The Gypsy Life For Me

I wish that I could live a gypsy life (well kind of - maybe not a true gypsy). I would love, love, love to be able to travel and live different places. Not even necessarily other countries. I wouldn't mind traveling and living in different places around the U.S. It would be so wonderful to not have to worry about the daily grind - to just see different places....How would I start?

First stop - California: To live on the beach and soak in a Californian tan

Second stop - Wyoming: For an entire winter I would be a snow bunny!

Third stop - Colorodo: Snow mobiling is calling my name

Forth stop - Arizona: See my by large cacti and the Grand Canyon

Fifth stop - Texas: Learn the true cowgirl lifestyle and maybe even to ride bulls!

Sixth stop - Michigan: To live by the Great Lakes

Seventh stop - New York: Design in style and to see the city life

Eighth stop - Las Vegas, NV: Oh, you know why.

Ninth stop - Maryland: It is absolutly BEAUTIFUL there

Tenth stop - Washington D.C: To soak in everything about our nations capital

Eleventh stop- The Carolinas: Experience true southern antebellum tradition

Twelvth stop - Tennessee: Kereoke to become famous

Thirtheeth stop - Maine: To learn how to fish for crab


Ah, that is about it. Of course, in the meantime I would learn Italian and stay in Italy for a while and come back home!


It makes me smile to just think about this type of lifestyle. Not a care in the world. I wish that I didn't have to worry about holding down a career for the rest of my life - but that I could travel to all of these places, move their for a while at each, and just have fun and enjoy life to the fullest. I think that this could one day be a reality.

The Sunday Grind

As bad as I hate to say it...we skipped out on church this morning *us too JoJo* because H is helping my fam put up a new tin roof. Sometimes I just need a break, and unfortunatly that means Sunday. Church, for us, is such a massive production. It takes an hour to get their one way, then we have to eat, then come home. Just to go to church means 5 hours of the day + gas. I'd like to put that money as my tithe, but instead...it just gets me there and back. I still got up at the crack, but I was able to clean and chill - and I needed it. The roof looks amazing!!! My parents needed a new roof so badly. It is a deep chocolate-charcoal color. Now they will not ever need a new roof for the rest of their lifetime. So, the boys have been putting up tin since 6a.m. I cleaned house - which I only do on Sundays because when the family comes on the weekend they mess everything up and it is pointless to even try to keep tidy. I wait until Sunday so I can live in peace all through the week. It's clean now and smellin' nice!

One thing I adore about my BF is that he likes the Pixar animated kids movies like me :) We are just kids at heart still. I went to pick out a movie while ago and called him about renting I am Legend. Instead he yelled *oh, oh, what about that Bee movie....it looks good* haha. I got it of course! So we will be watching that after dinner.

I have chicken boiling as we speak. As requested, I am cookin' chicken -n- dumplin's. My own recipe. Nothing fancy but is delicious. I am making glazed carrots and cabbage as the sides. H has to have cabbage at every meal I think. It's his favorite veggie.

My dad used a sledge hammer to break the doorknob to our house this weekend. He locked his keys in the house, got made, grabbed a sledge hammer and literally knocked our doorknob off. He had to replace the whole entire thing. I asked why he did that when my G'parents next door have a key. That was so silly...

Work is on the horizen in the morning. The weekends just go by way too fast. I just wish I had one more day!!!

SPAM (not from a can)

A message from Blogger: Blogger's spam-prevention robots have detected that your blog has characteristics of a spam blog. (What's a spam blog?) Since you're an actual person reading this, your blog is probably not a spam blog. Automated spam detection is inherently fuzzy, and we sincerely apologize for this false positive.

We received your unlock request on March 30, 2008. On behalf of the robots, we apologize for locking your non-spam blog. Please be patient while we take a look at your blog and verify that it is not spam.

O.K. Blogger obviously has a good thing going for them by having something in play to block spam. And they have a commical way to appologize through a message. I just feel like there has to be some type of glich that makes a non-spam blog look like spam. Surley there is an IT Geek that knows how to fix this!? This is the second time this has happened, and my blog has been on hold. If you click on "What's a Spam Blog" Blogger says that an actual human being has to look and see if it really isn't spam! How much do they get paid?

So, if a real person is actually reading this to unlock my other WeddingTale blog - lemme know if you need some help. I could use some extra cash!

Not much Happenin'

I attend my friends wedding today. It was at the American Village (old Colonial style chapel and structures). Of course it was beautiful...everyone who attended our college gets married there it seems like.

Other than that...this has been a totally unproductive day. Not necessarily lazy, just unproductive. I wanted to do something fun tonight, but instead, we are wathching basketball....

humph....

Not much to say about today....nothing is going on!

Wounded Warrior Project

I just want to extend my deepest thanks to our American Soldiers. They sacrafice so much for us to be able to live freely. It is so easly taken for granted. Always remember Home of the free, because of the brave.

I have a deep passion and genuine concern for our wounded veterans. These men and women fought the battle, and have the wounds of freedom to show for it. I want to help out. I have found an awesome organization called the Wounded Warrior Project.

I am going to write thank you letters to our wounded veterans thanking them and their familes for their sacrafice. These letters are to be mailed to the organizations headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida. The letters will be given to wounded veterans and soldiers in a bookbag care package at hospitals around the country. Its so sad to think that some of these soldiers come home to nothing. No clothes, no food, no soap, no home. It's just not right.

