Life of a Savannah Wife

Blogger issues

2011-11-28T16:46:00.002-05:00

I've been trying to upload pictures for a few days but Blogger is not cooperating. I will have a few weeks of updates soon.

16 weeks

2011-11-28T09:43:00.014-05:00

Since blogger won't let me upload my 16 week picture, here's the post I wrote that week:

My parents came here for a week to help with the nursery. This was the only time they could take a full week off to help and we definitely got a lot done. I can't wait to show pictures.

For now, here's my 16 week update (I know I skipped a week, but not much had changed.

Total weight gain/loss: around 5lbs

Sleep: I'm falling to sleep great, but getting up multiple times to tee tee :)

Best moment of the week: Feeling flutters

Movement: I'm definitely feeling a little something down there and I love every second of it.

Food cravings: Nothing too random right now.

Gender: Still no idea. I had another dream and it was a boy, so who knows.

What I miss: Red wine

What I'm looking forward to: hearing the heartbeat

Milestones: Feeling flutters was a huge milestone to me!

14 week update

2011-11-08T15:12:00.004-05:00

First off, today is my grandmother's birthday. She is celebrating in Heaven her 86th birthday. How lucky is she? Not a day passes that I don't think about her and I would give anything for her to meet this sweet baby inside me. At least, the baby will have the best guardian angel ever :)

14 week update and picture: I think the ahgle makes it look like there is no change. I can't really tell if I've grown any.

How far along: 14 weeks 4 days (in this picture)

Size of baby: approximately 4 inches and the size of an apple. We only had apple slices...guess those wouldn't work.

Total weight gain/loss: I think I'm still at 3 pounds

Sleep: I'm falling to sleep great, but getting up multiple times to tee tee :)

Best moment of the week: Getting together with 3 other friends that are expecting in the same month as me. We just talked and talked about babies. So fun.

Movement: On the way to a birthday party for one of my friends I swear I felt something. I could be crazy but it was different.

Food cravings: Nothing too random right now.

Gender: Still no idea. I had my first gender dream and it was a girl.

What I miss: Eating anything I want.

What I'm looking forward to: Decorating the nursery

Milestones: 2nd trimester! Whoo hoo!

13 Week update

2011-11-07T09:55:00.004-05:00

I am a little behind on my updates considering I'll be 15 weeks this Thursday but I promise to catch up quick.

This picture was taken right afte lunch so the belly was out more than usual. When I wake up in the morning, I swear I don't see anything and then when I'm going to bed it seems huge. ha!

How far along: 13 weeks 3 days (in this picture)

Size of baby: approximately 3 inches and the size of a lemon

Total weight gain/loss: I think 3 pounds

Sleep: I'm falling to sleep great, but getting up multiple times to tee tee :)

Best moment of the week: Actually being able to talk about it when out in public. Seems like we were trying to hide it for so long, that now its such a relief.

Movement: Nothing yet.

Food cravings: Nothing too random right now.

Gender: I have no idea! I wish I did, but I don't. Since we aren't finding out guessing is all we can do.

What I miss: Lots of caffeine and red wine. Not a real big drinker but red wine smells SO good right now

What I'm looking forward to: Decorating the nursery

Milestones: Almost to the 2nd trimester!

Where have I been?

2011-11-03T11:48:00.002-04:00

I swear I don't know how or why I dropped off the blogging world. Maybe a little bit of boredom with blogging and a little bit of life getting busy? Who knows. The important thing is, I'm back!

Over the last few months, Jim and I have prayed and prayed for a precious baby. Well, in August we found out that our prayers were answered!

Here's how it went:

I went to the doc for my regular appointment and as normal I went to the back, did a urine sample and went back to the room. I knew something was up when my doctor opened the door slowly and had the biggest smile on her face. I said "no way" and she said "YES WAY!". She was so excited for us and I couldn't even think straight. I started crying immediately saying "I don't know why I'm crying". haha! Hormones were already taking over my body I suppose.

I immediately called Jim and my mom and started crying and they both started crying.

For weeks, I honestly didn't believe it but was too scared to take pregnancy test. So silly, I know. So, for the next few weeks I was careful with everything I ate and drank but still wasn't convinced because I felt so great!

At 6 weeks even, I woke up and felt awful. It started to be more in the afternoon and just felt like a bad hangover. Well, that lasted for about 3 weeks. At our 8 week appointment (it was actually 9 weeks once we got in there) my parents were in town for the weekend already for a fishing trip the boys were supposed to go on. So, of course they came. Since my mother in law isnt' that far away, we asked if she wanted to come. I was so happy/nervous to have everyone there but thank goodness everything went perfect! Jim and I went back to the ultrasound alone and saw that precious little "bean" on the screen. We busted into tears. Best thing I've ever seen. The heartrate was 174 and everything looked great.

We invited the parents in to see and they all started crying. It was so special. A time I will NEVER forget. The doctor told us we were due May 3, 2012. What a perfect day that will be!

After our appointment, Jim went back to work, his mom left and me and my parents went and ate a good breakfast and talked about the baby the entire time. We then walked across the street and wandered through a baby store. Too much fun!

I will continue to update everyone with pictures and all!

Pinterest!

2011-08-24T08:13:00.002-04:00

When the summer calms down I have promised myself to get back into blogging. We've been working more and traveling a lot. September should slow down. Until then...

What I've been obsessed with:

www.pinterest.com/akwillis/

This takes no thought like blogging, so of course I find time to pin :)

God Bless...

2011-05-02T13:12:00.002-04:00

"I have never wished a man dead,

but I have read some obituaries

with great pleasure."

Mark Twain

Easter Weekend

2011-04-26T08:02:00.005-04:00

Jim and I always have so much at my parents house. We usually go to their lakehouse, but this weekend we had to stay and get ready for the Easter festivities my parents always do at their house.

We did a little shopping, mom and I got our nails done, Jim and dad worked in the yard and we cooked cooked cooked!

Sunday morning we went to the early service and then came back to wait on everyone to come.

This is my sweet mom cooking.

My 16 year old nephew (oh the days of being too cool to smile for the camera) ha!

Jim helping us out in the kitchen.
Jim and I with my parents.
My sister in law and her new niece.

My aunt, my dad, and my uncle.

Playing games. We did the spoon and egg race, the egg toss and the 3 legged race. So fun!

My husband watching all the games.

Perfect weekend with my family!

My week in pictures!

2011-04-06T08:03:00.003-04:00

I ordered this book this week and I am so anxious to get it! I just love Bethenny. He style, her success, her wit and her sweet family. I could watch "Bethenny Ever After" every day of my life. I catch Jim even watching it with me...he chuckles at her comments too. We are headed to Augusta tomorrow morning for the Masters! I am actually super excited about this trip. I can't stand watching golf on tv for longer than 20 minutes but I really do love watching it in person. I'll be wearing my tank top, shorts and sunscreen for sure! The weather is supposed to be 78 and sunny. Can't wait!

Tonight we are headed to Jim's hometown (halfway to Augusta) to spend time with the fam at dinner. My favorite restaraunt of all time is in this small south Georgia town. I would literally take Ware's bbq over a 5 star restaraunt any day. Everything on the menu is great...I've never ordered anything I didn't like.

My mother in law already emailed me asking if I wanted to go there...she knows me well :)

If you know me well, you know Tibi is my all time favorite designer. Well, I got to spend some time (and money) there this weekend.

I suppose I will be explaining my purchases to the hubs on the car ride today....and tomorrow probably!

Hope everyone is enjoying their week so far!

I heard this today....

2011-04-05T12:20:00.002-04:00

"A real woman always has a clean house, an empty laundry basket,

is well made-up, is slim, healthy, eloquent,

and is perfectly well-behaved."

I'm starting to wonder what in the world I am???? Not a real woman I suppose.... Happy Tuesday!!

New blogger in town!

2011-04-04T14:29:00.002-04:00

My sweet friend Hayley has a new blog and I know its going to be great! She is such a cute, fun and HILARIOUS person so I can't wait to follow her blog. Go here and follow her too! Happy Monday everyone!

Seattle!

2011-03-28T09:52:00.003-04:00

I am a little behind on putting pictures up from our Seattle trip. We really had so much fun! We ate some really delicious food the entire time, we went to the Space Needle, the zoo, shopped at every store in downtown Seattle and walked until around feel were about to fall off. The is the famous Fish Market. So fun! Jim and I before dinner at the Crab Pot. A cute restaraunt on the water.

On the subway to the Space Needle.

The zoo was so fun!

Of course, it rained on us.

Our last night we went to this game place. I laughed the entire time we were there.

We had such a great time and would love to go back! Maybe next time it will be before we board a cruise ship heading to Alaska. ha!

St. Simons Island

2011-03-25T08:51:00.003-04:00

This will be our home for the next two weekends. Jim is going there this weekend on a golf trip with a bunch of guys and I'll be going next weekend on a bachelorette party.

This was Jim and I in St. Simons on our anniversary last year. ha!

Jim left this morning so I dropped him off at a friends house with my pjs on, coffee in hand and hair a mess. He was so excited...like a kid on the first day of school. It was too funny. We had his bag packed, lunch and cooler packed with goodies (and of course beer) and golf clubs cleaned and ready to go. I'm sure he'll have a blast. They do this trip every year on the same weekend and he always has a blast.

This weekend will be very relaxing for me. Well, I say that but I do have a list of things I want to get done. Such as: closet cleaned out, shower scrubbed (Savannah has the hardest water so I feel like I have to clean the shower all the time) and I would also like to lay out and ride my bike :)

This is my new bike. I love it so much!!

Speaking of cleaning out my closet, I did a mini clean last week and took 24 items to a high end consignment shop in town last week and I'm hoping to make a good chunk of change from all of it. You don't get paid for your stuff that you take until the clothes sell. Smart business move in my eyes. I called yesterday and I sold 4 things so far. Hopefully, by the time I leave for SSI I'll have at least $100 to spend at the Tibi Outlet. That's my goal!

Did I mention and glass of wine and a bubble bath on my to do list???? If not, I meant to!

Happy Friday!!

Mustaches & Margaritas

2011-03-19T10:57:00.003-04:00

So, the M&M party was a hit! We all had so much fun and can't wait to do it again. Jim and I made all the tacos and fajitas before everyone got there as we sipped on the delicious margs Jim made.

Here's the chef himself.

Each couple brought a side, or a condiment, or an appetizer. It worked out perfectly where no one had too much to bring.

Jim and I also supplied the beautiful staches.

All the girls. Garet and Baby Wilkes wearing the staches.

Jackson and Liam were definitely the hit of the party. They didn't even care they had the mustaches on and it was too funny! You can't see us girls behind the camera but we were literally on the floor in tears laughing so hard!

Fun Fun night with great great friends!!

St. Patty's Day

2011-03-18T11:40:00.002-04:00

With all my sweet friends...

This week...

2011-03-08T08:35:00.005-05:00

First off, Ash Wednesday is tomorrow. "Deciding what to give up for Lent is not nearly as important as what you decide to replace it with." I definitely haven't decided what I want to give up because my original thought was to give up shopping, but I've planned to do that anyway so I want to find something else to give up. Coke? Chocolate? I just can't decide.

Tonight we are going to one of my favorite restaraunts in Savannah. Bonna Bella Yacht Club. We are going with a sweet couple of ours that we have met through church and mutual friends. Since the weather has been so nice lately we've been dying to go eat outside and enjoy this view.

This Friday Jim and I and a group of our friends are running in the Shamrock Run in Savannah. Okay, I lied, I'm not really running. My company is sponsoring the event so I'll be working but it sounded better to say we're all running. ha!

This 5k is always so much fun each year. After the race everyone stays downtown for the night and you're guaranteed to see everyone you know. My boss usually takes us out to dinner and drinks and picks up the tab....super nice!

And, then on Sunday we leave for SEATTLE for 4 days! I'm so excited! Jim and I haven't been on a good trip in....well, since our honeymoon probably. We've got things planned like the Zoo, the Pike Place Market, the Space Needle and so much more!

I will upload pictures from our Supper Club this week too!

Happy Tuesday!

Supper Club

2011-02-28T19:20:00.003-05:00

We are part of a great Supper Club with 9 other couples and we get together once a month. It slows down a lot during the holidays but has thankfully picked back up. We always have so much fun with them and love being around the entire group.

The guys usually stand around the grill outside and the girls usually around the appetizers in the kitchen :) Each month we try to change the theme and this month it is at our house and the theme is Mexican. I have had wayyy too much fun with this. I went to party city this afternoon and got a little crazy.

I love a theme, I tell ya. I wish there was a theme everyday at work. I loved our themed socials in college, I love themed showers and birthday parties, I love it all!

So naturally, I was thrilled when it was my turn to host. We are doing fajitas, tacos, mexican rice, chips and salsa, queso dip, corona and of course margaritas!

Here are a few things I picked up today.

And what kind of mexican party would it be without Mustaches???

I will be sure to post pictures after Thursday night!

On my Knees

2011-02-23T08:28:00.002-05:00

Have you ever literally fallen on your knees, looked to the sky and said "This is for you Lord, I can't handle it anymore!" Well, that's what I've done numerous times in the past week. I am giving it all to the Lord for him to handle and lead me in the right direction. I try not to get so down and out when bad news comes about, but its so hard not to!

