So Close to Christmas

It's not the best photo I know, but this little one (my darling niece) has it all right.

Christmas is so close, she can basically touch it.

And while again, I've got nothing for you.

I promise you more after the Holidays.

And while I've been full of false promises before.

This one, I won't.

Being Present . A Present.

This was the center piece at my Company Holiday lunch created by moi, can you say pinspired?

Now if only the wrapping paper were a sweater and the ribbon was a scarf I'd be on point with all the rest of you bloggers.  But it's not.

As Christmas creeps closer and closer, I can't help but feel overwhelmingly excited and anxious for 2014.  But before the New Year, we've got lots to do.  I have one last Christmas present to buy... and I am done.   One would thinking by getting a jump start in October I'd be done by now, but buying on present in October and then waiting 'til December for all the rest doesn't really count.

My parents are heading out to see my brother, sister in law, and darling niece this weekend, and I am only just the slightest bit jealous.  Her presents this year are classic Christmas books with writing inside the front covers.  I've told her to never stop believing in Santa and spirit of Christmas, and to always embrace the love and cheer the Holiday season brings.   Sure at seven months she's a little young for these big messages, but they are always important.  Plus who doesn't love How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Polar Express, and The Night Before Christmas. 

As for me, sure I've asked for presents, there are quite a few things on my list.  But truth be told I'd be happy if there weren't a single thing under the tree, wrapped with my name on it.  I've had a year to be thankful for, with much much more to look forward to in 2014 (cough our wedding cough) which is a present it's self.  

And while we're talking about the word 'present', I'll try to be more present on this bloggity blog of mine, because here it is December 17th, and I've blogged a whopping four times.

What does the word present mean to you these days?

THAT Target Vest

Hello uber tacky over the shoulder 'poses'. I mean seriously, what is happening to me?

I have been meeting with wedding photographers (how do you interview a photographer anyway?), and after taking these I realize, I am going to need a LOT of work on the big day.

From what I have been told you have to go with whoever feels best, etc. Which is all fine and dandy but they all seem great, so I am going with someone I 'know' and picked the photographer who did my friends engagement and wedding pictures. Nothing can beat 'tried and true' right?

Anything else to report?
Nope, aside from the fact that I am wearing that Target vest that everyone every blogger and their Mom has, and I love it.

Shirt//BP Nordstrom. Vest//Target. Leggings//Nordstrom.  Boots//Nordstrom

Home Alone

How classic is this movie?

I mean seriously though. Also anyone see the most recent buzz feed article of what Buzz's Instagram would look like. I died. If you haven't read it- go read it now. After you finish reading this post, duh!

source

But I was 'home alone' this weekend and by that I mean my fiance (gawd I am fancy like that) was at the game, so this little gal was all alone.

For something that seems so simple, I was awestruck by it.  Rarely and I mean rarely and I home alone.

And guess what happened. Nothing notable. 

I spent most of the day in my sweatpants and slippers and talked the bestie on the phone for close to two hours, and feel confident it is exactly what I needed.  After a marathon of Thanksgiving, being in the wedding, and then family galore somehow the four days off last week were not enough.

While I had great plans of wrapping all our Christmas presents this weekend. I didn't.
I was going to write lots of blogizzle posts. I didn't.
And I was going to finish all the laundry, but guess again. I didn't.
Strike three, I'm out.
 
And on that note.
I am out to freeze my little booty off work.

Discoveries.

The past four days have flown by, and before I knew it, Thursday just about smacked me right in the face, and I hadn't visited this space in over a week.  Blogger fail.  But I've been reading yours, I promise. What else would I do while eating breakfast in the morning.
Blogs > Newspaper.

Since I've been gone I am have made some life changing discoveries.

First, wedding photo booths are better with lobsters, duh.

A dogs paw works on a touch screen. And yes I actually made my dog use my iPhone yesterday, and you should have seen the joy radiating off me while making her do it. What, you don't try things with this with your dog? I swear I'm normal.  She's great at checking email, texting not so much.

Frozen pineapple, Kale, OJ smoothies are Ah-maz-ing. Seriously try it. It's like a tropical party, that's healthy too.

Nothing will prepare you for trying on wedding dresses. It feels as foreign as it sounds,  dueling with the feeling of being a life size barbie, and event that doesn't describe it.  I've tried on many a-dresses. I swear nothing had me ready for this feeling, nothing.

Nine o'clock bed times aren't just for Grandparents, they are for me too. And I am not even ashamed by it.  I just. can't. hang.

Extended warranty's may just save you thousands. I've got my girl back (that's my car) and I love it even more than the day I bought it.  Eight days was simply too long to be apart. Never again lady, or at least I hope not.

Cyber Monday was not over rated. I scored this, some flights, and some accessories for over half off, and while I still know I'm getting ripped off, I feel a lot better about it.

