The Howard's

Ten Truths

2009-07-10T17:27:00.009-06:00

The Rules:

Tell your readers 10 things that are true that they might not know.

Tag 10 other bloggers to do the same (not going to happen in my case cause most everyone has already been tagged but I'll try!)

Ok - Here it goes...

I have the craziest dreams - pretty much every night. My nightmares almost ALWAYS include BUGS - ask any roommate I've ever had and my husband - I scream, kick, and even swat at bugs WHILE sleeping. It's nuts. I sleep like a rock though oddly enough?

We rescued our pitbull/boxer mix, Oscar, off the side of the street in Abilene. It was about 110 degrees outside and he was just this tiny puppy in the middle of the street. He had obviously been abused and was definitely on his last leg. I waited about 8 months before telling my parents we had him. ha. Now I can't imagine our lives without him. Shea (our Lab) feels the same way I'm sure. They are inseparable.

I didn't start my period until freshman year of college and I only started because they put me on the pill so I would actually start. Been on the pill ever since. I'm constantly afraid its going to affect my ability to have babies. Call me crazy. I say a prayer EVERY night hoping that will not be the case.

I HATE WebMD - every time I get on there I'm left with thinking I have some sort of Cancer. Stay away from it!

**Corny Alert**I never really felt "special" until I married Brian. He reminds me every day that I am and although I wasn't sure it was possible, I love him a little bit more everyday for it.

I slept in my parents bed until I was 8. They finally kicked me out and then I slept on my brother's floor. I HATE sleeping alone and if I'm NOT sleeping alone then I hate being awake if the other person is asleep. If Brian falls asleep before me, and this is terrible, but I always try to find some way to wake him up by nudging him or moving around too much.

I am a huge St. Louis Cardinals fan... which most of you already know but I'm honestly obsessed. I check my phone several times a day checking for updates while working. It's KILLING me living here and not being able to watch every single game. I think it all started when I was a little kid... I remember laying on the end of my grandma's bed drinking milk and watching Cardinal games.

I would give anything if Brian could have met my Grandmas...both are deceased. Especially my Dad's mom. I realize more and more as I get older that I am the spitting image of her. The craziest thing is that she is in my dreams regularly... even if its just in the background somewhere....she is ALWAYS there. Call me crazy but it seriously feels like that's her way of showing that she is watching over me/us. Or maybe I just miss her so much that she in constantly on my mind - regardless... I'm glad she's there.

Make fun of me all you want, but I am obsessed with Twilight. I've read all the books and made Brian wait in line with me at the premiere of the first movie. We went and saw Transformers 2 the other day and they showed the preview for "New Moon" (the second Twilight movie) and I almost peed my pants. I don't know what it is? I read books all the time but those 4 books were seriously SO GOOD and I can't get enough!

I prefer a beer over a martini any day.

If you've already been tagged, my apologies but I am going to tag...

Gretch

Chelsea

Val Goode

Vicki Goode :) YEP! Val's mommy!

Tidbits from the last couple of months...

2009-07-06T16:36:00.004-06:00

I still get on here regularly and check other people's blogs, but just haven't find the time to update my own for some reason? So here goes...

Since its been so long, I figured I would just give yall some "tidbits" of the "happenings" in our life lately... :)

We've been living in the great state of Texas for the past 5 months now and absolutely love it here. We know without a doubt that we made the best decision possible by moving here. So GLAD.
One of my very best friends from back in St. Louis got married in June - I had the pleasure of being her maid of honor - Congrats Gretch Ho - LOVE YOU and I'm SO HAPPY for you!
Speaking of St. Louis - I miss my family and friends from home - but my parents have made a couple of trips and I'm hoping my girlfriends will get to make a trip down here in the very near future!
I REALLY want to go back and get my MBA starting Spring of 2010 with Chelsea - we shall see!
My husband has baby fever - big time. I feel like it alternates between us - but this month - definitely him. However, referencing my most previous "tidbit" - I want to go back to school so now is just not the best time. But someday! I get super excited thinking about it!
I am addicted to the Bachelorette - after the Jason fiasco last season I swore that stupid show off but now I'm sucked right back in... I have a problem. (I'm rooting for Ed by the way!)
I LOVE my job - its the best feeling in the world waking up in the morning and not DREADING going to work. SUCH a blessing.
Speaking of jobs - Brian started one today :) He's going to be doing sales for a little while until his firefighter stuff pans out. He only has a couple of more interviews to go to and he will know whether or not he got into the Dallas Fire Academy - should know by September. I'm just thankful that he found this side job for some extra cash!
As most of you who read this know, Val Goode left for Bulgaria in May. I'm SO HAPPY she is over there doing exactly what God meant her to do but I miss her TONS! Val - You are always in our thoughts and prayers - LOVE YOU.
Pujols = The best baseball player in the MLB.
Have to give a little shout out to the Hubster - he has a job now, but for the past 3 months he has literally done EVERYTHING around the house - ALL the cleaning, laundry, helps cook, grocery shopping - he has been so amazing! It was so nice coming home to a clean house with dinner started every night after work. Thank you babe - you are the BEST.
We are going to Hilton Head in September for 10 days... I'm so ready!
My Brother is coming to visit next weekend, and my Mom is coming the weekend after that :) With that said - Brian and I have NOTHING planned this coming weekend - I swear we haven't had a weekend with nothing planned since April. Excited for some QT with Brian.
I have been reading Emily Griffin books lately...

I just started "Something Blue", but the other two were really good. She has another one called "Baby Proof" that I want to read after this one. Just if you are looking for something good to read :)

Alright well I think that's all for now. Of course no pics to post because I never have pics. Someday. Hope everyone has a great rest of the week! Feels good to be back in the world of blogging. Bye for now!

Howard Update

2009-03-09T17:27:00.006-06:00

First of all... I was just cruising around the net and came across this super nifty cake recipe... doesn't this look FUN?! Maybe I'll make it for Brian's Birthday or something... it's just so pretty!!

Here is the link for the recipe if any of y'all should want it... http://www.omnomicon.com/rainbowcake

In other news... we have settled in nicely to our new life here. We absolutely love it. It's so nice to be able to see our friends whenever we want instead of being several hundred miles away!

The new job is going great... I've been here a month already and that seems unbelievable. I'm past the whole "I have no idea what I'm doing" part and now I'm starting to get the hang of it. The people are awesome and I thank God every day that I not only have a JOB period, but a job that I really like. I actually work from 10am - 7pm... which sounds weird but its actually really nice because I miss ALL of the traffic. Plus I actually have mornings at home now... before it was wake up, get ready, go to work. But now I can wake up, work out (if I'm feeling motivated), eat breakfast and hang out with the hubby. Its super nice.

Brian is currently job-less, but we knew that would be the case when he got down here for a little while. He spends most of his time testing at different fire houses. We should really start to get some answers towards the middle of this month so keep us in your prayers!

My parents are coming into town this weekend! It feels like FOREVER since I've seen them. I'm so excited to show off our new place to them and take them around town. They get in on Friday night and Saturday we are actually driving to Houston to hang out with the in-laws and some of their friend's at one of their lake houses. Should be a blast!!

Alright well that's all for now... I promise to be a better poster... our life is officially back to "normal" now... if that's what you want to call it. :) Hope everyone has a great week!

The BIG move...

2009-02-11T20:10:00.002-06:00

Holy cow how time flies...

I'm not sure I've ever been so busy in my life. The past 3 or 4 weeks have been an absolute blur filled with tape and boxes and moving trucks and goodbyes and hellos and unpacking and the list goes on and on... It really has been quite a physical and emotional roller coaster. BUT... with all of that said... the moving part is over and we are here! Well sort of...

Brian is back in St. Louis... its a super long story and a difficult situation to explain but basically Brian has so many different things going on for him as far as his fire fighting career goes, but they don't really start until the middle of March for him... so, while he actually has a job in St. Louis, we thought it best that he stay there and continue to make money until he can move down here and officially start his career. I thought, no biggie... what's a few weeks? We can do that... easy... He will be back down here before I know it...

Ok so not as easy as I thought... its been 3 days... and I'm not a happy camper. I'm SO BEYOND happy to be here, in our new home, in this new city, but it's just not the same without him here with me. It's torture saying goodbye to him every night over the phone and then rolling over to an empty pillow.

LUCKILY... he has to come back down this weekend for a Plano Fire Dept. test that he has to take on Saturday... just in time for Valentine's Day :) Granted he has to fly back on Sunday, but at least I'll get to see him. We've talked about it a lot the past few days and we decided he just needs to get here. So he put his two weeks in at his job back home and he will be here for good on the 27th... so like 2 weeks. I can handle that I think.

OK... sorry... so enough about how much I miss my amazing husband...

The new job is going great so far... my first day was Monday. I am in what they call training "Boot Camp" and it's nothing short of that. But I've got to say it's all very interesting... I'm excited to really get a handle on all of this. The company is called Homecare Homebase and basically they created a software (in a handheld PDA) that helps in home nurses keep better records of their patients... instead of writing everything down, it's all electronic now. I'm learning a lot and I really feel like what I do will help nurses help people... and that's a good feeling.

I love our new house... it's absolutely everything I could possibly want or need in a house for us right now. As I'm sure you can imagine we are still very much in the unpacking/decorating stage so I will post pics once I feel more comfortable with the finished product. Val Goode is throwing us a house warming/dinner party on the 28th... SUPER excited about that.

I love it here - I know we have without a doubt made the right decision moving back down here and once Brian gets down here for good it will feel totally complete.

Thank you for all of your prayers during this time of transition for us... I know God has truly had a hand in ALL of this.

Our new address is:
9912 Derwent Drive
Plano, Texas 75025

Work email: choward@hchb.com
Home phone: 214-785-7028

Welp - that's all for now... more to come soon! Happy Valentine's Day!

God is Good

2009-01-19T09:04:00.002-06:00

Well... our prayers have been answered! I got the job in Dallas!! You know when you pray and pray for something and God answers your prayers but not in the way you expected? Well this time he literally answered our EXACT prayers. Maybe it was his way of telling us that we are moving in the right direction!

We have a lease application in on a house in Plano - we have not heard FOR SURE if we've got the house yet, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I don't see any problems arising so everything should be a go, but we'll see! Once we find out, I will post pictures of the house :)

I can't believe how fast this is all happening. We started packing things last night. My last day here at work is the 30th and we would like to be on the road on the 4th headed down there. I start the new job on the 9th! I don't think I've ever been so excited about something... this is going to be a fresh start for Brian and I - we are really looking forward to getting down there.

We are doing a little "going-away" get together at my parents house this weekend just for friends and family - want to make sure we see everyone again before we leave.

Hope everyone has a GREAT week! :)

The WORST part...