I truly believe things have been going like they have lately because God is looking me staight in the face saying "You're not in control sweetheart, I am. I'm here no matter what and when times get tough I'VE GOT YOU." Once I finally realized this a huge weight was lifted from my shoulders and my heart. I've always known this, but I really needed to understand it.

But, lately I've just taken a step back and looked at my wonderful life. No its not perfect, but its perfect for me. I have a loving family, great friends, a good job and a strong faith. That's all I need, right?

RIGHT!

I hate writing post on anything somewhat negative, but I guess I needed to give myself a little pep talk :)

Have a great day everyone!!

Our weekend...and other stuff

2011-01-10T09:38:00.005-05:00

This weekend we actually stayed home....what? I can't believe it! As much as I love traveling on the weekends to see my family and friends, I equally enjoy staying home and not having any plans.

Friday night Jim and I just cooked a delicious meal and then watched a movie and laid in the bed. We both put on our pjs the minute we got home from work and didn't take them off until the next morning. It was great!

This is a picture capturing our eventful night :) Jim reading his book and me watching Lifetime.

Jim had to work all day Saturday, so I woke up and went to a body conditioning class at the YMCA. I'm still sore. I came home cleaned the house and took a nap.

That night we had a few friends over to cookout and I didn't take one picture :( We had such a good time laughing, talking, and of course eating.

Sunday morning we slept through our alarm to go to church. I have no idea how or why because we were in bed by midnight and had plenty of sleep. So we woke up and Jim cooked breakfast and then we worked in our friends yard ALL day. Jim is usually her "yard man", but I didn't want to sit home all day again so I helped out.

Last week I got my early birthday present from Jim! It came in this box.....

And turned into this.... a cowhide rug!!

My mom and I saw a cowhide rug for sale (way too expensive there) at an antique store and I fell in love. I would've never thought I would have an animal rug in my house, but I love it! I found it online for a great price and Jim ordered it for my bday.

The sailboat pictures on the wall were included in that as well.

Our formal living room is done!!! Well, once I get curtains it will be :)

Happy Monday!!

God & Football

2011-01-06T12:42:00.002-05:00

Jim kept talking about this book our preacher would reference at their Tuesday morning Men's Bible Study, so I decided to get it for him for Christmas. He hasn't put it down.

Every night before we go to bed (and while he's on the potty) he reads this book. It makes my heart happy to see him smile while he reads about two of his favorite things. After he reads for about 30-45 minutes we lay in bed and talk about what he read. The author seems like such a man's man with Christian morals. He explains how in 2008 he went to every SEC school for the weekend and on Saturdays he would go to the game, a hot lunch spot, and tailgate with some locals. On Sunday he would go to a local church. He explains how any man can balance their love for football and the Lord. How amazing is that?

So, if you any of you girls are looking for something for the hubs I suggest this book!

Happy Thursday!

Overwhelmed

2010-12-07T11:42:00.005-05:00

When my parents came for the week of Thanksgiving they brought us my grandmother's bedroom suite: the bed, the bedding, a chair, tv stand and tv.

I didn't think anything of it when everyone was here, but I find myself randomly throughout the day just sitting in the chair reminscing. The old brownish/green chair is hideous. When mom told me she was bringing it for me my first thought was "definitely getting that covered immediately". The more I sit in there and breathe in the sweet smell of my grandmother's house the more I realize I was crazy for wanting to change this room in any way.

It's perfect! It has the bedspread that's been in her bedroom for years and I just love it.

As I was sitting in there today I got overwhelmed. At first, overwhelmed about the fact that she won't be here with us this Christmas and then overwhelmed at how small things like her furniture and her smell remind me of how thankful I am to have had her for 26 years.

This Christmas will be different but it will hopefully remind us of all the wonderful Christmas years celebrated with her in the past. It will remind me of her spending the night in the room next to mine for 26 years(even though she lived next door) and waking up at the same time to rush downstairs. It will remind me our cheese straw fiasco a few years back, drinking coffee on the floor next to the fire every Christmas Eve and sipping mimosas in our pjs almost every day during Christmas.

I am so thankful to have these memories.

Speaking of the chairs of her's I was going to cover....instead, for Christmas, my parents bought us these beauties.

I love them! Now just to find a table, lamp and painting.

Happy Tuesday Everyone!

Extreme Makeover: Savannah!

2010-11-18T08:29:00.005-05:00

I think I mentioned in an earlier post that EMHE came to Savannah, but I actually have proof now!

We have had the privledge of being pretty involved with everything and we have loved it! The Simpson family is such a deserving family for this makeover and we are so excited for them to see their NEW house today for the first time!

I'm going to try and get over there for the big reveal today, but we'll see if work permits.

Here's their old house. Supposedly, it was in terrible terrible shape.

Here we are helping witht he build.

I got to see Tracy last night. She's so pretty!

And Paul. He was very funny.

Ty and the crew checking out the house for the first time.

Filming before demolition.

Almost done with the house. Can't wait to see the finished project!

Some of the pictures are out of order, but last night (when we saw the crew) they had an Extreme Extravaganza that my work for tickets for. We filmed on our baseball filmed and sent it to the Simpson family while they're on a cruise in the Bahamas. We had Paula Deen's for dinner and their was a silent and live auction.

Fun night!

Random thoughts

2010-11-11T08:39:00.005-05:00

1. Is it already time for Christmas decorations to be out in the stores??? My goodness! I just got finished decorating for Thanksgiving/Fall. How in the world will I find time to take all that down and decorate for Christmas when I have 30 people coming for Thanksgiving in 2 weeks??? Sheesh.

2. My parents just ordered our (yes, mine and Jim's) Christmas presents. I told Jim we would never dish out this kind of money for chairs on our own so Christmas was our only option....it worked :) But seriously, I think he is just as ready as me to have this house completed. I blogged about these in an earlier "wish list" post. Can't wait to get them!

3. Jim and I are having dinner at Bonna Bella Yacht Club with two other couples tonight. I am very excited! We are so blessed to have such good friends in Savannah since our family isn't around here.

4. I had a nail stuck in my tire last week and when I took it to the tire place, of course they told me I needed 4 new tires. Typical. $700 later, we're stressed and broke.

5. Speaking of broke, we are headed to this wonderful place in May

Ritz Carlton in Jamaica. I am in a wedding there and we are trying to save every last penny for this trip but new tires aren't helping the siutation.

6. We have a nutrionist on board now at work and wow does her eating make me sick. She eats everything healthy. I feel so stupid going to lunch with her. I'm always like "yeah, I'll have that too". Mainly because I don't want to order the cheesburger in front of her and because I can't pronounce what she eats. I'm always up for trying something new.

Last night I made some healthy oat bars she gave me the recipe for. I added powdered protein and all that stuff....they are actually delicious. At least I have a snack other than chips or cookies.

7. One of my best friends from home had her baby last week, Mary Jennings. She is precious and I am so happy for Jenna! 2 of my other friends from home/bridesmaids in my wedding are expecting. So weird how things change. For the better of course.

8. This weekend we have a black tie charity event for SMA (spinal muscular atrophy). My company is sponsoring it so as the marketing director, its mandatory. There will be great food, open bar and Swingin Medallions will be playing (old shag band). I'll be sure to post pictures.

9. Are y'all tired of my random thoughts yet? Good, because I am too.

Happy Thursday Everyone!!!

Thank you for Being a Friend...

2010-11-02T09:42:00.002-04:00

That's right. Rose, Sophia, Dorothy, and Blanch were in full character Saturday night.

And I mean in FULL character. We had the song "Thank you for being a friend" playing all night.
I thought my husband was going to go crazy.
Speaking of my husband.... aka Static Cling. Obviously, this was a last minute costume idea. He had his hair straight up, dryer sheets pinned to his shirt, and panties....yes, panties were attached to him and they were NOT mine(they were my friends that were brand new). Ha!

Fun Fun night!

Now I'm off to vote!

Little Birdie

2010-10-22T09:31:00.004-04:00

No, I'm talking about some juicy gossip a little birdie told me or a crazy "tweet" from Twitter. I am talking about a LIVE BIRD getting into our house this morning.

Jim and I woke up this morning to go walking and when we got back I was still hot so I left the door open while I was getting breakfast together. I look over and there was a darn bird flying in the living room. You would've thought I saw a bear. I screamed so loud which scared the mess out of Jim and then he screamed. hahaha! I'm laughing right now just thinking about what we looked like. Jim runs to get the broom while the bird is flying around like a crazy bat (which for a second I thought was one).

The bird flew around for a good 5 minutes, which felt like 30 while I was in the bathroom screaming "Is it out yet??????". Jim finally brushed it out. Wheww.

Something about birds don't sit well with me. They are so unpredictable. So basically, I am still looking over my shoulder as we speak.

Way to start the weekend off, right?

Happy Friday!!!!

Cocktail Party!

2010-10-18T11:08:00.005-04:00

So, a few months back a group of us went to a charity auction party for one of our friends. The event was so much fun! Well, after a few drinks we all thought we were made of money....so far from the truth its ridiculous.

As the live auction is going they say "Cocktail party for you and 13 of your friends including open bar and dinner for 3 hours!". And of course, all of our ears perked up and there goes our hands up in the air. It was hilarious. Needless to say, we won.

This past Friday night we decided to have the party at our house. We had our own chefs and bartenders. It was so much fun!

Jim and I before the party.
Me and Kelly.

All the girls.

Hanging out on the back deck waiting for dinner.

Our wonderful chef preparing dinner.

Telling everyone what we'll be eating.

Everyone listening.

The guys learning his secrets.

Getting ready for Taboo.

Our bartenders.

Taboo! Although dinner was delicious, game time was by far the best part of the night.

Jim and I were getting competitive.

Such a great night! I wish we could afford to do that more often :)

I don't know what I ate that night but my body did not agree! I was sick the rest of the weekend feeling horrible. I'm better now so it was totally worth it.

I hope everyone else had a wonderful weekend as well!

Weekend Project: 10/10/10

2010-10-11T13:11:00.002-04:00

Corn stalks and flower boxes! That's what we did. We actually did a lot more to the yard but we have so far to go.

This is the corn stalks we put up. I need to tie them together tigther...but you get the picture.

Our flower boxes that Jim and his friend Preston help do. They were such troopers.

And more. These are supposed to get pretty big.

And voila! Dont' judge the yard. Jim's cutting it today :)

Hope everyone has a great Monday!!

I'm Fall{ing} behind on decorations...

2010-10-08T10:28:00.005-04:00

I usually do so much more for Halloween/Fall/Thanksgiving, but I've decided to buy all new stuff so its taking me a little longer than expected.

I'm buying a few things at a time to get ready for the ENTIRE family coming to our house for Thanksgiving (what was I thinking???).

We are actually very excited about everyone coming, but I'm just nervous I won't have everything ready.

Here are a few pics of the sporadic decor around the house.

Guest bathroom towels.

You can't really see my white pumpkins with our address on them, but they're super cute. Jim is picking up some corn husks today to put behind my urns.

My mom and I painted these $1 store pumpkins. I think they turned out cute!

I'm looking for a "Happy Fall" flag banner to hang on here as well.

I told you I didn't have much yet. I'll continue to post pictures as I accumulate more decor.

And, I finally got our wedding picture framed for our bedroom....I love it!!!

Jim is going to the Alabama vs. South Carolina game this weekend so I'll be taking it easy. I'm going to clean, do laundry, try to exercise, and go to bed early. That's my ideal weekend...only wish my hubby was here too. They'll only be gone for 1 day so it's going to be perfect for me to get stuff around the house done.

Sunday we are planning to go to church and work in the yard. Our yard is an ongoing project. I feel like its going to take forever to be complete. I'll post pictures of that as well.

Happy Weekend Everyone!!!

Home Sweet Home...

2010-09-30T10:54:00.009-04:00

Master bedroom

Dining room

Below is our formal living room, but I'm waiting on my brown and white houndstooth chairs to be done.

Guest room upstairs

Guest bath upstairs

Bonus room aka The Man Room

My laundry room still needs some work

Back deck

Where have I been???

2010-09-08T08:18:00.007-04:00

I can't believe its been so long since my last post! There has been so much going on that I find myself getting ready to post and get distracted. So, here we go.

Most of my time has been spent working on this baby. Jim and I have never worked so hard to decorate (me), landscape (him) and redo this entire house. It was and still is a long process, but we sure are having fun doing it. Owning the condo was nothing on this house. So much more work and maintenance to keep up. We wouldn't have it any other way!

Last weekend we went to Lake Burton in North Georgia with some friends. What a beautiful place! All we did was ride the boat and do water sports during the day and cook out and play games at night. It was a very relaxing weekend spent with great friends!

Obviously, my husband didn't have any fun at all....

While we were at Lake Burton I HAD to ride by Nick Saban's lakehouse (coach for Alabama). I'm pretty sure by sending these pictures to my dad I got the "Best Daughter of the Year" award. Needless to say, my dad was thrilled!

Our sweet friends Brooke and Peyton welcomed their little boy Lawson into the world last week. We are so thrilled for them and can't wait to see him.

This is me and Brooke at our wedding.

I have an extremely heavy heart today. My high school boyfriend's brother was killed yesterday. He came home to someone breaking into his home and the intruder shot Heath and killed him.

Heath was 25 years old and no ordinary guy. Heath was a Christian like no other. Heath never met a stranger but always let it be known that he loved Jesus! Ever since I've known him he was always a huge follower and man of God. It was amazing how strong his faith was!

