Live, Laugh,Love....

Blink...

2009-09-13T14:17:00.000-07:00

With the "blink of an eye" our little baby boy is 4 months old. It is almost indescribable how much love, peace, laughter, and joy our son has brought to our lives. We are so blessed! I am loving this stage, I am loving all the "firsts" Jack is experiencing (and we are experiencing through him). There are times that I just want to "freeze frame" the moment, because it is so special and I don't ever want to forget it. With the "blink of an eye" Jack is rolling over, smiling like crazy, babbling up a storm, eating cereal & veggies (and loving them), laughing, playing with his toys, grabbing at the toys with two hands, really holding his head up high when he is on his tummy, sitting/playing in his excersaucer (he loves it), he loves being read to, and he even "helps" mommy turn the pages of book(s), sometimes! A sweet transformation has taken place...from newborn to baby! We love you so much, sweet boy! You will forever be our little "monkey"!

Today Jack had his 4 month photo shoot with my friend, Kelle Hampton! Here are ust a few of the amazing shots Kelle took of our precious little boy! Thanks, Kelle!

3 Months Old Today...

2009-08-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe my baby is three months old today! Where has the time gone? These have been the most incredible three months of our lives! The world is a better place because God has placed you in our hands and our hearts to love forever and ever! You are the greatest gift HE could ever give us! We love you more than you'll ever know!

I wasn't sure which direction to go with this post. On the one hand, I thought to myself I could list "90 Things I love About You" (3 months =90 days = 90 Things I Love About You). But then I thought the list extends far beyond the number 90. Then I decided to just write from my heart, write what I have been feeling these past three months. By the end of this post I will have somewhat combined the two. Here it goes, (deep breath, tears already rolling down my cheeks, before I even start writing):

I don't quite know how to explain my love for you, my sweet little boy. You have changed my life forever, and for the better. I never knew life could be this GOOD! From the time you were a "twinkle in my eye" to a "bean sprout" in my belly, I knew you were special. On the day you were born I was the happiest MOMMY in town! My heart was filled with love, happiness, and peace. I couldn't wait to hold you, kiss and hug you, listen to you cry (letting me know that you were REALLY here & everything was OK),stare at this miracle before me, which was you.

While I definitely don't want to "fast forward" your life (I actually would like to "pause" it at times, as it seems to be going so fast already), I will "fast forward" this post. Your daddy & I look forward to teaching you so many things throughout your life. We want to fill your life with love, and provide you with so many opportunities that will hopefully help shape/mold you into the wonderful man I know you will one day become. Right now, we are learning from you. We are learning how to live stronger, healthier, richer (not in the monetary sense...your great-great grandfather used to always refer to being rich not as the "things" you possess, but the family and friends that surround you) and most importantly to love deeper. You have taught us that what we once thought was important, pales in comparison to what is important now. We have learned so much from you, and am certain we will continue to learn from you as we embark on this wonderful journey together, as a family. These past three months have been fabulous. We LOVE you Jack Adam Miller, more than words can ever say!

I love...
(By: Mommy)
I love(d) seeing you for the first time. I love kissing you on the forehead. I love our first family photo (it is priceless). I love holding you in my arms. I love the way you look at me. I love taking you places. I love kissing your toes. I love the way you smell. I love the way your soft baby skin feels. I love your cries. I love spending one-on-one time with you. I love you in nothing but a diaper. I love your smiles. I love how you asked me to "Make it better Mama", without saying a word. I love your coos. I love the two dimples on your cheeks (face). I love the little chub chub rolls on your legs. I love how you rub your finger tips on your favorite blankie, when going "night night". I love how you hold your head up (you are so strong). I love how you kick your feet in the bathtub. I love how you rub your eyes, letting me know you're tired. I love how cute you look wrapped up in your MONKEY bath towel. I love the baby noises you make, when you drink your ba-ba. I love the way we talk with one another. I love that you're starting to laugh. I love reading books to you. I love singing to you. I love how your daddy loves you. I love how you love your daddy. I love how you are becoming so inquisitive. I love how you are starting to roll over (what a big boy you are). I love how you hold my hand, when I rock you to sleep. I love that you have a pet fishie, Nemo, and that you can sit in front of the tank and watch him swim around & around for as long as I will let you! I love how your tiny fingers grab my wedding ring(s), while you drink your ba-ba. I love how you rest your head on my shoulder. I love your screetchy voice that lets me know you're happy & excited. I love that I am really getting to know YOU - your wants & your needs! I love that you have so many people who love & care for you. I love that I am your mama AND I love that you are my son!

Jason planted this tree in our front yard for Jack. The tree is a magnificent one, I wish I could remember the name of it. Anyway, it's gonna need plenty of room to grow! :)

Jack is 3 months old in this pic (08-05-09)...oh my, where does the time go?

Uh Oh, look who climbed into daddy's chair & got a hold of his remote control! What a little cutie...just look at his grin.

