Merry Christmas!

Joy to the world, the Lord has come!

Let Earth receive her king.

Merry Christmas to you all. Enjoy spending the day with your families and taking part in all of the Christmas traditions. What a very special birthday we are so fortunate to get to celebrate.

Have a wonderful day!

It's Christmas Eve

Cheers!

Classic

Country Christmas

LOVE

I think this song is beautiful, and then watching this video with it was rather touching.

It encompasses the theme of Christmas  - LOVE.

What are you doing NYE?

Maybe it's much too early in the game
Oh but I thought Id ask you just the same,
What are you doin' New Years, New Years Eve?

Wonder whose arms will hold you good and tight
When its exactly 12 oclock that night
Welcoming in the New Year, New Years Eve

Maybe I'm crazy to suppose
I'd ever be the one you chose
Out of the thousand invitations
You receive

Ah but in case I stand one little chance
Here comes the jackpot question in advance
What are you doin' New Years, New Years Eve?

{We have a great group of friends coming in town to go to this event downtown. No date, but I am so excited to be spending time with some of my favorite people in the world! What are you doing NYE?}

Oh boy

To finish up Throw Back Week, I had to make sure I got every boy band in here. Oh, the one or two hit wonder, Hanson.

Do you ever wonder what these people are up to now?

I feel like I'm in 7th grade again

Yep, this was my favorite boy band. Maybe because I lived in Cincinnati and thought I was closer to them since they were from here too. (Oh the silly things you think...) I must admit that now, I have a hard time taking them seriously when I watch this (... Nick's seductive looks ...) but I still like the song! Oh boy bands...

TR(L)

This was a request...enjoy!

 

PS I just wanted to thank all of my friends for their support last night/today. Even though everyone's feelings are different, it means a lot that you still care and are sending your love. It means so much.

The Days of Christmas - DC Style

Ha old school :)

Christmas Time

This reminds me of those wedding picture videos. You really feel like a member of the Backstreet Boys family after watching this.

I am a bit concerned about the one with all the eyeliner. He wears more than I do!

A Classic

While looking for the video, I came across this one and had to share. Enjoy! They have some great moves...especially the guy in the orange :)

All I Want for Christmas

Welcome to Throw-Back Week here at SC's 25 Days of Christmas! Yep, that means a week of all the best songs we loved growing up!

To start, I would like to give a shout out to Greek Sing 2007. We won this year, and I like to think that my 30 seconds of fame during this song had a lot to do with it (please note the sarcasm).

Turn it up and sing along! OOOOO-ooooo Baby!

Mariah Carey- All I want for Christmas
Uploaded by badboy864. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.

(Don't know what this showed up, but thanks Badboy)

Naughty or Nice?

Jolly old Saint Nicholas,

Lean your ear this way

Don't you tell a single soul

What I'm going to say

Christmas Eve is coming soon

Now you dear old man

Whipsper what you'll bring to me

Tell me if you can.

You Pick

Which version do you prefer?



Or



A friend and I used to always debate which version of this song is better....you probably know my choice, but what is yours?

You're a Mean One

Mr. Grinch

You really are a heel
You're as cuddly as a cactus
You're as charming as an eel, Mr. Grinch
You're a bad banana with a greasy black peel

You're a monster, Mr. Grinch
Your heart's an empty hole
Your brain is full of spiders
You've got garlic in your soul, Mr. Grinch
I wouldn't touch you with a thirty-nine-and-a-half foot pole

You're a foul one, Mr. Grinch
You have termites in your smile
You have all the tender sweetness
Of a seasick crocodile, Mr. Grinch
Given a choice between the two of you
I'd take the seasick crocodile

You're a rotter, Mr. Grinch
You're the king of sinful sots
Your heart's a dead tomato
Splotched with moldy purple spots, Mr. Grinch
You're a three decker sauerkraut and
Toadstool sandwich with arsenic sauce

You nauseate me, Mr. Grinch
With a nauseous super "naus"
You're a crooked dirty jockey
And you drive a crooked horse, Mr. Grinch
Your soul is an appalling dump heap
Overflowing with the most disgraceful assortment
Of rubbish imaginable mangled up in tangled up knots

You're a foul one, Mr. Grinch
You're a nasty wasty skunk
Your heart is full of unwashed socks
Your soul is full of gunk, Mr. Grinch
The three words that best describe you are as follows, and I quote
"Stink, stank, stunk!"