I am hopeful that I can one day volunteer more time at veteran hospitals - and maybe one day host my own event! That would be the greatest feeling ever.

Also, the organization welcomes creative ideas for cool events and fundraisers around the country. If you have an idea please submit!

I feel that this is the absolute least I can do for the courage, bravery, and sacrifce these people have done for me personally, and for my country.

Keep this in the back of your mind. And if you ever want to share your thanks - get involved with the Wounded Warrior Project.

Why God Made Me Brunette

I highlighted my cousins hair yesterday. At her request...she wanted that color to be that of "Porn Star Blonde." Oh, we got it there all right. It looked great on her (as best porn star blonde could). She has always worn her hair bleached out and it looks great. She asked me why on earth I never want to highlight my hair. I explained that some people are just born brunette, and God made them that way for a reason. She made a silly face in disbelief. "But it would look soooo cute" if you would...

Hmmm, my first point proved so. God made me brunette and I am proud of it!

I could be mistaken for either:

A. a cheap prostitute

B. halloween costume fashion model

C. trailer trash as seen on news footage after a tornado hit

D. rodeo clown

E. someone who works in a tatoo parlor

F. groupie

G. lot lizard

F. none of the above (and stay brunette)

That was just for fun!

I also created a new blog (that hopefully I can keep up with unlike my outdoors blog). This one will be relevant - one day - and fun. Follow along if you wish...if not, wish me luck at weddingtale.blogspot.com.

Gone Fishing

Springtime means more time to throw out the line! We went fishing at our pond last weekend. We only caught 2 fish! I was surprised that fish were still in those ponds! It has been so long since anyone has fished. Jacob and Wade are just getting older and busier and not interested anymore. Just kind of sad when everyone grows up and things aren't the same anymore...but that is just l.i.f.e.

Southern Comfort

Yummy! I am enjoying the wonderful pleasures of my favorite guilty pleasure...Chocolate Milk. Since I was little, it has been my all time comfort. Sometimes life goes by so fast that I forget about it...not tonight though!

I like being in my comfort zone. I just like to feel all 'snuggly.' Whether it be at home, on the porch, or at the Piggly Wiggly in my hometown - it doesn't matter.

Sometimes it's easy not to see the light at the end of the tunnel. At those moments I like to feel loved, comfortable, and able to find a way to disappear to nothingness. That is the best way I can describe the feeling I get while drinking chocolate milk.

It reminds me of my childhood when everything was perfect. It could not have gotten any better. I miss that feeling. If I ever find something that takes me back - I cherish it!

I wanted a glass of chocolate milk while I wrote my post today. I didn't have a topic or any type of direction whatsoever. After my first sip I just knew what I was going to say today.

If you can find something that brings back that "nothingness" feeling and wipes away all of the worries and hassells of the daily grind...take time to enjoy every sip!

Have you been hugged in comfort today?

March Comes in Like a Lion...Out Like a Lamb

The last few weeks have been incredibly stressful for me. I just feel overwhelmed. March has not necessarily been my favorite month so far. I have too much time to think...I think!

I have decided to dedicate all of the positives that happened today:

1. I received a letter in mail that my power would be out from 11pm to 6am yesterday. I have to start getting ready at 5am so I did not know what I would do...and all my new batteries would not work in my alarm clock. To my surprise I had power this morning & my coffee even made - right on time!

2. The weather was incredible this afternoon. I was able to go walking with my cousin to get ready for summer.

3. I had downtime today at work. I started decluttering all my files (on the computer) and consolidating into certain folders. Also deleted unused/outdated materials. Seems minimal, but I do not have time during the day for great organizational skills.

4. I realized how much I truly love my boyfriend and I want to be with him forever. He is perfect for me and treats me like an angel. I just know that it is meant to be - the first time I have really, really know.

5. I was able to stick to my portion controlled diet that I started back yesterday. The key is oatmeal for breakfast!

6. The work received a cool point today. We now have a Wii gaming system in the breakroom so a bowling tourney could break out at any time.

7. I am going to get to go to Dallas, TX in early June for work. I have always at least wanted to lay my eyes on TX (they say everything's bigger there)

8. I discovered officially hotels.com. I know FOR SURE if I ever need to book a flight or room - that's where I am going to find it. AMAZING deals (no scams - I actually called the 800 number to find out what they actually do)

9. Holder is trying to get a one bedroom apt in Birmingham! YAY! It will still be close to school for him and I can actually visit (right now I have to have him as an escort if I leave his room, have to check in and out, and I can only stay with him 4 times per month) Now I can see him WHENEVER I WANT! Peace and quiet is actually on its way.

10. I have a family, BF, and friends that care about me very much. I have a good job, a roof over my head, food in my belly, running water, air conditioning, and most of all GOD'S GRACE to let me into the pearly gates.

I needed that. I feel much better.

Shock Factors to a Minimum Please!

It’s official. I am going to go absolutely loco one of these days. The question is “Where is my sanity breaking point?” I don’t even think that writing this post can relay the feelings I have towards everything right now – and without sounding like a selfish spoiled brat…

Several days ago, mom decided to just now inform me that her and dad will never be able to put anything toward my future wedding. That’s nice. I guess I am expected to lay and hatch a $10,000 egg. Wouldn’t this be something that would be beneficial to know, lets say, 5 or 6 years ago. Maybe a heads up of some sort. Some type of inclination that this would be a possibility. But no, no, no – let’s bring this up when there’s a possibility of a wedding within the next year. Not only that, but by getting married…I would have to furnish an apartment/home and have enough in the bank for all fees necessary to get a start-up to my life. I am livid about this.

