'm trying to figure out what he's singing in his remix of Let Her Cry. It sounds pretty cool whatever it is.

We were all talking about how listening to Hootie takes us back, way back! Hootie came out with Cracked Rear View when I was in the 7th grade. Isn't that crazy? That was a long (long!) time ago. J and I are starting to feel like Hootie groupies with all of the shows we've attended. I really do love to hear him though. And contrary to what you think, it's not cheap to see Hootie just because he's practically considered classic rock now. It's actually quite pricy for the venues he plays.

We loved being guests in the H house. The H's have only lived there for a couple of months, but it's so cute. It reminds us a lot of our house. It could be because Mrs. H and I have matching sofas! Yes, we have matching sofas! Remember the great sofa debacle a month ago, yes, it's those sofas. How funny is that?

Hopefully we'll have another wonderful weekend with the H's in the next few months if they venture to town for a football game.

Cheers to the H's!

Hootie Weekend

This week has seemed so long, and now that it is Friday, it doesn't even feel like it. I'm very excited about my weekend plans to visit Atlanta and for J and I to go see Hootie with Betsy and Adam. They built their first home and moved in during Memorial Day weekend. I can't wait to see it and be their guest. Mrs. H is super Martha Stewart like me and I'm sure the place is amazing. Plus I love seeing Hootie in concert and J is very excited since it's his all time favorite band.

I'm in a dilemma over what to wear. As hot and humid as it is here, I know that I'm going to melt the second I reach Atlanta. I really want to wear my red cowgirl boots and I feel it's very Hootie appropriate. However I'm thinking I could get some moist feet and legs and I'm not sure how far we'll have to walk. They aren't made for trekking about too much. At the very least I could sport my straw cowgirl hat. Oh how I hope Hootie sings "You Don't Have To Call Me Darlin'" again.

We're also going to see CC and CO for lunch on our way out Sunday. I love taking little weekends away and visiting friends. Here's to a great weekend. Cheers!

J is Out of Town and Other Random Bits of Info

First, J is out of town and I'm sad. I know he'll be back tomorrow, but I'll have no one to rub my back and play with my hair when I go to sleep tonight. My beloved stuffed Eeyore, which happily slept with me since I was an infant, will resume a spot in the bed tonight. I simply can't sleep without curling up with something.

Now of all days that J would be traveling, it would be today! This whole terrorist plot from Britain to the United States is very scary. As I've been reading foxnews.com I've learned that there have been several terrorist attacks on planes in the 80s and 90s. I suppose I'm too young to remember. (Speaking of age, a man I work with was shocked to learn what a young thing I was!) The whole world war, terrorist, and mass destruction thing is very frightening. I'm happy to say that J did arrive safely.

I am pleased that the US is taking high precautions. J wasn't allowed to take his toothpaste on board. (I certainly hope the hotel has some so his teeth don't have to wear fuzzy slippers all day!) It's horrible that such precautions have to be taken, but I'm inclined to think that airlines should continue the heightened security as if every day was high alert.

Lastly I'd like to report that while in the Cincinnati Airport, J spotted a fashion victim. There was a man there wearing big white socks, and big black crocs. Why people, why?

My Ring

I finally got my wedding band sized. I'm not sure why I didn't opt to do that before the actual wedding, but I didn't. I decided that since it was held back by my engagement ring it would be find. However the diamonds on the top are heavy and kept turning the ring around the sides and the metal was getting all scratched up. Hence, I decided to take it in for sizing. It was odd not having my wedding band on for 5 whole days. Really, really odd. I never take either of these rings off...ever! However I did contemplate going to a dress shop other than where I bought my dress to try on more pretty dresses just for fun since it looked as if I was merely engaged. Unfortunately time didn't permit such activity.

I now have my ring back and I love how snug it fits on my hand. It doesn't turn so the diamonds are always on top and sparkly. Now that the band fits properly and is the size of my engagement ring, the diamonds in the band fit perfectly alongside with the others. And the best part is that the circle of diamonds at the base of the solitaire now stick up grand and glorious over the band. It looks absolutely gorgeous! I love the way it's steamed cleaned to perfection at the store and it glistens and gleams under any light.

I know I'm a little vain about my ring but I think that's fine because I love it so much. It's very special to me because J worked hard to pick it out all by himself and keep the whole thing a surprise. I love, love, LOVE my ring. Perhaps I should post pictures some day.

MTV Divorce Rate Up

I'm sure this will come as a shock to you, but MTV is three for three on divorced reality show couples. Who would have ever thought this could have happened?

Recently Carmen Electra (whose real name is Tara Leigh Patrick--what's that all about?) and Dave Navarro split. Their MTV reality show 'Til Death Do Us Part had seven episodes. It was the follow-up to the couples "courtship" (the network term, not mine!) which was also an MTV reality show entitled Carmen & Dave, an MTV Love Story. Courtship? Are you kidding me? I hardly think the relationship portrayed between the two falls within the bounds of "courtship."

Now the stars of Meet the Barkers, also and MTV reality show, have announced their separation. Travis Barker (from the band Blink-182) and Shanna Moakler, a formal Miss America, have announced they are divorcing. Who knew that the third time wouldn't be a charm? (And as we all know I'm all about unique and personable weddings, but a gothic, Nightmare before Christmas inspired ceremony on Halloween Eve is just too much for me. I hate Halloween anyway!)

And of course we've all heard about the demise of Nick and Jessica. I have to say (with no sarcasm, this is legit) that I'm truly upset by that. I love Nick and Jessica. I loved their show, I love their relationship, I loved them together! Although most Hollywood break-ups don't shock me and I deem Hollywood marriage as temporary, I really thought Nick and Jessica would withstand the Hollywood scene and have a happy little marriage. Their dating relationship was so grounded and wholesome. It seemed they had a good foundation for marriage. I'm sad for whatever ripped them apart. I think the Hollywood scene had a lot to do with it. As popularity rose they were assimilating into the culture there.

I guess that's what happens when you have television cameras around you all the time to film your public and private life. I can't imagine J and I having cameras around us all the time. (No one else should try to imagine it either--BORING! We love our life but it's nothing for film crews. Well, unless it's project time in the garage!). Really though--having everything you say and do on camera? That must be hard.

I'm sure there are some greedy, fame-crazed, idiot celebrities or wannabe celebrities who will still sign up for future opportunities to exploit themselves and inevitably get divorced with public display. I half wonder if some celebrities enjoy the attention of the divorce as well. Hey--it's still attention. At any rate, I think doing such a thing is ludicrous.
Congrats MTV! You're breaking up happy and harmonious unions one reality show at a time.

Anti-Crocism Part II

I'm so happy that Addy feels the same on my anti-crocism. I'll agree that those in the medical profession may happily wear their crocs guilt free. However if you are not in the medical profession and are wearing crocs, you're an idiot. It's like wearing a jersey of your favorite sports player and considering it dressing up, especially if you're a grown man. The sports player in question doesn't wear his jersey out as a fashion statement--neither should you! It's cute on kids but beyond that it makes you an idiot. If I can find a man wearing crocs and a professional jersey I'll have to tell him this. At least take a picture to chuckle about here. (Haven't I become quite the fashion critic lately?)