And last, there is simple not enough Christmas this year.  With Thanksgiving falling so late, we don't have enough days of Christmas lights, music, trees, or stockings. Let alone enough days to shop.  Holy all hot dogs, hold on to your buns. We're 20 days out.

Changes and a Chance to Win $150

I blinked.
And there went; 2013 gone.
It's already Thanksgiving, and I've got a whole heck of a lot to be thankful for.

2013 marked a big year in my life.
I spent the first five months as normal me, and was blessed to become an Auntie in June.
My best friend and for all other purposes sister got married in August, and I gave a speech about her life and friendship. Try wrapping 24 years into five minutes, now that's a task.
September marked a quarter century. Holy shizzle-nit. I am getting old.
And November brought another new title of Fiance, and a nephew that couldn't be more perfect.

So I stopped to ask myself. Have I lost myself in all this craziness.
Some could arguably say I have (see above), but I'd like to think I've just come that much closer to defining my character.

Now what may change is your life, or shopping budget when you enter to win this $150 gift card.
Get on entering.

Advice to for the Days Post Engagement

First and foremost. Thank you to all your love and support. I still can't believe it's real (both my life and engagement), and I've been rockin' the ring for nearly a week.  Please note this picture was taken on the day of my engagement, just before it happened, hence no ring.

A week already. Holy Blazin' Saddles. I need to get things rollin', but seriously.

So here are some words from the wise. Except I'm not 'the wise', so here are some tips on days post engagement from me.

Go ahead and call your office and let them know you won't be in for a day or two; you'll be on the phone. Those venue calls and emails may make you crazy, but are so damn necessary. Take good notes ladies. They (the venues) mean business. Also if I haven't emailed you back (that's all of you, lets be honest), it's because I've been emailing venues.  But I'm coming up for air and will be returning them shortly ;).

Remind yourself that you are not dreaming, and that the ring too is real. And then remind yourself that yes, you are in fact some one's fiance.  Because it's just plain awesome.

Your family. Don't forget about them. They all want to know and share your exciting news. Embrace the love and support they extend to you.  Then meet with them to give them your venue information (ASAP) and start making decisions; the earlier the better.

Look cute, because everyone who knows you is going to want to see the ring talk to you about the engagement, but let's not lie probably see the ring. You DON'T want to be looking a mess. I'm just sayin'.

Just smile and embrace it.  This time if never going to come again.

Also, yes catch yourself looking down at your finger for a few too many seconds, because your ring catches the light and your eye so perfectly.  There ain't nothing wrong with loving it.

Is this Real LIfe?

So I teased you yesterday about exciting news.

Here is my news.

As for the story,  that's something that is ours to keep forever.

Rest assured it was perfection in every, single, way.

Still not believing life is real.

But trying to enjoy each second.

Lake Dog.

So this is Zoey looked like chasing the ball BEFORE she saw the lake, and went STRAIGHT for it. It was only 19 degrees. I kid you not- that girl is such a water dog.

And what else happened this weekend?
Well A WHOLE heck of a LOT.
And for that you will have to wait 'til tomorrow.

Longing for the Mountains

I spent the entire work day yesterday (all eight hours of it) in the same conference room with two back to back meetings, and a furry of inhaling my lunch and sending the worlds longest email in between.  Talk about long day, I am clearly not cut out for cubical or clerical work.  Today I am back to my office for more Friday hustle and bustle until I bust out at 3:30 (if all goes as planned) for a weekend in the mountains. My favorite.

No there is not this much snow, YET, this picture is from last year Zoey's first snow adventure, and it was too cute not to share again.  Sorry for the repeat.

When packing for this weekend, I may have gone a bit overboard. Somehow three pair of jeans (and leggings too), six shirts, three scarves, two pair of boots and three jackets jumped in my suitcase. Whoopsies....the things that happen when I don't have a carry on size restraint or lb. limit.

And what are we going to do this weekend? We'll probably have grand ideas of going to get our annual season pass pictures taken, walking around looking perfectly mountain cute like this pinspired look.  But in all reality, I'll probably spend a ton of time in my Uggs and leggings by the fire, and drinking more than one three of the micro brews at the local brewery and restaurant.

It's going to be the perfect fall weekend, and a great way to share time together before the craziness of Thanksgiving (the middle child Holiday) and all the family members!

Oh my goodness. Only three more HOURS.
#ithinkicanithinkican

What you Should be Buying Right now!!!

 

via

I spent the better half of last night browsing the endless pages of F21, Old Navy, and Nordstrom website. Because what else do you do when your better half is still under the weather, and in bed at 6:30 right. Totally normal.

I compiled a very thorough list of things I want need want.

Starting with this lovely sparkle top. Summer with white jeans and wedges, winter with a bondage skirt, tights and boots. Yes please.

This houndstooth sweater that looks like a socially acceptable way to wear a blanket in public and to work. Sign me up yesterday.

These leggings got five star reviews and are on sale. Um again why were these not always in style. The comfort, oh the comfort.

