Today is the last day of November. Way back on November 1st, I told you I challenged myself to write a post every day this month. And I totally succeeded! Once I post this entry I will have 31 entries for the month of November. I actually posted twice in one day! (of course that was football picks, but whatever.)
Somedays it was a real challenge to think of anything to write. That's typically when I wrote about something silly like shoes or glittery dresses. But I also think there was a lot of quality posts too. Many thoughts on this divorce and some nice ones about my grandma.
It really pushed me to think of something for each day. There were times that I was dreading writing because I didn't have much to say, but then glad I wrote the entry. This suff is very true with things related to the divorce. Sometimes I don't really want to talk about things, and then end up feeling better when I just get it all out. Blogging has really helped me in that way. Whether or not people want to read it, I'm sure it can be depressing and not really that interesting to hear me babble on... but for me it makes all the difference in the world. Blogging here has made a true difference in my attitude and outlook. It's an outlet that I so very much need.
Sometimes I don't want to talk to others about these feeling and just need to work through the issues myself on my own. I know that could be hurtful to some friends to not hear certain things from me... but I'm doing what I need to do for myself. I don't want to sound selfish, but with the emotional swings I get on a daily basis, I need to do what makes me feel better and ok and not worse. My motto through these past three months has been do what I'm doing until it stops working or no longer makes sense.
This challenge has forced me to write about something each day and I have written down a lot of feelings because of it. I'm happy that I had something driving me and something to look forward to. This challenge has made me consider forcing myself to write an entry everyday all the time (not just through November)... I'm not sure that I want to take on that quite yet, but I'm really happy that I tried and totally succeeded... it was really nice working toward a goal.
One of the things I thought I would do was schedule a lot of posts. Maybe write several posts in a day and schedule them to post throughout the month. I can honestly say that I didn't do it this way. I scheduled a total of one post - the Thanksgiving post. Of course if you look at the times on some posts they are close to the end of the day... or written super early in the morning... but guess what... it TOTALLY counts. The funny thing is I started a list of things to write about at the beginning of the month... I didn't have to touch on all of those.
So readers - did you enjoy seeing a post from me each day? How do you feel about it?
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Budget
One of the things that's been on my mind is my finances. Since the separation, I am not completely in control over my money and my cash flow. I also moved back home in order to pay off some debt (credit card and car loan) and save some money.
I was hoping that this whole process would go faster, but I know that no matter what it just takes some time to get things paid off. I hope that after I get the credit card paid off I can go to a cash based system and not put anything on a credit card (unless there is some major emergency.) The thing is paying it off is a slow process...
Getting the idea of my budget has been a bit of a new experience for me. I am very numbers oriented (hey, I was an accounting major for a whole year in college) so I didn't think it would be too challenging. But it's more difficult than I realized. I am struggling with figuring out how much to put into savings, how big a payment to make, how much of a balance to keep in checking, etc etc etc.
I know that it will all come with time... especially since there are some circumstances/timing that's been a bit out of my control. For instance... I have to get my plates renewed and personal property and Christmas spending.... just things that I can't really avoid right now. Also, my paycheck will change at the beginning of the year since I will no longer be covering his health insurance. That should increase my paycheck a bit. So I think that once the new years comes around I'll have a better idea of a budget.
I also decided that instead of saving and paying off debt, that I will concentrate on paying off the debt. The debt has interest associated with it. The quicker I can get rid of interest bearing payments the less I will spend over time. I'm saving a bit each paycheck (not much) but at least it's something.
The other thing that will come up is this stupid divorce. I am dreading having to pay for it, and as I already mentioned, I don't really feel like I should have to pay for it at all. I think he should have to incur that cost. I feel like it's just such a waste of money...
I make a New Years resolution each year, and I'm hoping that this year I can come up with a good one that will address paying off debt and saving money.
I want to be able to move out on my own again. While living at home hasn't been that bad, I know that I need to get out and do my own thing. I want to for sure get the credit card and car paid off before moving out. I would also like to get some savings going - especially since when I do move out it will cost money for somethings I'll need that I just don't have (some furniture, cleaning supplies, random things...) not to mention I won't be able to mooch off the food and supplies at home. I know that will be an adjustment and I would really like to be able to have some savings going. Ideally, I would find a roommate, but I'm feeling like that might not happen... not ruling anything out, but realistic about the chances of it actually happening.
I don't feel like I've been smart with money in the past. Like when I moved home from college and got an apartment before I had a job. This is the time for me to do things right and get set in a budget. I think there's a way for me to get that all done... but I'll have to work for it. It's not something that just happens over night which is frustrating. But I am really looking forward to the day where I pay off my credit card... and then a couple of months later when I pay off my car. Those will be some good feelings!
I just need to get through December first!
I was hoping that this whole process would go faster, but I know that no matter what it just takes some time to get things paid off. I hope that after I get the credit card paid off I can go to a cash based system and not put anything on a credit card (unless there is some major emergency.) The thing is paying it off is a slow process...
Getting the idea of my budget has been a bit of a new experience for me. I am very numbers oriented (hey, I was an accounting major for a whole year in college) so I didn't think it would be too challenging. But it's more difficult than I realized. I am struggling with figuring out how much to put into savings, how big a payment to make, how much of a balance to keep in checking, etc etc etc.
I know that it will all come with time... especially since there are some circumstances/timing that's been a bit out of my control. For instance... I have to get my plates renewed and personal property and Christmas spending.... just things that I can't really avoid right now. Also, my paycheck will change at the beginning of the year since I will no longer be covering his health insurance. That should increase my paycheck a bit. So I think that once the new years comes around I'll have a better idea of a budget.
I also decided that instead of saving and paying off debt, that I will concentrate on paying off the debt. The debt has interest associated with it. The quicker I can get rid of interest bearing payments the less I will spend over time. I'm saving a bit each paycheck (not much) but at least it's something.
The other thing that will come up is this stupid divorce. I am dreading having to pay for it, and as I already mentioned, I don't really feel like I should have to pay for it at all. I think he should have to incur that cost. I feel like it's just such a waste of money...
I make a New Years resolution each year, and I'm hoping that this year I can come up with a good one that will address paying off debt and saving money.
I want to be able to move out on my own again. While living at home hasn't been that bad, I know that I need to get out and do my own thing. I want to for sure get the credit card and car paid off before moving out. I would also like to get some savings going - especially since when I do move out it will cost money for somethings I'll need that I just don't have (some furniture, cleaning supplies, random things...) not to mention I won't be able to mooch off the food and supplies at home. I know that will be an adjustment and I would really like to be able to have some savings going. Ideally, I would find a roommate, but I'm feeling like that might not happen... not ruling anything out, but realistic about the chances of it actually happening.
I don't feel like I've been smart with money in the past. Like when I moved home from college and got an apartment before I had a job. This is the time for me to do things right and get set in a budget. I think there's a way for me to get that all done... but I'll have to work for it. It's not something that just happens over night which is frustrating. But I am really looking forward to the day where I pay off my credit card... and then a couple of months later when I pay off my car. Those will be some good feelings!