However I'm on the fence about gardeners. I suppose it's practical, but I'm still sticking to flip flops. For kids at summer camp, I'm sticking with velcro around the foot tevas or flip flops.

Tuesday Top Ten

Today is the 100th day I've been married.

Top Ten Things I Love About My Husband (I'm sure there are more--but here are 10 random)

1. Yum Yum! He can cook, he's a grill master, and he bakes good brownies. Not to mention that for the past two years I've gotten a homemade carrot cake with cream cheese icing!
2. He gives good back rubs. (and sometimes he does it without my asking!)
3. He has learned to make the bed correctly. Likewise he can also put most things in my super OCD organizational system. (He mostly does it with a cheerful smile too! haha!)
4. He's so handy! He can do things with cars, and furniture, and use tons of power tools. Now that's hot!
5. He's such a sweetheart. He gives me sweet kisses and writes me cute little notes.
6. He's adventurous. He likes to be outdoors and try new things. Even things I like that he doesn't (i.e. Chair Lift!).
7. He's very caring. He has a big heart and a genuine love and concern for his family and friends. He can also make me laugh! I love his hidden wittiness. I love when we giggle together for so long we're not sure what started it.
8. He's smart. I love that he is so business oriented and savvy. He's good with numbers and all of that accounting/financy stuff that I could care less about! I love that he can read those smart magazines and understand and enjoy them.
9. He has goals and dreams and is driven. (Perhaps lacks motivation occasionally--but that's why I'm here!). I love his ambition and what he has planned for the future. I love that he cares about my goals and dreams and pushes me and supports me to reach those.
10. He's so cute! Have you seen him? Oh my goodness what a doll. And strong I tell you! That boy has muscles.
    

What the Croc?

I can't hold back any longer. I. HATE. Crocs!

Crocs are perhaps the worst trend ever formed. Who can comfortably walk around in rubber in a pool of sweat? Isn't that why "jelly shoes" were a bad idea? Crocs are large, ugly, tacky, and I will make fun of you if you were them.

But crocs are sooo comfortable and feel so good on you feet. Yes, well, so do tevas, chacos, new balance, nike, etc.

Kids in crocs can be ok, because they're kids and they're cute. But again...who can effectively walk around in a pool of sweat at your feet? Probably not a toddler.

Yes, perhaps crocs are good for those little swim team kids because they are water resistant. Who cares!? Get some flip flops and you'll be just fine.

I'd like to give a few shout outs to the worst croc wearing recipients:

1. Big Blue Crocs I saw on Sunday--you're already big feet in even bigger blue rubber shoes made you look as if you were wearing waterskis to church. This could be hazardous to those who are trying to walk around you. Not to mention that your big blue crocs match nothing! They especially didn't match your nice khaki shorts and button down shirt. Go buy some birks.

2. Snow Blinding Crocs Frat Boy--just because you're a frat guy doesn't mean that you can look cool in any trend that comes along or any trend you choose to wear. On the contrary you looked ridiculous in your semi-filthy bright white crocs. As I watched what a ridiculous fool you looked like I pondered offering you a life preserver since I know that at any moment you'd be drowning in the pool of sweat that was forming at your feet.

3. My last shout out is my favorite. I've been harboring this since March!

Here's to you Mr. Man Who Wears Socks with Crocs. The temperature outside is a mere 51 degrees but you my friend will not be separated from your big, ugly, stupidly trendy crocs. Oh no--you will find big stark white fluffy socks to warm your piggys as you slide them into large round rubber shoes with holes in the middle of winter. Oh the feeling of being trendy has always been foreign to you and it still is! You proudly wear your socks with crocs with your ugly pleated chinos and overloaded cable knit sweater, that's right Mr. Socks with Crocs, the rest of us have nothing on you! Well, except for a wardrobe that is fully functional, aesthetically pleasing and free of car tires and food storage containers. Don't you worry Mr. Man Who Wears Socks with Crocs--we'll all be here to chuckle at you when you fall on your rear from the unsteady walking on big rubber feet.

The Weekend

Well my weekend was eventful to say the least. Here's a rundown.

Friday
Worked all day except for the two hours in the afternoon we were without power due to a horrible storm that came thru. It was stressful thinking about completing everything for the weekend, but turned out not to be painful once the power was restored. Once I finally got home it was nearly time for LR's (C to Be) Lingerie Shower. I love having people at my house and hosting parties, and we had such a good time! I didn't think the fun would ever end. Ta did such a great job with the games and everything. I loved getting to spend time with LR and BH. It felt like high school except we weren't changing into cheerleading uniforms in the back of the car while visiting every fastfood place High School Town had to offer because we all wanted a certain item at a certain locale. Oh the memories. I love those girls. Once the party was said and done, Ta and I sat up and chatted. It was way, WAY, past my bedtime by the time I went to bed.

Saturday
Saturday was my brother's birthday, but I didn't get to see him. Instead I got to go to Boyfriend's 5th Birthday party. Boyfriend is one of the darling children I was a nanny for. I've known him since he was about 9 months old. Let's move on to talk about this party. It was by far the coolest child's birthday party I've ever been to. (Even cooler than his 3rd birthday with the horse and Indian teepee and his 4th birthday with a field trip to the fire department....yes--this kid has amazing birthday parties!).

So this year was a slip-n-slide racecar theme. Uncle J works for Dewalt Racing and Boyfriend thinks it's the coolest thing ever. So this was a Matt Kennseth party. It started with a life size stand up of Matt Kennseth greeting you at the driveway. Various checkered flag decor were about including three other Matt Kennseth stand ups. And then of course, there was the slip-n-slide. This was not the out-of-the-box-from-a-store-slip-n-slide. Oh no my friend! This was a 12x50 downhill extravaganza! Yes it was! You should have seen the kids flying down. It was such entertainment. Well of course I decide to try my hand in the giant slip-n-slide. The only big kid around to venture to such things (later one of the moms decided she had to do it too. Boyfriend's mom was on her way but seeing the fate of others decided this wasn't safe for the baby in her belly!).

Girlfriend wanted me to go down with her so I put her on my lap and here we goooooooooooooo! Let me tell you--it was a wild ride. We totally wiped out and while it was fun--it was a little frightening even for me. No wonder she was concerned. You can pick up quite a bit of momentum on that hill. The way the hill and the water was running you'd slightly veer to the left and could go off in the grass. Understand one thing people: GRASS BURN HURTS! Yes, you can get grass burn. I saw the big red marks well upon my legs but decided it was no biggie and continued to slip-n-slide with Girlfriend.