And wearing said leggings with this ombre top, might be the closest thing I come to ombre. Although I'd love to do  my hair, I am afraid it will look weird on my short locks? Thoughts? Regardless this shirt is spot on.

Booties for days is my motto this season. Or at least I would like to think so. I have two pair from Target, an old pair from Nordstrom and counting.  Thinking these Olive ones might be a nice addition. With jeans and a loose sweater. I die inside.

Layering up with a big jacket in the cold is also awesome. This leopard gem is no exception. Now just get in my closet.

And a stylish Thanksgiving sweater could easily double as belly cover up in style is perfection. 

I am sure I saw more.

But these are the ones that made the 'official' blog list.

What are you craving?

Wanting?

Needing?

 

The Little One

Now I know you are probably thinking I stole this photo from a 'how to parent' website, but I didn't. This was real life this weekend.  My niece was here, but you probably already knew what I was up to.

Aside from spending most all weekend together, and sharing 139,204 hugs and 194,731 kisses with the little one, I went on a 9 mile run, nursed a sick boyfriend back to health sorta (I hope), took my bridesmaids dress to the tailor, and finally took my camera off manual mode.  And that's just when I captured this precious moment. 

While it's far from perfect, out of focus, and somewhat out of contrast. It's progress.  Which is really all I'm asking for.

As per my niece. Well shes nothing short of perfection and in the three days shes been here, shes laughed, smiled, and whimpered twice.  Not bad for a five month old.  If it's genetic then I guess I might be in luck when we decide to have little ones, but something tells me ours won't be quite as perfect.

We're heading to breakfast before they get on the plan in a couple of hours, and saying goodbye to that little face isn't going to be easy.  Can't they just move closer? But I am for sure thankful for the time that we got to spend together, and I can't wait to see her again.  Something about her smile just stole my whole heart.

P.S. Been inspired by Nadine, and pretty sure these will be happening this week. I can only resist for so long.

Why Thanksgiving is the Middle Child of Holidays

Thanksgiving is the 'token' middle child.
I'll explain.

On November first all the stores go from Halloween Headquarters to Christmas galore, forgetting almost completely about Thanksgiving. My personal favorite Holiday.

Who doesn't want to celebrate a Holiday that reminds us all of what we have to be thankful for, and allows you to eat nearly three times the daily recommended calories in one sitting, including apple pie? It's what I call the mecca. But lets not lose focus.

Walking Apple pie. The Best.

When Halloween comes around, everyone is excited! Neighborhoods are super spirited with decorated porches, carved pumpkins, and the coolest or most original costumes. Much like the first child. The parents to be spend weeks decorating the nursery, finding the perfect 'take home outfit', and gathering all the other necessary baby supplies.  They are excited to start their little family.

Then Thanksgiving is here, the Holiday that is based on feelings, including but no limited to, thankfulness, appreciation, gratitude, and the list goes on. Similar to how you hear families talk about their second child.  'We're so blessed', 'Couldn't be more happy', 'So much to be thankful for'.

And when Christmas finally gets here, everyone forgets about Halloween, and Thanksgiving and is just excited to be in the giving spirit, but also to have the long string of Holidays over (no I'm not forgetting about New Years). The last of the major Holidays to round out what has felt like a three month marathon, which is the third child.

If, for the sake of the analogy, you've finally made it to New Years, and you have yet another kid, well you're already in a league of your own here. And I've got nothing for you.

And when people talk about the 'Holidays' they start with Halloween, and jump right over to Christmas without even skipping a beat.  Yeah Thanksgiving might not be the most entertaining Holiday, but it's a Holiday none the less, and again any day that I get paid to sit around eat, drink, and eat some more with family and friends is the best in my book.

And while I am not a middle child, I imagine this is how a middle child often feels, just like Thanksgiving.  And while I am the youngest, that wouldn't be half bad.

Secrets Do Make Friends....

Hey girl heyy loyal Stay Blonde Ski Local readers! I'm Tami and I blog over at Friday Morning Buzz. Today Kaylin and I decided to share stories about our "secrets". Well, you might not know this about me--in fact, if you're reading this, you might not know me at all. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Tami, and I'm a total basket case.

Struggle bus. Front row.

You see, from the outside, I kiiiind of look like I have my shit together. I have a full-time big girl job (just got a new one, in fact). I take care of a rambunctious pup, two very particular felines, and one lovable piece of work I call a boyfriend. Most days I show up on time, get my recommended four servings of vegetables, and sometimes even put a few miles on my running shoes. But most of the time, under it all, I'm one hot ass mess.

Exhibit A: We're going out to dinner on a Friday night. Should be a blast, right? Wrong. I want Mexican. John wants BBQ (again). We go back and forth for a few minutes, and he gives in. Great, right?! Wrong again. Why don't we just do BBQ like you wanted, babe? Actually, I really don't want pulled pork again. I really want soft tacos. But, no, it's your turn to choose. But I reallllly want tacos!