The Grinch is one of my favorite Christmas movies! My mom always loved the original, but I really enjoy the Jim Carey version. I still laugh out loud at times, and I know it by every word. Maybe sometime, if you are lucky, you will get to hear my Grinch impression. {Special, I know}

Tomorrow is Friday!!!!

Another favorite

To continue my week of favorite songs/artists, I wanted to include my absolute favorite singer.


I just love singing Christmas carols. And I sure do blast this one...(I think I actually sound decent when accompanying Carrie...but she can make anything sound good)

O Holy Night

This is my favorite Christmas song of all time. And this is my favorite version.


Just a little piece of heaven to brighten your day!

Simply Beautiful

I love this version of the song. The original is my grandma's favorite song, so it is special to me. And I love the new take on it. Sorry the video quality isn't the best, but enjoy the song! Happy Monday :)

The real meaning of the song...

Hail Mary,
full of grace,
the Lord is with thee;
blessed art thou among women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb,
Jesus.
Holy Mary,
Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.

Santa Baby

Santa baby, slip a sable under the tree, for me,

{Forget the sable, Santa. I'll just take some boots.}

I've been an awful good girl,

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.

Santa baby, a '54 convertible too, light blue

I'll wait up for you dear

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.

{Already got the car, Santa...maybe you can help with some payments???}

Think of all the fun I've missed,

Think of all the fellas that I haven't kissed {Seriously, Santa...hasn't been much going on here}

Next year I could be oh so good

If you'd check off my Christmas list

Boo doo bee doo

Santa baby, I wanna yacht and really that's

Not a lot

Been and angel all year

Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight.

Santa honey, one thing I really do need, the deed

To a platinum mine

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

Santa cutie, fill my stocking with a duplex and checks

Sign your 'X' on the line

Santa cutie, and hurry down the chimney tonight

{Again, Santa, I already have this one, but I coud use the checks to help with the morgage payments...please!}

Come and trim my Christmas tee

With some decorations bought at Tiffany's

I really do believe in you

Let's see if you believe in me

Boo doo bee doo

Santa baby, forgot to mention one little thing, a ring

I don't mean on a phone

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight



Hurry ... tonight!

Baby It's Cold Outside

I really can't stay
(but baby it's cold outside)
I've got to go away
(but baby it's cold outside)
This evening has been
(been hoping that you'd drop in)
So very nice
(i'll hold your hands, they're just like ice)
My mother will start worry
(beautiful whats your hurry)
My father will be pacing the floor
(listen to the fireplace roar)
So really i'd better scurry
(beautiful please don't hurry)
but maybe just a half a drink more
(put some records on while i pour)
the neighbors might faint
(baby it's bad out there)
say what's in this drink
(no cabs to be had out there)
i wish i knew how
(your eyes are like starlight now)
to break this spell
(i'll take your hat, your hair looks swell)
i ought to say "no, no, no sir"
(mind if i move in closer)
at least i'm gonna say that i tried
(what's the sense in hurtin' my pride)
i really can't stay
(oh baby don't hold out)

baby it's cold out side

i simply must go
(but baby it's cold outside)
the answer is no
(but baby it's cold outside)
your welcome has been
(how lucky that you droped in)
so nice and warm
(look out the window at that storm)
my sister will be suspicious
(gosh your lips look delcious)
my brother will be there at the door
(waves upon the tropical shore)
my maiden aunts mind is vicious
(gosh your lips are delicous)
but maybe just a cigarette more
(never such a blizzard before)
i've gotta get home
(but baby you'd freeze out there)
say lend me a coat
(it's up to your knees out there)
you've really been grand
(i thrill when you touch my hand)
but don't you see?
(how can you do this thing to me?)
there's bound to be talk tomorrow
(think of my lifelong sorrow)
at least there will be plenty implied
(if you got namonia and died)
i really can't stay
(get over that old out)

baby it's cold outside

brrrr! it is definitely cold here now. and we have our first real snow on the ground (which tillie is not so keen on). i am not ready for the next 3ish months of this stuff...

Dear Santa

Santa, can you hear me?

I have been so good this year.

And all I want is one thing,

Tell me my true love* is near.

He's all I want, just for me,

Underneath my Christmas tree,

I'll be waitin' here,

Santa, that's my only wish this year.

*True love may be a stretch, will settle for a date.

Fruitcake

This may be the wierdest Christmas song I've ever heard! But I had to put it in here, just because it is so odd.

Have you ever had fruitcake? I haven't, and this video sure does not make me want to try it now! I guess now you have the recipe if you are brave enough! And if you do, leave a comment on how it works out for ya...