I just need to get through December first!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Lost an earring
In the process of the move I lost one of my favorite earrings. The problem is I only lost one of the earrings. I'm still holding out hope that the earring is packed in one of my boxes at the storage unit.
Here's the earring...
They are simple, but I love the length and color... they are my go-to gold earrings. It's sad, because you can never find another pair that will quite compare. I'm hoping the other earring shows up, but I have this feeling that it got left and someone threw it away... Hopefully I'll be able to find something that will compare to this...
Back in college I had my favorite pair of blue earrings...
Then I lent them to a friend, never got them back because she broke them... so sad... I've never found another pair that compares to these.
I guess I'll need to find new favorites...
Edited to Add:
I did a quick etsy search for brushed gold earrings and found quite a few that I like... (possible Christmas present!) - (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
Here's the earring...
Back in college I had my favorite pair of blue earrings...
I guess I'll need to find new favorites...
Edited to Add:
I did a quick etsy search for brushed gold earrings and found quite a few that I like... (possible Christmas present!) - (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Make Up
I feel like I need new make up. Well I know that I need some new eyeliner, because I'm down to just one color - plumb color (that supposedly brings out the green in my eyes)
I would really like someone to tell me how to do my make up. What looks the best on me. How would I look the best? What's a good day look? What's a good night look? Should I be using brushes instead of what I'm given?
So many questions... I know I could be doing it better. I think I'm okay with make up, but a lot of time it's just smudging it all together until it looks right, haha. There has to be a better way.
I also thing I should do something with my lips, but I'm just not sure what. Eyes are the most important, but I'm sure there are ways to make my lips look better too. I know that Sephora make up is great... I would just like to have better stuff I guess. I've had the same items forever. I should actually probably throw the stuff away that I don't use.
Maybe I should research some more. Or buy some new things as I need them. Although, a good brush set might be useful.
I'll get it figured out someday...
I would really like someone to tell me how to do my make up. What looks the best on me. How would I look the best? What's a good day look? What's a good night look? Should I be using brushes instead of what I'm given?
So many questions... I know I could be doing it better. I think I'm okay with make up, but a lot of time it's just smudging it all together until it looks right, haha. There has to be a better way.
I also thing I should do something with my lips, but I'm just not sure what. Eyes are the most important, but I'm sure there are ways to make my lips look better too. I know that Sephora make up is great... I would just like to have better stuff I guess. I've had the same items forever. I should actually probably throw the stuff away that I don't use.
Maybe I should research some more. Or buy some new things as I need them. Although, a good brush set might be useful.
I'll get it figured out someday...
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie
Tonight we had a get together at my dad's house. I decided that I wanted to make dessert. I've been enjoying making new recipes lately and expanding on my baking skills. Plus with the help of Pinterest it's much easier to keep track of all the recipes I see.
A note about Pinterest. I really enjoy it. But I'm a bit different than the average users. I don't really search on Pinterest for anything but more use it for my own bookmarked sites. I pin a lot of recipes that I find while I stumble. This site helps me look at everything at once instead of having to go through my millions of bookmarked pages. It's actually helping me to make more of the yummy things I see online.
Anyway back to today... I decided to make a dessert and decided to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie. Here's the picture I pinned.
It was a more complicated recipe than I'm use to. I made EVERYTHING from scratch including the crust, caramel, apple filling, cheesecake and whipped cream.
I did have some help from my mom... I'm hoping living back at home I pick up some more baking tips than I had. There are just some things you don't learn until you have someone telling you how to do it, or you mess it up. Thanks to her everything seemed to turn out really well.
Here's a picture of my final product taken with my iPhone. (the far side got a little bit messed up from transport)
And here's it cut up... I will admit that my crust was a bit crumbly, but tasted good :)
You can see the crust, then a layer of caramel (this layer should have nuts, but I omitted the nuts b/c my brother's girlfriend is allergic and I wanted her to be able to eat it if she wanted), then apple filling, cheesecake and whipped cream topping.
All but one piece got eaten so I'd say this recipe is a success. I brought home the last piece for mom is she wants it.
Hopefully with the Christmas season approaching I'll be able to try some more new recipes!!
A note about Pinterest. I really enjoy it. But I'm a bit different than the average users. I don't really search on Pinterest for anything but more use it for my own bookmarked sites. I pin a lot of recipes that I find while I stumble. This site helps me look at everything at once instead of having to go through my millions of bookmarked pages. It's actually helping me to make more of the yummy things I see online.
Anyway back to today... I decided to make a dessert and decided to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie. Here's the picture I pinned.
It was a more complicated recipe than I'm use to. I made EVERYTHING from scratch including the crust, caramel, apple filling, cheesecake and whipped cream.
I did have some help from my mom... I'm hoping living back at home I pick up some more baking tips than I had. There are just some things you don't learn until you have someone telling you how to do it, or you mess it up. Thanks to her everything seemed to turn out really well.
Here's a picture of my final product taken with my iPhone. (the far side got a little bit messed up from transport)
And here's it cut up... I will admit that my crust was a bit crumbly, but tasted good :)
You can see the crust, then a layer of caramel (this layer should have nuts, but I omitted the nuts b/c my brother's girlfriend is allergic and I wanted her to be able to eat it if she wanted), then apple filling, cheesecake and whipped cream topping.
All but one piece got eaten so I'd say this recipe is a success. I brought home the last piece for mom is she wants it.
Hopefully with the Christmas season approaching I'll be able to try some more new recipes!!
Friday, November 25, 2011
Full Mind
Have you ever had a lot on you mind but nothing at the same time? It feels like my mind is going over a lot, but at the same time I don't really have much to say about it.
I even tried to write out some of the things I was thinking about and I couldn't get much past two sentences... I even wrote these things on regular paper thinking that it might not be blog worthy or something I even wanted to share... but nothing
I've thought about texting a friend to talk, but realizing that I really don't have much to say.
It's just strange. I'm not really sure what I want to say. I thought it might have something to do with Thanksgiving being yesterday and the first holiday without him... but I'm honestly not sure it has anything to do with that.
The thing is I don't know what it has to deal with. I'm feeling slightly anxious and either I don't know why or I don't want to admit why to myself... I mean that kind of thing has happened before.
I do know it does have something to do with this divorce. I was talking to a new person on Wednesday night and I didn't want to admit that I was getting a divorce. I think that's two fold... that I enjoy having conversation with people that just flat out don't know... it's a nice change of pace from the emotional conversations and the telling 'how are you doing?' questions. The other reason is I am somewhat embarrassed by the fact I'm getting a divorce. I either don't want to explain the reason or the fact I'm 27 or that it only lasted 3 years and all of that. It just sucks... and I don't feel like it's a good representation of myself or whatever.
I don't know... a lot of times I feel fine with everything and as soon as I'm really believing I'm fine, I get all sad all over again. It's like a freaking switch or something and I'm just starting to get annoyed by these drastic mood changes. It's just frustrating. I know that I have to go through all this to get better, but it just sucks in the mean time. It just flat out sucks.