What should be a mindless decision turns into a long, drawn out, torturous affair to which my boyfriend finally throws his hand up in the air says something like 'What do you WANT me to say right now?!'

The truth is, I have no idea. I really don't.

Take another example, after my first day of work earlier this week. The day had gone smoothly--perfectly, even. But when I got home, I just started to fall apart. Our landlord was there waiting at the door, wanting to get inside with a bunch of gear to finish painting a wall. The dog was jumping around like an utter madman, as if my calves had suddenly turned into juicy steaks he needed to devour immediately. The phone was blowing up with calls from my mom, John, and friends, checking in to see how my first day went. To top it all off, when I reached in the fridge to grab the ice cold beer I'd been dreaming about all day, the Landshark box was empty.

And I just lost it. Right there in the living room of our rental house, apropos of nothing at all catastrophic, I broke down in tears. Who does that? I do.

Is this a cry for help? Maybe. But more likely it's me looking for a little validation, for someone to throw back all the crazy I'm putting out there there and tell me I'm not the only one who will go to the mall, buy something, get home, decide I hate what I bought, go back to return it, and decide to keep the damn thing after all. Men are right. Women are crazy. Or maybe it's just me.

So that's my secret. Under this put-together office ensemble is a raving lunatic who spent fifteen minutes looking for her car keys and also probably forgot to put on deodorant. You're welcome.

If you're a little cray cray too, you can read more of my antics here.

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This Little Face

If I could look this cute in stripes and pumpkin hat, all while gnawing on my fingers, I would totally do it. Minus the finger gnawing part, maybe.  Somehow I don't think that it'd be quite as flattering on me.  This little one, oh and her parents (my brother and sister in law) are coming to visit this weekend. And I'm ready to give her 2,492,731 hugs, and twice as many kisses. 

I mean, that face.

I'm also ready to see her in the adorable leopard jeans I bought her at Target, that I just couldn't resist, which I am sure her Mom is thrilled about.  I might even wear my leopard jeans and be super matchy matchy, you never know.

Although we are a airplane ride or eight long driving hours away from the three of them, I am determined to make my mark at the 'coolest Aunt ever' by drowning her in fun and cute things forever. Or maybe until I have kids of my own. Time will tell.

Among other things I am excited about these days.
The list is long.

Starting with:
A weekend in the mountains
Our new mailbox
Thanksgiving
Painting the Front door
The wedding
Finishing the Deck
The pumpkin bread I just made
And my new vest
My kindle
and the onset of Ski Season

I can't wait.

Top Three Worst Costumes Ever...Wow.

Happy Halloween, everyone! Today I've teamed up with the one and only Taylor from The Daily Tay to bring you all a fun little recap of our favorite (and not so favorite) Halloween memories and costumes from over the years. And because we were both hooligans in college, you are in for a treat.
1. What have been your top 3 Halloween costumes:

Taylor-
Easy. 1. Ladybug 2. Olive from Little Miss Sunshine. 3. Pregnant Britney Spears.

Kaylin-
Goodness there are so many good ones to choose from, most were from my youth, because let's all be honest no costume in college is really worth mentioning.  Especially when your in a sorority and Halloween is pretty much every weekend.

My favorite, and go to was home sewn pumpkin outfit was stuffed with crumbled bits of news paper and had a hat that tied under the chin.  I wore it in pre-school when it sagged past my knees, and again my junior year of High School when it came to my waist.  Let's just say we got our money's worth.

My second favorite would be the T Birds, with custom hand crafted spray painted T-shirts that I made.  I completed the outfit with a fake cigarette made of rolled paper, because I didn't want to keep a real one behind my ear. It's the purist in me.



Third is probably when I was a butterfly. Something about having wings makes you feel so magical.  Perhaps I felt a small moment of what tink feels all the time. Also I got to wear four inch power purple heels, and I didn't look out of place. Clearly I'm the big winner here.

2. Now what your worst Halloween costumes:

Taylor- Anything and everything I wore for Halloween in college. Most specifically this hippy costume. Put some clothes on gross little college girl, you look ratchet. (Just for the record that is my first time every using that word and I'm kinda excited about it. Did I use it correctly?)

Kaylin-
The worst costumes included a terrible Britney Spears circa 2001 costume. Think Hit Me Baby One More Time costume gone wrong in all sorts of ways, and me as a college freshman. No pictures necessary.  The real worst was when I dressed up as a drawer liner, and gave myself a full body wax when removing the costume. If only I was joking.

But really this might really be it, a 'ruler'. Who buys a men's extra large plain Tee, sews it into a dress, and then makes it into a ruler. This girl.  Seriously so embarrassing.  And probably the most stereotypical college sorority girl with frat boy picture ever.

This was bad too. Is that really a dress?