2009-01-13T08:42:00.003-06:00

I'm officially going through the worst part of the whole "interviewing process"... the WAITING. Interviewed on Friday - I think it went well... said they would call early next week... so here I sit. Just waiting... and waiting... and waiting... Throw a couple of more prayers up there for us if you haven't already - thank you, thank you, thank you!

We found a house that we absolutely LOVE - put our lease application in on Saturday. The only thing they are missing is an "offer letter" from the potential company I'll be working for in Dallas as proof of income. So... again I wait...

And wait... and wait...

What's been goin' on...

2009-01-05T14:25:00.003-06:00

I haven't posted since WAY before Christmas. Oops.

Well... Christmas recap how about? Brian got me a new pair of UGGs... my old pair were looking sick. I got him an ipod... when we go work out he always complains non-stop about not having one... solved that problem!! :) We had a WONDERFUL time off just relaxing with my family. So nice to have that time off work. I must say that coming back to work after all of that is beyond depressing.

We are headed to Texas this weekend for the Farmer wedding! We are staying with Alec and Chelsea (they ROCK and are being SUPER hospitable) and I couldn't be more excited to see my best friend again! I haven't seen her since her wedding back in MAY. Good gosh! I also cannot wait to see all of my other best friends as well at the wedding festivities. Man I love weddings! Jacci, Chelsea, Val - since I know you guys are the only ones that I'll see this weekend that actually read this... cannot WAIT to see you guys!!

We have one busy weekend planned that's for sure. Lots to do. We get in Thursday night - from the airport we are headed to Chelsea and Alec's and then to dinner with them to catch up. Friday afternoon at 2pm I have an interview - I am really praying that I get this job. It would be SUCH a blessing. So come Friday at 2pm, PLEASE say a little prayer for me! Friday night we have the rehearsal dinner. Saturday morning we are meeting a realtor that's going to show us a few houses that we've picked off the internet. So we'll see! Hopefully out of the four we'll find one that we love :) Saturday night of course is the wedding!! Sunday we plan to just hang out with Chelsea and Alec before we have to catch our flight at 5:30.

So, a busy weekend, but also VERY exciting!! We are are just so ready to move down there.

Hope everyone has a great rest of the week! Happy 2009!

16 Days till Christmas!!

2008-12-09T15:49:00.004-06:00

The last time I posted was before Thanksgiving! Geesh! I LOVE having time off work, but it sure does put me behind for WEEKS whenever I come back.

We spent Thanksgiving in Houston with Brian's family - it was nice to see everyone and catch up. They were all really excited to hear we are moving back to Texas. It sure was a quick trip though... I came back to work Monday a bit pooped. We are spending Christmas here in St. Louis with my parents, so I'm glad we won't be fighting anymore airports over the holidays.

The last couple weeks have really just been a blur... time is FLYING by and now Christmas is only a little over two weeks away! Insane! I have absolutely NO Christmas shopping done either... oops. I'm still not really sure what I'm getting Brian this year... I need to do some serious brain storming. He says he already knows what he's getting me... hmmm... I guess we'll see!

This time two years ago I'd be preparing for finals (probably pulling all-nighters with Chelsea at Starbucks!) and an entire MONTH off school... THOSE were the days, people.

Since I'm getting all geared up for Christmas, I shall do my top TEN favorite things about this AMAZING holiday:

Christmas decorations! I swear I put my tree up two weeks before Thanksgiving. It's ridiculous how much I love decorating.
Christmas COOKIES! The BEST!
Snow, fireplaces, sweaters - just being COZY
Seeing all of my family together celebrating Christ
Christmas Parties!
Christmas music... although by the time New Years hits - I'm WAY over it.
GIVING presents - I guess that has to do with the fact that I'm not 10 anymore, but I enjoy giving gifts just as much or more than receiving. (ok so maybe not MORE...)
TIME. OFF. WORK.
The SMELLS... pine, cinnamon, fireplaces, apple... MMMMM!
Having Brian to spend these holidays with - this is our second Christmas together - with many more to come :)

Hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week!

The BIG Reveal...

2008-11-24T09:32:00.002-06:00

I've been reluctant to post what our big news is because you just never know who's reading, you know? But - I've come to the conclusion that I don't care.

Drum roll please...

BRIAN AND I ARE MOVING TO TEXAS!

Quite a change from my last post since I was talking about the house we are building here in Missouri and all that...but Brian and I just really sat down and talked about the commitment we are making by building a house here in Missouri. We've always known that we would move back to Texas eventually, and if we were to build this house we'd be here for at least another 5-10 years. So we decided that now is the perfect time to get up and go! The lease on our house is up the 1st of March, so we are looking to move in February... or sooner if I get a job before then.

We are definitely thinking the Dallas area. I've started my job search - so if any of you have any suggestions or know of any businesses hiring in the Dallas area, I am VERY open to ideas!! Brian will finish up his 1st paramedics semester here in December, and then he will be transferring all of his hours down there. He's looking to get on a fire house somewhere in Dallas while he finishes up medic school.

Are we sad to leave St. Louis? For sure... I've got some amazing friends here that have been my friends for what seems like FOREVER, and I don't even want to think about how hard it's going to be being that far away from my parents, but with all of that said I really believe this is the right move for us. Plus my parents are definitely not opposed to moving down to Texas once we start a family... no way they could stay away after that!

SO... please keep us in your prayers - job hunting could be difficult with this economy, but I'm hoping we will be able to find jobs between now and February.

We are SO EXCITED about this... cannot wait to be back with all of the people we love so much!!

We are headed to Houston Wednesday night for Thanksgiving with Brian's family... a MUCH needed break from work. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone and thank you so much for your prayers and support!

Prayers, prayers and more prayers!

2008-11-13T16:26:00.002-06:00

Well folks... the time has come that Brian and I could use some prayers...

Nothing bad has happened or anything like that, but Brian and I have made some major decisions in our lives as of late and some big things are going to change, but we truly feel that we have God behind us on this one. So just pray that we keep that faith and stay steady.

I promise to reveal things soon, but I can't JUST yet. :)

I'll say this... it's been a long time coming!

PS... I'm not pregnant. Just wanted to throw that out there!

Not sure what to think...

2008-11-05T08:20:00.007-06:00

This is our lot... with a VERY pretty "SOLD" sign :)

These are our house plans :) Probably hard to see, but this is basically what it will look like. Some minor changes - but nothing huge. We love it!!

This is the entrance to our new subdivision!!

Well... I said right before the election that all we can do now is pray. But that's pretty much all we can do now as well. Obama has won. Fair and square... and by a lot. I just cannot understand why the American people would vote a socialist with such radical ties into office. Sorry if that offends anyone, but its the truth and I'm scared for America. I know God has a plan... just not so sure what it is yet.

Enough about politics... I guess the only good thing about this election is that FINALLY all of those stupid campaign commercials can STOP! ha!

Here are a couple of pics from our Halloween...

This weekend we are going camping on my brothers land with lots of family and friends... it's supposed to be a bit chilly, but it's been in the high 70's low 80's lately so I'm ready for the cooler weather! Hope you all have a great rest of the week and a wonderful weekend!

HaPpY hAlLoWeEn!!!

2008-10-28T07:19:00.007-06:00

Happy Halloween! As you can see, we decided to carve pumpkins on Sunday. I had forgotten how time consuming that is! I swear Me, Brian and Gretchen were out there for 4 hours. ha! But it was fun nonetheless and they turned out cute. As I'm sure you guessed... Brian's pumpkin is the Longhorn. Pretty clever of him I thought. Side note: Not sure if you can tell in the pics, but my hair is quite a bit darker these days. I decided it was time for a change... I've been bleach blonde my ENTIRE life. I'm loving having darker hair. Much more season appropriate.

Saturday I went with Gretchen and the rest of her bridesmaids to get her dress and to pick out our dresses. Her wedding will be here before we know it! I LOVE weddings and I'm so glad I get to be a part of hers. Brian and I are dressing up for Halloween... I'm a 1920's Flapper and he's a Gangster. We'll take tons of pics. :) Cannot BELIEVE the election is NEXT WEEK. Pray, Pray, PRAY people. That's all we can do now besides cast our vote. Alright well I hope everyone has a fabulous Halloween and rest of the week! (PS - This is one big run-on paragraph beacause blogger is being retarded and keeps messing up my formatting... so whatever!)

8th of 8

2008-10-17T11:49:00.003-06:00

Well... I'm at work, but lucky for all of you I just so happen to have my pictures saved on a flash drive that I have with me. So... here it is... my eighth picture in my eighth file... you asked for it Jacci!

This was from Delta Theta Grub from 2006 I think? Who knows... feels like forever ago. Our theme was something gay like "Barbie" so Brian and I went as Trailer Trash Barbie. It's scary how natural it looks on us huh? So... if any of you need an idea for a cheap Halloween costume... there ya go!

I'm tagging Chelsea!!

Everyone have a great weekend and I promise to post a long one next week!

Time for Fall!

2008-10-02T07:07:00.002-06:00

I know it's been awhile, but I'm FINALLY getting over a sinus infection that I have been fighting since vacation. I went to the doctor last Friday and got some meds so I'm feeling MUCH better. I gave it to my dad though... oops. Sorry dad :) I actually got a cold from Brian and of course his goes away just fine and mine turns into a full blown sinus infection. YUCK. PLUS... we don't have the Internet at our house anymore... Long story but I cancelled it because it was ridiculously expensive, so the only time I can post is at work, and it's hard to find time for that! However... my boss is out today so here I am! ha.

I am SO pumped because it's REALLY feeling and looking like fall around here. We haven't used our air conditioning for over a month and it feels SO wonderful. I LOVE sleeping with the windows open. The leaves are starting to change and it's really getting chilly in the morning and in the evenings. Have I said I love Fall? Cause I do!

Vacation was amazing as I'm sure you could guess. I REALLY needed a break from work. Our time was spent golfing, reading, laying around, watching movies, walks on the beach, miniature golf, swimming, EATING, and getting massages! It was hard coming back to the real world, but there's nothing like sleeping in your own bed!

Well... believe it or not... Brian and I will have been married a YEAR on Monday. Insane! This has been the most amazing year... I absolutely LOVE coming home to Brian everyday. He's my best friend and I couldn't imagine spending the rest of my life loving anyone else. For our anniversary I bought him/us tickets to opening night of Blues hockey. Hockey is HUGE around here and I cannot wait for it to start up again. I hate watching it on TV but actually being at the games is a totally different story. We are going to stay downtown at the Sheraton afterwards. Our seats are club seats that provide free beer/food all night long so I don't think it would be the BEST idea to drive home plus I love staying in nice hotels!