On one particular "0ff-sliding" incident my swimsuit bottoms managed to make there way up my bum so far I was nearly wearing them as a hat. When I tried to gracefully dig them back to their proper locale I think I could have gave a nice moon to all the onlookers below. Hope you all enjoyed! So again, despite the flaring red marks I slide a few more times with little Girlfriend . Love that child I tell you!

J and I ran some errands on the way home so it was a bit before I was able to get there and change. When I did I realized there was grass in places I didn't know existed. It appeared that I could have had sod implants on my bottom. Not to mention it was dry by now and not so easy to get off. I was scrubbing my already aching bottom and legs in attempt to rid them of all weeds. It was then I realized the battle wounds were not only on my left leg, but also on my right leg, and also all over my bum. Yes, the aforementioned incident with the swimsuit shifting about left my bum exposed on the crash in the grass thus giving me grass burn on my derriere. Ouch! My darling husband's response to my battle wounds, "I told you you were too old!"

Saturday night J and I went to the drive in with some of our good friends, the Y's. We had so much fun packing up a tailgate/picnic and having a little party around the car. It could have only been better if the other bracelet girls and their hubbies could have joined us. It was quite entertaining to people watch, but we laughed that we too could be entertainment. However the suburban with the nasty old mattress, the half drunken granddad singing, and the load of rednecks around beat us out. However the guy with the subwoofer rocked! We could hear great from him.

Again, I was out WAY past my bedtime.

Sunday
Sunday was a semi relaxing day for J and I. After church we had lunch at home and went to visit my cousins for a bit. It was so hot that you'd melt just standing outside, so we opted for our cool and cozy den to relax for the afternoon. Later that evening we had a little photoshoot of me in my pretty, pretty wedding dress with the Bell. What a cutie she is! After a visit with the S's we picked up some take out and went home to cuddle up with our grub and a little TV before bedtime. It was fabulous!

Here's a little pic of me and the Bell.

Happy Birthday Eve Little Brother

Tomorrow is CDs (gasp!) 13th Birthday. You know what that means? Yes--I'm old. Dirt was made when I was three.

I can't believe he is thirteen. He's such a sweet, caring, generous, and kind hearted young man. He's very mature and I'm so proud of him. I know that Dad, Grandma, Grandpa are too.

So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVE LITTLE BROTHER!! I love you! MWA!

DIY Update

I know that many (Addy!) of my faithful readers enjoy hearing updates on the adventures of DIY projects of Mr. and Mrs. M. Most notably-what could have/did/might have/almost/went wrong and were there any lost limbs/lost phalanges/abrasions/trips to the ER/etc.

Our current project is pretty mundane. We're giving a facelift to the potting shed in the back yard. We're painting it to match the house and J made cedar window boxes for flower to hang on the front. It will be so cute!

J has worked hard to paint it for the past 3 nights and I joined in last nights festivities. We have the door painted (a great shade of blue! We're also repainting the front door and shutters this color) and the bottom three quarters of the building itself. J is going to trim some limbs (God be with him!) and get on the ladder (God watch over that too!) to paint the top quarter of it. Then we're going to second coat the whole thing.

After the potting shed is complete we're going to paint the front door and shutters the same shade of blue as I mentioned earlier. That should conclude our outside tasks for a bit. This fall J is going to kill the bad grass and reseed the good grass. (It's all just weeds to me!)

A few indoor projects are my picking out the exact perfect fabric for the cushions in the den. We also need to recover the top of the trunk to match and make a drop shade for the french door. We're also refinishing the mantle for that room.

Upcoming projects of this fall include (but are not limited too): cornice boards (we've bought some of the wood....we're getting there!), balloon shades for the master bedroom, a little touch up paint action here and there, getting the trim and moldings painted (this will be contracted out!), and refinishing a dresser and nightstands for the master.

That list, of course, is subject to change (by additions only!).

Tuesday Top Ten

To move on with the theme of "Where-am-I-going-with-my-life?", today's Top Ten will be.....

Top Ten Jobs I'd Very Much Love

Well, first and foremost I want to be a mommy--but that job will co-exist with any combination of the following.

1. Magazine Writer
How cool would I be as a YM or Seventeen correspondent?
2. Columnist
My husband said I should take my blog one step further and write a weekly column about
young, married, city life. Oh yeah, that's me: Carrie Bradshaw--married style!
3. Grand Writer for and Education Foundation
Oh wait, I just missed that position last fall! Sucka sucka!
4. Grant Writer for a Non-Profit
I'd love to be a grantwriter/fundraiser for a well established nonprofit that I believe in. For
example, I know that ETCH is hiring right now and I have an inside connection through a
friend. However, I'm happy where I am.
5. Event Planner/Community Relations for a Non-Profit
See number four.
6. Child's Counselor
This can go so many ways. I love children and would love to have a job to make a difference
and enrich the lives of children. I have two friends who aspire to be child life specialists and
work in a hospital. They'd help children understand about their or a family member's illness
and provide counseling. My cousin works for an agency that helps low income families get
childcare and pay childcare expenses so that the parent(s) can work. A social worker or
family rehabilitator falls in this category as well as the aforementioned school
counselor/guidance counselor. I have a feeling that as a school counselor I'd see a little of
everything.
7. News Anchor
How cool would that be? When I was little I used to want to be Barbara Walters on 20/20
and by high school I was totally aspiring to be on the view.
8. Marketing Director
I just love the world of PR and Marketing. I love it all: planning events, organizing
campaigns, overseeing art productions, writing press press kit materials (news releases,
features, fact sheets, psa's, etc), designing brochures, making media calls, etc.
9. Teacher
I'd love to teach kingergarten and be the foundation for children's educational experience. I
love little ones! (Hence I was a nanny for a million years!). I'd also like to teach middle
school. I'd love to be an English teacher so that I can have a substantial amount of creative
writing in the class. Of course at the high school level of English I could teach about
media/newspaper/magazine writing and incorporate PR in there. Sweet! I do not, however,
EVER have the desire to be a professor and teach college.
10. Small Business Owner
I'm actually (ever so slightly) working on this. I'd love to have a small out of home business
that does custom made bags, jewelry, monogramming, custom made gifts, hand painted
canvas' and windows, a children's shop, etc. That would be my forte'; a boutique!

Quarter Life Crisis

It's fabulous to know that I'm not the only girl out there with a "quarter life crisis." I'm not the only mid twenties, well-educated, has-a-professional-career, suburban, yuppie young lady who has no idea where she is going next. I know at least that the Bracelet Girls can relate as well as some other dear friends (Liz, Alice, Addy).

Although I can be a little melodramatic and small obstacles and issues tend to amplify with me to the point that I stress and worry for no reason, I'm such a lucky girl! I have the most wonderful husband in the whole world who loves me even when I'm a spaz. I know that he supports me and will help me through anything I choose. I have fabulous friends who are always there to listen to me and give me their girlfriend wisdom. I have a wonderful family and the cutest little (almost 13--holy cow!) brother on earth. Seriously, have you seen him?