But these are just a few things that are stuck up in my full head... I hope this post makes me feel a bit better... I just want to feel happy more... and not feel so sad at the drop of a hat. I feel like I can be totally fine one second and the next my eyes are welled up with tears because I'm sad. I'm pretty sure this is normal, but that doesn't make it any better or easier or whatever.
I'm just ready to be there... I guess... I don't know... (this post has taken a weird turn... sorry... it's funny how things can spill out once you get going... you can probably read my emotions turning throughout a post... might not be the easiest read, but it's honest!)
I hope this post doesn't make me sound like I'm sad all the time, because I'm really not. Just sometimes and the fact it comes out of no where just doesn't help. And some of the things that make me sad are just unavoidable... so it's hard to separate myself from everything that will make me upset.
I'm really mostly happy... my friends make me happy, my family makes me happy, the things I've gotten to do since this all went down have made me happy, even the new adventure I get to go on makes me happy at times (new apartment someday, a house, a first kiss, meeting new guys that might even be BETTER for me, new friends, getting to plan things, my own budget and money, being debt free (besides the students loans which I don't count), etc) so it's not like everything sucks... it's just that I'm emotional... and that in itself sucks.
Okay, I feel like I've really babbled on quite enough for this post. Hopefully sometime in the next few posts I'll have a recipe to share... as long as everything goes well!
I even tried to write out some of the things I was thinking about and I couldn't get much past two sentences... I even wrote these things on regular paper thinking that it might not be blog worthy or something I even wanted to share... but nothing
I've thought about texting a friend to talk, but realizing that I really don't have much to say.
It's just strange. I'm not really sure what I want to say. I thought it might have something to do with Thanksgiving being yesterday and the first holiday without him... but I'm honestly not sure it has anything to do with that.
The thing is I don't know what it has to deal with. I'm feeling slightly anxious and either I don't know why or I don't want to admit why to myself... I mean that kind of thing has happened before.
I do know it does have something to do with this divorce. I was talking to a new person on Wednesday night and I didn't want to admit that I was getting a divorce. I think that's two fold... that I enjoy having conversation with people that just flat out don't know... it's a nice change of pace from the emotional conversations and the telling 'how are you doing?' questions. The other reason is I am somewhat embarrassed by the fact I'm getting a divorce. I either don't want to explain the reason or the fact I'm 27 or that it only lasted 3 years and all of that. It just sucks... and I don't feel like it's a good representation of myself or whatever.
I don't know... a lot of times I feel fine with everything and as soon as I'm really believing I'm fine, I get all sad all over again. It's like a freaking switch or something and I'm just starting to get annoyed by these drastic mood changes. It's just frustrating. I know that I have to go through all this to get better, but it just sucks in the mean time. It just flat out sucks.
But these are just a few things that are stuck up in my full head... I hope this post makes me feel a bit better... I just want to feel happy more... and not feel so sad at the drop of a hat. I feel like I can be totally fine one second and the next my eyes are welled up with tears because I'm sad. I'm pretty sure this is normal, but that doesn't make it any better or easier or whatever.
I'm just ready to be there... I guess... I don't know... (this post has taken a weird turn... sorry... it's funny how things can spill out once you get going... you can probably read my emotions turning throughout a post... might not be the easiest read, but it's honest!)
I hope this post doesn't make me sound like I'm sad all the time, because I'm really not. Just sometimes and the fact it comes out of no where just doesn't help. And some of the things that make me sad are just unavoidable... so it's hard to separate myself from everything that will make me upset.
I'm really mostly happy... my friends make me happy, my family makes me happy, the things I've gotten to do since this all went down have made me happy, even the new adventure I get to go on makes me happy at times (new apartment someday, a house, a first kiss, meeting new guys that might even be BETTER for me, new friends, getting to plan things, my own budget and money, being debt free (besides the students loans which I don't count), etc) so it's not like everything sucks... it's just that I'm emotional... and that in itself sucks.
Okay, I feel like I've really babbled on quite enough for this post. Hopefully sometime in the next few posts I'll have a recipe to share... as long as everything goes well!
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Thankful
I think it's always nice on Thansgiving to post some things I'm thankful for... especially this year.
I am thankful to have amazing family and friends that support and care about me. The past few months have shown me that I am loved and people are there for me no matter what. I could not be more appreciative of those people. They are helping me get through this tough time and I know they will continue to be there to support me.
I am thankful to have two lovely kitties. They recognize me and want to be around me. It's silly to be supported by two cats, but them just wanting to be close makes me happy.
I'm thankful for having a job that I love (most of the time) it's been stressful here for things that are related to my job duties. I'm throwing this one in because I need to remind myself that I've got it pretty good here.
I'm thankful that I only have three classes left in my master's program.
I'm thankful I've been given the opportunity to pay off some debt and start fresh (in a sense)
I'm thankful that the Cardinals were able to pull off a World Series win!
I'm thankful for good food... mmmm
Okay... those last couple were a bit silly... but the first one is the most important. Since I know that some of my friends and a lot of my family reads this blog... thank you so so much. Even though I complain sometimes, it really means so much that you care about me and take the time to check up on me.
I hope everyone has a Happy and plentiful Thanksgiving!!
I am thankful to have amazing family and friends that support and care about me. The past few months have shown me that I am loved and people are there for me no matter what. I could not be more appreciative of those people. They are helping me get through this tough time and I know they will continue to be there to support me.
I am thankful to have two lovely kitties. They recognize me and want to be around me. It's silly to be supported by two cats, but them just wanting to be close makes me happy.
I'm thankful for having a job that I love (most of the time) it's been stressful here for things that are related to my job duties. I'm throwing this one in because I need to remind myself that I've got it pretty good here.
I'm thankful that I only have three classes left in my master's program.
I'm thankful I've been given the opportunity to pay off some debt and start fresh (in a sense)
I'm thankful that the Cardinals were able to pull off a World Series win!
I'm thankful for good food... mmmm
Okay... those last couple were a bit silly... but the first one is the most important. Since I know that some of my friends and a lot of my family reads this blog... thank you so so much. Even though I complain sometimes, it really means so much that you care about me and take the time to check up on me.
I hope everyone has a Happy and plentiful Thanksgiving!!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
NFL Week 12 Picks
Thanksgiving week!!
Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions
Miami Dolphins vs. Dallas Cowboys
San Francisco 49ers vs. Baltimore Ravens
Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons
Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Tennessee Titans
Carolina Panthers vs. Indianapolis Colts
Arizona Cardinals vs. St. Louis Rams
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets
Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Chicago Bears vs. Oakland Raiders
Washington Redskins vs. Seattle Seahawks
New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Denver Broncos vs. San Diego Chargers
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Kansas City Chiefs
New York Giants vs. New Orleans Saints
Me
Susan
Both
After 11 weeks... somewhere along the way I messed up my math... so I'm needing to go back and figure it out... hold on...