As far as our house goes... some exciting things happening... we got our plans finalized! I LOVE them! It's so neat to see it all on paper. They turned out amazing and I cannot WAIT to start building! However... we all know how CRAPPY the financial markets are right now, so it's kind of putting a damper on moving forward with our house. Here's what's probably going to happen... our lease for the house we are in now is up in March... come march we will most likely break ground and start building. While are house is being built, we will have to live with my parents. It's probably not going to be the most exciting 3 or 4 months of our life, but we really have no choice. Plus it gives us some more time to save money that we aren't spending on rent somewhere. So... it seems like a long way off... but we just have to be patient and wait.

Ok well I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Long time coming...

2008-09-10T09:47:00.002-06:00

I've been a terrible blogger lately... my apologies. Here is an update on the Howard fam...

We've made a pretty monumental decision on the house front! Ready? Sure? ha ok ok... we are going to build!!! Which MEANS I get to pick everything from the brick color to the front door! We are building in a neighborhood called Stone Crest. Once things really start to move along I'll take a picture of our lot. I'm excited about seeing the progress and blogging about it. That just MIGHT make me a dork. We wouldn't be moving in until the Spring, but I know that time is going to fly by. So... I may not have ADORABLE babies to blog about like some of you... but I will have a HOUSE :)

In other news... we are going on VACATION next week! Ahhhhhhhhh... a much needed vacation I might add. Work has just been CRAZY these past couple of months... having nothing to worry about for an entire week is beyond exciting. We are headed to Hilton Head Island, SC. Our flight leaves really early on Saturday. It might be a little rainy due to all of the hurricanes, but I don't even care. I will lay on the beach in the rain... just as long as I'm NOT HERE AT WORK. It's just the family going... Brian and I, my parents, and my brother. I plan on bringing a swimsuit, pajamas, and a few good books. Any recommendations?? I'll take lots of pictures... But I'm not going to promise posting them because we all know I'm terrible at that... but I promise to TRY.

I'm sad to say that a friend from high school passed away this week. I'm headed to the wake tonight with some friends. Unfortunately David died at the hand of drugs... Please keep his family in your prayers as this will not be an easy time for them.

Well... I'm off to lunch. Only TWO MORE work days and I'm headed to the BEACH!! :) I hope all of you have a wonderful weekend and week!

HoUsE hUnTiNg

2008-08-21T08:18:00.002-06:00

So... Big News on the Howard front... we have officially started looking for a HOUSE!! We just started really looking this past weekend. Our lease for the house we are in now is up the first of March, and we would like to go ahead and buy a house instead of renting - a.k.a. - paying someone else's mortgage. It is so exciting, nerve-wracking, heart wrenching and FUN looking for a house. We've already found one that we have completely fallen in love with. It's SO HARD not to want to move in RIGHT NOW. I feel like the biggest brat because I just want to keep saying "I want it, I want it, I want it!!" However... a house is such a huge commitment and I really need to SLOW DOWN and THINK about what we are getting ourselves into. I just cannot wait for Brian and I to actually OWN our first house... painting, decorating, and knowing that this will most likely be the house that we will raise our kids in! SO EXCITING!

I ask you all to pray that God gives me patience! ha... for instance... I've been at work for TWO hours now and I haven't gotten A THING done yet. I would post pictures of the houses that we love but I don't want to jinx anything... If we get serious about a house then I will post pics I promise!

On another note... Brian's mom comes into town tomorrow night for a visit! We are really excited to have her. No real big plans actually... just relaxing and hanging out. We are going to the Cards game on Sunday... that's all I know.

Hope you all have a GREAT weekend!!

On days like today...

2008-08-13T11:42:00.002-06:00

Sorry no pics, but I had to blog. I do have pictures from when Chad and Cory were here and I promise to post them.

On days like today I really wonder why I chose to work in the "Corporate World" instead of following some of my other passions like preschool work or even music. I love everything about the business atmosphere... how driven everyone is and how I truly feel I'm learning something and making a difference everyday. However... there are days like today when I really question why God has me here and what his plan is for me. I feel like I have a pretty tough skin and most things I don't let bother me but something just got in today that really hurt you know? I'm probably not making any sense, but I didn't want to go into the entire story about it all. I like my job... but sometimes the people just aren't very... well... nice. In almost all of my ACU business classes they talked about how the business world is tough and not a very nice place at times... boy they weren't kidding.

Suck it up and move on. I'm just going to stick to what I believe is right... people can like it or not.

Anyway... thanks for listening to the babble. Shout out to my buddy Gretchen... Happy Birthday!

I promise to post pictures soon... hope everyone is having a great week!

The Twins are coming!

2008-07-30T09:45:00.008-06:00

The twins are coming tomorrow! Chad and Cory have been two of our very best friends all through college. SO excited to see them... We saw them back in May at Jerica and Chandler's wedding but that feels like ages ago for some reason. They get in tomorrow night... I have to work on Friday unfortunately. They've got an early morning tee time... I hope to be off work early, but we'll see how that goes. It's end of the month and things always get crazy here around that time. Friday night we've got some great seats at the Cards/Phillies game. Saturday we might get an early nine holes in since I won't get to play with them Friday then I think
we are going to head to the wineries. There are 20 or wineries
within 20 minutes of our house... breath-taking views and great
wine... what more can you ask for?? Saturday night is kind of up
for grabs but I'm sure we'll grab dinner and head out on the town
of Washington, MO Exciting stuff.

Keep them in your thoughts for safe travel. I will try and take a
bunch of pictures. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Fun with the Fam...

2008-07-22T07:11:00.005-06:00

So we had SUCH a great weekend with Brian's family, but I gotta say, I'm exhausted. Friday I had to work of course, but Brian and the fam went golfing and then grilled out at the house for lunch. After I got off work we all headed to the Cardinals game to watch them beat the Padres (we took the series 4-0). Saturday we had breakfast at the house and then headed to Grants Farm. Ulysses S. Grant lived there at some point in his life and now it is owned by the Anheuser Busch family. It's sort of like a mini zoo. The goat pictures below are from Grants farm... those little guys were SO cute. They give you bottles to feed to them. They kept nibbling on Brian and Brad's pants... But anyway... it was a lot of fun. Saturday night we went to my parents house for a BBQ, and Sunday we just hung out until it was time to take his Dad and brother Garrett to the airport. Brad and Janelle (Brad's girlfriend) didn't leave until yesterday night. So all in all it was a great weekend... it was good to see everyone and really get a chance to catch up.

Last night Brian and I went and saw Batman with my mom. We all thought it was really good. It definitely lived up to all of the rave reviews I've heard so far.

Ok well short post but lots of pictures for once! Enjoy!! Hope everyone has a great week... and hey at least it's not Monday!

St. Louis is grieving the loss...

2008-07-17T12:51:00.004-06:00

The inevitable has happened... around here it's huge news, but some of you probably haven't heard or just don't care. ha. Anheuser Busch is no longer "The great AMERICAN lager". A couple of days ago a company from Belgium called InBev bought Anheuser Busch for $72 a share. For weeks there have been talks of this happening. There were plenty of petitions and protesting, but in the end it just came down to greed and money. St. Louis has been known as the home of Budweiser ever since they began. Apparently the headquarters are going to remain here in St. Louis, but it won't ever be the same. Many people will lose their jobs. I wouldn't be surprised if some people who swear by the Busch family brand put down their Bud Light and go for other tastes. It's all this town is talking about... everyone is seriously crushed. I had no idea it would have this sort of effect on people. It's obviously not about the beer... its about the legacy the Busch family has created here, the Clydesdales, the flying eagle (it's a billboard) as you drive down hwy 40 from downtown after the Cardinals have won yet another game at BUSCH stadium... It just goes to show that no amount of tradition and legacy can stand up to the big bucks and people's love for money. Sad.

On a much happier note... Brian's family gets in tonight!! His Dad, his brother Brad, Brad's girlfriend Janelle, and his 9 year-old (I think) half brother Garrett. We are SO excited to have them. Brian NEVER gets to see his family and I feel SO terrible about that. His dad lives in LA so we really only see him once or twice a year. I cannot imagine only seeing my dad once or twice a year... it would kill me. Tonight we are all just having a home cooked meal at the house once everyone gets in. Tomorrow I have to work unfortunately, but that will give Brian a chance to hang out with them. I think he plans on taking them golfing and grilling out at the house. Tomorrow night we are headed to the Cards game... always a good time. Saturday we aren't too sure yet... there are so many fun things to see and do in St. Louis... we wanted to let them decide. We could go the FREE Zoo (which by the way is the second best zoo in the nation...), take a tour of the Budweiser Brewery (while it's still American-owned!), head to the Science Center, Grants Farm... the possibilities are endless. Whatever we do I promise to take lots of pictures. I've been slacking on that for quite sometime now.

I hope everyone has a GREAT weekend!!

Howard Update...

2008-07-14T07:33:00.009-06:00

Hello there... so it's been quite sometime since I've posted. Time has been FLYING by these past few weeks. I complain at work that the days go by so slow, but they really don't. It will be Friday afternoon before I know it. Or at least I hope so...

So let's see... what's new? Well not a whole lot really. We had a good weekend. Friday we went out to dinner for my Mom's birthday... Brian and I got her a really nice knife set from Williams-Sonoma. She needed new knives so badly. Saturday Brian went out job hunting traveling from Fire House to Fire House. He filled out applications and dropped his resume off. That's about all we can do except pray that something comes up. It's such a competitive business. Once you are in you never leave so it's hard to find openings. He starts Paramedics school in August so that will be about another year and half of school. I'm so excited that he's doing it, but we aren't going to get to see much of each other during that time period. When he's not in class, he'll be up at the hospital working on his clinical hours, or working. BUT... it's only a year and half and I'm SO proud of him. He's truly living out his dream of becoming a fireman/paramedic.

Sunday we went to church and played a round of golf. Brian and I have been playing a couple times a week for the past couple of months, and I must say it has really improved our games. I'm so glad that it's something we both enjoy and can do together. We are going to Hilton Head, SC in September with my family and I cannot wait to play golf on some amazing courses.

On another note... I feel like Brian and I have seen quite a few movies/shows lately that I wanted to recommend... or not recommend to you...

Hancock.... FUN summer movie. I always look forward to summer because of movies like this. It was funny/sad/heart-warming etc. I think the ending could have been a bit more in depth, but again I say... it was a fun summer movie. Worth seeing in the theaters for sure.

Wall-e. We saw this on Saturday night with my parents. Really cute - as I'm sure you imagined it would be. I heard some reviews that said it was better than any Pixar film ever made. NO - Toy Story... all time favorite. Not sure they could ever top that, however, it was cute. Not sure if I would say that's its worth seeing in the movie theater though.

THIS was a GOOD movie. Seriously... VERY suspenseful. I was on the edge of my seat the entire movie. Brian and I bought this movie a week or so ago, and I'm so glad we did. It is so different the way they directed this movie... they literally show the first 15 minutes of the movie several times from different vantage points. A MUST rent/buy.