Then, on top of that….What Wedding? How in the heck am I supposed to prepare for something I am not positive of? And how am I supposed to support someone in med school? Should I even have to? I guess not – but if I ever want to move forward…it has to start somewhere.

Just the way everything is turning out right now is totally backwards and doesn’t make any logical sense to me. I’m sorry, but I didn’t know that it would be difficult to just make ends meet. Especially with a good job. And it really isn’t close to relevant our parents situation when they were young and started their life. Yes, they were hard workers…but $200 a month could actually pay all bills, buy groceries, have discretionary income AND save. It just isn’t that way anymore. And the baby boomers want to declare that we just want too much. That just is not so.

All I know to do at this point is to just roll with the punches. It still doesn’t cover the fact that my family needs to be more upfront with BIG issues such as this. Let’s keep the shock factor to a minimum at this point.

Rise and Shine all You Easter Bunnies!

Happy Easter!

It has already been a very eventful morning. Holder and I woke up at 4:30am to attend the sunrise service at church. It was the first time that I have ever went to a sunrise service. All in all I loved it and I think it would be a lovely tradition to stick to!

We are going to dye egges today. I already picked up some Paas and egges! It wouldn't be right to let Easter pass without some egg-dying action.

A nap is a must. After I work on my online picture book! I am going to compile all of my Vegas pics and create a masterpiece.

I want to share the all famous shutterfly website. It is my favorite. I have tried snapfish and I hate it. I really like being able to create neat things with my pictures. The photobook (hardback) that you may create is WONDERFUL. I made Holder a hardback pic book this past Christmas. This is the same one I am going to make of my vegas pics. The book comes in the mail and the pictures look awesome. Plus, there are hundereds of backgrounds to choose from. I used to create my own scrapbooks (one of my therapies) but it is SO time consuming. I get on kicks from time to time, but I just love the way I can make a 'coffee table' photobook. It just is more fuctional that a scrapbook or picture album. Kind of expensive though, but pictures are priceless.

The have just added a black covered and black paged book that looks AWESOME with black & white photos throughout.

So, that's my afternoon....picture book - nap - goin' fishin - cooking Easter dinner (don't know what yet) - and then bedtime! It is going to be a nice day.

College Lies & Real World Truths

Deceptions I learned in college...and then the real truth.

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Lie: A college degree will land you a good paying job.

Truth: A college degree is useless - without extensive experience along with it.

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Lie: You will make 60% more over the course of your career with a college education.

Truth: You will spend just as much time as someone without a degree earning that 60% (except you will be paying back student loans.

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Lie: A college degree is a good investment.

Truth: Two words. Student loans. And don't think you are going to go without them! The average student loan debt upon graduation is $25,000! Note: Those individuals must make at least $75,000 a year to repay the loan in 10 years. Some college grads leave school with 6 digit debt.

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Lie: You will graduate making more than the folks who skipped out on college.

Truth: All your friends will be making more than you - doing plumbing. They will own a house, and be saving for retirement. You will have to start at the bottom, and pay back all the bills you racked up while in school.

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Lie: You will become well-rounded and study Socrates so you will sound smart.

Truth: You will waste your time with research papers and group projects that are completly useless to anything you will ever do in real life.

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Lie: You will develop professional skills and be fully ready to take on life.

Truth: You will be delayed in your percption of the 'real world.' You won't know how to manage money & you will not know the very basic rules of society. But you can make one hell of a journal entry about the Odyssey.

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Lie: You will gain experience in the work world.

Truth: No deacent employer will hire you, because your crazy school schedule, study requirements, and after school group meetings for projects. You can however, work in a bar or at Hooters (nice. and professional.)

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Lie: You will make friends you will always be close to and you can network with for your future careers.

Truth: You will never speak to you old college buddies again.

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Lie: You will specialize in your field of study and move right on to the top.

Truth: You will study beer and boys.

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Lie: You will easily find a job right out of college.

Truth: Some of my peers still can't found a real job. They are still working at the golf course as a cart girl and we have been out for nearly 2 years.

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Lie: You will make a name for yourself.

Truth: You will not realize how expensive life really is. Health insurance, car insurance, gas, student loan payments, and how much of your income goes toward taxes. Get ready - it ain't pretty.

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Lie: You need to go to Grad school.

Truth: LOL.

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All that being said...I had a really FUN time in college and it will be a time I never will forget. However, some days I feel like it was such a waste of time. Today if you asked if it was worth it, I would say no. 10 years from now - maybe.

That's the Way (uh huh) I Like It (uh huh, uh huh)

My title says it all! My room cleaning was a success. Hooray for me! See for yourself. I am a big girl after all!

Now I just have to keep it this way...YEAH RIGHT! :)

Hookie

Ah, the sound of silence and a whole do to veg and re-group. That's what I call AWESOME! I hadn't been feeling good last week, and I can't seem to get enough rest so I called in sick this morning. I probably could have went, but I just didn't feel like it. My gosh - I might as well be a work a holic! You have to have a break every once in a while. I do know that. Plus, I don't want to keep pushing myself while I don't feel well. Call it hookie if you will - but it is necessary!