3. Best Halloween night and why:

Taylor-
The crazy bender I went on back in the early 90s known as Kindergarten Halloween. I was a mouse and was on straight sugar high for probably seven days. The party started in the a.m. at school and didn't end until long after dusk after I'd hit up all of the rich neighborhoods, just jonesing to get my hands on some of those King Size candy bars- the Butterfingers and Reeses were my drug of choice back then. God those were good times.

Kaylin-
I was in Northfield, MN visiting my friend form High School, who went to Carleton. She forgot to mention that October in MN is colder than any winter day in CA, and I froze my little butt off as a Indian. I also took a hour long cab ride by myself with a creepy old man cab driver while hung over, and discovering the newly downloaded piano app on my iPhone. Clearly there are parts of that night that I don't remember.

4. Naturally we have to talk about the worst night now:

Taylor-
This would have to be the Halloween of 2009 when I was infected with the good ol Swine Flu, also known as H1N1. I'd had the flu for roughly two weeks before I finally decided to go to the doctor a couple of days before Halloween to figure out if it was normal or not to feel as if you've been slowly dying for the past fourteen days. As it turns out, it's not. On the bright side I lost a lot of weight and looked killer in my Halloween costume that year! Because yeah, I still went out obviously.

Kaylin-

The worst was probably fourth grade when I decided I wanted to be a bowling ball.   I, along with the help of my Mom, cut two large pieces of cardboard into circles, connected them with duck tape and painted them black with the three finger holes on the front side.  It rained that night and the paint ran. By the end of the night I was wearing two gray soggy pieces of cardboard, that I eventually had to ditch only to reveal my 115 pound 4 foot 2 frame fourth grade frame in all black spandex. It was awesome.

5. How will you be celebrating this evening?

Taylor- Ditto to everything Kaylin says below. Although I might get a little adventurous and take Harlow for a spin around the neighborhood in his jockey costume. We shall see...

Kaylin-
I'll be sitting on my couch probably watching the shows that I missed on Wednesday, and answering the door for the neighbor kids, though we usually don't have too many.  At some point I'll have to dress up again, when I'm a Mom and everything, but that's still years out, so until then I'm enjoying the tranquility of it all.  Clearly I did way too much costuming in college.

Hope you all have a great Halloween.
P.S. Don't get too Candy Crush crazy or anything.

Someday.

Someday....

I'll be good at using my DSLR camera. I think maybe just using it more is what I need to do. Remember it's a normal blogging accessory, totally normal.

My entire To-Do list (never written, it's in my head) will be complete. Or maybe even someday I will start making a To-Do list to document my productivity. I don't sit around all day for nothing. I promise.

Our house will be done. But progress is progress no matter how big or how small.

I'll travel to Greece with my boyfriend, and love it. Those isles look like perfection. I mean have you seen Sister Hood of the Traveling pants two? Come on.

My kids will be dressed in matching outfits (no matter what gender), and I will take embarrassing pictures of them. And I will love it.

Collecting shoes will not be a hobby, but it will be my job. Professional shoe buyer sounds good as a 'title' right? I could totally do that, and yes I'd still probably get 17% of all of them at Target, because why the heck not.

I'll have this bloggy blog thing figured out.

Zoey will be tired after our morning run. The girl and I went eight miles last week and it left her un-phased. Oh what I wouldn't give to have as much energy as she does. Except then I'd probably be a tiny bit annoying, but she can pull it off. She's too darn cute.

I'll have a Nordstrom credit card. It would probably be better for the both of us.

The stack of old windows behind the garage will magically disappear. It's been about two years. I'm thinking maybe in another two they'll just be gone.  Again with the whole progress thing.

Soon I won't be in  my middle twenties anymore, and I know I'll dream of the days when I was. So I gotta live 'em up now, and by live 'em up I mean do what makes me happy. Who says raging on a Friday night is what you are 'supposed to be doing' anyway.

Senior Portraits

I got this sweat the other day from Old Navy a while back and have never worn it.  I had had grand plans of taking really cute outfit pictures while wearing it, but didn't. So I'm left with this one, taken in the parking lot at work right before I left. Clearly I was trying to show off my High School senior portrait posing skills, or the awesome glitter elbow patch.  I'll let you decide.

Fall arrived on Monday, and you probably noticed that we got our first big snow in the mountains as well. Which is what I consider a double whammy; hello ski season.

What else is happening.
Well not that much, except far too much, all at the same time.

In the whirlwind of Halloween, bridal showers, new cousins, my niece coming soon, work on the house, and baby showers we've been a bit busy.  So busy in fact that I woke up on Friday morning with sharp knife in my throat that required a doctors visit and Penicillin to cure. Awesome.

I'm so trying to give back, and grow this little cyber space of mine, but I've fallen off the rocker. I thought a Friday night of nothing but soup and Say Yes to the Dress in bed might cure it, but I am afraid not.

I'm still lost, and have no clear visions of what to write and say here.
Which most days I find totally acceptable.
But some days I find full of the sour taste some call disappointment.

Tomorrow though you're in for a treat. A little trip down memory lane of Halloween.
With pictures.