Straight No Chaser

 

I think these songs are amazing and really funny. I heard them on the radio and enjoyed the cleverness, but watching the videos simply made me laugh out loud.

I hope you had a wonderful first day of Christmas (get it yet? 24 more to come)! It snowed here today. Although I think I am the only one in the world who doesn't enjoy the snow, I guess that means it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas :)

A New Look!

 I love everything about Christmas! It is my favorite time of the year!

I hope y'all enjoy the next 25 days of Holiday Cheer!

Merry Christmas!

I have an idea!

If you  remember this post which {*cough*cough*noonerespondedto*cough*cough*} I asked for some suggestions on ideas, and I finally think I have made some decisions!

Well, I have purchased anything, so I haven't committed yet :)

I think I know what I would like to do in my loft. This was going to be a work/creative/craft space. And it still will be, probably with more of a focus on the crafting side.

Here is some inspiration for my space:

Ah, I am in love! It has everything I need, table space and organization :)

And of course I will continue my pink and green theme!

Now it is just finding the right pieces to put together to make the perfect fit!

I also want to put one of these up there:

I think it will be so cozy on the cold days that are approaching while I am crafting or snuggling up with a good book (ha, yes I still pretend that I am going to do that).

I am excited to finally have a vision!

Happy Halloween!

Well, luckily this year my friends and I somehow managed to ignore Halloween all together. No silly costumes, no crazy nights, no trick-or-treaters. I spent the weekend watching not-so-scary movies, trying to be productive around the house, and seeing some friends.

Well, not everyone got out of Halloween, but I hope you had a great weekend!

Faith, Hope & Love

I heard these songs back-to-back the other day. They give me so much hope for the future and faith that everyone will find love. Remember that is has already been planned for us all.


This song is probably my favorite right now.

Looking for Skin Care Tips

Happy Friday!

So I haven't had much luck in getting responses from people when I ask for suggestions, but ever the persistent one I am, here we go again.

I am looking for some tips in skin care. I try to do all that I know for that radiant glow, but I just don't think I have it. And lately, I have had way too many more blemishes than I care to have. (I blame stress and all the sweating that occurs in hot yoga.)

So please, readers, fill me in on any secrets, tricks, products you use for clear, radiant skin.*

Random thought for the day:

As I was driving to work this morning, I heard a song that I hadn't heard in a while and it is the message that I am going to keep top-of-mind as I go through my day.

Lord, empty me of me so I can be filled with you.

Have a wonderful and blessed day!

*I will even take make-up suggestions because I am looking to change up my look some!

Yummy Chicken Salad!

I enjoy a good chicken salad (but usually only if I make it because I really don't like mayo). I decided to make some for an easy lunch this week.

I found a good recipe in a Cooking Light cookbook that MIML got me. These recipes are awesome - I have really liked everything I've tried! And they are quick and easy...just what I need...and light which is an extra bonus :)

Here is the recipe for you:

2 cups cubed chicken (I cooked 2 chicken breasts and cut those so it was nicely grilled)
1/2  cup refrigerated pre-diced green bell pepper (I used fresh since I had some from the market)
1/2 cup refrigerated pre-diced celery
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup bottled roasted red pepper - diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup light mayo (I used a little over a tablespoon, since I dont like it)
crushed red pepper flakes to taste (the recipe actually has an amount but I choose to ignore)

For just over 200 cals (this makes 4 servings) you have a delicious chicken salad. It is so colorful too so it looks appetizing! And it is really filling. What more could you ask for?

Saturday

Yesterday was a wonderful day spent with JMS. We started off the morning at yoga (yes, I have made it 14/17 days so far). Then we went to Panera for a yummy breakfast sandwhich and latte.

Then we ventured to the market. This was the first market trip that I remember ever being on. It was so interesting! Walking through, you felt like you were in another country! We got some fresh fruits and veggies and our pumpkins to carve later in the day.

The inside of the market was the meat section, which kind of grossed me out.

Yea, those are whole fishes...I dont like to see things I eat in their living form...

Outside was all of the fresh stuff. I loved it!

Cute swans! Thanks for the pics JMS!

I did enjoy being there, but since I got overwhelmed in Kroger, it was a lot for me to take in! I would definitely love to go back.

Then we spent the day carving our pumpkins. This was the first time I have ever done one all on my own! I am pretty pleased with how it turned out!

I hope you all had a great weekend too!

Another 1-Year to Celebrate

A positive side to being at a transitional point in life is that you can always find an excuse to celebrate something. Each marker along the way ends up being a huge milestone, like, "I actually made it this far!"