He was a dj for a Christian radio station in Columbus and was in a Christian band. I always remember Heath struggling with feeling like he never did enough for Jesus, but we all know exactly who he's singing with right now.

I couldn't sleep last night for anything knowing that God took away such an amazing person. I will never question what He does, but will often struggle with understanding it.

Story here

Sorry to end in such terrible news. Happy Hump Day to everyone! Can't believe its already Wednesday! Whoooo hoooo!!!

Lately

2010-08-02T10:56:00.005-04:00

First off, I want to thank everyone for your sweet sweet comments. I am truly overwhelmed with the blog love!

The last few weeks have been better...only because I'm back in Savannah and away from everything. I feel guilty about that but know it's what I have to do for now. My sweet grandmother is still with us but is barely hanging on. I'll be heading that way again this weekend.

Thanks again for the thoughts and prayers from everyone!

Second, one of my very best friends got married last weekend in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. It was one of the prettiest weddings I have ever seen. Everything was so well put together, the weather was great, every night was so much fun, and the bride and groom were glowing all weekend.

Thursday before the wedding they had a low country boil for everyone which was so yummy. It was very laid back and decorated so cute.

Here we are with the couple.

Some of the girls.

Jim and I.

While the guys were playing golf the girls were at the bridesmaid luncheon. It was at a beautiful club house right on the beach.

Rehearsal dinner was beautiful, delicious and hilarious. The speeches had me laughing the entire night.

The day of the wedding!

Perfect Perfect weekend!!!

Happy Place...

2010-06-29T11:52:00.005-04:00

I'm trying to find my happy place, but am struggling with this right now. I originally started this blog for wedding planning, then for our first year of marriage, now for digital scrapbook of our life. I would say our life is pretty close to perfect (in my eyes). Jim and I always see everything in a positive light and I like to think of us as pretty happy people. I never wanted my blog to be anything but happy, but I knew it wouldn't be a true scrapbook if I didn't express my feelings fully.

I have had one of the hardest weeks of my life this past week. I am tearing up as I right this paragraph (I have erased it at least 10 times). My sweet sweet grandmother is not doing well at all. I don't handle situations like this very well, as I don't suspect anyone does. Being 4 hours away from my family has always been a struggle but now worse than ever. But we are buying a house next week??? Are we making the wrong decision??? I feel so guilty that I am not sitting next to my grandmother right now. I feel like I should be there with my mom, my aunt, my dad and my brother. They are all working so hard to keep grandmom comfortable and also carry on their everyday life....while I'm here doing nothing.

My grandmom was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease a few years. The only thing thus far that has really bothered her was the shaking. She has taken medicine for it and everything has been fine. Lately everything has gone downhill. I wish more than anything in this world I would've taken that prognosis more seriously. Not that I didn't believe it, but I never really thought it would take over her weak little body so quickly. I wish I would've traveled back home every weekend the minute we found out she had the disease. I want to spend more time with my precious grandmother but now I feel as if I'm too late.

She's already started to forget things and the disease has taken over her body so much that she doesn't even look the same. I don't want to remember her like this. I want to remember the fun grandmom that always baked the best pound cake and red velvet cake, the grandmom that always dressed perfectly and wanted nothing more than for her granddaughter to dress at the same caliber, the grandmom that I rushed home from college to visit (she lives next door to us) just so we could sit, talk and laugh, and the grandmom that would always tag along with my parents to come visit me at school and could hang with the best of em'. We would go to the mexican resturaunt and order margaritas and she would too! She would say "I'm feeling tingly". We would all just die laughing and say "you're getting a buzz grandmother". She would just giggle. Everytime I hugged her before they would leave she would always stuff money in my pocket and whisper "go buy you something pretty...whatever you want".

She is honestly one of the sweetest ladies I know. I'm sure many people can say that about their grandmothers and that is such a great thing. Grandparents are truly a blessing from above.

I am still struggling with finding peace between not wanting her to suffer and being selfish and wanting her here with me. I'm not ready for my grandmother to leave us quite yet. I know when she does leave she will have 1,000 jewels on her crown in Heaven. She will be with our Heavenly Father and will be reunited with her husband, my Pa. She will be so much happier than she ever thought she was here with us. She will definitely be missed, but I know she is the lucky one.

Summer reads and grades

2010-06-23T09:44:00.002-04:00

I finally got my "beach book" in the mail yesterday. For this weekend, it will be my "lake book". I'm heading to Columbus to see both of my grandmothers who are not doing very well. One is struggling with her Parkinson's disease and one is still weak from a fall she had a while back. I have faith they are both going to be just fine, but I want to go home and see them and help my mom and dad out.

The Help is supposed to be a really great book.

" Twenty-two year old Skeeter has just returned home from graduating from Ole Miss. She may have a degree but its 1962, Mississippi, and her mother will not be happy until she has a ring on her finger. Skeeter would normally find solace with her beloved maid Constantine, the woman who raised her, but Constantine has disappeared and no one will tell Skeeter where she has gone."

Other big news is that Jim got ANOTHER "A" in his MBA program! That makes 6 A's and a 4.0. I am thrilled! He has worked so hard and I couldn't be more proud.

Maybe he's pulling one of situations above...who knows...who cares :) JK

Hope everyone has a wonderful rest of the week! Happy Hump Day!

Shopping for the house

2010-06-17T12:15:00.007-04:00

Oh so fun! I better do all the shopping now before that first mortgage payment goes through...ouch!

I cannot even concentrate on work anymore because all I do is search the internet for decor. My excuse to Jim is "Our condo was so small and if we don't fill it with furniture it will look so bare and won't feel like home!". It's not working too well. Jim will be happy with a chair, a beer, and a tv. Me...not so much.

I need to see a few of these beauties around me...

Everything above: Leontine Linens One of my fave stores. Can't really afford anything there (maybe one thing a year).

I'm still struggling with paint colors. These are the "families" I'm going with though.

Khaki throughout most of the house. Dark chocolate in the downstairs bath.

The light blue in the top half of the dining room...bottom half white.

Possibly a gray in our bedroom???

Restoration Hardware colors (will be taken to Lowe's to be matched for a cheaper price)

This is the rug I would like to get a few of for my kitchen.

From Anthropologie

I would like this rug for the formal living room. I am totally struggling with this whole formal living room thing. I kind of think its a total waste of space. Both of my grandparents had a formal living room and the only time we were in there was at Christmas...like I said total waste of space. But, ours is the first room you see when walking in our front door so I'm trying to make it somewhat welcoming.

This is rug is from www.shadesoflight.com

I also would like 2 of these chairs in there. That's brown houndstooth, not black.

I found these on Overstock. That's all I have so far. Still looking and still stashing money aside :)

This is so fun and oh so expensive! We'll see what I actually get.

Happy Thursday!

We are Under Contract people!!!

2010-06-09T09:53:00.005-04:00

After 2 weeks of negotiations and lots of prayers we finally settled on a price and are under contract! Whoo Hoo!!!

I believe our closing date will be July 12th (hopefully sooner) and I couldn't be happier. Jim and I are both taking a week off from work and so are my parents. My dad and Jim will be working on the poor yard that hasn't been touched in a year and my mom and I will be decorating and organizing...you know, the fun stuff.

The house was foreclosure...actually a really sad story behind it so it needs a little bit of tlc.

This is the front of the house. See what I mean with the yard? It needs some colorful flowers and those hedges need trimming asap.

This is the dining room and the formal living room is directly across from it and looks almost identical to it.

This is the living room. We will be adding plantation blinds and some paint. Paint is one thing that is stressing me out. I cannot decided on colors for the life of me. The people who built the house and the only owners kept the contractors paint, so I will be painting over that immediately.

This is the eye sore of the house to me. The kitchen. We will be doing a lot to this. I am meeting a general contractor at the house today at 1pm to discuss some options: knocking down that left wall and expanding, replacing cabinets with white ones (antique white maybe?), granite, recessed lighting, etc. Big project here.

Since this house was a foreclosure and we got it for such a great deal we are able to do projects like this. Super excited!

Master bedroom. Still can't decide on color.

Master bath. I will be replacing the mirrors with framed mirrors. There are 2 seperate vanities. One on the right (shown) and one on the left.

Bonus room with closet just no door. It has about 4 or 5 steps leading into it. Very cool ceiling.

The general contractor will also be pricing a double tiered deck to add on to this one today.

I can't wait to show you all the finished project. It might be forever and a day before its all done but at least we have a HOME now :)

HAPPY Wednesday!

Packing....Yuck!

2010-06-03T10:45:00.002-04:00

This is the mess we've been dealing with lately.

Thank Goodness it's over with! We FINALLY rented out our condo and can concentrate on finding a house. We put in an offer on house we really love so fingers crossed it all works out.

In the meantime, we are staying with friend while all our stuff is in storage. What a mess! I cannot wait to get a house and get settled back in. Our friends place is perfect and we are SO thankful for her but there's no place like home.

We should hear back something today about the house. So nerve racking!

Tonight I'm going to see Sex and the City 2 with a group of girls. Heard anything about it? I heard it was long and not as good as the first. But, of course I still have to go see it :)

This weekend I am going on a girls trip to Reynold's Plantation on Lake Oconee for a friend's birthday. I can't wait to lay in the sun, relax and spend time with friends. I'll post pictures when I get back.

Happy Thursday!

Happy Birthday!

2010-06-02T10:41:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to the Sweetest Man in the World!

The first love of my of life...my daddy!

Engagement party for the bestie

2010-05-26T12:57:00.005-04:00

This past weekend we had one of my best friend's engagment party. It was so beautiful and the food was amazing. I absolutely loved seeing all my college friends. We honestly haven't all seen each other in months but when we got together it was like we were together last weekend. We just picked up where we left off. We danced and laughed and had so much just being together. I sure wish we could do that every weekend.

Meredith and Bruce are such a great couple and it really showed this weekend. They were just glowing and were so happy to be with their family and friends.

The party was so cute!

This is a picture of the boat that held all the oysters. It was so such a cute idea. They also had a shrimp and grits station, margarita station, and desserts in shot glasses. Delish!

Some of the guys. I don't know if they coordinated their outfits beforehand or what.

The back of the house where the band and more drinks were set up.

Some of the girls before everyone else got there.

Jim and Bruce's mom. So sweet!

On the dance floor.

Jim and Meredith dancing. They dance EVERYWHERE they go.

The couple of the hour. So so Sweet!

Our friend Ellen was definitely the entertainment for the night. It was so fun singing along with her.

We had such as great time! Can't wait for the wedding!!!!!!

Anniversary Getaway Weekend

2010-05-24T09:59:00.005-04:00

I am just now getting around to putting up these pictures from our amazing anniversary weekend! We had such a relaxing but fun weekend. The condo we stayed at topped everything off. It was so nice to come home each night to a place where you felt at home and everything so nice and CLEAN. I'm a freak about hotels and clean beds. This place was wayyy nicer than our house. ha!

I even took close up pictures of these cabinets because they are exactly what I want in our new house (more to come on that later). I'll spare those pictures.

Look at this cute kitchen.

This was the living room with a balcony overlooking the beach.

Our bedroom.

Right when we got there I was determined to tan this white body. We packed a cooler and headed to the beach. It was so empty and so peaceful

This was the view from the beach of our condo. Not a far walk at all.

Jim waiting on me before dinner....and of course I was taking pictures rather than getting ready :)

I didn't get any pictures at dinner...darn it!

Jim opening the champagne bottle for our mimosas.

Breakfast on the porch. I woke up to the smell of coffee. It was heaven!

We rented a tandem bike and rode all over town. It was hilarious and fun all at the same time. I laughed most of the time we were on there. We were like kids learning to ride a bike again. Those things were NOT easy!

This was once we got back home. My mom and aunt packed up our wedding cake and stuffed all kinds of goodies in the box. I mean napkins from the wedding night, coozies from the rehearsal dinner, the pearl tie that held my bussel, the golf balls that were on our golf cart, response cards from guests, flowers from my bouquet, and SO much more! I have NO idea how they got a hold of all that stuff. But, it sure brought tears to my eyes when I opened the box and those things were in there. What memories!

The cake was still pretty good!

Overall, we had a great anniversay and an AMAZING first year of marriage!!!

Anniversary gifts

2010-05-19T09:48:00.004-04:00

Even though the entire weekend at the beach was the best gift ever, we still gave a few gifts to one another. Since the theme was "paper" I got him a Golf Magazine subscription for a year (you would've thought he won the lottery) and I made him a coupon book. It was so cute watching him read the coupons. He laughed at some and were surprised by the others. He has already used the one that says "1 round of golf with no questions asked from the wife". Ha!

He got me a gift certificate to my favorite spa in town. I was thrilled! It's hard spending money there on myself because nothing in there is cheap. I have no idea what I'll use it on yet.

While at the beach Jim was so sweet about letting me shop. I have not spent this much money on clothes since we've been married. We went to the Tibi outlet in St. Simons and I got a the dress below....expect mine has sleeves and a tie around the waist.

My stomach hurt when I left there...I felt so guilty.

And PS, we were on the tandem bike while shopping. It was hilarious riding around with my shopping bags in the basket!