Home.

Check out those shutters.

They look pretty damn good, I'm just sayin'.

Amazing what some black plastic can do to the front of a home right?

I spent 45 minutes ordering these them about two weeks ago (ten day delivery in my dreams) at the local Home Depot.  I walked in with the exact dimensions and type of the shutters I needed, ask me how it still took the Home Depot man 45 minutes to get my order placed, I'm not sure sure. There was no line.  

But what I will say is they made us both VERY happy. We had no idea that such a small addition to the house would make such a big difference with curb appeal, which is weird because we log about 4.7 hours of HGTV per week; those Cousins on Call are pretty darn cute talented.

Our house is really coming along. A coat of black paint on the front door, one more day of work on the deck, and a few other small things here and there inside, and it will finally be 'done' after almost three years of changes.  I love calling this little bungalow home though, something about it's charm and small (relative) size that is so cozy, and easy to clean, which can be equally as charming in it's own domestic way.  

In other news this weekend there is a new little one in the family, born healthy less than an hour into Sunday. And he gets to head home this morning.  Lots of blessings to count as the Holidays approach. Can't believe they are here already.

New Kid on the the Block

Last night I attended my first alumni event, and my heart had palpitations.  Alumni, man that word still stings.

If you can guess which house I we were in, ten extra points for you.

After three solid years of being a collegiate member of Delta Gamma,  I graduated and 'left sorority' life in the past, one of the hardest things I've ever done.  No one ever tells you just how sad life post graduation sorority is going to be, it's the pits.

So when my little called inviting me to go with her to our local alumni group Bunco night I figured why not try it out.  Being the new kid on the block is hard, all us bloggers had to start somewhere, so you know how it goes.

Am I dressed appropriately? Are they going to like me? Should I bring something? Did I remember to brush my teeth? Are we going to have do to a ritual? Shit do I remember those? I usual freak out before you're the new girl on the block routine.

But when we showed up it was all peachy keen- I had forgotten the whole premise of a sorority is getting girls together for a larger cause to harbor friendships, develop skill sets, and better you as a person, friend, and community member.  And you'll make good best friends out of it.

My first day as a DG I knew no one, and same was true at this event, but they were all my type of people, and we drank wine and played bunco which pretty much knocks the socks out of my usual Wednesday plans (i.e Modern Family and Criminal Minds).

I'm going back next month, we are going to do the Paint and Sip deal. Ifs BYOW (bring your own wine). I can't even wait. 

If I Got a Dollar for Every Mile I Ran, I'd Run More...

The other day while having a moment of 'insignificance', I decided I needed to do something that would make me feel accomplished.  So I decided I would run 'train' for a half marathon.  Although I haven't really talked about it much on this little worm hole web space of mine, I'm what some would call a freak, and what others would call a runner.  I'll take either.

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I confess that I'm your weirdo that wakes up at 5am to go running or to Boot camp, and I love it.  I enjoy getting the day started, getting the work out done, and then pretending like it never even happened.  Except on days that I am so sore I can hardly get up off the toilet in which case it's hard to forget the work out, but I guess that's just too much information.

Also I'm sure I don't look like this when I run, but who does.  Oh that's right half the running I see out there who effortlessly glide, step after step making me hate them more and more as they go.  This is what I actually look like; I'm not a pretty sight before or after the run, promise.

But here's the thing, if I got a dollar for ever mile I ran, I'd be running A TON more. Just to think about all those sweet running gear I'd have, the shoes I could buy, and the purses I'd be wearing.  But then I guess I'd have to be running A LOT more than I am now.  Not quite sure how far $20 buck a week would get me.  Certainly wouldn't buy my current crushes these, these, this, and this, but I'd for sure take the extra money.


And now back to my 'need to feel accomplished', this must be a quarter century thing, heck knows I didn't feel this at 24.  So, honestly I don't know if I am going to 'train' as much as I am going to try to  run more. Mostly so I can keep accommodating all the sweets I've been eating, but also in hopes that when I actually do get around to running a half marathon (March maybe????) I'll be ready. My Mom said she'd run it with me, and if I have any hopes of beating keeping up with her, I gotta get my ass movin'.

My Weekend Party

This weekend I hosted a bridal shower, a sure fire sign that we're not in Kansas college anymore.  It was a small gathering, but as I mentioned before, I was quite nervous about having people over.  Something about the first 'formal' gathering that you host can really get to you, or so I've learned.

Maybe it's my type A personality or my unhealthy obsession with Pinterest, but I wanted the every last detail to be perfect.  So I cleaned for days, arranged flowers, bought what felt like half of the super market, and made my boyfriend hang my other DIY curtains in preparation.  (Please note this is the cleanest our house has been in 2013, see what hosting a party can do for you?)  All in hopes of attaining perfection.