A year ago today, I officially became a responsible adult.

A year ago today, I closed on my condo and became a homeowner.

A year ago today, I entered the world of "independence", mortgages, bills, grocery shopping, maintenance, decorating, cleaning and cooking, etc.

A year ago today, I officially starting my journey as a young, single professional branching out on her own, ready to take on what the world had to offer.

So much has changed over the past year - so many new things and figuring out what this new life is going to be. New friends, a new town, making that new town feel like home, going from having 45 roommates to living at home to being on my own, figuring out how to fit everything in (and slipping some along the way), a temporary roomie, a new 4-legged roomie, a new car, new car payment and insurance, my first furniture bills, new recipes, new experiences, the list can go on an on.

This past year has flown by, it feels like just yesterday I was moving in, excited and scared for what I was getting myself into.

Here's to the past year of trying to get the hang of things, now I am looking forward to making it even better!

Looking Back

Do you ever find yourself reminiscing about past events or certain times of your life? I don't like to dwell on the past, but lately I have been thinking of and even missing some of my former "glory days".

Yes, of course I miss college. Those days are constantly on my mind as they were the best of my life. I was constantly surrounded my all of my friends, and it was one time in my life where I felt like I could do anything. It was so nice always having something to do (maybe too much sometimes) and certain things to look forward to. Now don't get me wrong, I still have all of these things so I am not trying to complain, it is just different now. And truly, I know I don't belong there anymore.

The strange thing is that lately, I have kind of been missing high school. Seriously. Who misses high school? Honestly, I had an enjoyable enough high school experience. It was so nice that my only worries were getting good grades (that was a must in my house), fitting in all the extra-curriculars (some things never change) and picking out the perfect outfit to wear everyday (ok, so I still do this but there doesn't seem to be as much pressure). One thing that I have been missing the most is cheerleading. I had gotten use to not being on the sidelines anymore but for some reason this football season, I wish I could do it all again. I loved every minute of it - not to mention it was my built-in work out schedule. As much as that was my life, I still enjoyed the other aspects of high school. I loved feeling like I knew everyone, or at least who everyone was, and everyone knew - or knew of - me. My best friend "Zoe" and I were inseparable, bobsy-twin cousins and everyone knew it. You didn't get one without the other. I had a big group of friends - I have never been one to just stick with one clique. And high school was the last time I could say I had a boyfriend (don't be fooled, it still wasn't much of anything). I wouldn't say life was easier then. There were definitely stresses, but looking back they were silly and you were still so naive and care-free.

As they say, all good things must come to an end, and to be completely honest, I wouldn't trade anything in my life now to go back. It is just that sometimes it would be nice to relive those days - to remember who you were then and see how it made you who you are today. Because deep down, I am still the cheerleader, the best friend, the over-involved over achiever, and I know that I always will be.

Are there certain times in your life that you would like to relive?

My Lists and Organization

I don't know what I would do without my lists (yes, plural). I don't think I would be able to function and Lord knows that I would be forgetting things left and right.

I am a list girl. I love making lists: to-do lists, shopping lists, wish lists, you name it. It is sad, but I get the greatest sensation when I get to mark something off my list. It is like this overwhelming sense of accomplishment and satisfaction all rolled up into one.

Each Monday morning, I start the work week off by making a list for the week. Each day I write down what meetings I have and what tasks I need to accomplish that day. I take this list everywhere with me, so when something comes up, I can add it to my list.

I also try to make a to-do list for things around the house. From the small daily tasks I need to accomplish to the bigger projects I would like to do.

And I keep a running list of things that I need on my fridge. So when it is time to go to the store, I won't be forgetting things that I need.

I hate feeling unorganized and so often in life, it seems like the only thing holding me together is my list. I am trying to take this practice into other aspects of my life as well so that I can get a better handle on things.

Studies show (seriously they do..we use this stuff for work all the time) that you are more likely to do something if you write it down. And it just makes you more aware of what you are doing.

So here are some things that I am going to start keeping better track of:

Budget- I have been seriously stressing over money lately. I am terrible with my finances (well not really terrible, but there is definite room for improvement). I don't really track it and I am a bad impulse buyer - if I want to go shopping, I will go shopping. It is now time for me to buckle down and prioritize. I have created a budget and a spreadsheet to help me track (I feel like you are going to be so proud of me, KMac).