Along with resting up I am going to be cleaning house for once. I don't even have time to do that during the week. I am also going to clean up the back yard and front yard. Right now the rents house looks like white trailer trash. Since I am the only one living here during the week - I just can't live like that! No way-no how. My bro, mom, and dad all are working hours away but come home on the weekends.


I am also going to organize my room and try to find some feasable way to get my clothes in order. I can't ever get it right. My clothes will not all fit in my closet (and that includes only season appropriate clothing.) Its sad because I wear clothes sometimes 3 times before washing. Sounds gross, but not really because I only sit in an office all day.

Goals For Today

Clean yard
Clean house (dust, vacuum, laundry, dishes)
Organize Closet
Organize Room
Organize Files
Go Shopping!
Get plenty of rest

The house is not the problem. The problem is my ROOM. This is rediculous. But this is what happens when your family comes home on the weekend and doesn't clean up after themselves. Then it takes me all ways just to straighten up - neglecting my space and not able to vacuum and dust during the week. Why? Because there is not enough time after work! Take a peek at what's ahead for my room alone:

Hmmmm...yeah. Better get to work!

Retail Therapy - Room Makeover

I am trying to have an attitude adjustment. Yesterday was just a terrible day! I need to really embrace what I have now and develop patience. I feel better today about some things and I am painting a smile on my face.

I know what I need! Retail therapy and a room makeover! Wouldn’t that be fun? Yep. I think that is what I am going to do soon. I need a project…and painting, organizing, and buying things is definitely a project.

Also, I am going to purchase a new flat screen TV and have the cable hooked up to my bedroom. It has been so long since I have had TV upstairs (years!). I am not a big into television, but it will be nice on the weekends and before bedtime.

Along with a TV will come a new TV stand. Or if I ever mount it, something to house movies and other electronic things. Maybe something chic or antique!

I already know that my walls will be a neutral color. They are currently purple (it has been painted purple twice!). I don’t want anything too dark – I want it to be relaxing and uplifting at the same time. Calming before bed and refreshing when I rise! I think I will start by finding a piece of art that strikes my interest and go from there!

I need some organization. I would like to have a better way of keeping up with all of my things. Right now I only have one room – so keep that in mind!

A mini fridge is a must. When the family comes to visit they like to eat my leftovers. They literally expect me to put a note on things that I do not eat. If I don’t it is gone before nightfall. So, I will have a mini fridge in my room. I just have to.

I do not have any curtains right now, because I accidentally tore down my curtain rod a while back, and have been too lazy to do anything about it.

I am seriously considering making a “duvet” if you will, for my bed. Santa brought me a sewing machine, and I haven’t used it yet! I would save some money if I could ever figure out how to sew. Meh. I think I will save the time and purchase new bedding. Too much work to do already.

My old desk is going to the landfill. Gone. I hate it.

So, lots to do! I am excited. I think I will go scoping out art tonite!

Additional Blog

This is my haven. Where I can come to vent and let you all know how I feel and what I do on the regular. This is where I share a lot of private thoughts….
I have decided to start another blog about a subject that I enjoy….Outdoors! It is a way for me to share nature and learn about things that I do not know a lot about.

Maybe things that I aspire to do one day. My glimpse of hope If you care to venture into the ‘wild’ check out http://allthingsoutdoors.blogspot.com/

Only one post so far! Just thought I would share!

Apartment Search = Soul Search

I scoped out the perspective apartment today. The monthly rent is still outrageous…just as I suspected. May I share the the monthly rent is $725 (rent only) for a single bedroom apartment. I’m sorry, but that is just a bummer. I was thinking that I would show up and grab a steal of $100 a month or something. Kind of like you take a look in the fridge…close the door…and open and look again because you think food will magically appear a second time around! It is just very hard for me to want to spend that type of payment on an apartment. It is not an investment at all. I could almost buy a house. I may just have to stay put, and really, I don’t think that I will ever want to spend that much on an apartment.

I got myself into this and got pumped up for no reason. I am just really unhappy about where I am right now. I really don’t know what I need to do. I really don’t. The only word to describe how I feel (even outside the apartment hunt) is FRUSTRATED. In every aspect there is to the way my life is right now. I am lucky and blessed on one hand, but stuck in the biggest rut of quick sand on the other. No one can answer the questions I have about what I should do next. It is only up to me to do what I want. But I just do not have the resources or the courage to do it.

Where and how can I get the answers? Where can I get the resources? I thought I was doing everything right…

The question I have to ask myself is “What am I going to do about it? I don’t know because I do not even know where to begin!

I need spring to bring some ‘fun-ness’ into my life right now. Tomorrow will be another day!

*Pouty Face*

My First Perspective Apartment

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

After much searching on the internet and racking my brain...I am finally getting serious about finding an apartment! I am excited an nervous at the same time. I am meeting Brian tomorrow to look at my first perspective apartment. This is exciting because it will be the first time that I actually live by myself and pay all the bills by myself. Not that paying bills is exciting....it's about really making something happen and developing as an "adult" :)

I have lived in an apartment before, but I had a roomie. I am just over that stage in my life right now. Talk about drama. I want to have things and do things that I want to do...whenever I want to do them.
Living with the 'rents has its perks - don't get me wrong. I have been living rent-free for over a year now, and I am starting to feel uncool. I do take care of everything here while Mom, Dad, and Jacob are gone during the week. However, they come home on the weekends. I love spending time with them, but it is time for me to be my own sans complaining, sans responsibility to them, sans drama.
I have to formulate a 'for real' budget tonight along with a list of pertinant questions I have to find out about this place. I wouldn't move their until August. That is the first opening they have an the only one bedroom that will be available.