Brian got me into this show... we bought the first two seasons this past weekend because they are about to start up a new season on FX this fall. SO GOOD. It pays A LOT of tribute to 9/11, and you just don't see that much anymore... it's sad. I must admit there are a few racy scenes... sort of like Nip/Tuck, but not THAT explicit. We plan to watch all of the first 3 seasons before season 4 starts up here in a few weeks. We seriously watched like 7 episodes yesterday alone... ha ha.

OK well that's all for now. I am the biggest movie dork, so I'll keep you posted if we see anything else in the near future. Hope everyone has a great week!

Bye Bye Mustang, Hello TV!

2008-06-25T13:56:00.002-06:00

Hello there... first of all... if you go to www.photovideoimage.com ,click "Wedding Site", then click "Galleries" up at the top... you can see our wedding album... its under "Carrie and Brian". I think most of you have probably seen it already but if you haven't, enjoy! We get to pick the real thing up this weekend... FINALLY. So excited about it.

We sold the Mustang this weekend!! We put it up for sale right before we went out to Gretchen's to swim and we got a call while we were there from a guy who wanted to buy it! We got the cash on Sunday and bought a new TV shortly there after. haha. We've been wanting a new TV for our bedroom for quite some time now... we bought a VIZIO 37" flat screen and I LOVE it. With Brian's Playstation 3 the HD is flipping amazing. I don't know what we ever did without high definition! haha. It was weird seeing someone else drive off in the car I grew up driving... I will miss that car, seriously. I had some great memories with that thing. Not so much the 5 speeding tickets I got while driving it, but you know all of the other stuff... haha.

This week at work has been especially stressful... I have been covering for a lady that is out on vacation and my job has just been ridiculous for some reason. Anyway... Brian could tell that I've been super stressed out and tired so today he sent me this text...

“I just want you to know that I’m the luckiest guy in the world. You are the best wife and the best person. There is no way I can ever match how amazing you are. I am just happy I was the lucky one that got the pleasure of marrying you. I think about you all the time no matter where I am at and I wouldn’t want it any other way. You are the love of my life, and I’ll love you forever! Have a great day baby and I can’t wait to see you tonight!”

How sweet right? Definitely made my week soooo much better. I love my hubby :) He's always so excited to see my when I walk through the door at night. I'm a lucky woman I'll tell ya...

Ok well it's ALMOST time for me to get out of here. Enjoy the rest of your week!

Go get em Tiger

2008-06-17T07:36:00.003-06:00

Can we all just take a moment and honor the greatness that is Tiger Woods? Holy cow. HE. IS. AMAZING. He fought one heck of a battle these last couple of days and ended up with a well deserved victory. 14 majors... God put him on this earth to play golf. There is no doubt about that. Chelsea and I were emailing play-by-plays of the playoff all afternoon yesterday. Luckily... they replayed it on ESPN Classic later that night so Brian and I watched it then. You gotta give Rocco credit... the guy is old (for a golfer...) and hung in there with the best in the world. I keep hearing people say, "It would be nice for someone else to win for a change!" WHY? If he is truly the best he deserves to win so back off. Apparently he's going to take some time off now... which is definitely a smart decision... let that knee heal!

OK well that's all for today folks. I will post later this week, but I just had to give a shout out to my man Tiger. Peace.

Happy Dad's Day!

2008-06-13T09:31:00.003-06:00

In honor of Father's Day... I wanted to post about how amazing my Father is...

My mom always said from the beginning that I was "Daddy's Girl", and I know everyone says that, but I truly was and still am. Here are the top 10 reasons why I love my Dad...

He spoils me to no end... it's seriously ridiculous. My poor brother...
He is SOOO smart... the biggest history buff you will EVER meet. I have learned SO much through him.
He loves my Mom - They've been married 30 years, and you can tell just by looking at them that they are still so in love. They have set such an amazing example for Brian and I.
He is a Godly man and loves the Lord with all his heart. He raised us in a strong Christian home.
He used to sing his version of whatever song he could think of to wake me up in the mornings for school... annoying then, but kind of funny now.
He loves sports cars... in grade school I can remember feeling "cool" because my dad always dropped me off in whatever sports car he had at the time. Ha.
He eats the icing off of EVERYTHING. It drives my mom crazy... ha.
He cannot sit still for more than 5 minutes at a time... he's constantly whistling, humming, singing, or tapping his feet... again... it drives my mom crazy.
He leaves notes for my mom in the mornings just to say "Good Morning" or "I love you" and always draws this strange little man with glasses and a bald head... you'd have to see it, but it's so cute. I guess it's his version of him... pretty accurate really. haha.
He treats Brian like his own son.

So there you have it... my Dad is the best! I made him his Father's Day present last night. (I took pictures last night and uploaded them on my computer this morning to post, but of course my computer froze... I tried.) I basically just made a big scrapbook page with pictures and sayings and framed it. I think he'll like it.

Everyone give your Dad an extra hug and kiss this weekend... they have earned it! Have a good weekend!

OK OK ALREADY!

2008-06-11T12:14:00.002-06:00

OK! I'm posting! Look Gretchen, Val, and Chelsea!! I've heard from all of you several times. I am sorry for my lack of blogging. I hope you can accept my sincere apology.

I went and visited Val the weekend before last... (wow it has been awhile since I've posted... ha!) Thanks again to Val and her family for their hospitality. Val's blog gives a recap of the whole weekend, so you can check that out instead of me repeating what she has already stated. Bottom line... it was TONS of fun and I'm SO glad I went. I have a few pictures of Val, Morgan, and myself that I still need to load. I forgot my flipping memory card at home so I could only take like 10 pictures. I'm seriously cursed when it comes to cameras. Pisses me off. I FINALLY got to meet sweet baby Scarlet! She's so adorable that for a minute there it made me want a baby... but only for a minute. NOT YET. It was so great to see Jac and Robert. It's been entirely too long and it makes me sad that we are so far apart. Thanks for having me! VAL... your turn to come visit me... and you better before you leave the flipping country!

So what's been going on lately... hmmm... We were actually in town for the first weekend in FOREVER last weekend. It felt amazing NOT to have plans. Friday night Brian's mom and step dad were in town for a short visit. We went out to dinner and had a little celebration for Brian's birthday since we never got to celebrate it. I got him a playstation 3... he was so excited and has played it every night since... what was I thinking? Ha... just kidding. Saturday we said bye to his parents and went and met up with Gretchen and Justin and some people at a bar out in the country. Justin's parents were celebrating their anniversary. Sunday we got a round of golf in and then just laid around.

This weekend... no real set plans except that Brian and I are going to the Cards game on Saturday afternoon. I got some really good tickets through work. We haven't been to a game in a month or so... I'm excited. Sunday is Father's Day of course... we are having the family out to our house for a brunch type thing. I haven't gotten my dad anything yet... I have no clue what to get him... any suggestions??

Wish Brian luck... he's got his LAST test tomorrow afternoon and then he's officially firefighter certified! YES!!

OK well I MUST get back to work... I will post with pictures here in a few days... hold your horses. Bye for now!

Say Hello to My Little Friend

2008-05-30T07:00:00.003-06:00

We FINALLY got it!!!! I love it! It is seriously the best car I've EVER driven. So much fun and flipping fast. It looks small but the inside has plenty of room... even my husband and his long chicken legs can fit in the back... amazing I know. Enjoy the pics!

A bit of a recap - Chelsea's weddings was SO much fun. Friday night we had a BBQ at Alec's parents house, and just as the night was winding down and everyone was ready for bed we get a call that there is "something" picking us up at 10:30 to go out. So we all hurried and got ready. A hummer limo picked us all up from the hotel and took us to downtown Dallas. We had so much fun, but I'm not going to lie, I was exhausted by the time we got home (3:30am). Apparently I'm getting old and can no longer stay out that late. Her rehearsal dinner was awesome and the wedding was perfect. Chelsea did A LOT better than I thought she would :) She only cried in the beginning! I wish them all the best...

I'm headed to Dallas after work today... I will be staying with Val. No huge plans for the weekend yet except for Scarlet's first bday! :) Oh yes AND we are going to see Sex and the City at some point. Brian is headed to Houston for Bart's wedding (friend from high school). This will be the first time we've been away from each other since we got married... kinda strange but I'm sure we'll be fine.

In other news: GRETCHEN IS GETTING MARRIED! She and Justin got engaged last week! Her ring is absolutely gorgeous and if you're lucky maybe she'll post some flipping photos on her blog. She asked me to be her Matron (spelling?) of Honor! I couldn't be happier... I can't wait to help one of my longest and best friends plan her wedding.

Ok well I've it's 8:15am and I haven't done a bit of work yet. Guess I'd better get on that. Everyone have a good weekend and I'm so excited that I get to see most of you on Sunday! :)

My bad...

2008-05-21T07:29:00.002-06:00

Wow... so it's been FOREVER since I've posted. My bad. Swamped at work as always, and my blogging is definitely not the first thing on my mind when I get home at night, I must be honest.

So we went to Abilene ... It was SO much fun. So great to see everyone, but also strange at the same time. I can't believe it's been a year since we've graduated. I do admit that I miss college... and even Abilene, but I wouldn't trade the life that Brian and I have made for ourselves for any of that. It was so nice going back there as a married couple... I can't describe it. It was just nice. Jerica looked beautiful of course... so happy for them.

Headed BACK to Texas this weekend to see my bestest friend get married :) I absolutely cannot wait... we fly out Friday morning (off work on Friday... yessss!!) and fly back on Monday. I actually forgot my camera when we went to Abilene, but I PROMISE not to forget it for this. Chels... I love you - I cannot imagine two people that deserve happiness more. I AM SO EXCITED! I get more nervous for other peoples weddings than I did for my own... so strange. I'm also way more emotional. The morning of our wedding I was so calm it scared me. I didn't even cry until Brian did... At Jacci's wedding... SO NERVOUS and I balled like a baby... same for Jericas wedding. So Cheslea... hate to tell you this but I'm pretty sure I'm going to be a mess. haha. The weekend AFTER this weekend we are actually headed to TX again. Brian is going to Houston for Bart's wedding... he's a groomsman, and I'm headed to Dallas again to hang out with my good friend Val Goode. Mojo will be in town as well so it should be a lot of fun. Again... I promise not to forget my camera this time.

I should be getting my car ANY DAY now! If it doesn't come in tomorrow then we'll just have to wait to pick it up until we get back from Chelsea's wedding. I feel like I've waited forever for this car!

OK well I have to get back to work. Brian and I have lots to look forward to these next couple of weeks... I LOVE that. Makes it easier to wake up in the mornings that's for sure. Hope everyone has a great Memorial Day weekend! Enjoy your day off! :)

A-Town!!