Eating habits/Meal planning - As I have mentioned before, my eating habits have been a little rocky over the past couple of weeks. I just want to start paying more attention to it. I haven't made the time to go to the grocery and get the foods that I like to keep around me. So then I have to resort to quick fixes that aren't really what I would like to be/should be eating. So, I am jumping on the weekly meal planner bandwagon. I've been wanting to do this for a while - again, just haven't made the time. Here is another list to help me stay on track. And I will be tracking what I eat to help me stay on track.

Sundays are going to be "get organized" days. I can update my budget spreadsheet and make my plan for the week.

I just love being organized! What lists help you get through the day/week?

BCA Month

In case you didn't know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Ok, let's be honest...how could you not know?!

Being a PR/Marketing girl, I pay attention to this stuff more than most people, but I must say, I am just amazed with the publicity BCA gets. On almost anything you see, you will see it's pink version this month.

From the entire NFL to almost any item at the grocery store to the intriguing viral campaign on Facebook ( "I like it on the bar...") you cannot miss this campaign. I am pretty sure they are meeting their awareness objectives and doing a darn good job at it.

Nice work, BCA marketers. I am sure your hard work will pay off one day when we find the cure for this awful disease.

In Need of Inspiration

As the weather is getting cooler and I know that I will be forced indoors here soon, I am looking forward to projects around the house.

But I have a problem, I am totally lacking inspiration to get these projects started. There are currently 3  house projects that I would like to do.

1. Decor in my living room: At a Bridal Shower this summer, I was totally inspired to get these hurricaine vases.

At the shower, they had pink candles in the smaller ones with dried split peas in the bottom and the big one had lime halfs floating in water with pink gerber daisies floating on top. I had a brilliant idea for how to replicate that, but with fake things so that it would last.

After searching for the vases for months, I finally found them. But when I put them where I thought they would go, I hated the idea that  I had for them. So now I am lost. They are a bit bigger than the ones at the shower, so I think I need to do something different in them.

I am thinking that I can either do something that will always stay in there, or do something seasonal to switch it up. But that requires a LOT more inspiration than what I have.

Here is the rest of the room...

2. My loft - this is going to be my home office/crafting area. So my only requirement is that it needs to be inspiring to me, you know lots of creative vibes.

 I saw this photo on a blog and found that to be my inspiration for my desk area. Note: Need to get a desk but I don't want to spend a ton of money on it. I really want to "slum shop" as Mom says and restore a hidden treasure.

I have seen these pictures around a lot and love them. I love the old magazine covers. I got these 2 for starters, but could always add to the collection.

Since this space is open, I also want it to flow into the surrounding areas, but I  can spice it up with some more color and fun. Which is a necessity - remember, I will be working here.

Also, organization for me is a critical need. I love shelves and cabinets that look nice and don't promote clutter.

3. Ledges - one of things I liked most about my place before I bought it was that it had these awesome ledges (and tons of closet space). When I first moved in, I got some of these things to start decorating on them, but havent done much since. I did buy this picture to go on the one in the living room to bring in some more color. And I really want to get one of those little jockeys that go in gardens on my horse-race themed one in the entry. Other than that, I am stuck.

I was once told that I need to just collect a lot of nic-nacs and find what fits best up there, but as mentioned before, I dont like clutter so I have a hard time getting something that may or may not make the cut of getting displayed.

So, I need your help readers. Please send me lots of inspiration and ideas of what I can do these spaces. All suggestions are welcome! They are basically clean slates, so anything will be a great start!

FALLing in Love

Ok no, not really...but it got your attention, right?

I have to admit that I was always a summer kinda gal. I loved lazy days by the pool, late nights out with friends, all of the outdoor festivities, the holiday celebrations, and of course, that every moment was perfect for some ice cream.

Well, since I have now worked through my first complete summer, I don't think I like it as much. Yes, it is still fun and I still love all of the things mentioned above (but I don't really get that many lazy days by the pool anymore). But since it is not really a vacation anymore, I think I have fallen out of love with summer. And I am falling in love with early fall.

As you already know, I enjoy almost anything pumpkin. I also just love the feeling in the air and the fall attire. It is always perfect weather for a nice latte, you can still do things outside without feeling miserable, and you can look cute all the time! Although I must say, it is difficult to prepare for 40 degree mornings and 80 degree afternoons.

Another thing that I love is football season!* I miss spending every Saturday tailgating, going to the games and then feeling appropriate in a t-shirt at the bar.

And then add Keeneland on top of that! (I think I like fall Keeneland better than Spring.)

I hope you are enjoying this time of year too!

*I went to my first NFL game today and I loved it!!! And I could totally love being one of those cheerleaders...once I got the confidence/body to wear those little outfits and got used to the drunk, "rowdie" men ...