With that said, I'm much closer to making decisions than I was. I'm praying about my next move, discussing options with my husband, and covering all the bases for my educational options here. I hope to have an update soon!

What do I want to do when I grow-up?

I keep thinking that WOW--I should be finishing grad school right now. Unfortunately for circumstances beyond my control I wasn't mentally and emotionally able to pursue grad school fresh out of undergrad. I thought that would be find since for my chosen career I need substantial experience as well as education. However now I'm so ready to pursue further education and realize there is not time like the present. I keep thinking "What do I want to do when I grow-up?" And then I hear a voice within me saying, "Good Morning Dollface--you are grown-up, now what?"

It's a horrible realization that I don't think I really know what I want to do with forever besides spend it with J (Awww, I know!). What I thought I always wanted to do has changed...several times.

I used to think that I wanted my MS in College Student Personnel. This came from being super involved on campus as an undergraduate and loving what the Graduate Student Advisors with my organizations did. That has slowly dwindled when I think that pursuing that means always living in a city with a college that has need for such positions. And fighting all that daily college stuff but without the extended holidays and summers off. I hadn't really thought about that option in awhile and was definitely assured of that as I visited campus today for an appointment. DO I HAVE THREE HEADS? I totally felt like I was being stared at and that I didn't fit in. My goodness I only graduated two little years ago.

Another option that I always wanted to pursue was getting my MS in Public Relations, which was my undergraduate major. It would be simple and easy (as simple and easy as possible) since I have all the prereqs and that kind of work comes really naturally for me. UT also has a magazine writing program which I think is amazing. I always wanted to write for a magazine. I wanted to start with a trendy magazine for young girls such as YM. Is that still around? It was my favorite magazine as a teen. Then I thought I'd move up to something like Elle, Glamour, Lucky, or Domino. From there I'd move over to Better Homes and Gardens, Real Simple, or Southern Living. Finally, I'd end up with Parents, or Child. Yeah, I had it all figured out. So I haven't ruled out the PR/Writing option, but since I already have a background in that do I want to change it up a bit?

So my final option is School Counseling. If I were to write a short manifesto of the escapades I was exposed to as a child and adolescent, they'd probably give me a MS in School Counseling! I do love children, I'm into the counseling thing, could be a nice fit. It opens doors for social work type fields as well as being a guidance counselor. I could be around kids but not in a full time setting. It has a great schedule for when I have my own children and is a position where I feel as if I'd be making a difference. Plus I could be a cheer/tennis coach! How fun! With further classes and licensure processes I could also move into being a teacher if that is what I wanted to do. I would love to teach creative writing classes to students. (See--everything goes back to writing! I love it! Simply love it!)

So what is a girl to do? With working a full time job it will roughly take a million years to complete my MS. In addition if I'm doing it through UT (most likely given my geographical location and my love for all things orange) what if they change the program and it adds extra years. J and I have talked about my going part time for a couple years and he'll be finished with his MBA. From there I could go to school full time and finish in just one more year.

What I do know is this. I. Do. Not. Like. Working. In. The. Summertime! Summertime is meant to be doing stuff that isn't working. Hence the school counseling option looks very viable because (drum roll please) I have summers off! In addition that means when I have children I would work about 180 days per year (Thanks for that stat Mrs. Bex!) and be able to be at home with them a lot.

Which raises other questions. Will I be a stay-at-home-mom? I know everyone reading this is shouting a big, emphatic "YES!", but I really don't know. I feel as if I have to be doing something. I want to feel as if I'm contributing something to my family besides raising kids and also to society, besides raising kids (i.e. I can have my own secret checking account and since I have a job won't feel like I have to be the one to do the laundry all the time! wink, wink!) . I feel like working part-time would make me happier than being a stay-at-home-mom. It would be easier to work part-time with the PR degree/magazine writing emphasis. However, having and educators schedule is basically the same thing but different format.

Since having children and being a mother is very important to me, I really want to think about what is best for me and my family as J and I grow up (that's right, up, not old!) together, have children, and move on to other places in our lives. Who knows where we will even be in a couple of years? His job could take us a variety of places and I want to be able to be flexible in what I pursue. That being said, I think my above options are flexible.

As T2 says no matter how long it takes I'm going to be the same person this time next year and the year after that. I can either be where I am now or taking steps closer to goals and graduate degrees. That T2! She's so smart.

Search for "what I want to do with the rest of my life, " is that a Google option?

A Toilet! A Sink!

This weekend J and I got a toilet and sink for the completion of our third bathroom. Do you know how happy that makes me? Turn to page 304 of "When you know you're old" and you'll see this:

You get excited about a new sink and a new toilet!

We don't really have plans to complete it just yet, our goal is actually in about 2 years We hadn't really planned on acquiring these items just yet. But now we just need a bathtub and we're all set except for the cost of plumbing and a new floor.

I have my sights set on bigger things first though, such as the deck! I'm so going to have my deck with bench seating on the sides next spring. Won't that be great to not have to go around to the patio when grilling out? We'll grill out weekly--even in the winter.

Lucky

I'm love-love-loving my new Lucky jeans. They fit absolutely perfect and they make my apple bottom look absolutely lucious!

Puppy Fever

Everyone is getting puppies! It makes me have such puppy fever. I've been looking at dogs since J and I moved into our house. We found one last March that was a baby St. Bernard/Retriever mix. It seemed great but we really doubted we were ready for the responsibility of an animal. We very much like to get up and go whenever we want and an animal takes that spontaneity away. Also we knew we were going to be going on our honeymoon in April/May and we'd be away for a week. Inevitably we decided against the perfect pup.

Another opportunity of a St. Bernard came up in May but again, J and I decided we couldn't take on the responsibility at that time. I know the family still has a few of the dogs, but I'm still not sure it's a good idea for us.

I keep looking at St. Bernard, Collie, and Golden Retriever Rescue websites as well as at the local animal center and Humane Society. I'd much rather adopt a puppy that needs a home than to buy one from a breeder. We also have the option of adopting a fullblooded Greyhound from my family's farm. They're all adopted out when they're finished racing.

I told J that we could reapproach the subject of adopting a dog next spring. That gives us time to be good and settled with our married life/new house/new job/etc. Plus I think springtime is the best for a puppy so by the time winter rolls around, it's rather grown up, and I'm just not an animals-in-the-house kinda girl. However I do think that if we were to adopt, it would find a little home in the den foyer where it's all nice and tiled.

Seeing as how I'm the No-Dog-Nazi, I'm the one with puppy fever. I think it's just seeing all the cute furry creatures. When I come back to earth I realize that "hey--that's just more responsibility!" I'm also afraid that I'll get sick of a puppy if I rush into it. I like to pet dogs for a few minutes then I want to put it down, change clothes, and wash my hands. I'm such an OCD freak sometimes. It's came in my "old age." I grew up with pups and it never bothered me. I'll need to get out of that when J and I decide to adopt though.