2008-05-09T06:57:00.002-06:00

Abilene here we come! I'm sitting at work (it's 7:30am mind you... blah)... and I can hardly sit still because I'm SO excited about heading back to A-town. I have missed everyone SO much! Brian is off the whole day... boo... so he will be coming to get me arounD 11:45 and we are off to the airport! Yesssssss. Val Goode will be our transportation for the weekend, and for that I am very greatful :)

Short post I know but expect pictures when we return! Congrats in advance to Chandler and Jerica!! Love you guys and I'm sure it will be a beautiful wedding. Everyone have a wonderful weekend!

The Econmy and Steel Prices

2008-04-25T11:50:00.002-06:00

Now doesn't that just sound like a riveting title?? I know you just cannot WAIT to read about what I have to say about the economy and steel prices! Trust me, I wouldn't be talking about, but I have found that lately it is effecting my life directly. I work for a company fabricates steel tubing (sounds strange I know), but steel prices have gone up like 110% since I started working here, and it's REALLY effecting our business. Stinks. They actually laid a couple of people off in the plant, and another lady up front. I'm actual doing accounting on top of my normal job (sales, marketing) to cover for the lady that they laid off. The bright side? Well... being that I'm the newest one to the company they should've let me go... however... my boss informed me that he thinks I have some very valuable skills that are an asset to the company. Makes you feel good :) I know the business will be fine... they've gone through these types of increases before, but it's still a bit scary. And gas prices... holy cow... all I can say is thank goodness I'm getting my Mini!

Tonight I'm meeting my parents, my brother, and my grandpa and his wife for dinner. My grandpa missed out on the bday celebration we had for my dad last weekend so I think he feels bad and wants to take him out for dinner with us all. Fine by me! I bought Juno and Cloverfield yesterday at Target... we'll probably go home and watch those afterwards. Nothing like a good movie and a blanket to cuddle up next to the one you love :) Saturday we are going to the Cards/Astros game with Gretchen and Justin. REALLY excited about that. It's a day game, and the weather is supposed to be like 65 and sunny... sounds good to me!

Side note: I just had some spicy soup for lunch... killer heartburn right now... ouch. What am I, like 75???? Geesh.

We go to Abilene the weekend after next!! Our bestest friend Val Goode is picking us up from the airport and then we are trekking it to A-Town. (JACCI YOU SHOULD RIDE WITH US PLEEEEEEEEEAAASSSSEEEE????? ) Then Chelsea's wedding is Memorial Day weekend. Cannot WAIT for that. I'm SO happy for her and Alec... they are the greatest couple and they deserve all the happiness in the world. Love, love, LOVE her family and cannot wait to see all of them! Love you Chels!

So I have a PDF file of the proof of our wedding album (turned out AMAZING... I LOVE our photographer...) and I'm wondering if there is anyway I can post it on here??? Any advice let me know... I would love to share with you all!

K... back to work for the remainder of the day. Everyone have an amazing weekend!! Jac and Mer... you guys are going to have SO much fun! Take lots of pics!

My Mini

2008-04-15T08:18:00.002-06:00

Hope everyone had a great weekend... I sure did!! We ordered our NEW CAR!!! yayayayay!! We are selling the Mustang, and this weekend we just put an order in for a brand spanking new Mini Cooper S!!! I'm so excited. It's one of those cars that's so ugly it's cute you know? Plus... it gets incredible gas mileage and it's super speedy. We are so excited. It won't be here for like 6 weeks though. They make them over in Oxford and have to ship them over here. So... let's just hope these next 6 weeks FLY by! I'll take TONS of pictures when it comes in I promise! I'm not looking forward to the car payment part, but hey gotta grow up sometime right? Plus Brian and I have NO credit what so ever, so this will be a good way for us to get some. Especially if we every plan on buying a house. I've never had a credit card... can you believe that? Weird I know.

Brian woke up last week in the middle of the night with a horrible toothache. SO... at 4am we drove to my parents house because my Dad usually has a stash of pain pills for emergencies. He went to the dentist the next day and found out he had a horrible infection and would need a root canal! Now... if you know my husband, you know that he is DEATHLY terrified of the dentist. HATES going. So... yesterday he went in to have it done. He was under PLENTY of sedatives so I don't think he felt much during the procedure but afterwards he was in a lot of pain. Poor baby... he feels better today thank goodness... I'm ready to have the old Brian back!! haha...

I cannot WAIT for May!! We are going to Texas practically every weekend it feels like and I couldn't be happier! I cannot wait to see all of my friends again and catch up! I feel like it's been SOOO long! I miss all of you so flipping much!! I feel like I've missed out on so many showers and birthdays and bachelorette parties already ... I'm just ready to get down there! :)

On a side note: My mom was talking to my grandpa last night (he's in a nursing home now) and he was just so out of it. The director of the nursing home called her later and told her that he was refusing to eat or take his medications. It's like he is completely giving up on life. Normally, this would be a happy time knowing that he is about to go spend eternity with our Father, but my grandpa is not a Christian. Every time anyone has tried to speak with him about it, even lately, he won't have any of it. So anyway... keep him and our family in your prayers. I think these next couple months could be a bit rocky...

I hope everyone has a GREAT week! The countdown to Friday continues...

Young Life

2008-03-31T15:26:00.002-06:00

Hello all. Yet another rainy day here in Missouri. Pretty sure you have all watched on the news, but we've had quite a problem with flooding lately, and it's not going to get any better if it doesn't stop raining like it has been. On a good note... it's making everything green again!

Brian and I have been looking for a way for us to grow together in our faith and also some way to minister to others. Well... we have recently just got plugged in to Young Life (plugged back in for me...) All through high school I went to Young Life and absolutely LOVED it. I'm sure some of you have heard of Young Life, but if you haven't it is basically a place where high school kids can come and be KIDS, while being introduced to Christ. It takes a lot of dedicated people to keep a nationally recognized non-profit organization like Young Life going. My parents joined the committee for our area soon after I graduated college and have been helping out ever since. My Young Life leader in high school was a woman by the name of Tonya. She absolutely without a doubt had the most significant impact on my adolescent life. She was the most amazing friend and mentor. She is no longer involved with Young Life (she has 4 kids of her own), but to this day I still call her my "Young Life leader". We still talk regularly and she is constantly checking up on me to see how I'm doing. It's WONDERFUL having such an amazing follower of Christ in my life to look up to. Oddly enough, she works at the Vineyard where Brian and I got married so we got to plan my wedding together :) God works in mysterious ways.

With all of that said, I really hope to become that sort of influence in some girl's life like Tonya was in mine. It will take lots of time and commitment, but I think Brian and I are ready for something like this. I am by no means a perfect person, but I think even lending an ear and telling someone that God loves them can be enough. Just BEING THERE.

So... keep Brian and I in your prayers the next couple of months as we train to become Young Life leaders.

Tomorrow is Friday! That will put a smile on anyone's face...

Foggy London Town

2008-03-26T13:52:00.008-06:00

Ok so I apologize for being such a slacker when it comes to posting our London pictures. I assure you have tried, but I've been swamped at work, and my stupid computer at home refuses to work. With that said... here is a recap of our amazing London adventure...

Where to begin? We were only there a week but it felt like so much longer. We crammed so much sight seeing into each day it was ridiculous... necessary but ridiculous. We saw everything there is to see in London and then some. It was so amazing have Brian's Nana there with us. She told us so many of her stories from the war and showed us all of the places that were important to her. I'm so thankful that we have someone like that in our lives. She is a plethera of history and information. Every day thousdands of WW2 surviors die and we don't even realize it. It's sad that we don't take advantage of all of their knowledge because soon they will all be gone. There is so much amazing history to be seen and learned in London. Walking through Westminster Abbey and St. Paul's Cathedral alone were absolutely breathtaking. (Also a bit creepy beacause there are tombs of kings, queens, writers, war heros, etc. everywhere)

We did our fair share of pub crawling as well. Brian's younger brother Brad was stoked because the drinking age is lower over there. You can't walk five steps without running into a pub. They are everywhere and so cool looking. (I've got my fill of beer for awhile I can tell you that much) I'm not sure I quite understand their appetites over there though. Obviously tons of fish and chips, lamb, pork, tuna, and some other wierd stuff. I was definitely ready to come back to american food after a whole week of it.

The Imperial War Museum was probably one of my absolute favorite things about London. So many cool things to see. The best was the Holocaust Exihibit. I think I had chills the entire time walking through that. Some of the things I saw made me physically ill to look at, but it happened and we don't ever need to forget that.

It was definitely a long and tiring week (my feet still have blisters from walking so much) but I would LOVE to go back again someday. A week is not nearly enough. I'm so thankful we were given the opportunity to go...

Here are a few of my favorites from the week. I will post all of them on facebook once I can figure out my stupid computer at home.

Buckingham Palace

Picadilly Circus... it was like a mini Times Square

This is the Pub where Brian's Nana and Grandad first met...

Above: Big Ben and the houses of Parliament

The London Eye... a.k.a... one HUGE ferris wheel... great views up there. A bit scary though.

Picture Above and Below... Tower of London...

Westminster Abbey

Above: Me at the place where Nana stayed after her house was bombed during the war.

All of us, minus Brian, at Windsor Castle... the Queen stays here most weekends.

Inside of the Swan and Bottle... another pub.

Ok well that will have to do you for now because I have to get back to work. I'll post the remaining 300 pics on Facebook. ha! One more story before I sign off... So we were walking down the streets of Picadilly Circus. It's really like New York... people walking on the streets everywhere. WELL... I put my arm out and locked it with Brian's so I wouldn't lose him when I hear "ELLO LOVE!" It was some HUGE drunk scottsman... definitely NOT Brian. Scared the crap out of me, but then I couldn't stop laughing. Moral of this story... look before you grab your husbands arm.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful week!

LoNdOn HeRe We CoMe!!!!

2008-03-12T11:52:00.003-06:00

So Friday is the big day! We fly to Cincinnati at 5:45pm (gotta leave work a bit early, darn) and then it's on to London! It's about a 7 hour flight from there. I've never had any problems sleeping on a plane, and since it will be night time anyway I don't think it should be too bad really. Brian on the other hand can NEVER sleep on planes. I might have to slip something in his drink otherwise he'll end up keeping me awake too. Ha!

I have no clue what our plans are for the week we are there, and frankly I don't care. I'm just so pumped to be going. I hear that the food is awful which sucks, but hey it will be good for the diet. My parents and everyone else on the planet have made me promise to take a million pictures, so I will for sure have an interesting post with lots of pics when we return on the 22nd. Pray for our safe travel!

On another exciting note... I finally got a new phone! Brian and I started our own contract with At&t. Kind of exciting. He got a new phone as well. Both of our old phones were ridiculous. Mine is a Blackberry so I'm still trying to figure it all out but so far I love it! We'll see how much I love it after the first bill comes....

Ok well back to work now. Wish us luck on our trip and I will talk to ya'll whenever we get back!! Everyone have a good weekend and following week!

Holy Snow.