I've had a giftcard to a shop in town since Christmas but could never find anything that I loved. So, I went there yesterday for their Tibi trunkshow and hit the jackpot. I'm obsessed with the dress I got. I have no idea where I'm going to wear these beauties but I'm sure I'll figure it out :)

How fun is this dress???

I will be posting pictures from our weekend at the beach tomorrow! Happy Wednesday!

It's Anniversary Week!!!

2010-05-12T07:54:00.007-04:00

We made it...whoo hoo!!! ha! I am so excited this week is finally here. It seems like yesterday we were on our way to Columbus getting ready for the weekend that changed our lives forever!

Last night we were laying in bed playing the whole "what were we doing this time last year?" game. It was so fun and sweet! I remember trying my hardest to stay focused at work until lunch. I was so excited and had so many things running through my mind that still needed to get done. My mom was calling me every hour asking questions, letting me know who all was in town, and telling me to hurry home!

Jim didn't get to Columbus until Thursday so my mom and I got some girlie things done. Spray tan, hair highlighted, nails, and so much more!

This weekend was the best weekend of my life!

At the rehearsal.

At rehearsal dinner.

B & P eating the low country boil...with their bibs :)

Our bibs said "Bringing the Low Country to Columbus"

Bridesmaids luncheon and cute little club on the river.

The sweetest friends in the world!

Before seeing each other. I was almost in tears.

The reception before everyone got there.

Some of the professional pictures.

Frist glance.

Fun Fun night!

What a weekend to remember!

"Goin to Carolina"... or should I say "went"

2010-05-05T10:04:00.006-04:00

We had so much fun this weekend...maybe that's why my body feels like it has been run over 100 times! Everyday was something new and nonstop to say the least. The drive wasn't as long as I thought it was going to be. I didn't sleep once!! If any of you know me, that's a miracle! Now, on the way..that's a different story.

Friday we went to the Biltmore Estate. Ahhhh- mazing! I was drooling the entire time...can you imagine what everyone thought about this thing in the 1800's?

I couldn't take my camera inside the house so this is all I got.

Jim's dad and stepmom.

Me and Jim.

In the backyard.

The garden full of tulips and snapdragons. My fave!

The bass pond.

I didn't get any pictures of our wine tasting adventure but it was so fun! Their wines were delicious. We bought a bottle of champagne for our anniversary. It was strange spending more than $5 on some Andre champagne.

Saturday we went to Jim's dad's work. He works at a prison! It was so interesting! I loved every minute of it (even though I was nervous as can be walking by all the prisoners). I obviously couldn't take my camera in there so I didn't get any good pictures. I love the show "Lock Up" so I really want to go see a prison in person. Jim wasn't too thrilled about us going there. It was so worth it though!

Afterwards we went to this beautiful place on a mountain and took a few pictures after lunch.

Later that night we went to dinner at the Marina. So fun and pretty! There was a band playing and we all sat around and talked the entire night. After we finished eating we sat out by the water and just listened to the band and had a few cocktails. My kind of Saturday night!

This was the view from the restuarant's deck.

Jim's dad, grandma, sister in law, step brother, step mom, Jim and me.

Me and Jim.

Our hostess for the weekend! She was so happy to have us staying with her. We loved it!

Overall, a wonderful weekend! Can't wait to go back and visit more.

Happy Cinco De Mayo everyone!!!!

I'll be here...

2010-04-29T10:57:00.003-04:00

This weekend, Jim and I are heading on a road trip to North Carolina to see his dad, step mom, grandma, stepbrother and his wife. We are very excited about all the excursions they have planned for us and very excited about seeing them!

I always love a good road trip with the hubs. We always seem to crack up, play silly games, drink lots of coke and eat tons of candy and peanuts! This is going to be a 5 or 6 hour drive so I'm sure we'll have plenty to do and see.

Tomorrow morning we are getting up bright and early to head here....

Ahhh-mazing! I've visited the Biltmore when I was in middle school, but definitely didn't appreciate it like I will now. Jim has never been...he has now idea what he's in for.

Saturday we are going to eat lunch at some Marina and hopefully not do too much else (well, other than shop).

Sunday we are going to a PGA golf tourny. Jim is estatic about this! Since we weren't able to make the Masters this year (he used to go all the time with his stepdad) he is really looking forward to taking me...yikes.

I would be estatic if I could run into this precious family...

I wouldn't mind seeing the infamous Tiger either.

Hopefully, I will report back with my own pictures next week :) Happy almost weekend!!!!

Shellfish and Sushi

2010-04-28T10:46:00.005-04:00

Thanks for everyone for all the great ideas for an anniversary gift! Now, its all about choosing which one to do. I'm excited!

This past weekend Jim and I stayed in town and just hung out with friends. Friday night we went to the beach that's 15 minutes from our house and had dinner with about 8 of our closest friends on the deck of this great resturaunt and listened to live music. The seafood was delicious! We were home by 10:30pm...that's always nice.

We ran into Jim's cousins while we were there and got to see their sweet baby girl Leah Cate, so that was just icing on the cake.

Saturday morning I had a health fair to attend for work and Jim of course played golf. Did I mention he got new golf clubs that he worships more than me? No not really, but almost. He loves these things! I just don't get it. I guess if I spent that much money on some shoes or something I would kiss them too.

Saturday night we went to a delicious sushi bar downtown with a big group of friends and had such a great time.

Since the girls had on heels we decided to take pedi-cabs....best idea all night!

We were pretty excited!

The guys were at one end of the table...

And, the girls at the other...

Afterwards, we went to hear a band at a bar close by.

In action

Overall, a great weekend!

Happy Hump Day everyone!!!

Anniversary {Paper}

2010-04-27T11:49:00.002-04:00

Since our 1 year anniversary is quickly approaching and since I am a pretty traditional kind of girl I want to do the traditional 'paper' gift exchange (I'm sure Jim has no idea what this is and I am sure he will not do it, but I want to).

The only problem is...I'm CLUELESS!!! I mean of course, if that money tree I planted would friggin grow my paper gift would be plane tickets to somewhere tropical along with concert tickets to see Van Morrison, but I think I planted the wrong seeds. SO, looks like I'll be needing help on this paper idea???

Help!!!

I need your vote!

2010-04-16T10:50:00.006-04:00

Ok, so I'm not really good at campaigning for myself but my boss is really excited and determined for me to win this "Belle of Savannah" award (and no one wants to disappoint the boss) so I need all of you to help me!!!

I was nominated as one of the Top 5 Finalist for Belle of Savannah. It is an award for a young professional who is involved and gives back to the community.

All the other finalist are campaigning like crazy on facebook and I just can't bring myself to do it....but I will campaign on here??? haha! Is it weird that I feel more comfortable talking to you guys about it than my facebook friends???

Anyway, go here to vote and see my picture :)

I'm Allison on there :) Just follow the directions and vote pretty pretty please! It would make my boss (and of course me ) oh so happy!

The company doing the award is a cute little candle company called Low Country Luxe. I'm sure some of you have seen their candles. They are amazing!

I have 166 followers....how wonderful would it be to have 166 votes?????

Thanks again!!!!!!!!!!

A Spring Wedding!

2010-04-15T09:32:00.006-04:00

My best friend Kelly got married this past weekend and everything was wonderful! From perfect weather to seeing all my high school best friends, the weekend couldn't have been better.

Kelly was my Maid of Honor and I was her Matron of Honor. Kelly and I have known each other since 6th grade when she moved here from Atlanta. I went to high school with her and her now husband, so it was so sweet seeing them get married.

This is me and my high school friends at Kelly's bridesmaid luncheon. The one in the middle is pregnant. So excited for her!

The set up was so cute and the food was delicious.

This was a few of the bridesmaids at the church for rehearsal.

The couple of the hour.

The bride and her mom.

High school girls again.

The beautiful reception.

again.

First dance.

Me and Jim with my parents.

More dancing.

High school girls and our moms. I swear our moms are crazier than we are. We were trying to get them to take a normal picture.

Finally.

My parents on the dance floor.

Throwing the bouquet.

So cute!

These guys were nuts.

Last dance before they left.

Now, they are soaking up the sun in Mexico. Can't wait for them to get back so we can talk about their perfect weekend!

Bittersweet Easter

2010-04-06T10:21:00.004-04:00

I just love Easter! What a great holiday. What a meaningful day. What a happy time to be with family. This year was different for me, but I loved every minute of it. I usually travel the 4 hours to my parents house on the Thursday before Easter to help mom with all the cooking and cleaning before the 40 or so people show up on Sunday.

We go to church in our pastels and then rush back to the house to do last minute baking,picking up, and egg hiding. By 1 o'clock the little ones are running around the house looking for the baskets my mom has out together for them (my brother and I still get one to this day).

But, this year Jim and I went to the beach on Friday, he worked and played golf on Saturday while I shopped and cleaned the house. Saturday night we met some friends for dinner and we were in the bed by 10:00. I was very excited to go to OUR church on a holiday. Like I said, we are usually at one of our parents houses but this year was different. Jim's mom and 2 grandmothers met us at our church, which was so nice to show off our 'home'. We then went to a great lunch at one of the nicest resturaunts in Savannah. The lunch menu was definitely more reasonable for dinner and it was well worth it to be with family on Easter Sunday!

I saw this cute idea on the Today Show (I changed it up a little) and decided I would try doing it for my mother in law and Jim's 2 grandmothers. Since each of them love to cook I bought parsley plants and potted them in cute little Easter pails.

I figured each year on Easter I would add a new spice to their 'garden'. They loved it!

Here's Jim and his mom walking to lunch.

Jim and his grandmothers.

So sweet.

Me and Jimbo.

All of us at lunch.

Although I missed my parents, brother, nephews, grandmothers and cousins....I had a wonderful time here in Savannah with my new family!

Beach day!

2010-03-31T11:14:00.002-04:00

Jim and I are finally getting a beach day! We are both off this Friday, so what better way to spend it?

We are waking up bright and early and going to our favorite breakfast spot by our house and then packing our cooler full of fruit, snacks, and of course yummy drinks (and beer for him). We'll probably head to the beach around 10:30 so we can get a good spot for Jim to fish and for me to set up shop for sun bathing and book reading. I actually haven't started a new book in a while, so it looks like I'll be heading to Barnes & Noble today -- there or my friend's house.

I'm in a wedding next weekend so let's hope for some good sun!

Happy Hump Day!!

Spin Class

2010-03-29T15:02:00.002-04:00

AKA...one of the hardest things I've ever done! Since Jim was away all weekend playing golf in St. Simons I thought I would be the productive wife. I went to the grocery store, cleaned the house, washed clothes, went to a wedding of mutual friends of ours, and woke up on Saturday morning and went to Spin Class. OMG is all I have to say!

I've always thought I was sweating when I got on the eliptical, but I've never sweated like that in my life! Sweat was literally dripping into my eyes where I couldn't see the instuctor. It was insane. I loved it though! I felt so good when I left. Even though I couldn't feel my legs or my hiney I sure felt like I had a wonderful workout. I don't know if it's true, but I heard that you can burn up to 500 calories a session. If that's the case, then my butt needs to be doing it 4 times a week AT LEAST.

I think I have talked Jim into going with me today so we are both going at 6:15. I'm excited for him to see what I went through on Saturday while he was sipping a cold beer on the golf course :)

Wish us luck!

Bff's bachelorette party

2010-03-22T12:24:00.006-04:00

This was our first night out in Atlanta. We went to this great little fondue resturaunt where we just ate, drank, laughed and ate some more. It was so fun!

This is us with the owner...he loved us! He kept asking us if we wanted a picture with him. ha!

The next morning we went to this great little brunch spot. The food was delicious. A perfect beginning to a day full of shopping. We went to Lenox mall for about 4 hours and then headed back to the hotel to get ready for the lingerie party and dinner.

This is all of us sitting around at the lingerie party.

Sweet Kelly showing off her new belongings :)

This is the bride at dinner. We went to this great mexican/tex mex place called "Cantina". Perfect for a bachelorette party. There was a dj in the resturaunt and a huge bar.

My 2 bffs.

Great place because it sat 18 girls comfortably.

After dinner, we proceeded to a club called Opera. I've never been to a real 'club' but whoa! That was an experience. One that I can only see myself experiencing at a bachelorette party. Thank Goodness we had VIP so we weren't really in the whole crowd, but it sure was entertaining to watch.

This is all of us looking at the crowd in amazement. Those people sure could dance.

This is when I started to notice the down hill spiral of the bride....ha!

More dancing.

And this is how the night ended...needless to say, we left not long after.

Oh, how I love being with my friends, but my body just can't take it anymore. No more bachelorette parties for a while....or at least until June.

A Beach Wedding Bridesmaid

2010-03-04T14:42:00.003-05:00

Beach weddings are so fun! I always dreamt about my wedding being on the beach, the girls in white sun dresses, the guys in khaki linen pants with white button ups, barefoot in the sand, low country boil, beach music and candles at sunset. I guess I will just live vicariously through my bff Meredith! She found her prince charming, who we all absolutely adore, and I couldn't be happier for her.

They both live in Charleston, South Carolina and they are going to have that perfect beach wedding. I got home the other day to the cutest card asking me to be her bridesmaid. It had seashells all over it and it soooo got me in the summer mood. I can't wait! The wedding will be in Charleston and I know it's going to be perfect....Meredith, her mom, and her sister have such great taste!

All I know so far is that the bmaids dresses are seersucker! Too cute!