Okay figured it out... I didn't realize how many games were certain weeks so it was throwing some stuff off... I recalculated everything and here's the scores after 10 weeks!
Susan: 93-67
Jenn: 104-56
Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions
Miami Dolphins vs. Dallas Cowboys
San Francisco 49ers vs. Baltimore Ravens
Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons
Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Tennessee Titans
Carolina Panthers vs. Indianapolis Colts
Arizona Cardinals vs. St. Louis Rams
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets
Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Chicago Bears vs. Oakland Raiders
Washington Redskins vs. Seattle Seahawks
New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Denver Broncos vs. San Diego Chargers
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Kansas City Chiefs
New York Giants vs. New Orleans Saints
Me
Susan
Both
After 11 weeks... somewhere along the way I messed up my math... so I'm needing to go back and figure it out... hold on...
Okay figured it out... I didn't realize how many games were certain weeks so it was throwing some stuff off... I recalculated everything and here's the scores after 10 weeks!
Susan: 93-67
Jenn: 104-56
Thanksgiving Tradition
I know that I've written about this in the past... but that was two years ago and might have people that didn't see the post before, so here's this year's
(looking back that was my 200th post... do you know what this post is? 485!)
Every year for Thanksgiving my mom makes pumpkin cookies. Then we decorate them. It's something that I'm sure we looooooved doing as a kid. And as my mom says, them go from mounds of candy to actual faces and personalities. It's hard to decorate so many cookies... I mean, you run out of good ideas after like 5 cookies, but you push through and end up with adorable cookies.
It's fun, and at this point we can't stop doing it! It's a tradition and the families we bring the cookies to depend on them... and would really miss them. I know it's a pain for my mom at times, but she'll be doing it quite a bit longer (sorry mom)
Here's a picture of this years lovely cookies!
I did the two bottom rows in the picture above... my mom did the two rows on top. Lindsey's cookies are below and out of site (sorry sis) and I did the ones off to the left.
It's a good time and something I look forward to every year.
SIDE NOTE: Also, we use to decorate them on the night before Thanksgiving. Does anyone remember that they use to have magic shows on that night? Like every year there would be some magic special and it was awesome. I remember decorating cookies and watching magic. So much fun!
(looking back that was my 200th post... do you know what this post is? 485!)
Every year for Thanksgiving my mom makes pumpkin cookies. Then we decorate them. It's something that I'm sure we looooooved doing as a kid. And as my mom says, them go from mounds of candy to actual faces and personalities. It's hard to decorate so many cookies... I mean, you run out of good ideas after like 5 cookies, but you push through and end up with adorable cookies.
It's fun, and at this point we can't stop doing it! It's a tradition and the families we bring the cookies to depend on them... and would really miss them. I know it's a pain for my mom at times, but she'll be doing it quite a bit longer (sorry mom)
Here's a picture of this years lovely cookies!
It's a good time and something I look forward to every year.
SIDE NOTE: Also, we use to decorate them on the night before Thanksgiving. Does anyone remember that they use to have magic shows on that night? Like every year there would be some magic special and it was awesome. I remember decorating cookies and watching magic. So much fun!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Weekend in Review
Thought I'd tell you about my weekend...
On Friday night I met some friends for a Happy Hour at Pujols 5. I'm really enjoying the concept of happy hour these days, especially at a place like Pujols where things are on the cheaper side. The HH turned into an extended HH, and it was just nice to drink a bit and relax.
On Saturday my mom and I used a Groupon to see the Da Vinci Machines exhibit.
As the website says the exhibit is on loan from the Museum of Leonardo da Vinci in Florence, Italy, contains over sixty hand-crafted inventions built from Leonardo's 500 year old designs and is the life work of three generations of Florentine artisans, who have painstakingly brought to life the creations and concepts devised by the brilliant scientist, inventor and artist Leonardo Da Vinci.
It was really interesting and I got to learn more about DaVinci. I knew that he had invented a lot (and is left handed) but I got to learn a lot more. It's really cool. I wouldn't pay the full price ($14 per person) to get in, but at the Groupon rate (half priced tickets) it was worth it!
After the exhibit we decided to get a snack so we went to The Fountain on Locust. I've been there once before but I think it was my mom first time there. (PS Mom, their website says they were voted best bathroom in America, might have to check that out next time)
It's super tasty and the whole menu looks good. This time I wasn't so so hungry so I had a bowl of the Tomato Basil Bisque. It was yummy. This place is kinda like a soda shop (they will make you the olde time soda) and ice cream. So you have to get ice cream when there!
We got the standing banana split which is described on their menu as "A tall glass with a bruléed banana and scoops of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream, layered with crushed strawberries and hot fudge. Topped with real whipped cream." It was messy to eat, but totally awesome!
After that little adventure with mom I hung out with my good friend Liz and her fiance. We went to the 1904 Beerhouse in River City casino. I love this place because they have Woodchuck Amber Cider on tap - yum yum!! I also got a pizza which was pretty good, just super cheesy in parts.
On Sunday I spent the day either procrastinating school work or doing school work, then Monday was back to work.
How was your weekend?
On Friday night I met some friends for a Happy Hour at Pujols 5. I'm really enjoying the concept of happy hour these days, especially at a place like Pujols where things are on the cheaper side. The HH turned into an extended HH, and it was just nice to drink a bit and relax.
On Saturday my mom and I used a Groupon to see the Da Vinci Machines exhibit.
It was really interesting and I got to learn more about DaVinci. I knew that he had invented a lot (and is left handed) but I got to learn a lot more. It's really cool. I wouldn't pay the full price ($14 per person) to get in, but at the Groupon rate (half priced tickets) it was worth it!
After the exhibit we decided to get a snack so we went to The Fountain on Locust. I've been there once before but I think it was my mom first time there. (PS Mom, their website says they were voted best bathroom in America, might have to check that out next time)
We got the standing banana split which is described on their menu as "A tall glass with a bruléed banana and scoops of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream, layered with crushed strawberries and hot fudge. Topped with real whipped cream." It was messy to eat, but totally awesome!
After that little adventure with mom I hung out with my good friend Liz and her fiance. We went to the 1904 Beerhouse in River City casino. I love this place because they have Woodchuck Amber Cider on tap - yum yum!! I also got a pizza which was pretty good, just super cheesy in parts.
On Sunday I spent the day either procrastinating school work or doing school work, then Monday was back to work.
How was your weekend?
Monday, November 21, 2011
School Update
I'm not sure the last time I gave an update on how school is going...
School is going well, I am starting to get burnt out... I've pretty much had school work to do every week (with the exception of three weeks off) since February. So admitingly it's gotten a bit old. This class I'm currently in is a bit rough I'll say... it's a Multimedia Development class and I've had to design multimedia presentations. I've had to edit video and record and edit my voice. You know how much it sucks listening to your voice over and over and over again... yuck. Plus it's just taken me awhile to perfect certain elements of the media and with Window's Movie Maker crashing and not editing like it should... well it's made things stressful for sure!