So I guess for now we'll just keep our eyes peeled at the rescues and animal shelters and hope when we're ready we'll find the perfect dog to adopt. We definitely want a big dog breed that will be a good family dog, has a good personality, and will be fun to have around.

For now, I guess I'll just stick with Fluffy, my betta fish.

90 Day Review

Tomorrow is our three month anniversary which J likes to call our "90 Day Review." He says he'll assess the situation and see if he's going to keep me. Geesh--we're legally bound with a 30 year mortgage. It's pretty expensive to "break-up" at this point. However it also means that he is being assessed for the "90 Day Review." He sure did haul booty to finish up the landscaping this week and got the paint and extra siding for the potting shed. I think he's working hard to get a satisfactory report.

Since I have no doubt that I'll get a satisfactory report I wonder what my reward will be? I could (paisley fabric) think of (pink Liz Claiborne wallet) a few things (black leather bag) that would be (silver monogrammed locket) very nice (shadow box) as a reward for the (framed canvas of wedding picture that I love) very satisfactory (materials for cornice boards) report that I'm going to (2ct diamond earrings to match my ring) receive.

I might (just maybe) have a little something in mind for the weekend. If J is reading my blog today then perhaps I'll get a call in a few minutes. But he'll just have to wait and see what the little surprise is.

Tuesday Top Ten

How could I have forgotten TUESDAY TOP TEN!?

Nonetheless, here it is, even if it's Wednesday. Since this is my 100th post today's topic is:

To Little Reasons to Celebrate
1. Getting a sweet note from a friend
2. Having a relaxing candlelit dinner at home
3. Finding the perfect pair of jeans....on clearance
4. Getting to wear your little black dress
5. Taking weekends away with those you love
6. Spending time with a child
7. No lines at your favorite store
8. Having a blissfully sunny day
9. Reading a book
10. Making someone laugh

Another One

I'm having another one of those fabulous Ann Taylor days. Even my all-I-did-was-dry-it hair is working for me, which is rare. I'm loving my new black frilly, lacy shirt. I feel as if I should leave work to hit cocktail hour followed by a nice dinner at some place like Bogartz. Yeah, that's it.

Too bad tonight is laundry and mowing the grass. I suppose I'll change out of my 3 inch heels for that. But when I get it all done then I'm going to take my happy little self to the mall this week for a little retail therapy.

It's Official: I Hate July

I've decided this week that July is my least favorite month. It's just too humid here to do anything in July. I walked outside for work before 8 am this week and broke into an instant sweat. The humidity levels make it unpleasant to even sit outside beneath an umbrella for lunch. I can't imagine what my friends are feeling since My Town is mild compared to most places in the South. Mrs. S in Twiggy Town, CC in Atl, Bracelet Girl M in Texas, and Braceleth Girl E in Florida probably all have it far worse. Unite girls--no more July!

May it also be known that I picked the worst month of the year for the landscaping project at our house. J and I have been doing little things after work and because the evenings are still so miserable, we wait until late and were still mulching via floodlights last night at 10pm. But thankfully, the project is almost over and it looks wonderful.

Ugh, did I mention July is miserable?

Good Morning Mrs.S!

Mrs. S, this is your 5am wake-up call! Good morning darling! I love you and hope you have a wonderful day! MWA!

WHAT?! WHAT?!

I heard the most atrocious rumor yesterday, and I'm afraid it's true.

My. Work. Place. Does. NOT. Have. The. Day. Off. After. THANKSGIVING!

What on earth kind of communist, absurd, senseless place did I sign up to work? I guess I should expect such things in the media industry. Perhaps I should have done a little extra research in my year long trek to get a job here.

J gets that day off. It will be out of the question to see my family for Thanksgiving if I work Friday. Well, out of the question for me. J will be there with bells on if my Auntie B is cooking. Even spending the day with J's family will be arduous. How do they expect me to have a good holiday. Better yet--HOW DO THEY EXPECT ME TO GO SHOPPING ON BLACK FRIDAY!?!?

Well, the good news is that I have plenty of vacation days as well as my BIRTHDAY day that week so perhaps I can score the day off. Of course being the newest girl, it's not certain. Others will have priority over me. Luckily, however, several here are My Town natives with all of their family being here so it may not be a big deal for them.

I suppose we'll wait and see. I may be donning clothes of mourning complete with black hat adorned with an ugly flower and taffeta veil hanging over my face.

Work? On the Friday after Thanksgiving? WHAT?

Quote de Jour

"You're all precious cargo! I would bubble warp you if I could - but I am afraid you would just pop it!"--Amy to the Bracelet Girls

Tuesday Top Ten

Top Ten Places I'd Rather Be

1. Doing stuff at the house with my hubby
2. On a cruise ship to the USVI
3. Visiting lighthouses in the Outer Banks and/or New England
4. On a plane to Bora Bora
5. Shopping wildly in NYC
6. Sewing balloon valances or roman shades for our bedroom
7. Having tea with my girlfriends
8. Taking a nap in a hammock
9. Getting a manicure/pedicure
10. Five feet outside the door would work

I Don't Like New Grocery Stores

J and I went to a different grocery store last night because it was in the same Shopping Center where we were doing other errands. Grrrr! I do not like new grocery stores. It took longer to find what we needed whereas in Kroger we know the layout and can be in and out in no time. One time, we even stopped on a Sunday evening after being out of town and had a full list. We did it all, arrived home, and unloaded in under 40 minutes so I didn't have to miss Desperate Housewives! Snaz, huh?

I was already tired last night and being in this grocery store made me cranky. I didn't know where anything was, they didn't have the same brands and things that I was used to finding so quick and easy, and the pizza and cheese looked awful! The only thing I enjoyed about the experience were my blueberries.

So there, my whiny rant and rave on why I don't like grocery stores that are foreign to me.

West Virginia Weekend

I returned home last night and felt as if I'd been gone for a week.

J and I left Friday afternoon to go to West Virginia. We had a little "off roading" experience on the way. The weather turned nasty as soon as we went to leave. There were a couple horrible thunderstorms along the way. When it finally cleared up there were just dreary skies and wet roads. There were some spots with puddles so deep the water would splash more than 6-8 feet up and over the concrete barrier to the median. Somewhere outside of Asheville, KY we hit water. J wasn't driving extremely fast, just interstate speeds. It wasn't even a huge puddle of water, just a little water. J saw it and began to slow down. However, we were going downhill and into a curve and it didn't seem to matter. We fishtaled, spun around in the road and went into the median backwards at about 45mph. Once in the median we spun around twice and begin to pop up the other side. J was able (by the grace of God is all I know!) to keep the car down so we came to a stop on the bottom. That was it! We thankfully didn't hit the guard rail we were headed for. When we turned backwards I just knew there were cars behind us that were going to hit me and it was going to hurt and make lots of loud and nasty noises. J just knew that we were going to pop up into oncoming traffic. But no, none of that. We sat there for a moment and realized "this is how people die!." We were semi stuck and began spinning, but J was able to straighten the car up and pull right out to continue going. When I looked back I noticed a couple had stopped and was running toward us. Isn't it nice to know that there are still nice, concerned, "good Samaritan" type people still in the world. We of course couldn't really stop since we were on the other side now and moving. Thank God for protecting us in a potentially horrible situation.