I couldn't be happier for Meredith and Bruce and can't wait to celebrate their nuptials in July!!!

Tid Bits

2010-03-03T10:14:00.005-05:00

As I go through my day I think of things I should blog about and then by the time I get home, I either forget or I'm just too tired to blog. So, for this post I will just make a list of all the the topics I think in my head that are probably not a full post worthy but I still want to mention :)

- Last night, Jim came home (like trying to rub it in my face or something) and said "guess who I was standing behind in the grocery store?"....."Paula Deen's husband". In Savannah, we hear a little too much about ol' PD (but I still love her food and her laugh) so it gets annoying always having to see her face eveywhere you go. Well, we don't actually see her in person so I thought that was pretty neat that Jim ran into her husband in the grocery store. They live about a mile up the street from us and that is the first time we have seen them. We have run into her cutie pie son and his precious wife a few times. Anyway, I thought that was cute!

- Trying to rent out our condo has stressed me out to no end! You would've thought I'd lost 10lbs by now. Uhhhh, No! We have 2 more weeks to rent it before we lose the offer we made on our 'dream house'. Fingers Crossed! I will post pics of this house the second we get a lease signed for this condo.

- Speaking of losing weight, I went to my little workout class this morning and my friend said she couldn't go today so what did I do?...... I woke up my sweet hubby to go with me! He wasn't a happy camper but he sure was a good sport! He went with me and did great! I haven't lost any weight, but I feel better about myself for getting up at 6:15 to do it!

- This weekend all my hard work will pay off! My bff Kelly's bachelorette party is in Atlanta and I am so excited. I felt as her Maitron of Honor that I had to make it unbelievable just as she did for mine. She planned mine in Nashville and we had one heck of a time. This is a picture of me, her, and our friend Claire. We have made this horrible face since high school. So attractive.

I will be sure to post more pictures like this next week :) Wish me luck that I can still hang like we did in college....

- I have a heavy heart right now. I have been following this sweet family for quite some time now. Layla Grace is a precious little 2 year old fighting the horrible disease of Nueroblastoma. She was diagnosed with it last year and went into remission and then the docs said it came back in January. They told her family they might have 2-6 more months with her, but it looks like 2-3 more weeks. If you do not feel like crying today do not read that blog. I follow her sweet mom on twitter and I find myself checking it first thing when I get up in the morning and many times throughout the day. It's just horrible. Having 2 nephews, I just can't imagine having to deal with something that with them. Layla's parents are so strong and such amazing people. Layla is now at home with hospice and she has not eaten I believe they said in over 14 days. She is barely hanging on. I pray for her comfort and I pray for her family's comfort in healing as well.

- On a lighter note, I get to see my new mommy friend LL and her baby boy Davis on Sunday. I can't wait! I've been waiting to squeeze those little cheeks for 2 weeks now. Baby pics are a must so be ready!

- Jim will be leaving me for 3 days next week to go on a business trip to Columbia, SC...boo. I guess I am going to have to keep myself busy by shopping and getting pedicures. darn.

Happy Hump Day!!!

90 years young!

2010-02-24T12:42:00.011-05:00

This past weekend was my Nana's 90th Birthday! Yes, 90. That sounds so crazy! My Nana is the wittiest, sweetest, and most ageless lady I know. Her walker is the only thing that gives her age away. She is beautiful!

For her birthday my mom planned a dinner at the country club for all her children (5), grandchildren, and great grandchildren. It was such a great time to get together and celebrate such a wonderful lady. We ate dinner, had cake, watched a slideshow of pictures from when she was a teenager until now, and then the children read stories from when they were children.

It was such a great night!

Me and Jim with my parents waiting on everyone to arrive.
My mom's mom, my mom, and me.

My dad's brother, my dad, and my cousin.

Surprise!!! She had no idea we were all there. She thought she was just going to dinner with her daughters.

My Aunt Anne and Nana after dinner.

My sweet husband.

Little cousin Sam. He is too funny!

Jim and Alex...who will be having a little brother "Jake" in April!

More family.

Nana opening the book that all the kids wrote stories about what they've learned from her. It was so sweet listening to them read all their stories from the when they were little.

Me and Jim with Nana.

Can't wait to see how many kids will be at her 100th birthday!!!!

Oo La La!

2010-02-17T10:15:00.003-05:00

That's what I feel like saying everytime I touch my face. I ordered a few new things from www.origins.com and I'm happy so far! It was my V-day present to myself.

This is what the website says about my new moisturizer.

New research at several major universities has proven that world-famous White Tea is among the most potent antioxidants, anti-agers, anti-stress, anti-smoke, anti-pollution antidotes. Now its perfect-protective powers are energized and optimized while skin is deeply moisturized. Ferment of Sugarcane acts like a mini-sparkplug to up skin’s ability to neutralize free radicals before they deface skin. Murumuru Butter maximizes skin’s moisture barrier. Rose Fruit Oil hydrates. Centella Asiatica firms. Vitamin C brightens and helps even out skin tone. And aromatic Orange, Bergamot and Spearmint fortify the feel-good factor. Keep your skin in A Perfect World™ 24/7.

And I'm 26 years old and still have spots of acne. It's ridiculous and makes me so angry so I got some of this. Let's cross our fingers it works.

And of course, I use my special face wash (they call it cleansing complex). I swear by it. Makes my skin feel amazing afterwards.

Boring post I know, but its all I have spent money on in weeks. We are still trying this budget thing. Whatever.

Happy Wednesday!!!

My first Valentine!

2010-02-16T11:16:00.003-05:00

These were the precious flowers that were at my doorstep when I got home Friday after work. Were they from my sweet husband? No, they were from my first Valentine ever....my daddy. I have recieved flowers on Valentine's Day for 26 years no matter where I might be. I remembering getting flowers at my elementary school, in high school, at my college apartment, at my first job, and now at my first home. My husband is my heart but my dad will always be my first Valentine.

I hope one day Jim and I have a little girl (only 1 though...I don't think I could handle too much pay back) because I know Jim would be a great father just like my daddy. He would do all the sweet things my dad has done for me.

Mine and Jim's first Valentine's day was so special. No we didn't go to a nice dinner and get all dressed up, we got in our pjs and cooked steak, potatoes, and a new salad recipe. I couldn't have imagined it any better. We lit candles and sat at the table and talked about everything....from house hunting to our friend's babies :)

This new salad recipe was delish! Everyone must try it!

It's just spinach leaves, rasberry vinegarette, any fruit (we used strawberries), feta, and any type of nuts (we used pecans).

Delish!!!!!

Babies!!!

2010-02-14T18:35:00.003-05:00

So, I'm a little behind on my posts but my life has been crazy busy lately. We are in the process of getting a new house and renting our condo.

In the meantime, there have been babies everywhere and I love it!!!! My friend Whitney just had her first son Jace. He is the sweetest thing ever! I'll tell you one person that is in love with babies and that is my husband. Proof seen below.

He couldn't take is hands off of that sweet baby.

This is the outfit we got Jace when she found out she was pregnant with a boy! I love seeing him in it but I know it won't be long before he's all grown out of it.

My other friend, LL, is going in the hospital tonight to be induced tomorrow! How exciting! She will be delivering her first little boy as well. I will be patiently awaiting a phone call from her husband when that precious boy arrives.

ANDDDD, my other friend, B, just announced that she is pregnant! Jim went to high school with her husband and we were pledge sisters in college. Such a small world! We were thrilled when we got the news and I can't wait to see her with a little belly!

It's just crazy how quick things change after college. Everyone is all grown up and I am so happ and proud for each and everyone of us.

Congrats to all the mommys!

I never thought the day would come...

2010-02-02T16:55:00.002-05:00

That the hubs would choose a night at home watching The Bachelor over going to play cards with the guys! Whoa! Thats huge!

Our phone call:

Me: Hello?
J: Hey, so what are you going to do tonight when I'm playing cards?
Me: I mean, whatever. I'm a big girl. Probably wash clothes, pack lunches, and pick up around the house.
J: Are you sure? I mean, the weather is bad and I don't think I should leave you at home alone.
Me: What? Are you serious?
J: Well, I mean, I don't HAVE to go play cards tonight. There are a lot of good shows coming on, I could just come home and make the next card game.
Me: Do you mean The Bachelor????
J: We can watch that if you want to. I mean, whatever.
Me: Bahahahaha!!!!! You love it! I knew it!!!!! Come on home. I'll have dinner ready.

So, we watched The Bachelor and ate chicken and corn. It was a great night! hehe!

Birthdays and Babies

2010-01-26T08:29:00.005-05:00

This was us before heading to dinner downtown. My friends were so sweet to help me celebrate my birthday!

This was at the Distillery. It's a great beer parlor, I guess you would call it.

These are a few girls from my supper club.

We sure didn't take many pictures of the guys, but I promise they were there.

This was at Wild Wing where we listened to a great 80's band.

Towards the end of the night. Still dancing.

This was at my bff's baby shower. She is literally about to pop, but wears a belly so graciously.

And, look at all those gifts!

Here are some of the girls.

Necklace!!!

2010-01-25T10:51:00.003-05:00

I've had so many of you ask where Hubby got this necklace from. You can find here.

Tomorrow I will post pictures from my birthday and the baby shower I went to for my bff who is about to pop!

Happy Monday!

It's just a number, right?

2010-01-22T10:35:00.004-05:00

So, today is my birthday! Whoo hoo! 26 sounded so old to me when I was a teenager. Now, it feels and sounds so young. 36...now that's a different story :)

So far, its been a great day. I woke up and worked out with one of my friends, got home to a great breakfast cooked by the hubby, got a cute necklace from my parents and the hubs, found $10 on the ground, got a $10 giftcard to starbucks from a coworker and my friend Summer gave me a gift certificate for an hour massage and an hour facial! Today has been fabulous!!! I am a lucky girl! And tonight I will be celebrating with wonderful friends!!! This is the necklace I got this morning. Of course, with my initials though.

Total Slacker or Boring Life?

2010-01-14T11:03:00.002-05:00

Maybe a little bit of both.

I have definitely ignored my blog a little lately. Ok, maybe more than a little. It's been over a week. Whoa!

If I'm not working, I'm either at home watching my favorite reality shows or running crazy on the weekends. As of right now, mine and Jim's favorite shows consists of:

Desperate Housewives
The Bachelor
Jersey Shore
Real Housewives
Anything on HGTV
Manhunters

Basically, TRASH TV. It looks like all we do is watch tv but in all honesty we only get to watch tv for about an hour a day. I just can't stop watching all these stupid reality series. Its ridiculous and addictive! We need help. I've gotten poor Jim addicted to them all...even Desperate Housewives and The Bachelor (he would die if he knew I told the cyber world that).

On another note, my sweet parents are coming to visit this weekend and I couldn't be more thrilled. Jim and I have a lot planned for them. We are planning to cook a good meal Friday night because his mom is coming as well and then Saturday we will probably just shop around and just piddle downtown. Saturday night we will hopefully go out to eat somewhere fun. Sunday morning we will be going to our church for our bell choir show and then Jim is entering a chili cookoff our church is doing that afternoon. That will be interesting. They are staying through Monday so that will be nice not having them leave Sunday.

Tonight I guess Jim and I will be cleaning and grocery shopping. What an exciting life we lead. haha! I wouldn't change a thing though!

New Years ResolutionS

2010-01-04T11:41:00.002-05:00

Jim and I decided to do our resolutions together this year. I am not very good at sticking to NY resolutions so I am hoping it will be easier knowing I have someone to do it with.

We actually have 3.

1. Get more involved at church-
We love our church family and we get so much out of our involvement there. We are going to get more involved in our Sunday School, Jim is going to continue his Tuesday morning Bible study and he starts ushering on January 8th, I will continue my Women's Circle, and we are going to be very adament about not missing church.

2. Get healthy-
We want to start working out more and eating healthier. We want to motivate each other to work out and I am determined to cook healthy meals. I can do this! Usually Jim goes to the grocery store on Sundays and I stay home and clean the house. Well, we are going to start going together like we used to so we can make sure we only buy healthy stuff. We are also going to get a workout schedule going so we can atleast walk 3-4 times a week. I love walking with Jim because its great just talking and catching up on everything!

3. Budget Better-
We HAVE GOT to start saving better! We were doing so good when we first got married about putting a good chunk in our savings account and then when the holiday season rolled around we used that spare money on gifts. Well, we are back on the saving train! We are going to really watch our money. We are going to cut back on eating out and I am going to watch my shopping habits (oops!). So, if I do a shopping post send me hate mail!!!

I REALLY hope we stick to these resolutions. I would be one happy girl!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T12:20:00.002-05:00

"May your best day in 2009 be your worst day in 2010!"

Tonight we are going to a friends house and everyone is bringing an appetizer. We will probably head over there around 7 and then go downtown (if the weather holds up) around 10:30. If it continues to rain, Jim and I said we were going to pop a bottle of champagne after our friends house and cuddle up on the couch and watch the ball drop. Sounds like a perfect plan to me!

Happy New Year Everyone!

Is it really over???

2009-12-29T10:52:00.011-05:00

Is Christmas over already? I always have such a great time being home with my family and seeing all my old friends from high school. Jim and I were in my hometown for a week so we had time to do and see a lot. It was great! I could probably do multiple posts on our visit but I'll just mention the highlights. Some of my favorite moments were:

* Having my Mother in Law and Brother in Law come to town and exchange presents with. My parents loved having them at our house!