Over than that - things have been going well. A week from tomorrow the term will be over. I'll have a week off (always enjoy) and then start up my penultimate term. I have just 3 classes left!! Two classes next term and then one class after that. I will be done in May and I'll have my Master's degree. So I think the light is there and I'll be really happy to be finished and go back to not feeling guilty about school work - haha but then I'll have the dreaded student loans back... ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
School is going well, I am starting to get burnt out... I've pretty much had school work to do every week (with the exception of three weeks off) since February. So admitingly it's gotten a bit old. This class I'm currently in is a bit rough I'll say... it's a Multimedia Development class and I've had to design multimedia presentations. I've had to edit video and record and edit my voice. You know how much it sucks listening to your voice over and over and over again... yuck. Plus it's just taken me awhile to perfect certain elements of the media and with Window's Movie Maker crashing and not editing like it should... well it's made things stressful for sure!
Over than that - things have been going well. A week from tomorrow the term will be over. I'll have a week off (always enjoy) and then start up my penultimate term. I have just 3 classes left!! Two classes next term and then one class after that. I will be done in May and I'll have my Master's degree. So I think the light is there and I'll be really happy to be finished and go back to not feeling guilty about school work - haha but then I'll have the dreaded student loans back... ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Glittery part 2
You'll remember my post on glittery shoes... Well, I'm back to share some more glittery clothes - b/c well, I am in love :)
There is a skirt on my Christmas list... it's from JCPenney and the picture won't copy over here - so feel free to check it out, I believe it's Skirt 2
The rest of these items are from Express (they have a sequin shop) like the shoes, they are on the pricier side of things... but swoon :)
A tank
A lovely dress
A purple dress
A sexy mini skirt
Oh how fun it would be to be sparkly!
There is a skirt on my Christmas list... it's from JCPenney and the picture won't copy over here - so feel free to check it out, I believe it's Skirt 2
The rest of these items are from Express (they have a sequin shop) like the shoes, they are on the pricier side of things... but swoon :)
A tank
Saturday, November 19, 2011
NFL Week 11 Picks
Whoops - forgot to pick Thursday's game again... need to get better about that!!
New York Jets vs. Denver Broncos
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Cleveland Browns
Carolina Panthers vs. Detroit Lions
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Green Bay Packers
Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins
Oakland Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings
Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens
Seattle Seahawks vs. St. Louis Rams
Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers
Tennessee Titans vs. Atlanta Falcons
San Diego Chargers vs. Chicago Bears
Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants
Kansas City Chiefs vs. New England Patriots
Me
Susan
Both
After 10 weeks!
Susan: 82-64
Jenn: 93-53
New York Jets vs. Denver Broncos
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Cleveland Browns
Carolina Panthers vs. Detroit Lions
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Green Bay Packers
Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins
Oakland Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings
Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens
Seattle Seahawks vs. St. Louis Rams
Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers
Tennessee Titans vs. Atlanta Falcons
San Diego Chargers vs. Chicago Bears
Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants
Kansas City Chiefs vs. New England Patriots
Me
Susan
Both
After 10 weeks!
Susan: 82-64
Jenn: 93-53
Friday, November 18, 2011
Hunger Games
I'm not sure if I've mentioned on this blog or not that I read The Hunger Games series. It's a set of three books and it is so so great. I read through them so fast. The first book in the series is probably my favorite. It is a very interesting read. The story is set in a post apocalypse world. There is a Capital the runs everything and has all the wealth. Then there are 12 districts. It's interesting because some parts of society are very advanced (hovercrafts, genetic testing, etc) and but the people in the districts are poor and like our heroine hunts for food.
The Capital forces each of the districts to select two children - one male, one female - (between the ages of 12 and 18) to participant in a fight to the death with only one winner, called the Hunger Games. I know what you might be thinking - why would I want to read a book about children killing each other. Yes, the concept is kind of crazy, but I'm dead serious when I say this was one of the best series I've read in quite awhile. And I would recommend reading it before the movie comes out. Not because the movie looks bad... oh, no, quite the contrary... b/c if you're anything like me you'll appreciate it a lot more before it starts gaining more hype. I read Twilight waaaay after it became popular and after the first movie was release. I didn't like Twilight that much... but I think I would have liked it more if I read it before it was super duper trendy.
Anyway... the full trailer for Hunger Games came out last Monday... and it makes me UNBELIEVABLY excited about the movie, which happens to be coming out the weekend before my birthday. Since I have a few friends that are just as excited I'm hoping we all see it together.
Anyway... take a look at it, and then read the freaking books... you'll thank me someday...
The Capital forces each of the districts to select two children - one male, one female - (between the ages of 12 and 18) to participant in a fight to the death with only one winner, called the Hunger Games. I know what you might be thinking - why would I want to read a book about children killing each other. Yes, the concept is kind of crazy, but I'm dead serious when I say this was one of the best series I've read in quite awhile. And I would recommend reading it before the movie comes out. Not because the movie looks bad... oh, no, quite the contrary... b/c if you're anything like me you'll appreciate it a lot more before it starts gaining more hype. I read Twilight waaaay after it became popular and after the first movie was release. I didn't like Twilight that much... but I think I would have liked it more if I read it before it was super duper trendy.
Anyway... the full trailer for Hunger Games came out last Monday... and it makes me UNBELIEVABLY excited about the movie, which happens to be coming out the weekend before my birthday. Since I have a few friends that are just as excited I'm hoping we all see it together.
Anyway... take a look at it, and then read the freaking books... you'll thank me someday...
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Honor Flight
Before I leave the topic of my grandparents I wanted to share something I also shared on Facebook. Shortly before my grandma's death my grandpa participated in the Honor Flight program. If you've never heard of it, here's a video that my mom actually sent me quite awhile ago - I guess they are making a documentary about the program
My grandpa is a World War II veteran. And he finally took his honor flight trip at the beginning of the month. He went with the Central Missouri Honor Flight program. His nephew went along with him as a guardian. From what I heard about the organization this trip was very well run. They thought through lots of potential circumstances and bring along nurses, doctors and a 'guardian' for every two veterans. They walk them through what to expect including airport security which can be an issue. I can't remember all the places they visit while in DC, but includes WWII Memorial, Vietnam Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. They are only in DC for a night and is a pretty quick trip. They really want all WWII (and Korean) veterans to take the trip.
I saw my grandpa before the trip and could tell he was excited. I haven't gotten to talk to him much after about his trip - just b/c of the circumstances with my grandma, but from what I've heard he had a wonderful time!! What's even more amazing is the Columbia Missourian wrote an article about the program and my grandpa, Virgil Watson, is quoted throughout it. You really should take a look at it here.
It's a great not-for-profit. I am so happy Grandpa got to take this trip and enjoy it. One of the best parts (that they kept a surprise from the Veterans) was they did a mail call on the flight. Friends and family were asked to write letters that were given to each of the Veterans on the flight. How sweet is that??
Anyway... take some time and view their site, the article or at least the video. They all make me tear up a bit.