So onto more exciting things, we arrived around 8:00 pm to have dinner with Mrs. Bex and Pie. Mr. Bex was at work but we were able to see him Saturday. Pie is such a doll. She is quite a little mover and shaker and she can really be a chatterbox. She's so cute when she says "La La and J." Oh I love it!

Saturday morning we went shopping at a few of my fave stores that aren't in TN. We stopped back at the Bex's for a little visit before the two hour trek to my Pappy's house. We visited him on Saturday evening and went to G's with my cousin's for dinner. It's a fabulous little pizza place that I love. That evening brought about a B Family Spades Tournament--not for the weak! J did well though. I was proud. And thankfully no one was bleeding at the end. (Those tournaments can be brutal). I truck had jack-knifed on the mountain (yeah, we're in the sticks) and J and I couldn't get back to my granddad's so we spent the night with my cousins.

Sunday morning stylist friend cut my hair and we went back to my Pappy's to hang out until brunch when we all went to my Auntie B's. I love Sunday brunch with my family. There is nothing like a rip-roaring good time with a houseful of B's.

After spending a couple hours with my family we had to hit the road for home with a quick stop at The Drive-In for the world's best hotdogs. We bought a dozen to put in the freezer! When we get low, it's time to go back to WV.

We had a rather quick and thankfully uneventful trip to Tennessee. We made a quick to visit J's parents. It was nice and it also means we won't have to make the trip in the next few weeks.

Once we got home and put away the garden that grandpa had stuffed in my trunk (potatoes, peppers, greenbeans, cucumbers, zucchini, peas, blueberries...) I passed out.

And today, I'm still tired.

Is this picture beautiful or what? This is Uncle Tim's Bridge in Wellfleet, Cape Cod. I'm planning a "New England Road Trip" for J and I for sometime next year or the following year. (Also on the agenda is an "Out West Road Trip" and we'll be going to Europe as well, but that's not really a "road trip." We're going to visit Andrew in Northern Ireland, but while we're there I think we'll hop on to London, Paris, Rome, etc...) I don't know what order the trips are going to be in. I am excited to visit those northern seaside towns. We are such "lazy seaside cottage" kind of people. This site will definitely be on our list when we do go. Perhaps I'll post a complete agenda (that I've already gathered, but with room to be altered) another day. For now, just get lost and daydream in this picture!

Take Me Home...

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain momma
Take me home, country roads
-John Denver

This weekend J and I are taking a little road trip to West Virginia to visit family and friends. Although they all came to our wedding, I didn't really get to spend time with anyone. I'm so excited to visit my Pappy, cousins, and of course my precious little Pie!

We're going to arrive for dinner tonight with the Bex's, do a little shopping at some favorite stores there that aren't in Tennessee, then make the two hour trip to my Pappy's house with a quick stop in The Drive-In for hotdogs. (Not just any hotdogs, but these are the best hotdogs on earth, I don't know what it is but they are absolutely scrumptious!). Sunday morning will be brunch at Auntie B's with all the family before we leave.

Unfortunately I won't be able to see BJ or her parent's because they'll be in Kings Island. (Lucky little girl!)

Trips to visit my Pappy are so quick and hurried now that I'm a graduated big girl with a big girl job and yada yada yada! It's hard to cram so much into a visit. It's also hard that I don't get to see or spend time with some of my family and friends like I used to. I can't tell you the last time I actually got to go to "The Farm". ("The Farm" being the Greyhound Farm, a joint venture with my Pappy and his brother, Uncle D, mostly a hobby).

I do love to visit up there though. I'm thankful I don't live there and I think I had a much better life growing up in East Tennessee than in the part of West Virginia where I was born and spent the first half of my childhood. I never thought I'd think I was better off here. Talk about a homesick little girl! But visiting there still makes me happy. I remember my dad used to roll down the windows at the top of the mountain when we'd arrive in the state so we could "smell that West Virginia air." Now of course I don't even travel that way since "that's how Davy Crockett and the Pioneers went" according to my Pappy.

I'm looking forward to visiting and will quite possibly have some great entertainment upon my return.

A Bit of Exciting News

Yesterday J had his one year review at work and (drum roll please!), HE GOT A RAISE! Yea for him (and me, and our bank account!). Time to rip open the mattresses and begin vigorously stuffing them with all of this newfound wealth!

Not only did he get a raise but he got an above average raise. Everything on the list was "on track". I'm so proud of him. This is so exciting. Plus now the company will pay for tuition so he can get his MBA as he'd hoped. Let's hear it for my hubby!

Cheers!

A Date With My Husband...and Boyfriend

Yes, I had a date with my husband and my boyfriend! Am I a lucky girl or what? Last night J and I took Boyfriend to see Cars. I love spending time with children and Boyfriend was excited to see this movie so we made a little date of it.

I picked Boyfriend up after work and took him to the house to wait for J so we could eat pizza. Within five minutes I turn my head and he has scaled the railing over the stairs. What a monkey. Thankfully he returned safely and I threatened his life if he ever did that again. Boyfriend had a great time; we fed him pizza, M&M's, kool-aid, and other such goodies before and during the movie. Afterwards, we returned him home. Oh how I love kids but how I also love returning them to their parents and going home to my own world.

As for the movie review, Cars was very cute and a must see for kids. It is, however a long movie at two hours. It may be more of a buy-on-dvd for little ones with short attention spans.

Hasta la Vista, Addy

Addy is moving to DC! It's been two years and her time has finally come. I got to visit her for the last time before her move this week and we commemorated by eating at one of her favorite restaurants, see The Devil Wears Prada, and then a coffee at her favorite little coffee house. I'm so excited that this is finally happening for her. It's been her dream to go to grad school at AU and move to DC since I've known her. She's worked hard to get there and it's all paid off. I hope a long weekend to visit her works out this fall.

The Devil Wears Prada is a must see. I'm rarely an advocate for books-turned-movies but this has been a favorite for me along with In Her Shoes. It gives me hope that I will love The Nanny Diaries when it comes out. I loved that book as well.

At the Lake

J and I spent the weekend on Chickamauga Lake with one of my best friends CC and her boyfriend CO. CO's family has a cute little house with a large wrap around deck overlooking the water. I loved the inside of the house because it was so "Golden Girls!" They also have a fabulous dock, partially covered, and with a little bridge down to the actual boat portion of the dock.

Isn't it amazing how you can take a short trip for the weekend and feel rejuvenated? It was nice because it's only about an hour and a half drive for us. We got there super late on Friday night and returned home Sunday afternoon. Some other friends, Holly and Grant (also newlyweds!) were there, too. It was really nice to hang out with everyone.