* Having dinner with this sweet couple. Theyhad us over to their house for a scrumptous dinner and then we went to this cute little restaurant for dessert/drinks. That might be the last time we see them until Baby Davis is here!!!

* Christmas Eve Mother/Daughter Brunch with all my friends from high school.

* Night out with more friends from high school.

* Riding around with my family looking at Christmas lights. We do it every year. This house was one of those that is in sync with a radio station. Very neat! You could leave a donation and all the proceeds go to Make A Wish Foundation.

* Christmas Night at my uncle's house with my dad's side of the family.

My cousin Alex. His brother Jake will be here in April!

* Going to my brother's house to see what my nephews got from Santa.

* Visiting my brother's hunting land and cabin with the whole family. Interesting animals in there.

So much to be thankful for. We have such a wonderful family and such great friends.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Christmas Card Craft

2009-12-18T19:36:00.003-05:00

Oh, how I love Christmas cards! I just love seeing my family and friends' pictures each year and seeing how they've changed from the previous year. Some are cute, some are sweet, and some are funny. Some families get bigger and some are just beginnning. It's always nice to have more Christmas cards than bills in the mail :)

Jim was beginning to get aggitated everytime he opened the refrigerator door one or two cards would fall off. So, his idea was to clip them to the iron fixture above our kitchen table. I thought NO WAY! That is tacky and it will not happen! Well, it actually works better than the fridge (may not look better) and it's also a great convo piece while we're eating dinner. We usually just look up at it and talk about the newest card we get. I love it!

Here a few pics I snapped.

Only a week til Christmas!!!

Thursday night...

2009-12-17T18:36:00.002-05:00

with good friends, good food, and a good movie. Does it really get any better? I mean our vacation starts tomorrow, my friends birthday oyster roast is Saturday night, and we are leaving for my parent's house Sunday. I couldn't be more thrilled!

One of our couple friends is coming over and Jim and I will be making pork chops, green bean bundles (seen in the picture below, from Paula Deen's website), potatoes au gratin, salad, and bread.

We made these green beans the other night and I must say they are delish and so easy!

All you do is put a bunch of green beans in a bowl, sprinkle olive oil, salt and pepper over them and mix well. Then you just 'bundle' about 5 or so green beans together and wrap with bacon. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the bacon is done. Perfecto!

Afterwards we will be watching this!

I know we are probably the only people in the world who haven't seen it, so I am very anxious.

Happy Thursday!!

Sweets Swap

2009-12-15T08:09:00.004-05:00

I went to my friends Sweets Swap this weekend after hauling booty to get back from the wedding (which will be another post once I borrow some pictures) and it was so cute!

Everyone had to bring a dessert and some copies of your recipe. After eating you could go by and pick up a recipe from each tray. So, now I have about 25 new recipes!

Since the wedding weekend was so busy my sweet mother in law helped my make "Santa's Balls". The name itself was a conversation piece. hehe! They are basically red velvet cake balls mixed with cream cheese baked and dipped in white chocolate. Absolutely delish!

Tara had everything set up so cute! From a hot cocoa and apple cider station to a 'frost your own cupcake' station. I wish I was that creative.

Needless to say, Jim was a happy man when I got home. He got a tray full of leftovers :)

I will post pictures from the wedding asap. My camera died when I got there so I'll have to wait for my friend to send me hers.

Happy Tuesday!!!!

Another wedding for the books...

2009-12-10T10:30:00.003-05:00

My sweet friend Ellen and her fiance Bo are getting married this weekend. I can't believe it! I saw this relationship revolve from the get-go. Ellen and I were college roommates and her and Bo started dating when we were living together.

They are both such sweet and BEAUTIFUL people and deserve such great happiness. I am so excited for them and can't wait for this weekend. We have talked just about everyday catching up on wedding plans, shower ideas, she calls when she's stressed, when she's excited, and when she's downright ready for the day to get here.

Ellen has such great taste so I know this wedding is going to be beautiful! I can't wait to see her so happy and I also can't wait to see some of my best friends this weekend!

I have so much running around to do before I leave today (that includes picking up my bridesmaid dress...oops)! I hope I get it all done!

Happy Thursday everyone!!!

Our Christmas Card

2009-12-07T11:04:00.002-05:00

I finally decided on a design and sent our Christmas cards our last week. A Savannah Redtop is amazing! We just love our cards! I must admit, I am pretty tired of looking at our wedding pictures...that might be because I am giving them as gifts this year for Christmas, they have been my facebook picture since we got married in MAY, and our album and other loose pictures are laying around our house with nowhere to go. But, I do love this card! The candid picture is perfect and the design is just too cute!

I couldn't be happier! In case you can't read it, it says "Wish you love and joy this holiday season....Merry Christmas". Sooo....Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Oh My Cold!

2009-12-05T11:37:00.005-05:00

So, we have my company Christmas party tonight that I planned...outside....and it's freezing!!!! What was I thinking? In Savannah, you never know the weather and this location is amazing. It's a new hotel downtown that has a rooftop terrace with a pool, firepit, and 6 heaters overlooking downtown. I pray it stays warm enough for us to stay outside.

Here are a few pictures of the terrace where we'll be. I'm excited, but nervous. If we have to move the party inside it won't be near as cute and fun :(

We will have 6 food stations set up under these tents. They will have more tents brought out for us.

These lounge chairs will not be there so we can mingle.

And, I have a feeling we will be spending a lot of time around this thing.

So, let's hope for a night full of good food, a good raffle my boss is doing, yummy drinks, and warm weather :)

Oh, Christmas Tree!

2009-12-03T15:39:00.004-05:00

Our poor poor Christmas Tree. This was a greenlight special at Wal-Mart. $35 and worth every penny because it's our first one :)

As we were decorating, Jim looked over at me and said "Well, at least this can be the kids' tree that they decorate every year and they'll always know that this was mommy and daddy's first tree". haha! So sweet, but proved to me that our tree really is pitiful.

Here's the beauty.

She got a perm up top. I haven't finished my bow yet, so these little sprouts look lonely.
Here are a few of our newest ornaments.

This was the first one we put on the tree together. Say it with me "Awww!"

Next year, my 'whimsical' tree will not be my main tree :( I'm a little sad, but ready to follow in my mom's footsteps (aka stealing all her Waterford and Christoper Radko ornaments). As long as I can remember, our tree was something out of a magazine. We always had the fun tree that was covered in my brother's and I's homemade ornaments, but the main tree was untouchable. Literally untouchable. If you touched it, you were dead meat. I want to start these traditions now, even though we don't have kids yet. I want the fun/colorful tree (check) and also the classic tree that only I can decorate :) I am most certainly looking forward to all these traditions that are being made as we speak.

I hope everyone has a great rest of the week!!!

It's a Condo Christmas!

2009-12-02T19:24:00.008-05:00

Well, it's a bittersweet Christmas in this Savannah household. Although I am loving spending this first Christmas with Jim we are now, more than ever, experiencing growing pains. I am about to pull my hair out living in this condo!!!! It is just precious as can be....blah blah blah, but I can't handle the size. My mom thinks I'm crazy because there are only 2 of us, but I swear it feels like there are 5! While we were getting out all our old and new Christmas decorations I had the hardest time finding a place for everything. There just isn't enough room for all the wreaths, trees, etc. Needless to say, I had to send Jim back to our storage room with a full box of decorations :( Heart-wrenching I tell ya. I don't like my house cluttered with any kind of decor.

Here are the ones we are using as of right now. I've still got a stack of stuff in the guest bedroom I'm trying to find somewhere to put/hang.

With a condo, this is just about all we can do on our front door. I would've loved to do the whole get up with garland, poinsettias, lights, wreaths, etc.

It says "Be Merry"

This rudolph is meant to be stuck in the yard, but he got stuck in a vase this year :) He's got a long stick attached that we stuck in the closet for now.

These are the precious trees my MIL bought us this weekend.

Table.

My snowflake shows up so well on that chocolate wall.

Hand me down reindeer from my mom.

Our stockings aren't done being mongrammed yet, but these are our stocking hangers. Probably won't stay there, but no fireplace.

Oh Jolly plate!

Tree I had in my room all through college.

And, the Dr. Suess tree on our bar.

I don't know what to do with the rest of these things. Maybe in the bathrooms somewhere.

I will show our tree tomorrow!

Our First Thanksgiving!

2009-11-30T10:51:00.002-05:00

I didn't take any pictures....Oh my! What was I thinking?

We had a great Thanksgiving though. Lots of food, family, laughing and fun! We honestly didn't leave the house much. We got to Jim's hometown Wednesday and sat around the house. I helped his mom get all the food together for Thursday. We ran to the grocery store, to the movie store, and stopped my his grandmothers house. After cooking, we watched the movie Taken. Not so much a holiday movie, but a great one! Disturbing, but great!

Everyone came to the house on Thursday and we had such a great time! Jim's uncle and cousins came from South Carolina so it was nice seeing them. The guys were outside frying the turkey while the girls staying inside cooking/baking. After everyone ate so much we were miserable, the guys watched football and the girls had craft time. We made a wreath out of ornaments. Came out just cute as can be!

Friday we ate more, sat around, shopped a little, and went to dinner with some friends. Saturday my MIL and I really racked up on some Christmas decorations. I had never been in this store before, but I sure am glad I did. She got me the cutest stuff ever for our house. I was so excited to go home and decorate.

Jim and I headed back to Savannah that afternoon and immediately started decorating. We turned the Christmas music up full blast and got it done within a few hours. Of course, we had to turn the tv on every 30 minutes to catch the football scores.

Later that night we went to Loco's for dinner and drinks with friends to watch the Georgia vs. Georgia Tech game. We had a really good time. It's great being back at home.

Now I just can't wait for Christmas!!!!! I'll post pictures of our decorations soon!

So Many Things to Be Thankful For...

2009-11-24T11:02:00.003-05:00

I know I should probably do a post like this once a week, because I am so so blessed but this week is extra special. I just love Thanksgiving! Not only because of the food, but because of the reason for the season. So cheesy I know, but I honestly just love the feeling in the air from November to January (January being my b day hehe!). It's just magical.

Although this year will be different, as I will be spending the holidays with my new family, I am still super blessed. I am very excited to start this new tradition with my husband and his family. I will miss my family traditions, but I am always up for something new. My mom and dad will be going to my brother's house to spend Thanksgiving with his wife and my 2 nephews. They will have about 15-20 family members there so I'm sure they'll never even notice we're gone :)

Jim and I will be with his mom, brother, grandmothers, uncle, and cousins. I'm super excited. His mom and I are always up to something. We'll probably be cooking and playing with her new monogramming machine!

Some things I am thankful for:

1. Jesus and all my many blessings he has given me
2. My husband and my marriage
3. My family: new, old, and church family
4. My friends: near and far
5. My job: good days and bad
6. My health
7. My life in general and so much more!

Tomorrow is our last day of work and it's only a 1/2 day...whew! Then its vacation until Monday.

I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving!!!

DRESS me pretty!

2009-11-19T16:04:00.003-05:00

I found the cutest Lilly Pulitzer dress at TJ Maxx last week. I work directly next door to good ol' TJ and we have become best friends. Jim is beginning to get upset. Jealous and angry at the money I spend with TJ. If he only knew the deals I get there! Ahh!

This dress retails for $228 I think and I got it for $70. Now, that's what I'm talking about! Pair with a cute pair of boots and it's a done deal!

Our company Christmas party is quickly approaching (yeah, the one I AM planning) so I need to look cute. My sweet friend sent me this dress from her store and it's at the top of my list so far. I'm worried it looks a little too spring-y. Suggestions???
Again, paired with boots or gold flats?

6 months ago...

2009-11-16T19:14:00.004-05:00

I married the man who made me the happiest girl in the world. I married my best friend. I married the man that loves me unconditionally. I married the sweetest most caring man in the world. I married the man who will one day be the father of my children. I married the man who loves my friends and family as much as I do. I married the man that wakes me up in the morning with my coffee and breakfast made. I married the man who rolls over in the middle of night and kisses my forehead. I married the man who squeezes my hand in church during prayer. I married the man who plays with my hair when I can't fall asleep at night. I married the man who loves music more than anything, but will ride in the car with the radio off for hours just so I can take a nap. I married the man who tells me he loves me at least 5 times a day.

I truly married the man of my dreams 6 months ago...

No Bake Cookies? Yes Please!

2009-11-16T18:13:00.006-05:00

My old roommate used to make these no bake cookies that are to die for. Yes, you heard right. No Bake! I haven't had them in forever and Jim was craving something sweet last night so I had him help me make these delicious treats.

Here's the easy recipe:

2 cups sugar

1/4 cup cocoa

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup peanut butter

3 cups quick cooking oatmeal

1 stick margarine

1 tsp vanilla

pinch of salt

In a heavy saucepan mix sugar, cocoa, milk and margarine.

Cook on medium heat until it comes to a good boil. Remove from heat & cool for one minute.

Add vanilla, salt, peanut butter and oatmeal.

Mix well and drop by small spoon fulls on waxed paper. Wait about 10 minutes and VOILA!!!

I'll probably be making these for mine and Jim's coworkers for the holidays. They'll be perfect little giftbags.

Happy Tuesday!!!