Well the event was far from perfect, you probably noticed the crossed out food label above due to a last minute menu change, but it was heartfelt to say the least. The out pour of love and support that was given to me as the host, and my good friend as the bride (isn't she stunning with that pixie?) was really amazing.  Especially considering how poorly the bachelorette party went? Remember this story?

Among my favorite moments was when she was opening presents, and got a book that has advice from couples that have been married over fifty years, and tears came to her eyes. It wasn't the grandest or most expensive present there, but it was the idea behind it that really got the bride to be everyone choked up.

There's just something so special about sharing moments with friends who are getting married that you can't ever recreate.  I'll probably never parade around the house in my bridemaids dress, next to a best friend in her veil and wedding shoes in front of our co-workers just for fun ever again. Nor will there be that much excitement stirring in my home for a while, but I was honored we could all be together to share and celebrate the last few weeks of her 'single' life.

I can't wait to stand up at the alter with her in six short weeks, and I really can't wait to break it down on the dance floor.  But really I can't wait to share the future with her and her husband. It's going to be be so amazingly special.

P.S. I got my camera back, but I didn't take these, a guest did. Didn't she do a GREAT job?

Thank God.

When I hear religious people say, "Thank God," I makes me feel a lot better about saying it.  What drives me nuts are those looks some people give you for saying it that makes you feel like a bad person, yeah I hate that. It's like they are saying more mean things with their eyebrows than they'd ever have the balls to actually say to you in person.

So I apologize in advance to you crazy eyebrow turning hooligans, thank God it's Friday.  Although this week has been full of fun stuff like crafting for the party, red velvet cupcakes, and date night take out, I'm still ready for it to be over so I can fluff, primp, and prep my little heart out.

No my bed doesn't look like this, but I have the duvet.

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Aside from the three loads of laundry I still haven't put away, the curtains that haven't been hung, the grabbing of the groceries, cleaning the kitchen, cooking, and baking I'm totally ready to have everyone over.  But as I sit here typing this, I just can't seem to get to any of it done before work.

You see this morning marked the first 'long sleeve shirt running weather' which is awesome because it means it was actually cold enough this morning to make my bed feel extra warm and cozy.  So instead of popping right out of bed to run my first alarm, I waited 'til the fourth one which I am sure my bedmate boyfriend really appreciates.

So of course the only logical thing to do after my run and shower was to get back in bed under our new duvet, and cozy up to write this, which is where you would find me for the rest of the day, if I had my choice.  But since that's not the case I'll be running around like a chicken with her head cut off, oh and going to work, until I have every last detail squared away.

But based on this morning there is a slight glimmer of hope that fall is coming to CA, which would be a heaven send. I'm going to wear tall boots, and a blazer today just to urge it to come.  I am so sick of the heat, short sleeves, and sandals it's ridiculous. And yes, I am aware that all of you East Coasters who have now been living in fall for weeks are cursing these words as you read them. I'm sorry, I guess it just proves that CA really is the best state. I'm just sayin'.

Also it's now 8:30 and I haven't gotten dressed yet (yup that means I've been writing this in my undies), so I should probably hop out of bed and get to it... gosh darn you Friday. You've already gotten the best of me.

My Boss is Coming Over

I've been buried deep in the crevasses of my house, cleaning, scrubbing, dusting, laundering, arranging, and repeating all week.  Also in 1200 square feet I'm not even sure we have crevasses, but if there are, I have found them.  All of them.

My boss, and my bosses boss are attending a bridal shower I am hosting at my house this weekend, and if I've never been intimidated in my lifetime, I am now.  Our house has been a work in progress for almost two years (yup, we lived through a remodel that was fun) , and while we're alm o s t done, we're not qui t e there yet.  But this year we've come a long way, and there are many sections of my home that I love, parts I have worked hard on, and things that make me happy.

Both taken with my phone from my couch, because I'm lazy.

But since my home is a place where I find comfort, and escape to after a long days work, it's hard to let people in with the idea that they are going to find the same satisfaction with it as we (my boyfriend and I) do.   Which in the end might be perfectly fine, despite the fact that that's exactly what I want.  But I'm a girl, and I want them to be impressed, and think it's beautiful, because wouldn't anyone want that for their home?

To be honest, I'm mostly nervous a pillow won't be fluffed enough, the food won't be scrumptious enough (yes I am feeding them all too), and the floors won't be clean enough.  But seriously what I was thinking sweeping and mopping, Cinderella style on my hands and knees, on Tuesday, when little Miss Zoey can single handily make any floor dirty hairy in 37 seconds flat? Fail.  God I want need a Roomba. 

Mostly I just want it to all go well. I can't wait to have all my crafts done, food prepped, drinks made, and guests here. I'll be sure to have a candle burning, all lights on, and fresh towels, new soap, and flowers in the bathroom.  My silverware will be wrapped and bowed in linen napkins, and my serving trays will be matching.  The wine will be chilled, and mimosas will be ready for an awesome party.  