We laid in the sun all day reading and chatting and the guys, well, made idiots of themselves fishing. But I am proud that my hubby caught the most and biggest fish. Well, CO caught the most, but it doesn't count when you realize he caught this little two inch sunfish (Nemo we named him!) about five times in a row.

We sat out on the boat all night listening to music, chatting, and playing cards. It was so relaxing to have a little weekend away with my hubby and spending time with friends. We look forward to going back soon and J and I are going to take our kayaks. I can't wait.

I also can't wait until J and I can afford our own little lake house. We'd really like to find a cute little place on Norris Lake, or just get land and build later. I grew up on the lake with boats and love to spend my weekends like that. I also want that for my kids. Furthermore, when we do purchase a cute little 3 bed, 2 bath, eat in kitchen, with mudroom, large deck, back yard, nice dock cottage on Norris Lake---you're all invited to visit!

OFFISHUL CHIKIN EATIN DAY JULY 14

That's right! Today is "OFFISHUL CHIKIN EATIN DAY" from Chick-Fil-A. If you wear a full fledged cow costume to Chik-Fil-A, you get a free Chick-fil-A combo. Chick-Fil-A is one of my favorite fast-food places to eat, YUM! But I'm not sure the $5 is really worth the full fledged cow costume.

And They're Off....

B and Sjb have gone to Montana to get married. I saw them off about 8:15 this morning. I want to be there so, so bad, but having just paid for my own wedding leaves little in the travel fund to fly out there. That combined with gas prices resulting in ticket prices skyrocketing to obscene amounts (in the neighborhood of 1,000 for just me to fly, leaving my hubby at home!). I do, however, have a copy of her ceremony which I'll read about 8pm on Tuesday night when she'll be walking thru the field and down the aisle with her parents and locking eyes with her best friend and man of her dreams all the while looking absolutely stunning.

Last night J and I went over there to ahem, keep the peace. She and B could have very well strangled each other with the stress of getting everything together and a few last minute things to do. It was great to be on the outside of that. I remember the couple weeks and especially the last couple days before our wedding. I was, um, slightly less than my charming and joyful self. Sometimes I look back and think, "Why on earth did he still marry me?" Nonetheless, I'm so, so happy that he did. But last night was fun, helping her pack and pick out music as well as throwing out reminders to ensure they'd done everything. At least I get to be a little part of her big day. I also went with her to try on and pick out her dress as well as both fittings. It was such fun. I remember when we went to, ahem, "play" in our wedding dresses. That was good times. We loved being dressed up so pretty in our dresses together. In fact, this fall we're going to take off our bands and go to a different bridal boutique to try on dresses just for fun! We can't go back to White Lace because they know us there all too well!

Sjb and B have such a great story of knowing each other since Kindergarten and being high school sweethearts, twice since the first attempt didn't go so well. But how cute that they went to their Jr. and Sr. Prom together, graduated together, attended college together, and graduated again together, and now they're getting married. It makes me wish I had a precious high school sweetheart story. But then I think, "PRAISE THE LORD---I did not marry any of those jerks or losers that I went out with in high school!" Besides, I don't think J and I would have liked each other in high school. We were both very different than we are now.

So besides all of the tangents I wandered off on in this post, Sjb and B have gone to get married. So, SO, exciting! In three days she'll be a Mrs., and we'll be able to be wives together. I know Sjb may not be in My Town much longer (and hey, who knows how long J and I will be here and where we'll end up in a couple years) so I'm glad that I know we have a few months to be in this part of our lives together.

My Gerber Daisy

As an addendum to the previous posts about my (current lack thereof) green thumb I would like to note that (drum roll please), I grew a gerber daisy! Yes I did! Mrs. R and Mrs. O had me a wonderful Brunch Bridal Shower and that was the centerpiece and my little treat to take home. Well of course it abruptly died. (Why? Because plants come to me to die.) So I trimmed it back and "deadheaded" it and sat it on the front porch. And you know what? It found new growth! It bloomed! I have a beautiful hot pink gerber daisy alive and well. My darling husband may note that he watered it, but that is so beside the point. I watered it some too and it grew! My luck is changing. I'm going to grow plants and they are going to be beautiful!

Landscaping

J and I had the day off July 4th and what did we do? We were up and out in the yard at 7am to landscape! Yes--7am! I've never seen my husband so up and about at such an early hour. J made a rock wall leading down the driveway Monday night and Tuesday morning. For the front, we made the shape of our project, cut it out, cut and laid the logs, and finally pounded in 2 ft. stakes to with a sledgehammer (could be why I feel a little sore!). All of that took until about after noon. It was so hot and we were tired so we decided to call it a day. We hosed down with the nice cold water hose right there in the front yard, clothes and all. (Yeah-the redneck roots of H and S county came out again!) We cleaned up, got Subway, and went to the pool. We were only out there for about an hour because the sun was so scorching hot. We went home to get ready for our evening cookout with the B's and Y's, which was such a good time! I love those people!

Up next for the landscaping project is cutting out the sidewalk area and evening it up, laying plastic, planting the new bushes, and finally mulching. I'm so anxious and eager for it to be finished. It's going to look so pretty and I can't wait to have real, fresh, flowers to cut for my house.

I've already decided that this winter I'm going to plant tulip, calla lily, and stargazer lily bulbs. In the spring I'm going ot plant some gerbers and shasta daisies. I love, love, love pretty flowers and I'm so determined to have a green thumb. I'm planning what I can do in the window boxes that I know I'll talk J into making for the front of our house. He's already made some gorgeous cedar window boxes for the potting shed that I can't wait to get up. (We're going to paint the potting shed first, though). Yea--I'm so excited! When the work of doing all of this starts to feel sucky I just remember: WOW--I have a house where I can landscape and plant flowers in the yard. This is awesome!

Harsh Realities from my Husband

HARSH REALITY ONE
We're eating dinner Monday night (chicken kabobs, squash casserole, and glazed carrots). J isn't seeming so into the squash casserole or glazed carrots so I ask him if he likes it. It goes a little something like this:

Me: Do you like the squash?
J: Yeah, it's good (takes a heaping bite, but isn't convincing.)
Me: Really? Because if not it's ok.
J: No really.
Me: Because sometimes I feel like you say that just to not hurt my feelings.
AND HE SAYS:
J: Well, I have before, but this really is good!

Yeah--he has lied to me about not liking what I've cooked. Apparently the time I cooked with a bay leaf it was a little potent for him.

HARSH REALITY TWO
I totally don't have a green thumb but wish I did. I'm working really hard on it. After the honeymoon I planted an Herb Garden which resides just outside the kitchen door. Monday night I was carrying a tray out for dinner and noticed that there was tons more growth. Especially the spearmint. I picked a leaf and smelled it but it wasn't so spearmintish. So I tell myself it's just not fully ready. Sitting at dinner with J:

Me: Did you see my herbs? The spearmint? And I was afraid it wasn't going to grow.
J: It's grass.