A part of me does not want to blow money to an apartment because it is not an investment. But the most of me wants to prove to myself that I can do it...and I can do it alone if need be. Ya never know these days.

So, I will be a broke-ass eating pork and beans every night mixed up every once & a while with Raman noodles.

We will see...tomorrow I am going to get to view the place and see if it is even livable. Seeing as it is one of the lowest priced apartments in the area by $100. A guy I work with lives there and I don't hear many complaints...but then again, I don't hear him say much of anything at all.
I am pumped! Can I do it? Is it even feasable? I don't know, but I think it will be such a relief to have my own abode.

Jonah, the trailer, and the taco bake!

Instead of writing on one topic, I figured that I would share several things that have been going on this weekend.

First. I think I have strep throat. I think. It has been so long since I have had a sore throat...or strep for that matter that I do not even know the severity. I do know that I feel like crud, my tonsils are severely swollen, and I can barely swallow. Not to mention the occasional chills and not feeling like doing anything. I refuse to go to work if I continue to feel like this in the morning...I will go to the Dr. because this has been going on for exactly one week today with no hopes of getting better. I just bought Halls Breezers (non-mentholated) cool berry flavor and they are WONDERFUL. I will have to suggest you splurging on this if you, or anyone you know develops a sore throat.

Second. I went to Sunday School and church this morning. We did an exercise where we answered adjectives that have been describing us over the last few weeks. You are given a starting point in your faith and linked with a bible character which describes where you are today, and what you need to work on to have a balanced view of God. I was Jonah. It is very true. Like Jonah, I know what I am called to do but I am afraid and I run. And I mean, I run fast! Also thrown into the mix is a little selfishness and the want to have my own direction in life. I want to be the boss and I want to do what I want to do....when I want to do it! As we know, we are deciples of Christ and are called to be his servants. Servant is such a harsh word, but comes many, many blessings. I do have to give up my life and be willing to serve God....WHATEVER it takes. It is so hard though. Think about that. It really is.

Third. I have been helping my cousin and his fiance move in next door. The trailer has arrived and I figured I would volunteer my cleaning services. A re-cap: I graduated High School with the fiance...Amanda. We grew up together and she is my age. Wade is only 21 and my first cousin. It is weird to see them together and even weirder to see WADE getting married before me! It is really blowing my mind...still. They are very cute together and I am happy to see them in the process of starting their life! Amanda and Wade's pic that I took at our work day at the new hacienda.

Forth. I am cooking an easy dinner tonight that I am uber pumped about. I get super-excited if it is a thrown together dish. It is the first time I will have made it - so I hope it is edible. I have seen and tasted numerous 'taco bakes' but this one looks yummy as well. Recipe? I shall share:

Taco Bake

1 pkg Kraft Mac & Cheese

1 lb ground beef

1 pkg taco seasoning mix

3/4 cup water

3/4 cup sour cream

1 1/2 cups shredded cheese

1 cup thick 'n chunky Salsa!

Preheat oven to 400F. Cook Mac & Cheese as directed. Scramble meat, drain, and add taco seasoning. Mix sour cream into Mac & Cheese when done. In an 8 inch or 9 in round baking dish; add half of the dinner mix; top with laers of the meat mix, one cup of cheese and remaining dinner mixture. Cover.

Bake 15 mnutes. Top with salsa and remaining 1/2 cup of cheese. Bake, uncovered, and additional 5 min or intil cheese is melted.

Makes 6 servings

*Add corsely crushed tortilla chips along with salsa and cheese for some pizazz!

Sounds yummy!

I am going to cook and rest! Lord knows that I need it!

Daisy Fuentes Bedding

In my hopes of getting an apartment soon - maybe this summer or early fall, I have started thinking about how I would like to decorate. I wish I could stock up on everything from Pier 1 but it is just too expensive. I just want a good deal! That is all there is too it. I want it to be very cute and relaxing but with colors and things that I adore. I have searched online like crazy over the last month or so, and I just can't find anything that strikes me. While shopping at Kohls yesterday, I discovered Daisy Fuentes bedding. She doesn't have a lot to choose from, but I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all of them. I have posted a few pics just for fun! I really like her style, and because you can purchase her line at Kohls, it is a GREAT deal. Not to mention Kohls practically gives things away, and you can always get a coupon to use on top of the low price!

I can't find much about Daisy's things online...except she and Kohls had a lawsuit last year about her clothes being made in a sweatshop (maybe why the prices are so low). I glanced at some of her clothes, shoes, and accessories and I love them too. I just get really super excited when I finally find something that I like!

Cute Dresses

I have been shopping for a cute dress to wear to my BF - Sister's wedding for weeks! I have tried on over 60 and just have not had any luck until yesterday. I am not in love with the new styles these days. The baby doll trend makes me look like a marshmallow. But, that is all you can buy... Seriously! So these 3 I actually like. I figured out the trick to the 'babydoll' look...the length must hit either above your knees OR mid calf to flatter your body type. Anything else will be disastourous! I had to learn the hard way.

I need help picking which one to wear to her wedding. What do you think?