2008-03-04T12:50:00.002-06:00

I think in some of my previous posts I've stated how much I love St. Louis because it snows, and how pretty it is and blah blah blah, but I've come to the conclusion that I HATE SNOW. It was almost 80 degrees on Sunday and now... it's a dang blizzard outside. There is already 6 inches of snow on the ground at our house and here I am at work wondering how in the CRAP I'm going to make it home. I'm not saying the roads are impassable, but it's those dummies that decide they know how to drive in the snow and drive way to fast and cause a huge 10-car pile-up that has me stuck for a good 2 hours. This is seriously like our 5 or 6th big winter storm this year... being in Texas for so long I forgot how bad it can really get. I have no doubt that if today were a Saturday I'd be ecstatic about all of this snow, but NO... not today. There is no way I'm getting out of here early either... too much to do, and from what I've heard, "we never close." Wish me luck on my drive home...

This weekends weather was a bit different... so nice. Our first nice weekend in a while. Saturday I opened all of our windows and cleaned the house from top to bottom. SO much better. Saturday night we went to Buffalo Wild wings with Gretch and Justin. Sunday we went to the driving range... Brian has been dying to pick up a golf club again. I'm actually ready for golf season to come back around too... I got really into it right as the season was ending last year.

Ok well I know this is boring, but a post is a post, and I have to get back to work... I so wish it was Friday.

Out of the dog house...

2008-02-27T12:24:00.005-06:00

So... if you've read my previous post, then you are well aware of my Valentine's Day horror. (ha ok I know it wasn't the end of the world... but it was CLOSE). The following week he made up for it with these:

I know the picture is kind of hard to see but it's like six little diamonds arranged in sort of a circle. I love them, but I most definitely didn't need jewelry for him to make up for it... lots of money that we don't have, but whatever I'll take it! So... he's officially out of the doghouse. (PS... for those of you who know me well, please take note in the pictures of how I have given up biting my nails... thank you thank you). Oh ... and I know they are really late but here are some pictures of the Grand Hall at Union Station (where we stayed Vday...) So beautiful!

The new job is going great... the days go by so quickly because I'm constantly busy. Sometimes I even forget about lunch, which is SO unlike me. I'm learning a lot and I know I'm getting some great experience in my field.

I'm not really sure what else to report... not a whole lot going on lately really, except that we leave for London in like 15 days or something... so pumped. No big plans this weekend yet really... layin low as always.

Hope everyone is well. Bye for now....

Not a happy camper...

2008-02-18T12:43:00.002-06:00

Hello all... I hope everyone had a marvelous Valentine's Day with their loved ones. I had quite the interesting one to say the least... going to try to make a long story short here so bare with me. So Thursday, Valentine's Day, I sit at work all day anxiously awaiting what presents I might be getting. When no flowers or anything came to work I drove home knowing that something would be waiting at the house for me. However, I came home to a gift-less house. That morning, I left Brian a basket full of Valentine's stuff so he'd have it when he came home for work (he got off at 2PM because he had class that night). So I figured surely he'd leave me something but nope. NOTHING. Now, take into consideration that it was that special time of the month for me, and you can just imagine how upset I was. I balled the entire night until he got home. He apologized a million times for not getting me anything, and I'm still not too sure why he didn't, but needless to say he was not on my good list that night or the following day. I was just really hurt that it was our FIRST Valentine's as a married couple and I got nothing. It's not like he had to spend a lot of money or anything... a card/note, flowers, anything you know? Also, all I've done for the past MONTH is talk about Valentine's Day... hence my blog posts about how much I LOVE Vday...

So Friday comes around and I'm still hurt... at work I can't think about much else and when I get off and head home I'm not sure what to expect. He did end up getting me flowers... said they were an apologee and that he'd find a way to make it up to me. I know he's really sorry... you could tell that just by looking at him, but we won't have Valentine's Day again for another year and it won't be our first one...

Saturday we went downtown to the Hyatt like we had planned... we really did have a great time, but the whole time I'm kinda just waiting for SOMETHING to show me that he's really sorry and he's trying to make it up to me but nothing out of the ordinary happened.

I really just need to come to terms with the fact that he is a GUY, and he always will be. He doesn't think like I do and he cannot read my mind. Why don't they realize that it's not about how much money they spend? All he would have to do is spend some time writing me a note or lighting some candles... ya know?

Ok I'm done venting. Everything is fine now, but NEXT Valentine's Day better be out of this world! ha!

ExCiTeD!!!

2008-02-13T08:57:00.003-06:00

Yes people... it's true...Valentine's Day is TOMORROW and I couldn't be more excited. However, my excitement will have to carry over until Saturday, because like I explained in my previous post, that is when we are celebrating, and I can't wait!! I hope everyone has some amazing things planned for their valentine. I have a couple of things planned for tomorrow that he doesn't know about ( I can say that because he NEVER reads my blog... seriously.) So... we'll take lots of pictures this weekend during our Valentine's celebration. First Valentine's as a married couple :) Speaking of that... we will be married 6 months next month... insane! It feels like yesterday.

In the spirit of Valentine's, (how many times have I typed "valentine" in this blog already??) I thought I would let you all know why my husband, my valentine is the greatest...

- He is just as goofy and strange as I am... I'm glad people can't hear our normal day-to-day conversations because they would think we were nuts

- When I'm cooking he comes in the kitchen and talks to me about my day

- He's smart, kind, caring, trustworthy, and PATIENT with probably the most difficult woman on the planet (yeah... me)

- During the day he'll send me text messages that say, "I can't wait to see you tonight!" when all we do is sit around and watch TV together.

- We laugh all day, everyday

- He is a professional cuddler...

- He says I love you all the time and just because

- He is my soulmate and best friend for life

I love you baby!!

Have a wonderful Valentine's Day everyone!!

Job New-ness...

2008-02-08T13:05:00.000-06:00

So I started the new job on Monday. So far so good. However, I hate how when you start a new job you feel like you are walking around the office with "I'm new and have no clue what's going on" stamped on your forehead for everyone to see. Oh well... that will go away in due time, but I've never been a fan of the first few months at a new job. I do like my job though... the drive is so much easier and I actually get home at a reasonable time. Brian and I have struggled with having time to go to the gym with my other job, but now we've been going as soon as I get home and we still have time to get home and make dinner. So much better.

We made our Valentine's Day plans!!! The night before we left for our honeymoon we stayed at the Hyatt Regency downtown. It's a part of Union Station (if you're not familiar with St. Louis... Union Station is actually a huge old train station that they turned into a bunch of cool shops, bars, and restaurants). But anyway... we had so much fun that night so we decided to try it out again. They have a Valentine's Day special that includes valet parking, champagne and truffels, free in-room movie, and breakfast the next morning. So we are really excited. We are going on Saturday night because Brian has class all day Saturday (Friday wouldn't make much sense). I already gave him his present (North Face Jacket) but I told him not to get me anything since we are paying a hefty price for the hotel. However, all women know that's code for "You better get me something thoughtful". haha... jk... a night with him is enough.

Side note: sitting at work and I just got flowers from my parents saying "Happy first week". :) aweeeee....

No big plans this weekend yet... layin low as always. Might fit some bowling or a movie in there somewhere who knows!!?? Crazy life we lead I know...

Peace out.

I didn't cry this time!

2008-01-31T08:40:00.000-06:00

Well I did it! I really didn't think I'd have the guts but I'm glad I went through with it. It's going to be SO much easier to fix. I'm still in shock of how short it really is, but I think that will pass. I've got nothing but positive reviews so far, so that helps. Brian really likes it. So... mission accomplished...got my hair chopped off and didn't cry!

Start the new job on Monday. I guess I can tell ya'll more about it now since my last official day at Gateway is tomorrow. The company is called Bohn & Dawson. They make a bunch of specialized parts for lots of different companies all over the world. St. Louis is their headquarters but they also have offices in Texas, China, and a bunch of other places that I can't remember right now. Ha. So basicially I'll be working with the Product Managers quoting all of these companies and making sure they get what they are paying for. I'll probably have a lot of learning to do in my first couple of months, but that's true with any job. It pays well, and it's about 30 minutes closer to our house! BIG PLUS. I'll keep you updated on how my first week goes!!

Super Bowl weekend! Yay!! I LOVE THE SUPER BOWL. I only wish that the Monday after the Super Bowl was some sort of National holiday... sucks going to work the next day. What's my pick you ask? Well... you hear all of these people going against the Patriots and praying that the Giants can some how pull it off... NOT ME. I think what the Patriots have done this season is amazing and I would love to see them go undefeated. They deserve it... plus I've never been an Eli Manning fan by any means. He annoys me and I can't explain why. He just seems like a big baby... sorry if some of ya'll are Eli fans. So anyway... without a doubt I think the Pats are taking this one. I hope the Giants can make a game of it, but I guess we'll see! We'll be at the house watching with my parents and probably Gretchen and Justin. I'm excited for finger foods! :)

I hope ya'll have a wonderful weekend, and if there are any of you out there contemplating chopping all your hair off... DO IT!!!

Bye Bye Hair...

2008-01-30T08:33:00.001-06:00

Ok so this past Saturday my mom and I went and got our hair done together... I simply wanted a trim and highlights. I told the lady that I wanted to be much lighter (I hadn't had my hair highlighted since before the wedding so I was in bad shape). So... she gave me highlights. They weren't bad but not enough... then she decides that my hair is "dull" so she puts TONER in it. Ummm HELLOOOOO??? Toner makes your hair darker and it totally defeated the purpose of my highlights. Was not happy with the color. AND... for my trim she cut off like an inch and a half. So... needless to say I left there pretty upset. I'm one of those dumb girls that cries whenever I don't like my hair so when Brian came and picked me up he was all confused because I started crying. haha... poor Brian. And of course he could say nothing to make it better.

Now that it has been a few days my hair looks fine, and I know this. I'm just a girl that over reacts. However... I've already made the decision to cut it all off... today. I have an appointment at 3:30. I cut my hair pretty short last year, and I didn't really like it that much. It was a weird cut... I have an idea of what I actually want this time and I'm bringing a couple of pictures. So... wish me luck! Let's hope I don't leave this place crying. I'll post pictures tonight of the final product. Man am I nervous!!

Side note: I know I sound like a total brat when talking about my hair... I don't mean to, but for me it's just that one thing that I'm overly sensitive about.

Bye bye hair!

I lOvE fRiDaYs!!!