My grandpa is a World War II veteran. And he finally took his honor flight trip at the beginning of the month. He went with the Central Missouri Honor Flight program. His nephew went along with him as a guardian. From what I heard about the organization this trip was very well run. They thought through lots of potential circumstances and bring along nurses, doctors and a 'guardian' for every two veterans. They walk them through what to expect including airport security which can be an issue. I can't remember all the places they visit while in DC, but includes WWII Memorial, Vietnam Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. They are only in DC for a night and is a pretty quick trip. They really want all WWII (and Korean) veterans to take the trip.
I saw my grandpa before the trip and could tell he was excited. I haven't gotten to talk to him much after about his trip - just b/c of the circumstances with my grandma, but from what I've heard he had a wonderful time!! What's even more amazing is the Columbia Missourian wrote an article about the program and my grandpa, Virgil Watson, is quoted throughout it. You really should take a look at it here.
It's a great not-for-profit. I am so happy Grandpa got to take this trip and enjoy it. One of the best parts (that they kept a surprise from the Veterans) was they did a mail call on the flight. Friends and family were asked to write letters that were given to each of the Veterans on the flight. How sweet is that??
Anyway... take some time and view their site, the article or at least the video. They all make me tear up a bit.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
I was thinking
As I mentioned this past weekend my Grandma passed away. She was 93 years old and I know she lived a good, happy life. Her wake and funeral service was beautiful. It was nice sharing memories of Grandma and we even got to look at some old pictures I've never seen before. Including young pictures of my dad (who looks exactly like my brother) and even my grandparents on their wedding day. Now that was a cool picture to see, how young and good looking they were. I hope to get a copy of that picture... it's a classic old time photo!
So while funerals can be really sad... they can be a good time for family to get together and share memories. My cousin (who is like my parents age... I have a strange family when it comes to that) gave a speech at the service and it was very good. I'm glad someone in the family had the courage to get up and say something... I would have cried... plus I'm not a good public speaker.
Another thing I was thinknig about is my grandparents were married for 60 years this past April. 60 years... can you believe that? I've been bummed recently that my marriage is ending... and that the hope/dream is over for a long long marriage. But what I realized is my grandma was 33 when she married my grandpa. That's a bit older (especially when you consider that generation) and they had 3 kids. I really worry that some of the things I want in my life won't happen (kids, happy marriage, etc) but looking at that... my grandma had a wonderful, life full of both of those things... and I'm not 33 yet. I could still get married and be together for 60 years... I can still have 3 children... it's still possible. Those are the things that's hard for me to really believe... but the proof is right there in my grandparents.
I don't want to turn this into a woe-is-me post or anything... but what life tells you (and recently showed me) is everyone's life journey is different. Those that seem happy now could have hardship tomorrow... you're life can be "planned" out and disaster strikes. Life can be looking super crappy and then you meet a wonderful person... I don't know what my life will bring me, just as much as you don't know what your life will bring you. Enjoy it... live it... do it.
Who knows what I'll be telling my kids or grandkids 50 years from now (or if I'll be alive 50 years from now or have those grandchildren) but I know my life will be interesting and quite a story. I will be at peace and happy about what I've done and what I've expereienced. This is just a minor bump in the road that is life. I do need to keep remembering that. It's hard when you want know things will be ok, or you'll get the things you want. I need to trust everything will end up a-ok.
How about all that profound speaking??
So while funerals can be really sad... they can be a good time for family to get together and share memories. My cousin (who is like my parents age... I have a strange family when it comes to that) gave a speech at the service and it was very good. I'm glad someone in the family had the courage to get up and say something... I would have cried... plus I'm not a good public speaker.
Another thing I was thinknig about is my grandparents were married for 60 years this past April. 60 years... can you believe that? I've been bummed recently that my marriage is ending... and that the hope/dream is over for a long long marriage. But what I realized is my grandma was 33 when she married my grandpa. That's a bit older (especially when you consider that generation) and they had 3 kids. I really worry that some of the things I want in my life won't happen (kids, happy marriage, etc) but looking at that... my grandma had a wonderful, life full of both of those things... and I'm not 33 yet. I could still get married and be together for 60 years... I can still have 3 children... it's still possible. Those are the things that's hard for me to really believe... but the proof is right there in my grandparents.
I don't want to turn this into a woe-is-me post or anything... but what life tells you (and recently showed me) is everyone's life journey is different. Those that seem happy now could have hardship tomorrow... you're life can be "planned" out and disaster strikes. Life can be looking super crappy and then you meet a wonderful person... I don't know what my life will bring me, just as much as you don't know what your life will bring you. Enjoy it... live it... do it.
Who knows what I'll be telling my kids or grandkids 50 years from now (or if I'll be alive 50 years from now or have those grandchildren) but I know my life will be interesting and quite a story. I will be at peace and happy about what I've done and what I've expereienced. This is just a minor bump in the road that is life. I do need to keep remembering that. It's hard when you want know things will be ok, or you'll get the things you want. I need to trust everything will end up a-ok.
How about all that profound speaking??
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
A couple of recipes
Everyone by now has heard of Pinterest I'm sure (and if you want an invite just let me know)
Well, I've made a couple of the items off of these... well, actually ones I found online and then pinned.
A few weeks ago for a food day at work I made Chocolate Chip Cheesecake dip and it was super duper yummy!!
And I made these brownies for a trivia night that are supposedly 'like crack' and there were also super delicious... chocolate, brownie, peanut butter... um yes please
I really enjoy making new things!
Well, I've made a couple of the items off of these... well, actually ones I found online and then pinned.
A few weeks ago for a food day at work I made Chocolate Chip Cheesecake dip and it was super duper yummy!!
And I made these brownies for a trivia night that are supposedly 'like crack' and there were also super delicious... chocolate, brownie, peanut butter... um yes please
I really enjoy making new things!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Explanation of Prints
When I was collecting ideas for prints for my list I ended up finding quite a few (20!), I just wasn't able to limit myself once I saw them. There's some that are very similar but there's also ones that are very different. So, just because I thought it would be fun for me (I do need blog entry topics too). So here's some commentary on the prints on my list.
Print 1 - I like the color and the interesting shapes. I think it's cool that it's an actual print too
Print 2 - I love trees and I like the interesting colors in this print. I like that the leaves are white
Print 3 - I think this one is sweet and while some people may find it sad, I think it's a bit uplifting and friendly. Like I'm there for you kind of thing.
Print 4 - I like interesting paintings and the colors and the sheen on this paint just makes it different.
Print 5 - I like the orange color and all the circles. I could look at this picture for a very long time
Print 6 - This is of a tree but very different than the norm. I love the pink color but the angle and the tree branches are very interesting to look at. I could imagine this going well with my other tree photo.
Print 7 - I think this is a really nice quote that would be good to see every day.
Print 8 - I love this tree... I think it's so sweet. I love the background colors, and the two birds sitting together. I love the sun and the spiral branch... swoon.
Print 9 - Well, I guess you can see my trend with trees, this little collection of trees could be really pretty in a wall in my future home.