I know it is hard to tell if I do not actually have them on my bod. The one that is the most fun is the brown on top, the most 'sparkly' and showy is the purple/brown in the middle, and the most classic is the black.

My favorite part about my finds is the price. Yep, Kohls had an awesome sale yesterday. Brown Dress $40 - Brown & Purple Sparkly dress $11.50 - Black Dress $11.50. Rack Room Shoes also had BOGO sale. Gold Shoes $25 - Black Shoes $9.99. I have decided to keep them ALL and maybe even go shopping tomorrow!

Ingredients to Your FICO Score

I am trying to establish good credit (is there even such a thing). I was curious about WHAT exactly matters when a credit score is considered. The ‘secret recipe’ is still in the dark. However, the pie chart shows what is actually considered in the credit score.

About 85 percent of the population has credit scores in the 500-800 range. 60% have a score above 720 (the best of the best) and get the best interest rates. Big deal you say? Just one point can cost thousands and thousands of dollars in interest rates. If you do not believe me, see for yourself using the Fair Issacs loan calculator! I find it interesting that the score only considers transactions made previously and a ‘tarot reading’ of the predictability that you will probably pay your loan back. It does not consider how much income you receive, where you live, interest rates from other accounts, and age.

This could potentially mean that a 23 year old recent college grad could receive credit cards a billionaire could not even get. That is just crazy. No one knows what scores mean what and it feels like a gamble. Sometimes I feel that if I just glance at a credit card it will affect my score! Thanks to the Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act of 2003, we have a right to know our scores. Before that, people could not even find out what their score was. Call that crazy - seeing that a credit score means so much and has so much affect on everyday life.

It is wise to know how credit scores are factored, and to be knowledgeable about the process because it can save lots of money over time. Lets say you have just received your less-than stellar credit score... you can make some improvements as outlined by the FICO folks themselves:

• Pay your bills on time!


• Stay current - the longer bills are paid on time....the better your score


• Keep low credit card and revolving credit balances


• Pay off debt


• It is perfectly find to request and check your credit report


• Manage credit cards responsibly (nothing wrong with having them)


• Contact a credit counselor if you are having financial trouble

I am going to continue researching about credit scores because I want to be in the top percentage - above 720!

More information and details regarding this blog can be found at http://www.myfico.com/

Finding Hobbies

I have tried a new hobby to make life a little more interesting. Of all things...I have decided to learn how to knit! Such a maw-maw move, I know. I have made some progress. Only in actually casting on and making a few loops. The basics if you will. Pearl stitch and knit stitch. That's where I am. It was very frusterating at first but then I got the feel of it. I think my first project will be a scarf! Plus, I don't know many people (other than grannies) who know how to knit. It truly is relaxing.

It is hard for me to accomplish mastery in something. I am so fidgity, so absent minded, and somewhat ADD. I would be the bomb.com if I could just make myself do it a little every day. But that just ain't gonna happen. For a while I was bringing my needles and thread on my lunch break and practicing. That came to a screeching halt! I think I will start again. I need a goal - like make a scarf by my birthday. Something like that to keep me on top of it! That's what I am going to do. By June 16, I will have a scarf that I made if it is the last thing I do!

I do feel that learning how to do new things is a fun challenge. It keeps me motivated and gives me at least a little focus. I would encourage everyone to learn new things. After all, that is what life is all about.

Busy Few Days

It has been a pretty busy last few days, hence I did not blog! That was a goal of mine, so maybe I can sum up what has been going on early this week.

I have come to a serious plateau on my weight loss efforts, so I have started back to running in the afternoons. It has been BEAUTIFUL outside...enough to wear a tank top! So I have made a commitment to jog around town. I am pleased to get back outside, working out, in the beautiful weather. This must be done since I have gotten a new swim suit this weekend. If you have not picked one out yet, the time is now. Swimsuit shopping is an absolute madhouse. It was a mess for me personally too, as I have to try on EVERY swimsuit available in my size - to finally find one that I love. This time, the one that I thought looked hideous on the hanger...but super~cute on! I was only able to find one that I liked, so I must go again to find an alternate.

Holder and I talked a little about what our future holds. We have come to the conclusion that we will find out where our lives will take us this summer. He is applying for school and will get an answer May or June (fun birthday present!). We will then be able to find a place to live, jobs, etc. and find a place to begin our lives. We have planned *briefly at this point* on marriage...possibly next year! This has lifted a huge weight off my shoulders, and I can sleep at night knowing that I can begin making some type of plans this summer! I have been relieved for 2 days just thinking about starting my life!

I have also been spending the remainder of daylight left after work hours cleaning up the yard. The bad weather has caused a disaster area to appear. Things are comming together, so I can actually enjoy chilling around the grill!

This has definatly been a good week so far...and, on a selfish note, I hope it continues.

Finally Joining A Church

Holder and I have been attending a Luteran church over the last year. We have finally decided to join! I am really excited because I have not been a church member in years. It is also the first time I have #1 been to a Luteran church and #2 reguarally attended a Luternan church.

I was skeptical at first because of my Baptist background. I don't know why I was skeptical because all of my past Babptist affiliations have failed. It is definatly a different experience, as Luterans take on a lot of the Catholic traditions. But they are by no means Catholic.

Baptist Service vs. Luteran Service - differences I have observed.

• Responsive reading. The pastor reads a line or two, then the congregation reads another line or two. Don't be caught without a booklet or you will be lost!