New cd

2009-11-11T14:48:00.003-05:00

This is Jim and I's newest purchase. Whoo Hoo!!! I can't wait to dance around the Christmas tree drinking hot chocolate (or mamosas), hanging lights and ornaments, listening to this cd in our pajamas together for our first Christmas as a married couple!!!! Hurry Santa Hurry!!!

Women's Circle tonight

2009-11-10T21:08:00.003-05:00

So, I went to my first Women's Circle with the church and loved it! It was bittersweet. The circle usually meets at the church in our Sunday School room, but this time we met at a Women's Christian maternity home. Very touching...sad...inspirational...etc. The home is called The Living Vine. It is just a normal looking house (well, its rather long) in a really cute part of Savannah called Ardsley Park. It is a home for women ( and VERY young girls) to stay while they are pregnant. The home has been around for about 13 years and has housed over 270 women. There are 12 beds but they usually don't have that many. There are 4 living in there right now. Those 4 were very troubled young women. Not to go into too much detail but one was 14, one was 22, and one was pregnated because her mother was a prostitute and started selling her daughter to make money as well. Heartbreaking stories I tell you.

It was amazing to see the structured Christian environment they were living in. The girls have to be up and at the breakfast table by 8am every morning with their Bible, ready for their prayer. They go to a learning center, attend parenting classes, get prenatal vitamins, and have 3 meals a day. FOR FREE! Its amazing!

This home really touched my heart. I was so glad that my first Women's Circle meeting was at the Living Vine. I felt as if the Lord was with me tonight telling me that Jim and I joined His church for a reason and that I was right where I was supposed to be. That the decision Jim and I made this past Sunday was one of the best decisions we could've made as a couple...in our entire life! I am so excited to get involved with such a wonderful group of women and to be able to help our community through spreading His word any way possible! Tonight it just so happened to be through troubled women....

I will definitely be laying in bed tonight counting my many many blessings!

Happy Tuesday!

We're Members!!!

2009-11-09T09:47:00.006-05:00

Of Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church!!! Jim and I have been waiting for this day for some time now. We have been attending this church for over a year and have gotten really involved in the last few months. Jim has been attending the Men's Bible Study breakfast on Tuesdays and I'll be attending the first Women's Circle tomorrow night at a local women's shelter. I have already met a lot of the girls in this circle and they have been so welcoming already. A few of them I already new through Junior League and some I have met through the church itself. I am really excited about tomorrow night.

Yesterday couldn't have gone more perfect. Jim's mom and grandmother came down early Sunday morning and rode with us to church, the service was beautiful (on kindness), and us joining the church as a couple was amazing. Jim and I are both from Methodist backgrounds so it was an easy decision to join the methodist church and it was an even easier decision to join Wesley once we started to get involved and met everyone there. We absolutely love the Pastor Creede and the Associate Pastor Alex. They are so laid back, friendly, and helpful with anything we need. Last week Jim got called to the front desk at work notifying him that someone was there to see him. Our Pastor (I can finally say "OUR" Pastor, whoo hoo) Creede just stopped by to say Hello to Jim and wanted to see where he worked. Of course, Jim loved that and gave him the full tour. This was long before he knew we were going to join. Just shows what an amazing person he really is. And PS, Wesley UMC has over 1200 members! What a great Pastor!!!

Here are some pictures of our 'Big Day'.

With Grandma Mary and my MIL.

Our cousins Katie and Tal.

Meeting some of the members.

Such a great day!!!!

Week full of Birthdays!

2009-11-06T11:16:00.004-05:00

This week sure has been full of many many birthdays.

Tuesday was LuLu's 26th Birthday so HAPPY BIRTHDAY LULU!!!!

Wednesday was my sweet sweet Mother in Law's Birthday so HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIL!!!!

Today is my amazing mom's Birthday so Happy Birthday MOM!!!!

And, Sunday is my precious Grandmother's Birthday so Happy Birthday G-MA!!!!!

How about that for some birthdays????

Monday's Minutes:

2009-11-02T13:04:00.002-05:00

1. This weekend was so relaxing. Helen, GA was beautiful even though it rained A LOT! We didn't do anything we planned on doing...anything! The boys sat around the fire outside most of the time and we sat inside in our pjs. The only time we left was to go the grocery store and to get pedicures. It was the perfect relaxing weekend to spend with great friends and tons of yummy food.

2. Last night we rushed back for a young adult cookout with our church friends and we had such a great time. We met so many more couples our age and we are so thankful for that. When we first started going to Wesley Monumental we were worried it was such an old Savannah church that we would never find young people to get involved with. We were so wrong...thank goodness. Jim loves his Bible Study on Tuesday mornings and I'm starting my Women's Circle November 10th. Couldn't be more thrilled.

3. My friends from home started a weekly email update where one girl, Jenna, sends out an email with whats going on in her life and we all respond doing the same. We should've done this years ago. It is going to be a great way to keep in touch. I am the world's worst about calling people!

4. Jim and I have paid off all our credit cards (we only had 2 small ones but still!). What a wonderful feeling!!!!! He cut them up this morning and we will NEVER open one again. Well, I hope we never have to.

5. Tonight I have a Junior League meeting and then a group of us girls are going out to get dinner/drinks afterwards. Jim is going to a friends house to watch some football game. Falcons maybe?

6. Jim's about to come to my office to eat lunch with me. Busy busy day at the office!

Happy Monday!!!

Couples mountain trip!!!

2009-10-29T14:51:00.004-04:00

Last year's trip to the coast.

I am beyond excited!!! We are going to Helen, Ga this weekend to spend 3 days with 2 of our favorite couples. I don't really know how this got started but a few years ago we started doing these couples trips and they are so much fun! They first started when we were all dating. And then the first couple got engaged, then one couple was engaged, one was married, one dating. Now, we're all married and one even had a little one on the way! So, this will be interesting. When I say interesting, I mean when the boys are playing poker drinking a few cold ones us girls are usually curled up on the couch (yes all 3 together on the same couch) talking about anything and EVERYTHING. And, I mean anything goes. I won't go into too many details but it's just hilarious what we can actually talk about. So, this time I'm guessing we'll be talking about pregnancy. LL (the pregnant one) will kind of be like Jenny McCarthy and will be spilling the beans on everything. I can't wait! The boys will act like they don't hear us, but when they hear a word that sparks their attention they'll all look back at us and say "what in the world are y'all talking about us". We'll just laugh and continue on. Somethings never change.

Friday night, one of couples is taking care of dinner and I'm pretty sure they are doing barbque. Jim and I are bringing all kinds of stuff to do breakfast both mornings. I'm making my mom's famous breakfast casserole with croissants one morning and cinnamon rolls for the next. The other couple is doing dinner for us Saturday...Steaks...Yum! After dinner we are going in town to do a corn maze, haunted house, and a hayride. What else can you do with a pregnant woman? We definitely don't mind. Jim and I are more excited than any kid would be!

Sunday Jim and I have to book it back to Savannah to make it to young adults cookout at our church from 4-7pm. We just realized yersterday that it was this weekend.

Today is my Friday, so I will be back Monday will lots of wonderful pictures!

Just a little survery...

2009-10-27T17:18:00.004-04:00

Nothing too exciting today so I figured I would fill this survey out. Enjoy!

1. What are your middle names?

Mine-Paige

His-Robert

2. How long have you been together?

5 years of dating (on and off)

almost 6 months of marriage :)

3. How long did you know each other before you started dating?

year and 1/2

4. Who asked who out?
he asked me out

5. How old are each of you?

25

6. Did you go to the same school?
different high schools

same college

7. Are you from the same home town?
no

8. Who is the smartest?
I would say he is book smarter

I'm more common sense smarter

(clearly...not even proper english)

9. Who majored in what?

I majored in marketing

he majored in human resources

10. Who is the most sensitive?
he is...sweet boy

11. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Costa Rica

12. Who has the worst temper?

me...oops

13. How many children do you want?
he wants 4

I want 2

14. Who does the cooking?

we both do. he grills, I bake.

15. Who is more social?

tough one. I guess him.

16. Who is the neat freak?
me. but he's gotten so much better!

17. Who is the most stubborn?
me

18. Who wakes up earlier?
he does during the week. I do on the weekends.

19. Where was your first date?

Adpi formal in Jeckyl Island

20. Who has the bigger family?

close call, but probably him.

21. Do you get flowers often?

no.

22. How do you spend the holidays?

This is our first year doing it. Thanksgiving with his family. Christmas with mine. We will still see both families though.

23. Who is more jealous?

neither.

24. How long did it take to get serious?

for him- immediately

for me- about 4 months

25. Who eats more?

definitely him, but I'm not far behind...ha

26. What do you do for a living?

me - marketing director for a sports medicine clinic.
him - assistant director of admissions for a private college

27. Who does the laundry?

both of us. I wash and he helps me fold.

28. Who's better with the computer?

he is.

29. Who drives when you are together?

he does. I sleep and make my to do lists.

30. What is your song?

I guess "Someone like you" by Van Morrison. We danced to that on our wedding day.

Well, that was fun!

Bff's Engagement Shower Recap

2009-10-26T11:08:00.004-04:00

So, this weekend was my bff's engagement shower. Thanks to everyone for all the great gift suggestions. I had originally planned to get the whole garden basket with monogrammed sutff inside, but when I walked into HomeGoods I was taken over by the Christmas Spirit. I finally had an excuse to buy Christmas stuff this early. I've slowly bought myself some x-mas decor, but I got the cutest stuff for Kelly and Will. I did a dark wood picnic basket and stuffed it with all kinds of x-mas entertaining stuff. It turned out really cute! I wish I would've taken a picture of it. The shower was Home & Garden but the dinner was a Picnic Supper, so everything was outside in a beautiful backyard and the dinner was picnic style. Everything was bagged, so the picnic basket gift went perfectly.

We had such a great time. Since Jim had to stay in Savannah and work and Alabama was playing my dad stayed home and my mom and I went together. Which was good because it was great for me to catch up with all my high school girlfriends and for my mom to catch up with their moms. It was chilly but they had a fire outside and the wine didn't hurt either :)

Here's the sweet couple.

Some of the guys from high school.

Sweet Kelly.

Another bff of mine, Claire and her husband Jamie.

Some of the girls.

Another bff, Jenna and her husand Caleb.

The girls and our moms.
One of the only pictures I made it in.

Even though the weekend was short it was well worth it. One of my college friends got married this weekend as well and I truly struggled what to do about going. What a hard decision. I decided that being the matron of honor for Kelly and with her and Will living in Nashville they probably won't have many showers/parties that I can make it to. It's so hard making all the weddings and showers at this age. I feel so bad missing them but I feel like I made the right decision being there for Kelly and Will.

Anyway, Happy Monday Everyone!

Funny one

2009-10-22T15:00:00.002-04:00

A woman calls her husband and says,

"Hey I won the lottery! Sixteen Million! Start packing!"

He says, "What should I pack? Where are we going?!?"

She says, "I don't care ... just be out by the time I get home."

Haha. I thought this was cute! Jim picked up a lotto ticket on his way home the other night. I'm sitting at work right now, so needless to say we didn't win. I never play the lotto. My dad calls it "dummy tax". That always makes me giggle to think about. Jim and I will usually buy a scratch off on road trips (I think he does that to shut me up...I get pretty bored in the car). Speaking of road trips, we have a pretty lengthy one next weekend but I couldn't be more excited! More details on that later.

The weeks almost over. YIPEE!!!

Home & Garden gift ideas?

2009-10-20T10:28:00.002-04:00

My bestest friend in the whole world is having her first shower this weekend and I am wayyyy behind on getting a gift! Kelly was my Maid of Honor and now I'm her Matron of Honor and I would hate to drop the ball at her first shower. I want to get her and Will something they can both use, something cute yet affordable, and something they will actually use in the future. Any ideas???? ANY suggestions are greatly appreciated :)

Weekend full of WORK!

2009-10-19T13:31:00.003-04:00

This weekend my company sponsored the Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival. I had never been before, but I had heard a lot about it. We were there all weekend (Friday-Sunday). There were about 40,000 people there all weekend. Needless to say, I am beyond tired. Jim came and helped Friday and Sunday, but he had to work Saturday so when he got off work he just hung out with some of his friends.

The festival had a carnival, arts & crafts, live music, and really great food! We've eaten every underwater animal imaginable this weekend. We will be having cheesy CHICKEN soup tonight :)

Here are some pictures.

The owner of our company is the one acting a fool in the middle. My boss is on the right. Here's a group shot. We have about 50 employees but they came in shifts to the festival. This was the only group shot I got.

We had a great time! Better than being in the office :)

We have a tennis tournament this week that we're sponsoring. Busy Busy working woman!

Have a great Monday!

Heard this today...

2009-10-15T11:16:00.002-04:00

"Faith is like a muscle -- if you're not working it, it will not grow."

And I loved it! Thought I would share.

Nothing too exciting today. Work, hair appointment, dinner with some girls tonight.

Happy Thursday!

My top 5

2009-10-13T15:42:00.006-04:00

Since I am on this shopping kick, which Jim is loving...yeah right, I thought I would make a list of all of my favorite places to shop in Savannah. When I say shop, sometimes that means purchase but a lot of the time that means just window shop. And, that is ok with me. When it's a pretty Saturday and Jim and I eat lunch downtown I can usually drag him to a store or two to do a little window shopping. I also like to stop by some of these places on my lunch breaks. There's just nothing like getting a new outfit or buying something new for the house. Ahhh, wish I had a money tree in the backyard.