Wedding Gift Ideas

Now that wedding season is over for me, I thought it would be good to share some of my favorite gift ideas.

I have mixed emotions when it comes to buying off the Registry. I like it because I know I am getting them something they want and it is so easy to go print it off, pick something out in your price range and you are done.

However, I don't like that it doesn't allow for creativity. I love giving gifts and I love giving creative/personal gifts. Even if it is not something that the lucky couple wants or needs, it is something that is more personal, from me.

Here are some non-registry things that I gave this year:

1. Mr. & Mrs. Aprons - I actually stole this idea from someone else. My SIL was so excited to have her new last name, that I thought she would need something with it on there. And Big Bro likes to cook as well, so it is still practicle for both. The colors match their kitchen.

2. Mr. & Mrs. Beach Towels - This is perfect for the honeymoon when they are excited to officially be Mr. & Mrs. The trick is letting one of them in on it - usually the groom because he won't care as much about the gift - so that they don't pack towels since this was a wedding gift, not a shower gift. We also gave it to them the night before the wedding so that they could pack them.

3. Monogrammed Napkins (Catching the theme yet? You know I love me some embroidered/monogrammed things) - Ok, I was so excited about this one. These actually did come off the registry! But I added a little flavor of me by having them Monogrammed with the last intial. These are the "fancy" napkins, so it was appropriate. I LOVED how they turned out. And may want to have some myself someday...

I also love how the older/wiser married women give gifts as advice to the new bride. Like "Oh, I got this for my wedding and I still use it today." Or, "You will definitely need one of these when..." Experience has taught them well.

What are some of your favorite wedding gifts you gave or received? Are you a registry person, or do you try to give something creative or useful?

Mad Men

I have officially jumped on the Mad Men bandwagon.

I was told years ago that I would love the show - advertising in the early 60s, I think so!

For Valentine's Day, my parents (yep, they are my Valentine) got me the first season. JMS and I have just now started watching them. Well, we've only gotten through 2 episodes, but we are working on it.

I think it is fascinating. Sometimes I wish that things were still like that. The Men are generally chivalrous, and I love that everyone saw value in dressing up. It is a far cry from the "Creative" world today. (I work on a Creative Team and my business casual attire is considered to be over-dressed.)

Of course there are things that I am glad have changed. It is amazing to see how women in the workforce were treated. We have also advanced so much in technology and knowledge since then.

As many of you know, if I could have lived in another era, this would have been it. At least I have this show to take me back in time.

Fall Obsesh Sesh

There are so many things to like about fall: the weather (until it starts getting too cold), the changing leaves, football, Keeneland, the excitement of the Holidays coming upon us...the list goes on and on.

However, there is one thing that I am just obsessed with, and that is anything PUMPKIN.*

(Ahahaha, you know I couldn't leave out the night of the  "Smashed Pumpkin". Not one of my finest moments.)

As you probably already know, my absolute favorite thing is the Pumpkin Spice Chai from Starbucks. Talk about every fall flavor in your mouth! It is just heavenly.

But this love for pumpkin goes way beyond that tasty drink. I like almost anything pumpkin flavored: pumpkin bread, pumpkin pie, even this amazing pumpkin ice cream from Graeters**. (The one thing that I don't care for is a pumpkin roll...not sure why, just doesn't really do it for me.) I found a recipe for a pumpkin dip that I will definitely have to try - and if it is all I am hoping it will be, I will share :)

I also love the Spiced Pumpkin Yankee Candle. I splurged on one the other day just so I could fill my house with the scent. I guess my Macintosh Apples will have to come back out in the winter. I just saw that they also have an Apple Cider flavored candle, which could also be added to a list of fav's.

I have never been to one, but I think it would be so fun to go to a pumpkin patch. I don't know of any scene that shouts "It's fall!" more than this.

So, basically if you mention anything "pumpkin" to me right now, I will probably be all for it.

Do you share my same love for all things pumpkin in the fall?

*The one thing I never really cared for was carving pumpkins. It is extremely messy, and I am easily grossed out by pulling out the insides of it (even though I did every year growing up). I am tempted to try this year and then reuse the insides. Our family never toasted the pumpkin seeds, but something is telling me that I may like them :)
**Ok, so I love any kind of ice cream really. But this one is the current fav. The only thing it is missing is some chocolate, but I think we can fix that...I hear if you get it at the store, not at Kroger like me, they serve it over a warm brownie with graham cracker crumbs...just sayin'.

Happy October!

Ok, so a lot has been going on lately- some I am proud of, some I am not.