• 
  
  Communion every sunday. This symbolizes the blood and body of Christ. Real wine is used and you may sip from the community cup or dip your bread chip into another glass (definatly my choice as everyone at church has the flu)
  
  


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  The visual cross by hand when the pastor says the word Jesus and a + is found in the booklet. This symbolizes focus and rememberance of baptism. Completely optional.
  
  


• 
  
  Lent. Observed for 40 days and ends on Easter. This is for giving up something in your life that will bring you closer to God.
  
  


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  Baptism. Is usually performed on infants (2 months) as a symbol of God's grace. Baptism is supposed to be a learning experience over a lifetime. Adults can be baptised as well. Primaraly done by sprinkling, not dunking (however dunking is totally cool if need be).
  
  


• 
  
  It is OK to have a beer (or drink of choice). No more needing to have a third party sneak into the store to buy a six pack. No more lies told by the congreation. It is true that people of all denominations like to drink (not everyone, but some). So, at church work days, don't be surprised to see a cooler full of beer or to have a theology/bible study at a pub! I mean, it would not be wise to be 3 sheets to the wind, but no problem for moderation.
  
  

These are the only big differences. Of course, the Bible is the only book studied and referenced. Lutherans believe in only salvation by believing in the trinity. Also that works alone will not get you into heaven.

I have never been one to like to pick one denomination over another, because a Christian is a Christian. However, one must pick their own way. What fits one may not fit another.

I have seen and experienced differences in congregations and denominations, and must say that I am digging the Lutheran way. The people are not judgemental and are very structured, which I like. We fit in and feel very welcomed at the current church.

We have decided to join, and went to our first meeting today to learn about the Lutheran church. We are really enjoying it! So I will finally have a church to truly call home.

I know that I have been strayed from God for a while. I do know that he has never stopped loving me and I have not been damned to hell because of it. He is reaching out his hand, and I am grabbing ahold. I am also scared of where our world is turning, and it makes me sick to think about how God and Christians have been shunned out of our culture. I can not follow the crowd...I have to stand up for what I believe.

I'm Not As Good As I Once Was

Toby Keith said it right. My themesong for today is “I’m not as good as I once was.” So, I finally decided to have a few friends over last night. I had 2 glasses of wine and a brew. We sat around shooting the breeze until 1:30 am! I woke up this morning and felt like living hell. Um, not a wild night by a long stretch. I’m officially getting old, and so is Holder. Holder went to sleep at 9:30 pm. He missed our wildness of sitting around the table reliving stories of our younger, golden years. He woke up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at the crack, while I woke up as the living dead. I opened my eyes long enought to see SNOW! Yep, the snow was comming down this morning and I didn’t even care. If that doesn’t tell you something, I was feeling rough! B.C. powder did the trick… as did a runny egg and a biscuit that my lovely baby cooked for me! I declared and announced this morning that I am too old to stay up passed 11pm. I think that is my new bedtime. Of course the boys chimmed in “Yeah, and you are also too old for you belly button ring!” What’s up with that? Am I? I hope not, because I don’t like my belly button!

Toby Keith said it right. My themesong for today is “I’m not as good as I once was.” So, I finally decided to have a few friends over last night. I had 2 glasses of wine and a brew. We sat around shooting the breeze until 1:30 am! I woke up this morning and felt like living hell. Um, not a wild night by a long stretch. I’m officially getting old, and so is Holder. Holder went to sleep at 9:30 pm. He missed our wildness of sitting around the table reliving stories of our younger, golden years. He woke up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at the crack, while I woke up as the living dead. I opened my eyes long enought to see SNOW! Yep, the snow was comming down this morning and I didn’t even care. If that doesn’t tell you something, I was feeling rough!
B.C. powder did the trick… as did a runny egg and a biscuit that my lovely baby cooked for me!
I declared and announced this morning that I am too old to stay up passed 11pm. I think that is my new bedtime. Of course the boys chimmed in “Yeah, and you are also too old for you belly button ring!” What’s up with that? Am I? I hope not, because I don’t like my belly button!

I vowed to Holder that I will take it out the day we get engaged. My belly button will finally get to see the world!

Vegas-Baby!

Funny thing. I made up back from Las Vegas in one piece, but all of my origional packed luggage did not. I almost missed the flight! I, of course, slept through my alarm clock. My body had totally shut down. I worked my booty off. I would get up at 4:30, shower, grab a starbucks coffe, and we would hit the road. On my way out, I just had time to scrub my teeth once or twice and zip my suit case. I left behind my phone charger and make up. Ah Ha, it doesn’t seem like much, but it has cost me $200 to replace those things. I might as well have left 2 benjamins laying on the night stand. BUT, I would have left $500 to leave when I did!

Working the NASCAR event was intense. I probably spoke to 5,000 people, I was sun burned, my feet were cramping, and I was exhausted. I literally walked my fresh coat of toe-nail polish off of my feet. My lips are still peeling and I just got my voice back today (3 days later). All of that said, it was the best time of my life!! VEGAS-baby [you have to say baby afterward, or it just doesn’t flow right!] is the place to be! My jaw dropped every time I left the hotel. I only found out 2 days later that we are staying in what is known as the ‘OJ suite.’ Hmmm, it was pretty dang shady afterall.