Print 10 - This one you're probably thinking WTF... but I find it charming and different. I think its sorta funny and all the mustaches are funny.
Print 11 - This one is a bit different as it's actually fabric. But I think framed it would look better different and give a different texture to the wall. Plus isn't that background awesome!
Print 12 - This one is really fun... are we surprised how many trees are up here... I really enjoy tree branches... I long the curves of the trunk with the sun and the swirl blue background... it's calming
Print 13 - Okay, speaking of calming, this one is very calming with those colors and the feel of water or dye or something. I think it's interesting and could look at it for a long time. That's what I like in artwork... things I could stare at forever.
Print 14 - I think this one is fun and reminds me of glitter or confetti... I like all the colors and how it could look like something different depending on my mood.
Print 15 - now the artist calls these angels, but I think of birds or fairies. I just thinks it's interesting and different.
Print 16 - This one is just really pretty. All the different colors and the tree and the moon. I love the blues and oranges and the fact it spans 5 pictures. It would make quite a statement on the wall.
Just realized the print 14 and 17 are the same, haha
Print 18 - love the colors of the leaves and the fact it looks like sponges... I like how the paint runs a bit and the great branches... so interesting.
Print 19 - I know this is a post card, but I could see this framed in a photo collage on the wall or in my red accented kitchen.
Print 20 - Here's just a nice artist skyline of St. Louis... even though the Arch isn't quite right in dimensions I like it.
Print 1 - I like the color and the interesting shapes. I think it's cool that it's an actual print too
Print 4 - I like interesting paintings and the colors and the sheen on this paint just makes it different.
Print 5 - I like the orange color and all the circles. I could look at this picture for a very long time
Print 7 - I think this is a really nice quote that would be good to see every day.
Print 8 - I love this tree... I think it's so sweet. I love the background colors, and the two birds sitting together. I love the sun and the spiral branch... swoon.
Print 9 - Well, I guess you can see my trend with trees, this little collection of trees could be really pretty in a wall in my future home.
Print 10 - This one you're probably thinking WTF... but I find it charming and different. I think its sorta funny and all the mustaches are funny.
Print 11 - This one is a bit different as it's actually fabric. But I think framed it would look better different and give a different texture to the wall. Plus isn't that background awesome!
Print 15 - now the artist calls these angels, but I think of birds or fairies. I just thinks it's interesting and different.
Print 16 - This one is just really pretty. All the different colors and the tree and the moon. I love the blues and oranges and the fact it spans 5 pictures. It would make quite a statement on the wall.
Just realized the print 14 and 17 are the same, haha
Print 18 - love the colors of the leaves and the fact it looks like sponges... I like how the paint runs a bit and the great branches... so interesting.
Print 19 - I know this is a post card, but I could see this framed in a photo collage on the wall or in my red accented kitchen.
Print 20 - Here's just a nice artist skyline of St. Louis... even though the Arch isn't quite right in dimensions I like it.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
NFL Week 10 Picks
We honestly didn't realize there was a Thursday night game... so we're going to both get the point... whoops
Oakland Raiders vs. San Diego Chargers
New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals
St. Louis Rams vs. Cleveland Browns
Buffalo Bills vs. Dallas Cowboys
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Washington Redskins vs. Miami Dolphins
Arizona Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Houston Texans vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tennessee Titans vs. Carolina Panthers
Baltimore Ravens vs. Seattle Seahawks
Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears
New York Giants vs. San Francisco 49ers
New England Patriots vs. New York Jets
Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
I will add them up at another point... I'm not in the mood to do it right now.
Oakland Raiders vs. San Diego Chargers
New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals
St. Louis Rams vs. Cleveland Browns
Buffalo Bills vs. Dallas Cowboys
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Washington Redskins vs. Miami Dolphins
Arizona Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Houston Texans vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tennessee Titans vs. Carolina Panthers
Baltimore Ravens vs. Seattle Seahawks
Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears
New York Giants vs. San Francisco 49ers
New England Patriots vs. New York Jets
Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
Jenn
Susan
Both
I will add them up at another point... I'm not in the mood to do it right now.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
RIP Grandma
Yesterday the world lost a wonderful woman... my grandma. She lived to the young age of 93. Even at that old age she still had a very sharp mind. She was such a sweet woman, who I have a lot of wonderful memories about. My grandma and grandpa lived out in Cuba, MO. Each summer my brother and I would spend a week in "the country" with them. What I remember most about those weeks was playing cards with her for endless hours, walking up the the local convenient store to buy candy each day, picking vegetables out of the garden, and her making us pancakes in the morning. She would make the pancakes into fun shapes... she would try to make us anything we could come up with...
My grandma had quite a few health issues over the years but always fought back and made it through. She was a fighter. And due to that, it's really hard to picture a world without her. I am so happy that just a few weeks ago my brother, dad and I went out and spent some time with her. I had good conversations with her and while she couldn't see, bit hard of hearing and moved slow - she still had a very sharp mind. I am so happy I got to spend this time with her. It's something I will treasure forever.
I'm going to miss my grandma. November for me is the month to lose loved ones. Fourteen years ago we lost my dear uncle Steve and ten years ago we lost my Grandpa. I miss them everyday and I'll now miss my grandma too. I've wanted to write about Steve and Grandpa, but I don't feel like I'm good enough with words to express how I feel.
I'm sad... I can't believe she's gone. Grandma... I love you. You lived a long, beautiful life. You will be missed by me and everyone who knew you.
Here's a link to her obituary in case you are interested.
And finally - here is a picture I took with her about three years ago
My grandma had quite a few health issues over the years but always fought back and made it through. She was a fighter. And due to that, it's really hard to picture a world without her. I am so happy that just a few weeks ago my brother, dad and I went out and spent some time with her. I had good conversations with her and while she couldn't see, bit hard of hearing and moved slow - she still had a very sharp mind. I am so happy I got to spend this time with her. It's something I will treasure forever.
I'm going to miss my grandma. November for me is the month to lose loved ones. Fourteen years ago we lost my dear uncle Steve and ten years ago we lost my Grandpa. I miss them everyday and I'll now miss my grandma too. I've wanted to write about Steve and Grandpa, but I don't feel like I'm good enough with words to express how I feel.
I'm sad... I can't believe she's gone. Grandma... I love you. You lived a long, beautiful life. You will be missed by me and everyone who knew you.
Here's a link to her obituary in case you are interested.
And finally - here is a picture I took with her about three years ago
Friday, November 11, 2011
11.11.11
A long long time ago I decided that November 11, 2011 would be a wonderful day for a wedding. I mean to have the anniversary date of 11-11-11 would be ah-mazing!!
I first thought of getting married that date before I met him... it seemed like good timing. At that point I wasn't dating anyone nor did I think I would start to be serious with anyone anytime soon (funny how things can just happen like that... something to keep in mind during this time) November 11, 2011 was far enough away that it made sense. Meet someone after awhile, date for awhile, have a long engagement and then get married... November 11, 2011.