In case you didnt know, I got a new car!!!!! Bye-bye 'Lil Red. You treated me well these past 7ish years (except for your recent freak out on the highway when you decided you didn't feel like doing on anymore). I will always cherish the memories we've had together. You will always be my first.

But HELLO Big Blue! I LOVE you :) - Although I am not too thrilled of what you have done to my bank account.

I am so excited to have power locks and windows, and an AC that continously works. And a clock. I also have some cool other features that make me flat out spoiled.

Anyway, I cant believe it is OCTOBER! The past few weeks have been crazy busy at work- to the point where I just need a break. Hense this post. I am afraid to admit that I have let a lot of other things go over the past couple of weeks. I am still far behind on things around the house and I dont know the last time I went grocery shopping.

So, I am declaring October "Health-Binge" month (H-B Oct). I know that we always strive to live healthy lives, but if you are like me, despite your best intentions you aren't living the best life you could be. So I am making my health (both mental and physical) my first priority this month. Here is what I plan on doing:

1. My bff JMS talked me into doing this 30-day yoga challenge (yea, that is what kicked off H-B Oct). We will be taking hot yoga classes - the ones where you are in a 95 degree room - all month to relieve stress and toxins. So I will be doing some sort of workout everyday this month.
2. I want to run a 5k in November. I can easily walk one, but I have never ran one. I dont consider myself a runner, but I am working on it.
3. Work-life balance: that has been very difficult the past couple of weeks. But I am going to do my best to make sure I am not taking on too much, as I easily tend to do. This also includes spending more time with my friends. I have been doing a lot better at that lately and I realize how much happier it makes me. Sometimes it is easy to look at all you have to do and forget what is really important in your life, and that is the relationships you have.
4. Healthy eating: I generally do alright in this category, so when I dont, I can really tell. Lately, I havent been as good as I should be, so I want to go back to my old ways. No excuses.
5. Stop worrying. I've been having terrible dreams lately that make me feel like my life is about to fall apart. For instance, after purchasing Big Blue, I dreamed that my purse fell to the bottom of the ocean and I lost everything because there were sharks surrounding it. {Yes, I may need help.} My financials are really under control, I just have to be on a stricter budget so that I can get back to where I was pre-down payment.

So here we go. I am officially kicking off H-B Oct with my usual liter of water and my first hot yoga class tonight. I am hoping to feel relieved and much better!

Feel free to do it with me! It is my own personal campaign for living a healthier life all around.

Distracted

I am in much need of a blog therapy sesh. (Usually I get my therapy via the retail avenue, but since I am trying to save some, I figured I would give this a try.)

I dont know what my deal is, but this week I have been extremely distracted. I cannot focus on anything (which is why I am taking a short break from work to get this out).

Work has been really busy (but I like being busy, right?!) and on top of that, my mind and heart seem to be filled with thoughts and emotions coming from all directions. Do I sound like I am losing it? I sure feel like it at times.

Let's start with Tuesday night. I had some work that I had to get done for Wednesday and little Tillie wanted to play. I was trying to multitask when I quickly leaned back to grab something and hit my head on the corner of the coffee table. I'm surprised there was no blood. Later that night I was walking out of my bathroom and managed to walk right into the door. My arm is bruised from where I ran it into the doorknob.

Finaly Wednesday rolls around and I am feeling better about focusing on day to day activities such as walking. I had a meeting at 10, but being the freak that I am wanted to leave early so that I would have plenty of time to find parking and get there with at least 5 minutes to spare. I gather all of my things, put Tillie in the crate. And walk out the door as usual. (Since my hands are usually full, I just lock the door from the inside and shut it. That way I dont have to juggle everything and fumble my keys around.) I take one step and think to myself, "Wait, you dont even have your keys." What?! Yes, I just locked myself out of my house. That confidence I woke up with has now left me along with a little more. So I called my mother who has a spare key and the angel that she is, she came to let me in my own house so that I could make my meeting.*

Today, I am still finding it hard to focus on anything. Luckily, I got to talk to A** last night and he assured me that I am not losing it completely. However, I still feel like I should have it together right now. At least we are getting closer and closer to the weekend when I am hoping to have some clarity.

Ok, rant over. Back to work.

*Yes, I fortunately made it to my meeting and was just 1 minute late. (Thank you, God for making every light green and having a parking spot available for me to easily find.)

**So I am little late in getting this up here, but happy belated birthday, A. I will get your card in the mail sometime... now you know why I havent gotten it to you yet :)

FIRE!

I had my first kitchen fire tonight.