When shopping for our house these are my top 5 places to shop:

1. Home Goods - never lets me down

2. Nadeau - wish I could afford more

3. Polka Dots - cute fun stuff for the holidays usually

4. One Fish Two Fish - usually get my bedding and furniture from here

5. Target - Good ol' Tar-Jay

I've had my eye on this baby for a while from Nadeau. It would look so great in our bedroom. Gotta wait until we are out of the condo though :(

When shopping for clothes, which I haven't been doing lately and it has been killing me, yes I say KILLING ME my top 5 places are:

1. Custard - expensive, but I drool the second I walk in EVERYTIME.

2. Urban Outfitters - even though we have one here, I usually order online. Ridiculous I know.

3. James Gunn- Very trendy and fun

4. BleuBelle Boutique - Pretty high end. Special occasions... or when just depressed about my closet :)

5. TJ Maxx - I've gotten pretty lucky here lately

I had my eye on this Tibi dress last season and now it's on sale. How cute would this be with a a little cardigan? I know I can't shop any time soon, but I sure would like to.

Well, I won't be getting any of these things but Happy Tuesday!

Holiday Finds

2009-10-12T10:39:00.005-04:00

So, this weekend my parents FINALLY came back from Greece. Woo Hoo! They had a wonderful time and we are so happy for them, but we are happier that they are home. They got in to Savannah around 7:30pm and Jim and I got back from that wedding at about 8:00pm so it worked out great. I put a pot roast on early that morning with carrots and potatoes so once everyone got in it was good and ready to eat. We just sat around the rest of the evening and listened to their stories from the trip. Wow, did they have an adventure! Greece is definitely on mine and Jim's travel list now.

Sunday morning we decided to skip church and sleep in a little. Jim cooked breakfast for everyone and we just sat around some more talking and drinking coffee. Mom and I decided to go shopping while the guys were planted in front of the tv watching football.

Here are a few of our Holiday finds. (I can't post the rest because they are gifts)

The tree we got from Home Goods. My mom calls it my Dr. Suess Christmas tree. I just thought it was too cute for $12.99.

The turkey I got from a cute little store near my house. It was on the clearance rack because there was a tiny little mark on it, so the lady covered it up with an extra polka dot. That's why the white polka dots look a little close to one another. I didn't care one bit! It was priced at $30 and I got it for $15. Another great find!

I just love all of Preppy Paper Girl 's things and I finally gave in and ordered! I ordered this "Our First Christmas" ornament for Jim and I and I also ordered a few more for some friends of mine and I love them!

These towels were my first purchase from her a few months ago. I am just storing them away until November 27th at 12:00am! I can't wait to decorate for Christmas! It truly is the best time of the year.

Some of my favorite stores in Savannah are beginning to put out their Christmas decor, so I'm thinking I will have to do another Christmas post. Yay!

Happy Monday!

Busy Bee

2009-10-08T15:38:00.002-04:00

So, I can't believe it's been a week since I've posted! I'd love to say it's because my life is so interesting and busy but it's honestly just the opposite. Jim and I haven't done much of anything. A few things we've been up to lately:

Last weekend Jim worked and I had Jr League Thrift Sale. I thought I was going to get out of there without spending a dime, but I was wrong. With about 30 minutes left to go on my shift I spotted an armoire/entertainment center that matches our furniture now. Perfect! It's at the store for $800 I believe and I got it for $125. Can't beat that.
That night we went to one of my fellow JL friend's house for a little fall get together. It was too much fun! I just love all those girls and the guys really got to know each other which was great.
Jim and I have been attending a new member class at church and have absolutely loved it! We've met so many people and we just know Wesley Monumental is the church for us! It is the best feeling in the world knowing that we have finally found a church that we will be joining together and that will now become our new 'home' and 'family'. We couldn't be happier. Jim has been doing the Tuesday morning men's prayer breakfast and I am doing the women's circle bible study. It has really helped us meet some amazing people!
My parents are finally coming home from Greece! Thank Goodness! I have missed calling my mom to chat, calling my dad for car/money/house advice, and I'm ready for them to pick up the Princess aka Bella.
We also have a wedding this weekend where I will be seeing both of my pregnant besties. I can't wait to see those bellies! It has been so much fun shopping for little boys. I think Jim has enjoyed it too. He has actually picked out a majority of the items I have bought. I do this on purpose....so I don't get in trouble for spending so much money on all these babies :) It's working so far!

That's all I have for now! Happy Thursday!

Dog-sitting

2009-10-01T18:51:00.004-04:00

Since my parents are in Greece for a few weeks we are still dog-sitting Princess Bella. I don't know why I didn't take any pictures of her, but I did snap a picture of the combobulation that has taken over my kitchen table. I was sick when they brought her to town so Jim had to meet my parents at their hotel and when he came through our front door with that polka dotted bag I died laughing. As much as it hurt to laugh, I just had to. My mom is a nut! She packed a bag for this dog as if she was a newborn child going to stay away from home for the first time. The bag consisted of treats, toys, treats, pee pads, and more treats. This dog is so spoiled! I mean REALLY spoiled. She drinks Disani water, only eats human food and doggy treats, and sleeps in the bed under the covers like a human (like on her side with her head out of the covers). It's pretty disgusting I know. Jim has loved her being here, but I am so ready for my parents to be back. All I do is worry about her. When I'm at work, I worry that she's home alone. When I'm home, I worry she's not getting enough to eat. And, when we're sleeping I worry she's too hot or too cold. I'm think I'm going crazy. What am I going to do when we have children??? My grandmother lives next door to my parents so she is always over there taking Bella out to 'tee tee' and to keep her company...I don't know who keeps who company :) I just feel so bad for her being out of her comfort zone all alone. Jim says I need to get over it...she's just a dog. I agree and I'm working on it.

Here is the picture of my beautiful kitchen table.

Wow! I will post pictures of the princess soon.

New Arrivals!

2009-09-29T09:40:00.003-04:00

The week before I got sick our cousins had a precious baby girl. Her name is Leah Cate and she is just perfect. We were in town for that tailgate shower when we got the call that she was in labor. So, the next day we headed over there to see the little angel. It was so sweet to see Jim so excited to see and hold the new baby. All he kept saying was "do you think they'll let me hold her since she's still so new?". It cracked me up because he acted like it was a toy at the store that they had just bought and it was still "new". He was so sweet and gentle with Leah Cate though. I was very impressed :)

Here's the new mommy and baby.
Jim holding the "toy". haha.

I just love me some babies!

Happy Tuesday!

Catch up!

2009-09-28T10:46:00.002-04:00

I am going to have to play a little game of catch up this week because last week I had the darn FLU! Yuck!!! It was horrible! I mean miserable! I really thought I was dodging the flu because it seemed that everyone had it but me. Well, I was wrong. After my open house at work Tuesday night I started feeling bad. My body started aching and I was freezing but burning up. Jim took my temp and it was at 100.1. By the time I went to bed it was already at 103.1. I was really feeling it. We went to the doctor the next day and I tested postitive for the flu. Bummer! My parents were on their way to stay with us because they were heading to Greece for 3 weeks and I didn't even get to see them :( I was super sad. Jim had to meet them at the hotel to get their dog and I never saw them. I am still sad about that. So, I am emailing them as we speak. I miss them so much but I know they are having the time of their lives. Every 5 years they take a big trip with my aunt and uncle (without the kids). They've been to England for Princess Diana's funeral, a cruise to Alaska, and now Italy and Greece. I can't remember the other places. Must be nice, huh?

This week we have our Junior League Thrift Sale so I have 3 shifts I have to cover. Saturday is the actual sale day so I will work my morning shift from 9-12 and then I'm done! Until then, I will be a busy girl. Yesterday, Jim worked the 'Bod Squad' haha! I signed him up for that without him knowing. So, after church we we went over to the covic center so he could lift all the heavy items for us girls. It was funny to see all the guys who obviously didn't want to be there, sweat and strain for us girls who just stood there and gossiped. It was fun though!

I will play catch up again tomorrow! Happy Monday!

Tailgate Shower

2009-09-21T21:16:00.009-04:00

The tailgating shower this weekend was a total success! We had lots of food, drinks, gifts, and a tad bit of rain. Everyone was so great to help me with food. Everything turned our delicious and we had plenty for everyone. I have to admit, I am pretty jealous of all the cute gifts the couple got. They really loaded up. I couldn't be happier for them! This was their first shower and they were so thankful for everything everyone did. There's just something about football season and wedding season. It was just good times all around! Here are some pictures from the weekend.

Happy couple!

My handmade tablecloths :) Nothing too fancy (just glad these aren't close ups).

Jim and I with the couple.

The couple opening their gifts.

Ellen and her sister, Aunt, and Mom.

This is the precious invitation that A Savannah Redtop made...

And, this is the matching cake the soon-to-be bride's mom made...I'm still amazed!

Such a fun weekend! GOOOOO Eagles!!!!

My creative juices are flowing

2009-09-17T10:27:00.002-04:00

For more than one reason. The first reason is because of the Holidays! I love decorating for each and every holiday. When decorating a small condo you definitely have to get creative. I can't do my favorite things like decorate a front porch with pumpkin topiaries, have fall colored mums in the front yard, and of course give out candy at HALLOWEEN! I'm so upset about this. Thank goodness Jim and I will be with 2 of our favorite couples on Halloween night so I won't think about not having a house to give out candy at. I went to my fav store Tar-Jay this week and made some fabulous fall purchases for the house. I got some cute waffled towels with pumkins on them for only $2 (for 2 of them), a really cute door mat, a wreath, and some other small things. I then hopped over to Big Lots, another fav of mine, to get some small frosted like pumkins to fill my hurricane glass that goes on my kitchen table. I must say, it looks too cute!

Another reason my creative juices are flowing is because we are hosting that tailgating shower THIS weekend. Wow, that crept up on us quick! The forecast says its going to rain so I'm in full panic mode. What in the world will we do if it rains? Oh my Word!

I've had all these cute ideas of hanging pictures of the couple from the tent with ribbon, playing games, grilling hamburgers, but it looks like all that is going to fall through. Jim and I stayed up last night cutting fabric for the tables, washing off the tables, getting all the paper products together, writing down what food we're going to have, calling around to see if we have enough tents and chairs and I will just die if all this falls through because of the stinkin rain.
Just thinking about it is making me nervous. So, I am going to stop.

Tonight we have supper club. I am very excited about this because each couple is making their own pizza. How cute is that? The couple hosting it is supplying just about everything but a few toppings. We are bringing peppers. I will probably try to make some kind of dessert as well :)

One more day until Friday!!!

Maternity shopping with the bestie

2009-09-14T15:12:00.003-04:00

So, i just got back into work from shopping with one of my preggo besties. We had such a great time at the maternity clothing store. I swear I could've worn half of the clothes she tried on and been very comfortable (the other half would've been too tight). My friend Whitney has always been a size zero and STILL IS! All that has grown is her belly! Every outfit she tried on, me and the owner of the store "oooohhh'd & ahhhh'd" over it. She probably spent way more money than her husband wanted her to, but it was ok she looked cute in everything she bought :). After spending hours at the store we went to lunch and talked more about babies and other fun stuff. I sure miss being in the same town as all my best friends. At least I get to see a bunch of them this weekend at a shower in our college town.

Our Debut!

2009-09-10T21:15:00.003-04:00

Yesterday we recieved copies of the magazine that our wedding was featured in. Southern Views Magazine is a wonderful little magazine from my hometown that started 5 years ago. It is definitely the stylish 'go to' magazine that everyone reads...clearly, because my mom and I both have gotten many many calls saying they saw our wedding in the August Issue. I was beyond pleased/honored when I saw it in person. Not only did our photographer capture the special moments of our big day, but so did this magazine. It was so great seeing our wedding on one page summarized as the "Keller-Willis Wedding". It brought back all the butterflies I had that day.

This is the cover.

And this is our page. I just love it. This will be something so special to put into our little wedding box I have to show our kids :)

We also got our wedding video FINALLY and watched it last night! Amazing!!!! It was 2 hours and 17 minutes long so Jim and I fixed us a glass of wine and watched it on the couch. Perfect night!

It was so great reliving that amazing day! So many things happened that we totally missed. They showed all us girls getting ready which was so special to me. I heard comments on the video that I missed in person like "Doesn't she look amazing?", "I am so happy for her and Jim", "Look how she is just glowing with happiness". I could've died when I heard all that! My friends mean so much to me and to have them there with me that day was the best part of having such great girls in my life. They were so sweet that day (and always are) and wanted to do anything they could to help me and to make that day just perfect for Jim and I. I am just so thankful.

The first part of the video I was tearing up and the second part I was holding my stomach laughing. The first part was the ceremony and you can hear Jim saying to me as we are standing at the altar "You look gorgeous" and "Are you ok"...things I really don't remember him saying at the time. The second half of the video was the reception, the dancing, and the 'interviews'. We had such a great time that night and it definitely showed on this video! I already want to watch it again. We are going to my MIL's house this weekend I think I will watch the entire thing with her AGAIN because I loved it that much. Having a videographer at our wedding is something I will be thankful for for years and years to come! I am very pleased with our decision.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!