2008-01-25T14:06:00.000-06:00

It is so much easier to wake up for work on a Friday... and now it's 2PM and my day at work is almost over!! After work I have to go meet Brian at the vet's office. Oscar, being the crazy puppy that he is, decided to go for a stroll in our woods a couple of weeks ago and ended up with quite a wound on his chest. I took him in to get 8 stitches two weeks ago, and tonight he's getting them taken out. Luckily the wound is in a spot where he hasn't been able to lick it at all... it was hilarious watching him try to reach it. Not sure what it was that stuck him, but who knows what's back in those woods. It's so nice having dogs that don't run off. We can let them both out, go get ready, and then 15 minutes later just call their names and they come running back to the door. Who knows what they do in that 15 minutes... but I don't care just as long as they come back and stay in our yard. Really not sure what we'd do without our dogs. Just in case you forgot... here are our cute little (ha!) doggies... (Oscar on the left, Shea on the right)

Nothing too huge planned for this weekend. After we take Oscar to the vet and all that I think we'll probably do dinner and movie. We've been wanting to go to the movies for a long time now. Might see Juno or the sequel to National Treasure. Who knows. I just love going to the movies. I've heard good things about Juno so my vote is for that but I'm sure Brian will have something to say about that...

Saturday my mom and I are going together to get our hair done. I haven't had my hair highlighted since before the wedding and I'm starting to look a bit trashy. ha. My hair has FINALLY started growing out, so I don't think I'll be having much trimming done. Sunday I'm sure we'll do the normal church and lunch then just lay around. I hate the break before the Super Bowl... what the crap will we watch on Sunday??!!

Have a GREAT weekend all my loyal readers... all 3 of you.

It's flipping cold.

2008-01-21T13:33:00.000-06:00

Well hello there. I stink at posting I know... shut it.

It is so flipping cold here. Seriously. It's the kind of cold where you walk around a corner and it just takes your breath away for a good couple of seconds. I feel like our house just can't stay warm. Our electric bill is going to be RIDICULOUS this month but whatever... it's worth it. It's so much harder to get out of bed when it's freeeezing out. Stinks. Hopefully it will warm up soon though... keep your fingers crossed.

Hmmm.... what's new... well for starters I start a new job in two weeks. Kind of a big change in our life. Brian and I have talked and prayed about it for some time now, and we really think it's the right move for me. It's just a better place for me all around. I'll explain more when the time comes. It's still very new, and I need to finish out my next two weeks at Gateway before I share any details. But... keep us in your prayers. God sure has a way of providing... it's unbelievable how this job just fell in my lap. Anyway... more later about that.

On to more good news... we are going to London in March! I couldn't be more excited!! Brian's Nana is from there so she kind of knows her way around. Brian's parents are paying for our entire trip... the most amazing Christmas gift ever! The only place I've been out of the country is Mexico... and I've heard such amazing things about London. We are going for a little over a week in March. We come back the day before Easter. It will be myself, Brian, Brian's Mom, Brian's brother, Brian's Nana, and Brian's uncle. So... it's like a big Howard affair. I absolutely cannot wait. I promise to take way too many pictures :)

Is it bad that I'm already excited for Valentine's Day? I flipping love that holiday... even when I was single I still liked it. Not sure why. Dunno what I'm going to get Brian yet but something good... I'm pondering several things. I'll keep you updated of course. Only 24 more days! ha!

Ok well that's all for now folks. Back to work I go. Catch ya on the flip side.

[insert title here]

2008-01-10T09:15:00.000-06:00

Hello there...

I haven't posted since my "list" for 2007. I think I needed a break after that.

So I have recently become an eBayer... I never even went to the site until about a month ago when I bought Brian's Wii on there. Recently I just bought a new pair of UGG's. There is something so exciting about the whole bidding thing and actually winning. I know I sound like a total geek talking about this, especially since most of you probably have known about eBay for quite some time, but hey I'm new to the whole concept. Thankfully I've had some pretty honest sellers so far. It makes me want to go home and look around my house for things that I can make a couple bucks off of... ha!

We went to the Blues game last weekend with Gretchen and her boyfriend Justin. It was tons of fun... a couple of slug-fests on the ice, and our seats were free drinks and free food all night. Very nice. Afterwards, I got conned into going to the casino. I must say I've never actually been to a big casino, and after going, I don't see the fascination AT ALL. First complaint - the SMOKE. I felt like I couldn't see my hand in front of my face not to mention the next day my throat was sore just from breathing it for two hours. Secondly - you can't help but look around and almost feel sorry for all of the idiots that sit there and think that their next dollar is going to win them the jackpot. GIVE IT UP. The whole gambling thing in general just seems dirty to me in some way. I don't know... can't explain it. BUT ... needless to say I will not be attending a casino anytime soon.

Brian just started a new class on Tuesday. He now has class every Tuesday and Thursday night. Which I'm glad he's going to class but it does suck to have him come home so late. Oh well. They are his Fire 1 and Fire 2 classes...whatever that means. He'll be done with those in May and then hopefully will be able to be hired on at a fire house. From there he can work and begin his paramedics classes. He'll be busy, but it will be worth it in the long run. I'm very proud of him.

No big plans this weekend. We need to spend some time cleaning... the house is dirty and it's driving me insane. So... much to Brian's excitement we will be tackling that task this weekend. He gets to do fun stuff like clean out the garage and the basement. WOO HOO!!!

Well... sorry for the boring post but it will have to do for now. Have a wonderful weekend!

Is it Spring yet??

2008-01-03T09:47:00.000-06:00

So... today is my first day back at work since the 20th of December. I was sitting at home quite a bit the past couple of weeks, and yet still did not find time to update my blog. However, once I get to work it's the first thing I think of. Oh well. Lots to catch up on...

Christmas was wonderful as always. Houston was great... the weather was perfect. It was so nice to just chill out at Brian's house with the family. What did we get for Christmas you ask? Well... I got Brian a Wii. Trust me, not an easy task as I'm sure you all know. But... it was worth it. He loves it and I love it too...so much fun. I actually broke a sweat playing it the other day... and that's never a bad thing. haha. Brian got me and iHome for my iPod (radio, alarm, charger, etc). So nice... I've always used my phone as my alarm. So much better to wake up to music. It was very clever of him. My parents bought Brian a new driver... I swear they spoil the crap out of him now. I got the usual Clinique make up from my mom and they also gave us money to go towards a new couch... we need one bad. Brian's parents gave us the option of a ski trip or a trip to London whenever they go ( most likely this summer ). Needless to say I was all for the London trip. Brian of course had to think about it, but then decided on London.

Being inspired by Meredith's Blog I decided to go ahead and make a list for 2007; I'll try and hit 100 but no promises:
100. 2007 was by far the best year of my life
99. I love snow, ice, sleet, everything Winter; but not driving in it
98. I could see my parents everyday and never be tired of it
97. I spoil our dogs SO badly...
96. Brian scratches my back every time I ask him to. I hate scratching his. ha.
95. I like watching every single show on MTV
94. I hate the writer's strike... it's killing me.
93. I do NOT like watching basketball... any other sport... NOT basketball.
92. I pass out every time I get a shot or get blood taken
91. I'm actually a pretty good cook...and enjoy doing it
90. I press snooze at least 5 times every morning
89. I'm an avid book reader; current read: "PS... I Love you" I plan to see the movie when I'm done.
88. Brian is like the human sports encyclopedia; He could tell you where any pro sports player when to college... it's so weird.
87. Our first date was at McDonald's... for breakfast of course.
86. I LOVE his family
85. I miss my friend's from Texas SO much... I think about them ALL daily.
84. I LOVE asparagus, but hate the way it makes your pee smells. (sorry... gross I know)
83. I enjoy listening to talk radio on my way to work
82. I laugh at almost everything... sometimes too much.
81. Our wedding feels like a dream... but a WONDERFUL one
80. My parents still act like newlyweds...sickening but such an inspiration
79. I've sang the National Anthem at the old Busch Stadium... twice
78. I sang the National Anthem at most all of the home sports games in high school
77. I hate it when some commercials are louder than others and you have to turn the TV down
76. We will always have AT LEAST one dog
75. We plan on having kids in 4 or 5 years... God willing.
74. I don't want to take my Christmas Tree down. What's the rule for that anyway?
73. I get scared at night if Brian falls asleep before I do... I "hear things" in the house
72. I don't floss
71. I can fall asleep in about 2 minutes of lying down
70. 4 years of college felt like a couple of months
69. I don't like being at the mall for more than 2 hours. EVER.
68. Brian grinds his teeth in his sleep and it wakes me up sometimes. Ewww
67. Brian used to leave notes on my car when we were in school... I saved them all.
66. My brother is the nicest guy ever... too nice. He needs a girlfriend. I'm taking applications.
65. NASCAR races are actually really entertaining to watch
64. I still have several of my closest friends from high school
63. I'm deathly afraid of deep water when I can't see the bottom
62. I feel naked without my cell phone and chap stick
61. Brian and I are on a bowling league with my mom's work... my average is up to 108... don't laugh.
60. The Melting Pot is my favorite restaurant
59. My mom is 4 ft. 9 inches tall
58. I love getting the chills at church
57. We clean every Sunday
56. I love coming home and getting greeted at the door by a kiss from Brian and some dog licks.
55. I hate wearing heels
54. I secretly want a pair of Ugg Boots. (or however you spell that)
53. I think they need to start FAA - "Facebook Addicts Anonymous"
52. I want to keep my future kids away from the Internet for as long as possible
51. I know nothing about the current Presidential candidates... one of my New Year's resolutions
50. My daughter will have the middle name Jo, like myself, my mother, and my grandmother
49. I LOVE Bean Burritos
48. I had Scarlet Fever my freshman year in college
47. I drink way too much coffee in the mornings
46. Brian dances around the house to his own tune on a daily basis - makes me laugh every time
45. I hate doing laundry... more than the dishes
44. I WILL lose 10 pounds this winter
43. I am NOT a morning person; Brian is; not a good mix
42. I hate putting on make up
41. I never know what to do with my hair; it's always boring
40. I have finally come to the realization that I will NEVER be tan; freckles yes, tan no.
39. I kick and talk in my sleep almost every night... or so Brian tells me
38. I hate that I buy bottled water
37. I would NEVER want to be a celebrity
36. Brian's hair is going to be gray in 5 years I'm predicting; his little patch just keeps growing
35. I like writing letters... real ones, not email
34. I get on soda kicks - this week it's Diet Sierra Mist Cranberry Splash - YUM
33. I love a good pen
32. Brian's after shave gel - the best smell in the world
31. Brian LOVES video games, but he only plays them before I get home from work (it's like he's hiding the fact that he's still just a big kid)
30. I wish I had time to take baths
29. I haven't had a pedicure in MONTHS - it's sick
28. I actually miss studying in some sick way; there is just something about studying your butt off for a test and acing it that makes you feel SO amazing
27. I shave my legs everyday... it's a habit I think; I hate stubble
26. I look forward to putting my sweatpants back on after I get home from work
25. Traffic baffles me; if everyone would just GO why is there congestion?
24. They just closed one of the 3 MAJOR interstates here in St. Louis... for TWO YEARS! So frustrating!!! Re-routing is going to be my life...
23. I MUST have a calendar and I write stupid things on it like "call Mom after work"
22. I like to think about crazy things like how small I actually am on this HUGE planet that God has created...
21. I always have a song stuck in my head and if the radio is on, I'm singing
20. I am a movie trivia buff... ask me a question - "Scene It!" Champion 2007
19. I desperately need an address book
18. I can't sleep without a fan
17. I'm a huge Cardinals fan and it pisses me off when people talk crap about them
16. I miss my grandmothers - both have passed - I constantly have the feeling they are looking out for me though...
15. I like that when I sneeze, my grandpa says "Bless you my child"
14. My dad calls me pumpkin and poose-pah. No clue what that is...
13. I cry when I watch almost anything remotely sad on television. I hide it well though
12. I miss my job at the preschool in Abilene
11. 11 is how old I was when I broke my right arm because my dog tripped me
10. I'm not really a fan of chocolate...
9. Brian and I both got hives from the sun on our honeymoon in Mexico; good thing we are both pale as crap. I feel sorry for our children...
8. I like puzzles
7. I don't like rap... I have pretended to at times, but I really just don't like it
6. I cannot believe Jamie Lynn is prego... my world is crushed. ha jk, but it's crap. I feel sorry for those parents that have to explain that to their 8 year-olds
5. I don't think I'll ever feel like an adult
4. I miss the 420 College Drive... good times
3. I can NEVER find anything to wear in the morning
2. Brian seriously has 250 T-Shirts
1. I love my life

Wow... I did it. Hope it wasn't too boring for you. Ok... someone else's turn!! Val? Jacci?