Yes, I am fine. Thanks for the concern. (And so is the pup and the house.)

The fire you are envisioning may be a bit bigger than what it really was...I was baking cookies, a cookie fell to the bottom, I tried to get it out as best I could. There were still some crumbles and chocolate chips in the bottom. They went up in flames (tiny flames, really).

No damage done! I just need to clean out the oven now.

Oh and figure out how to get rid of the burnt smell.

You'd be proud. I held it together pretty well. (I've been good at that lately. And this time, I wasn't listening to Josh Groban, KB.)

I also had my first gross dog situation tonight. I cant share it, for your own well-being. But let's just say, I didn't really eat tonight. Everyone is fine though!

Hopefully your Monday was just as eventful as mine!

Stair Master

Before I begin, let me say that I am trying really hard to NOT become a "mommy" blogger. I will not tell you every cute thing Tillie does and post a ton of pictures (I will save that for when I actually have a kid).

However, I must say that I am so amazed by how smart she is! I haven't even had her a week yet, and she is learning so fast (on certain things). This week she learned how to climb the stairs! She is very ambitious. She doesn't always make it on the first try, but she gets it eventually. That girl can jump!

She is learning her name, and she is getting a little better at crate training. She doesn't cry as much when we put her in there, but it still breaks my heart every time she cries. (Mom says its good training for having a baby, sometimes you just have to let them cry. {I can't do that!}).

We are still working on a lot when it comes to training. She is not the best eater (it's like she has ADHD). She thinks I am a toy, along with my clothes. And the whole house training thing is going to take some time. We made a ton of progress the first couple of days, then regressed a bit. It will come, and I just have to remind myself that she is really young and what she is doing is all puppy things.

I don't know what I would do without my mom helping me. I am just so excited about the progress she has made this week and love every one of her puppy moments!

I Would Like to Introduce You

To the newest addition of my family.

This is Tillie. I brought her home yesterday.

She is a maltese/shih tzu mix, 10 weeks old, and the sweetest thing.

She loves to snuggle close and play with your feet.

I am so excited to have her and can't wait to see how this adventure goes!

My Favorite Things About My Friends: Sisters and Roomies

I have never had a sister (well, until recently when Big Bro got married). But I did pay to have about 150 of them. Funny thing is, no amount of money could ever live up to the friendships that came of being in a sorority. Fate definitely played a bigger hand than anything else could have. These girls have changed my life significantly, and I am so blessed to know each and every one of them.

Callie

I think Callie may be my soul mate. We just get each other and can talk about anything. My favorite thing that I miss dearly are the walks we used to take. We would just start walking around and eventually find our way back home, but the conversation we had during those walks were so valuable. Callie has helped me grow and be a better woman in Christ.

Aryn

Oh the memories I have with her! Aryn is my best friend. We immediately became friends when we lived across from each other in the dorms, and then lived together the next 2 years. I don’t know that I can share my favorite thing about Aryn, her small southern town upbringing, the way she tells it like it is, or her habit for falling in the bushes.

Caroline

Little Caroline. She definitely made my spring breaks memorable, and she took care of my on my 21st. I love her caring ways and loyalty as a friend. She is definitely going to make the best teacher!

Rachel

Rachel may be the most polite person I know! Even when she is mad, she still has a sweetness about her. I love when she is in a “tizzy” and gets all flustered.

Brittney

I love her curls, and she is one of the most hard-working and determined people I know! She also has the best stories to tell on road trips!

Gerlach

She makes me laugh so much! I love her calm seemingly care-free nature (I really wish I could be like that!) I don’t know if I would have made it through that Lit class without her. She is also going to be an amazing teacher!

Swanny

My roomie for 2 years. She is a brave one to put up with me! I really miss our late night talks when we couldn’t fall asleep and getting ready together. She is one of the most fun people I know – and she loves the Spice Girls, what more could you ask for?

Mal

I love her random dance moves in the TV room, her tendency to chip teeth, and reenactment of YouTube videos. Mallory can get along with practically anyone, and that makes her so much fun to be around!

Brittany and Brooke

I lived with Brittany for a summer, and it was one of the best I have ever had. She’s like a big sister to me and I just love watching girlie movies with her!

I also lived with Brooke that summer. I look up to Brooke so much. She is one of the most beautiful people I know inside and out. She is so decisive and knows exactly what she wants.

Like I have said many times, I am so fortunate to have so many amazing people in my life. My lists could go on and on. Share some of your favorite things or memories about your friends! It is nice to let them know how much you appreciate them.