Of course that was a real long shot... and as life has shown I'm not getting married tomorrow... no big deal. Although I had a wonderful theme picked up - You're the ONE for me... get it?? I can't say I planned much of the wedding past that though (although I was hoping a family or friend would get married around this time so I could try!)
So today is November 11, 2011... 11-11-11 and it just reminds me of that silly dream. The date is amazing and we get to celebrate a wonderful holiday today - Veteran's Day. So remember to keep our nations wonderful Veterans in mind. They served our country and they are all American heroes in their own way. Both of my grandpas were veterans, one even served in WWII. Thank you to everyone who has chosen to serve - I thank you for having the guts to do what I could not do.
So today is a special day regardless of not having a wedding
I first thought of getting married that date before I met him... it seemed like good timing. At that point I wasn't dating anyone nor did I think I would start to be serious with anyone anytime soon (funny how things can just happen like that... something to keep in mind during this time) November 11, 2011 was far enough away that it made sense. Meet someone after awhile, date for awhile, have a long engagement and then get married... November 11, 2011.
Of course that was a real long shot... and as life has shown I'm not getting married tomorrow... no big deal. Although I had a wonderful theme picked up - You're the ONE for me... get it?? I can't say I planned much of the wedding past that though (although I was hoping a family or friend would get married around this time so I could try!)
So today is November 11, 2011... 11-11-11 and it just reminds me of that silly dream. The date is amazing and we get to celebrate a wonderful holiday today - Veteran's Day. So remember to keep our nations wonderful Veterans in mind. They served our country and they are all American heroes in their own way. Both of my grandpas were veterans, one even served in WWII. Thank you to everyone who has chosen to serve - I thank you for having the guts to do what I could not do.
So today is a special day regardless of not having a wedding
Thursday, November 10, 2011
C is for Cookie
Today I received these...
Yes - that's right... I got me some girl scout cookies... which I haven't had in forever!
(ignore the fact the picture isn't the right way)
Yes - that's right... I got me some girl scout cookies... which I haven't had in forever!
I was thinking about bringing them home to share, but right now I'm thinking they will stay on my desk for a pick-me-up when I'm feeling down or stressed... or hungry
I've already broken into all the boxes... I have absolutely no restraint... They are just... so... good... they probably won't be around long!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Happy Christmas
Well, I had an entire list written out and somehow it got deleted... now I feel pretty defeated since I had already put so much work into it... like hours of work into it... how freaking annoying!!
So here I am starting over... good times...
So again this year a DSLR will top my list... I know that I probably won't get it, but here it is just in case - a Nikon D3000
I would also like a nice point and shoot. I would like something from a decent brand, that is pretty compact... something like the Canon Powershot S95
Due to my recent situation there's some home items I would like...
Like this Rachael Ray cookware set
And a bakeware set
A utensil set
A good knife
I love this knife block!
A 6-quart crock pot
A food chopper
I need some new silverware
I will need a vacuum - ideally a Dyson would be great, since those are so expensive I know that's not really possible, however I know that I want bagless and aimed a pet hair would be nice.
Ever since I went to the Salt and Pepper museum on vacation this summer my future kitchen NEEDS some good shakers like these owls
or these tiki heads
or even these Mr. T's
Now that the Cardinals have won the World Series Cardinals gear is a must! And of course there's a bunch of good things!! So here's some links b/c if you know me, you'll know it's hard to limit myself!
Cardinals 1 Cardinals 2 Cardinals 3 Cardinals 4 Cardinals 5 Cardinals 6 Cardinals 7
And let's add this Cardinals toaster to the home goods I must have
I would like a St. Louis Blues shirt - Blues 1 Blues 2
I would like some simple black flats and some gray ones too
I would love some brown boots (they can be flats or heels)
I would really like a bright red cardigan - in this style but bright red... I'd also like a black one... nothing fancy, just solid, ideally 3/4 sleeve, button down... wouldn't mind some other solid colors too - pink, green, etc.
Some jeans - curvy style - I know I fit into Target Brand Fit 4 size 10R... I would like a pair of skinny jeans but mostly boot cut
I would love some skirts... here's some examples...
Skirt 1 Skirt 2 Skirt 3 Skirt 4 Skirt 5 Skirt 6 Skirt 7
Of course I want dresses, I showed some in a recent post, but here's some more... I like lots of different kinds of dresses!
Dress 1 Dress 2 Dress 3 Dress 4 Dress 5 Dress 6 Dress 7 Dress 8 Dress 9 Dress 10 Dress 11 Dress 12 Dress 13 Dress 14
I would like a tunic like this or that - preferably that I can wear with black leggings
I seriously love Old Navy stuff - so many cute tops, dresses and skirts - so gift card?
A new pair of tennis shoes - crosstrainers
I'd like some yoga and/or workout pants
I'd love some new prints for my room or future place - I ended up going a little overboard with this but here are some I found on Etsy
Print 1 Print 2 Print 3 Print 4 Print 5 Print 6 Print 7 Print 8 Print 9 Print 10 Print 11 Print 12 Print 13 Print 14 Print 15 Print 16 Print 17 Print 18 Print 19 Print 20
A new charm necklace - I like random, like this
or that
And finally (for now) a compact mirror.
So here I am starting over... good times...
So again this year a DSLR will top my list... I know that I probably won't get it, but here it is just in case - a Nikon D3000
Like this Rachael Ray cookware set
A good knife
A food chopper
Now that the Cardinals have won the World Series Cardinals gear is a must! And of course there's a bunch of good things!! So here's some links b/c if you know me, you'll know it's hard to limit myself!
Cardinals 1 Cardinals 2 Cardinals 3 Cardinals 4 Cardinals 5 Cardinals 6 Cardinals 7
And let's add this Cardinals toaster to the home goods I must have
I would like some simple black flats and some gray ones too
Some jeans - curvy style - I know I fit into Target Brand Fit 4 size 10R... I would like a pair of skinny jeans but mostly boot cut
I would love some skirts... here's some examples...
Skirt 1 Skirt 2 Skirt 3 Skirt 4 Skirt 5 Skirt 6 Skirt 7
Of course I want dresses, I showed some in a recent post, but here's some more... I like lots of different kinds of dresses!
Dress 1 Dress 2 Dress 3 Dress 4 Dress 5 Dress 6 Dress 7 Dress 8 Dress 9 Dress 10 Dress 11 Dress 12 Dress 13 Dress 14
I would like a tunic like this or that - preferably that I can wear with black leggings
I seriously love Old Navy stuff - so many cute tops, dresses and skirts - so gift card?
A new pair of tennis shoes - crosstrainers
I'd love some new prints for my room or future place - I ended up going a little overboard with this but here are some I found on Etsy
Print 1 Print 2 Print 3 Print 4 Print 5 Print 6 Print 7 Print 8 Print 9 Print 10 Print 11 Print 12 Print 13 Print 14 Print 15 Print 16 Print 17 Print 18 Print 19 Print 20
A new charm necklace - I like random, like this
And finally (for now) a compact mirror.
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