I mean c'mon! I was pretty sure, but not super sure. I still had hope! I'm glad my darling is so blatantly honest (sometimes!).

I Know

God above all the world in motion
God above all my hopes and fears
And I don't care what the world throws at me now
I'm gonna be alright
It's gonna be alright
Cause I know my God saved the day
And I know His word never fails
And I know my God made a way for me
Salvation is here
Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow.
O praise the one who paid my debt
and raised this life up from the dead.

Weekend Highlights

Besides buying new furniture, my weekend seemed to be full of excitement.

I have a date!
Friday evening J took me on a date! We went to the movies and snuck in candy and soda. It was like being a poor college kid only married. But I'm cheap so I don't want to pay more than thirty three cents for my Reese's Cup and the theatre doesn't have Diet Dr. Pepper Berries and Cream which is my current flavor of choice.

Garage Sale
When we got home it was time to set up for our impromptu garage sale. We have plans to have a "NEWLYWEDS GARAGE SALE" with S and B after their wedding and honeymoon. But we were tired of looking at all of that stuff in the "garage sale room" and in the garage, that we thought we'd just put a sign up by the road and go with it. Thanks to my marketing ploy we had some great business. My signs were awesome! They said "Just Married" with an X through it and then "Garage Sale" with an arrow! How cool is that? Anyway, we made a whopping $200 and I'm not even sure what we sold. All the big stuff (and good stuff) is still left for our Newlyweds Garage Sale with the other couple. So exciting. Let me tell you, merging our stuff (which we had too much of anyway) plus all of the wonderful wedding gifts has left us with more than plenty to get rid of. We've given away so much stuff to our friends, too (dishes, pots and pans, sofas, tables, dressers, etc.) and we still have plenty for a Garage Sale Extravaganza! I'd also like to mention that we picked the hottest day of the year to spend the morning on our blacktop driveway. It was rather comparable to Hell--but I did get some good sun.

Saturday afternoon we bought our furniture! For more info see the previous post. We even went and picked it up on Saturday so we didn't have to wait for delivery. It was very exciting!

Dumpster Diving
Also Saturday evening my hubby and I had a darling little date of Dumpster Diving. Now, now! Don't laugh. My papasan (which is sadly going in the garage sale) and the futon (which is living at T-Ho's) were both brought back to life from the White Columns dumpster! People really throw out good stuff. (We may also have a grill that was sitting in Northshore Woods.) There was a house on our street that had a lawn mower and an old wooden wheelbarrow out by the curb. J likes to work on things so seeing that lawn mower was like a toy store for him. And the wheelbarrow, an old wooden wheelbarrow, SCORE! A house on the adjacent street had a desk by the curb. J had been eyeing it for 2 days. So we stop by to check it out, realize it's fabulous and put it in the blazer. Well we didn't just put it in the blazer because it wouldn't fit. Instead we both developed hernias trying and it was still sticking out of the back. But that wasn't stopping J.
Absolutely not. He jumped in the back, held onto it, and made me drive the mile or so home. Yes-everyone knows we're from H and S counties now because we totally rednecked it up. Upon unloading the desk into our garage (which he is so excited to fix the top and give to my good friend Alice) we went down the street for the other goods. But much to our dismay, they were gone! Yes, gone! Someone beat us to it. Those (expletives!). Oh we are so easily entertained! As for Alice, she's so excited about her new desk that she could nearly pee her pants!

The Ghetto Fabulous Family
There is a family on the adjacent street to us that we often get a good chuckle at and refer to them as the "Ghetto Fabs." At any given time when you drive by you can see a man mowing the lawn, shirt off, gut hanging out, and (drum roll please!) beer in hand! Yeah baby--he's just cruising along on his riding mower. All he needs is hydraulics. One day last week they were all out in the front yard hanging out in lawn chairs. This is only odd because they have a very large, flat backyard and everyone knows that you congregate in the back yard! Besides, it's a rather busy, curvy street they live on. Not so friendly for families and kids to be living it up next to the idiot drivers. So this weekend the Ghetto Fabs took it one step further and had a grill and blow up swimming pool out there. Yeah--they're just hanging out doing their thang and waving to all the folks on the road.

Now I'm sure you thinking what J and I already hee-hawed over. We (the rednecks of the neighborhood) obviously have room to talk about the Ghetto Fabs. HA! No, we don't, but doesn't that make it more entertaining.

Home Depot
Another hot date from that romantic little thing! We went to the Home Depot after church. I was excited about it though because we bought the stuff to landscape our front yard and make it pretty, pretty! I hope my roses and hydrangeas bloom nicely. I'm sure tomorrows 90something degree weather with 80something percent humidity will make for a lovely day of landscaping.

Car Washing
Sunday evening after I spend some quality time at the pool J and I washed our cards. We quite possibly had the dirtiest cars in the world. We had to scrape and scrub whatever stuff the off of his blazer that the idiots at the wedding used to paint on it. With mine, there was no excuse, it was gross. Between the outer layer of disgusting dirt and the actual surface that was my car, we found midgets, houses, clowns, zoo animals, and even a remote tribal village from a third world country. Yeah--told you it was nasty!

Conclusion

The furniture debacle is over! Yes, it's over! We have made a decision. We went with the light khaki suede microfiber sofa and loveseat. We went back to get it on Saturday and also found a leather bench ottoman to go with it. J has wanted a large leather ottoman for the den since we moved in, we'd just never found the right one. But then, there it was. The perfect color, the perfect size, the right "look" (no nailheads, minimal stitching, not button tufted), it was everything. Plus the feet on it are very complimentary to the feet on our new sofas. It's so exciting! We feel as if we're in a different house because suddenly our two living spaces have been transformed.

We (I) have fabrics in mind and we're going to cover pillows and the trunk top that sits to the side of the den. I'm also going to make a tie up shade for the French door. That way I won't be so scared if J is out of town and I'm in there by myself! (Who are we kidding? When J is out of town I surround myself with friends or shut the bedroom door to watch tv or go straight to sleep. I'm a wimp and I'm not ashamed!). We're going to move the bookshelves around (maybe, I'm not sold on this but J wants to do it) and paint the inside blue along with a shelf over the entertainment center. We already have a great chocolate brown chenille throw for the basket downstairs, some fabulous lamps that we've already set up on the end tables, and we've made a plan for the decor. Perhaps a rustic looking map for behind the sofa and I'm ordering wedding pics for over the mantle. We also have pictures in our bedroom that we're going to move downstairs since I'm going cottage chic in there.

It's so exciting! (Yes, I'm excited over sofas, also guilty of being excited over silicone bakeware and anything with a kitchen aid label, especially the stand mixer and food processor!) I'm glad we have a room to decorate in brown and blue. Everyone is invited over to hang out in our new "man den."