This party has to make up for the the terrible bachelorette party the bride had, and I'm determined to do it.  So excuse me while I go fold the three loads of laundry that are currently heaped and barley fitting on my kitchen island, and scrub that back toilet, and clean up the back room in hopes that when my boss(es) come over Saturday morning, they'll be pleasantly surprised with what we've worked so hard to put together.

Fingers crossed.

On Babies

The idea of growing a baby is intimidating.  Talk about the actual labor and delivery, and I'm out.  I'm so not cut out for this. Don't get me wrong, I want kids (yes plural) someday, emphasis on the someday.

Clearly she loves FaceTiming with me.

 

In blog world babies are everywhere, it's not until they (babies) start showing up on your Facebook news feed that you'll freak out (right Nadine?).  Mostly because you know that these babies weren't mistakes, they were intentional, planned, not a surprise, which is another indicator that nope, I'm not getting any younger.

 

While the idea of being a Mom still intimidates me, I wonder if the feelings on motherhood every really change? Isn't the whole premise of being a parent intimidating-- being responsible for another life, shaping a personality, leading by example, teaching morals, but mostly keeping them alive, healthy, and happy, this just doesn't sound easy. 

And while there are some days that this seems near impossible for my little mind to process, it's happening all around me. In blogworld every season in baby season, but in real life baby season (for me) is right now.  If it were contagious, I'd have it.  My boyfriends cousin and sister are both due in the next 40 days, my niece is just barley 3 months (and the cutest thing ever), and Andrea is about ready to pop too (call if you need me).

The past two weekends were filled with family and baby showers; words like boppy, Sophie, and Bjorn don't even phase me even more...what is happening?  Insert internal freak out here.  The beauty of all these babies, is the excuse to browse the baby sections at Target, and how much I've been using my sewing machine.  This baby stuff can be so expensive, so I've been making the gifts myself, like this car seat cover I made for Andrea. How To coming soon.

So until I'm ready to be a Mom, I'll just borrow the babies I have around me (soon to be four of 'em)! I'll shop and sew for them, and come back home to my baby (Zoey that is), and drown her in hugs, and loves, and rubs, 'til I'm we're ready for a real one. It'll be a while, I promise.

Real Life > Blog Life

 

If I could spend my nights do anything, this would be it.

After many busy weeks, and weekends, I'm ready for this on repeat for the next three weeks, but seriously, staying at home and sitting by the fire. Seriously nothing sounds better.

When feeling guilt about blogging (and lack there of), I have to remember to keep things in perspective.  Real life > Blog life.  And as much as I enjoy using this as a resource, outlet, and crowd curating space, nothing quite tops the day to day moments that I think make my life so special.

So yup, the past few weeks of content may have been poor, I still struggle with the dichotomy of blogging, and finding a good balance.  But that's okay, because I've been overwhelmed by real life anyways.

Sometimes I guess you just can't do every last thing you want to do. You have choose to do the things that bring the most joy to you, and share the joy you have made and found with those around you.

It's so important to realize and remember that it's not about the followers, sponsorships, or number of comments, it's about what you get from it. And while I know you'll only get what you put into it, you can't miss the moments that might mean the most long term.

I'm still a work in progress. 

This space is still a work in progress.

Someday (soon?) I'll figure it all out.

Things Parents Should Tell you In High School

 If this picture doesn't define the word awkward, I don't know what does.

Braces suck while they are on, but a lifetime of straight teeth is totally worth two years of brace face in High School. But oh yes, they'll look terrible all two years you have 'em, but they won't get stuck on your boyfriend's, promise.

You want your boobs to grow yes, but a push up bra will work.  In reality, you don't want boobs too big, they'll get in your way.  If you really want 'em bigger after kids, get the best surgeon there is.

Even in 'adult life' there are those people who drive the nicest cars, and beep bop around like they are better than you, just like they did in High School when their parents bought them a brand new car on their sixteenth birthday. Don't let it get to you, they'll probably always be that way.

Drinking isn't really that cool after all, you'll do WAYYYY too much of it in college.

Your High School boyfriend, probably will date some bimbo girl you don't like after he dates you. And you'll freak out for a second, and then be totally over it once college happens.

Making new friends isn't hard, but making true friends is. Keep the ones you have.

The High School years do not qualify as the glory years, that's college where you don't stress about health care, 401k, or a mortgage. And your priorities are Wednesdays Funk night at the local bar, class, and the upcoming sorority event.

'The Girl Club' while annoying at sixteen, is actually something to celebrate in later years. If you've seen sixteen and pregnant, you too would think it's a blessing.

If you think you love your boyfriend, you should probably wait (you know what I mean), because you're probably not going to marry him. Unless you are my parents, clearly the exception, not the rule.

Pimples last a lifetime and even if you are blessed with nice skin, you'll still get the occasional pimple in college, mid twenties, and from everything my Mom tells me pretty much the rest of your life.  They are still a crisis in your twenties, trust me.

And at that I currently I have four pimples.
Awesome.
Happy Darn Thursday.