Love you all...

9 Days until Christmas!

2007-12-17T09:05:00.000-06:00

I've been lazy with this whole blogging thing lately... my sincere apologies. Here are a few pics from our snowy weekend...

The dogs with our snowman that we worked VERY hard on. I'm seriously sore... sad I know.

Saturday night Justin and Gretchen came over. The snow kept coming down, so we decided to go sledding down our street on air mattresses. It was SO much fun. This is me! It was our first BIG snow of the season... hopefully we'll have a white Christmas! Sunday we literally laid around ALL day. There was a Lord of the Rings marathon on... we are HUGE Lord of the Rings dorks... and proud of it.

We leave for Houston on Thursday night after work. We are so excited... I know Brian is ready for a visit to his "real" home. I have SO much Christmas shopping still to do. I'm only done with Brian and my parents. Lots of money to be spent between now and Christmas. We come back to St. Louis on Christmas Day... my family's Christmas is that following Saturday. So excited! I LOVE Christmas!!!!!!!

That's all for now... Hope everyone has a marvelous week!!

Facebook vs. Blogging

2007-12-04T08:26:00.000-06:00

So I've encountered a delima. Whenever I post new pictures on facebook, am I obligated to post the exact same ones on my blog? The only reason I ask is because I know everyone who checks this, also religiously checks facebook (don't worry I do as well). So... I've come to the decision that I will most likely just post my photos on facebook, mainly because my computer at home takes FOREVER to load pictures on here for some reason. But, just in case you missed it on facebook... here is our very first Christmas Tree :)

We had a pretty good weekend I think. Friday we actually didn't do much of anything. We were both tired so we just got our grocery shopping out of the way and then went home and crashed for the night. Saturday I went shopping with Gretchen. I was supposed to be Christmas shopping for other people but I ended up finding some great deals on clothes for myself :) There's still time left to shop so I'm not too worried. I wish I could talk to ya'll about Brian's present, but I can't because I know he checks this every now and then. So... you'll just have to wait. After we went shopping we went back to the house and made a bunch of appetizers for the Mizzou game. My parents came over also. They freaking lost, but it was still a good time. Sunday we went to church, lunch, target and then hung out with my brother for a bit. Brian and I watched Blood Diamond Sunday night... VERY good movie. I highly recommend it for you movie lovers out there.

Nothing too exciting planned for this week really. We bowl on Thursday... woo hoo!! No plans for this weekend yet either... but that doesn't stop me from wishing it was FRIDAY. Only three more days.

That's all for this installment... sorry not a very exciting week.

Love you all.

The countdown begins...

2007-11-27T11:15:00.000-06:00

The countdown to Christmas begins and I couldn't be more excited! Don't get me wrong... I love Thanksgiving and all, but it's a tease. I'm beginning my Christmas shopping this weekend and I'm pumped. I love shopping for other people, but it's not a good idea for me to go this early... I have the hardest time not telling people what I've gotten them. The Mizzou game is on this weekend as well... HUGE game... so excited for them. I'm putting my money on Mizzou. Call me crazy... but they ARE going to beat Oklahoma.

Hilton Head was great! Being the retard I am, I forgot my camera. Nice I know. However, I did take several pictures with my parents camera. Now it just involves me getting a hold of their memory card before I can post pics. I wish we would've had more time there, it seemed so short. We ate... A LOT, played golf, watched a crap ton of football and took several naps. All in all, a very relaxing weekend. The house was beautiful... I swear it slept 20 people... ok maybe 14 but still. Huge! In the summer time, it is $10,000 a WEEK to rent. Ridiculous what they charge down there. I love it though... my parents have been going there for 30 years, and I can't remember a single year that we haven't gone at least once. I took 12 of my high school friends there for our senior trip... probably the most fun I've ever had in a week's time. I really want to get a bunch of people together and all meet down there... it would be SO much fun.

These next couple of weeks of work are going to crawl by... I just know it. We fly to Houston on the 20th of December and come back to St. Louis on Christmas Day. Looks like I might get to see Chelsea while I'm in Houston and possibly Jacci too :) We shall see... girls let me know.

Well... that's all for now. Time for lunch here at the racetrack. Bye Bye.

The Holidays are here!!

2007-11-20T09:32:00.000-06:00

The Holidays are officially here and I'm SO excited. I know everyone says it but it is absolutely my favorite time of year. We bought our very first Christmas Tree last night. Along with a crap ton of other stuff from Michaels. That place is so addicting. We stayed up WAY too late setting it up so I'm dragging butt today at work but oh well... it was so worth it. Gretchen and her boyfriend Justin are coming over tonight to help finish decorating. Brian and Justin are going to hang lights outside on the house while Gretchen and I finish up the tree. Sounds thrilling I know, but these are exciting nights for me belive it or not. haha. I PROMISE I'll put up pictures of the house once all of our decorations are up. AND... we did get our wedding pictures if you haven't seen them yet go to http://www.photovideoimage.com and click on "online albums" and you'll see us! I can't post any of those on here yet because the site is protected but I'm getting a CD from the photographer.... so hold your horses Val Goode. I can't wait to celebrate our very first Christmas as a husband and wife :)

I have a half day of work tomorrow, then I have to take the dogs to the kennel. We are staying the night in downtown St. Louie tomorrow night because our flight leaves so early for Hilton Head on Thanksgiving morning. I cannot wait to be walking on the beach... ahhhhh. We all shipped our golf clubs there so we'll be playing a few rounds of golf. For those of you who have never been to Hilton Head, it's a HUGE golfing island... it's basically all there is to do there besides shop and go to the beach. Brian and I have been golfing quite a bit since I got my new clubs for my birthday. It's definitely challenging but I'm getting better I think. Don't expect to see me on the women's PGA tour or anything but you get the idea. We come back on Sunday... then it's back to work on Monday where I'll be counting down the days until Christmas.

Knowing me I most likely will not update this until after Thanksgiving, so I hope everyone has a blessed holiday! Eat a lot and BE THANKFUL!!

It's Monday again.

2007-11-12T08:40:00.000-06:00

It's Monday again... weekends always go by entirely too quickly. Pretty good weekend all in all. Friday we went and hung out with some friends of the family. Had dinner and played mexican train (dominos)... an exciting evening I know, but it was fun. The women dominated as always. Saturday my brother came out to the house to watch college football with Brian. Gretchen met us at the house later, and we all went bowling. Yes bowling. Brian and I are on a league with my mom's company. Our team name is Split Happens... clever I know. We bowl most Thursday nights. I bowled a career high of 130 last week. Don't laugh.

Sunday we played hookie from church and layed around for most of the day. I love Sundays up until about 9PM because then the realization hits that you have to go back to work tomorrow. I dred going to sleep.

Brian and I get our bedroom furniture delivered today! Yay! We've been living out of our closet and it's been driving me insane not having any drawers. We are also supposed to get our wedding proofs today but we'll see. I'm anxiously awaiting!

I am SO ready for Thankgiving! We are going to Hilton Head Island again with my parents for the holiday. It's kind of like a mini vacation, and I cannot wait! I love this holiday season because once Thanksgiving week hits no one does anymore REAL work until after the new year. It's great.

Not a whole lot else going on this week... just awaiting the weekend as always. All of the leaves are falling off the trees... winter is coming and fast!

Everyone's doing it....

2007-11-08T15:40:00.000-06:00

So I officially gave in and decided to start one of these. I just know that when I'm sitting at work or wherever bored as crap, I LOVE catching up on my friends' lives. I can no longer deny any of you the pleasure of knowing what is going on in my life these days. You're welcome.

So we've been married for a little over a month now, and things are finally starting to get back to normal. I still have a million thank you cards to write, but I promise I will get to them eventually. In this day and age of email and the web it just seems nuts to hand write and address 300 thank you notes, but that's just the way it is I guess. The wedding was perfect... exactly how I wanted it to be. I can honestly say that I wasn't even nervous. Everything just felt so right... and that might sound dumb but it really did. It was great to see everyone come together for one event. Minus me getting car sick for half of the morning in the limo, everything ran very smoothly. I couldn't have asked for a better wedding... God was truly watching over our day. We get pictures back on Monday!!

Shea and Oscar are doing well... for those of you who don't know, they are our precious dogs. Shea, a black lab, is Brians, and Oscar, a pitbull/boxer mix, is mine. We rescued Oscar off the side of the street in Abilene... He is such a little wuss, but he is by far the sweetest dog I've ever had. I'll post recent pictures of them soon.

Brian is currently taking his EMT classes. He's done with that in December and then he goes straight into Paramedics school. He has been doing clinicals in the Emergency Room the past couple of weeks... last Thursday he helped save someone's life :) A 24 year-old woman went into cardiac arrest. She weighed 640 pounds... no lie. He had to give her CPR to revive her. He was so excited when he got home... We truly believe that was God's way of telling us he is 100% in the right place in his life/career. I'm so proud of him... he's been working so hard.

I love that we moved back to Missouri... so much. I forgot how much I missed FALL!!! Winter is going to be quite a culture shock however... it's been a long time since I've been REALLY cold. I do miss all of my Texas friends SO much though. I think we've all done a pretty good job of keeping in touch and I plan to keep that up. I haven't even met Jacci's precious baby girl yet and it's killing me! SOON JAC... VERY SOON.

Ok well that will be all for my first installment. Stay tuned. :D