Gas Prices

OK, so I am now traveling 80 mile total round trip to work 5 days a week. You do the math….80 x 5 /21 x 3.12 = A BILLION dollars! That right there is my monthly price. In case you are wondering 80 miles per day, 5 days a week and the total is the milage. My Volveezie gets 21 mph and gas is $3.12 at this point (God help George ‘W’) or as I like to say ‘Dubya’
I travel an intense upstream (as the Nile runs) I65 northbound or Highway 31 early in the morn. Needless to say, I almost lose my religion daily due to ignorant drives. My stress and blood pressure gets SKY HIGH! I am just very frusterated with my travels now…for real.
I just wish I lived close enough to walk. That would be priceless. I can’t wait until I can afford to move to Hoover. In case you do not know…apartment prices are re-donk-u-lous there! I could seriously afford a house for the prices they want in that area…but that is another post for another day

Des Moines

Good ‘ole Des Moines, Iowa. Last week I had the pleasure to grace my presence in Iowian country. It was a business trip, but I still got to see massive ice cicles, knee deep snow, and experience 6 degree weather for the first time. I was only there for one full day (majority of work) and a fun night of experience the town (yeah right). They only had a Hobby Lobby and Best Buy. The most fun was eating at the Machine Shed restaurant….think Cracker Barrel. The waiters and waitresses were elegantly dressed in red/white flannel shirts, overalls, and a John Deer hat. No sweet tea of course. The meal started with the usual bread rolls, but served with a bowl of cottage cheese. Right, I said a bowl of cottage cheese. I was not sure what to do with it! But, my boss and I glanced at each other and almost simultaneously chanted ‘WHEN IN ROME!’ So, I was just eating spoon full after spoon full of bland cottage cheese, with an occasional bite of bread. The outside of the restaurant had things to buy (same as cracker barrel) so we got to graze through all of the non sense. I came out empty handed though. Other than that…I felt right at home except with lots and lots and lots of snow!!!

Butterflies

It’s official. I am going to LAS VEGAS tomorrow! I am very excited. It is a business trip, which means that I will be putting in long days…but it is going to be worth it. I will be able to explore the strip at night, and possibly see some really cool stuff. I bought a new camera (casio, pink) which I am in love with, so my pics will be stellar! I am bringing a backup though because I do not know how long the rechargable battery will last.
Packing has stressed me out for about 2 weeks! All I need is 4 days worth of clothing. The days clothes are pretty much the same uniform so that was easy, but I had to pack comfy & cute (of course) night clothes. Whew. I am almost done except my necessities in the morning.
I get butterflies thinking about the flight. It is a “snack pack” of fun, dread, misery, and excitement all at the same time. I just hope I can stay up past 8pm!

Mossy Rock Preserve

Saturday was cold. We packed into the Volvo and traveled to Moss Rock Preserve for some rock climbing action. I did exceptional (according to my own standards only) as did everyone else. I have only went bouldering several times, but it is now one of my fav weekend activities. The Preserve made the assumption that advertising the park would be a good thing. I strongly disagree. Even though it was miserably cold...the place was packed! Almost to the extreme that people were waiting in line to climb. This is not an attraction that earns money. It is free to the public. It was much nicer when no one knew about this 'honey hole!'

I learned that it is NOT a good idea to have to much hanging on your back when climbing (a back pack cooler, backpack, and camera) does not fare well when trying to make it up and down a rock. I also learned that a sandwich is not good after being on ice for several hours. Also, not to walk around in your climbing shoes...they tend to get extremely slippery! Those were the cons. The PROS....Climbing is an excellent way to get away from it all, challenge yourself, and have a wonderful time with friends and family.

The Slab

I am all about some FREE fun in the summertime. We enjoy going to the Slab. The water is low so it is a nice place to walk through. Rocks sit high so you can lay out. It is not unusual to see rednecks cutting 360s in their big trucks, or seeing a four-wheeler stuck under the water. There are some real ‘characters’ who come out during the day at the slab. We had the pleasure of meeting a woman by the name of Donna. She shared her experiences of train-hopping all over the country. Although she was homeless then, she says that she had a lot of fun. Strangely, she had a broken foot and was shoeless walking up and down the rocks searching for anyone who would spare her a beer. I have to keep her in my prayers because she was going to find out the following day whether or not she had developed lung cancer.
I will return to the slab this summer as well. I will be sure to bring a lawn chair and a cooler to enjoy Alabama’s nature at its best!

Sips-N-Strokes

One of my favorite guilty pleasures is going to Sips -N- Strokes. It is a great way to kick back and learn to paint. I surprise myself everytime. There is an instructer who teaches “paint by number” style where everyone can follow along. Usually small snackes are served before the class starts so you can mix and mingle. The best part is that you can b.y.o.b! I prefer wine of course! It is an expense night out, but well worth it. You can decide before hand on which night you want to attend and you can pick which picture you would like to paint. It was a super-secret several months ago…now that the word is out…you must reserve your seat WAY in advance!

Roses

My boyfriend is so precious. I had to go shopping [quickly] on Sunday. He dropped me off at the door. When he came to pick me up he held a dozen red roses. Everyone keeps asking me ‘what’s the occasion’ and I get to answer…LOVE! They are absolutely beautiful and smell phenomenal. The best part is that it is after Valentines Day and I am getting roses. He bought me a beautiful boquet of springtime flowers (tulips, tiger lillies, gerbera daisies) to my work. I have the best boyfriend in the whole entire world and I love him very, very much!