He's waiting for a text message from one of his buddies! Our little peanut caught a cold. This is the only way he could sleep comfortably because he was pretty congested! Poor baby! :(

Jack, Me, Danny, & Becky (and our wittle cousin, in Becky's tummy).

Cousin Roman, Paloma, and Jack (pic @ the Lavin family party)

My Baby Boy

2009-08-04T07:08:00.000-07:00

My baby boy. Oh, how I LOVE uttering those words. I am a mama to the most beautiful baby boy! Jack Adam Miller was born into this world on May 5, 2009 at 6:59 PM. He was 7 lbs 3 oz & 19 in. I never knew the magnitude of a mother's love until I became one. The bond between my baby & I was immediate, it is beautiful, and oh so natural. How quickly I fell in love with my baby. I loved him from the moment I found out I was pregnant, but when he was born that love grew tenfold (at least). The moment I saw him (peering over the curtain, I had a C-Section), I knew my love for him was like no other love I have ever felt, I knew I was in deep! I will forever remember his sweet, scrunchy face, his rosy cheeks, and his sweet, sweet newborn cry. I remember having the nurse bring him to me moments after he was born, so I could smell his sweet baby smell, and touch his soft baby skin, and tell him how much I LOVED him!

These past three months (Jack will be 3 months on Aug 5, 2009), have been nothing less than glorious! I have treasured every moment. Our morning time is nothing short of perfect, and I couldn't imagine it being any more precious than it has! Each morning I walk into his room, look into his crib & see my precious little peanut. Lately, I am greeted by the sweetest smile, when I go to pick him up. Then it's breakfast (bottle time). I sit on the rocker (sometimes w/coffee in hand) while he drinks his bottle. I find myself just staring in awe at him. It sometimes brings me to tears, & I think to myself "WOW! This is my/our baby." And I envision our life together, and dream of what he will make of this wonderful life he has ahead of him! Once he has had his bottle, it's PLAY TIME! Oh, do we have fun! I love how he's interacting with people now. We talk, and laugh & just make the most of the play session that we can! Our play time is followed by a nap. I LOVE rocking him to sleep. I love his heavy breaths, as he falls into a deep slumber as he rests his sweet head on my shoulder! Our afternoons have been just as wonderful. There were days where we had play dates with friends, and other days we would be content to just stay home. When Jason comes home from work, I always make it a point to give them their daddy/son time. It is so precious to see the two of them together. Once we have all had dinner, it's time for our "night night" routine. Aside from our mornings together, I think this is a favorite time for me. Jack gets a bottle, then it's bath time, I put on his pj's and we read books, while sitting in the rocking chair. Alas, that leads into me rocking/singing to my sweet boy as he closes his eyes and falls fast asleep! Did I mention that throughout the day he gets a BILLION xoxoxo from me! Oh, how I love this boy! I have said it before, but I will say it again. I never used to fully understand the expression my mother would use, which was "I love you so much my heart hurts!" She used to say that to me when I was younger, and she still says it to my sisters. But I never grasped just how profoundly true that expression/statement was until I had Jack. WHEW, I do now! I seriously feel like my heart is going to explode from so much love!
I don't know how to end this post exactly, except to say I love my life. I am happier than I ever thought I could be. I have a wonderful husband, and am a mother to my beautiful baby boy. My life is complete.

This was about an hour after Jack was born. I had just come up to the room from recovery ,after my C-Section

Jack loves his swing!

My sweet boy! He was such a peanut here. He was three weeks old!

Here we are in Twin Lakes, WI. Jack is 2 1/2 months here. We are with Becky, Danny, & Baby Lee #2 (it's another boy, due in October)!

****I have been SUPER bad about updating my blog w/pics! I have a TON on FB, if you are on FB you can view them there! Going forward, I promise to get better at updating the blog!

DELIVER ME...

2009-04-29T07:40:00.000-07:00

So, Jason & I went to the doctor's yesterday. It was a good appointment, my BP was the best it has been in awhile. The doctor checked me, and we found out that I am 1 cm dilated & 70% effaced. That was exciting! Then he asked me how I was feeling, to which I replied, "Fine." He continued to say that he thought Jason & I should begin talking about dates next week. At first, I was a bit confused...but then realized he was talking about inducing me. He wanted Jason & I to pick a date next week for me to go into the hospital. Well, again Jason & I were a bit surprised. The doctor left the room, while I got dressed. As soon as I was done, we were supposed to let his nurse know what day we decided upon, and see if it was available per hospital policy (i.e. only "x" number of scheduled inductions per day). Well, she had beat us to the punch. We walked out of the exam room & she told us that I am scheduled to go in on Monday at 7 PM. WOW, WOW, WOW! We were informed that I am to call the hospital an hour before I am scheduled to go in, just to make sure there is a bed for me. Jason & I left the doctor's office, a bit dazed. It was a HAPPY state to be in.

Jason had to go back to work after the appointment, so I hung out with my mom for awhile. We made some phone calls to family & friends and shared the exciting news with them. Everyone was so excited! We have some odds & ends things to finish up before Monday, so that we are fully ready for when the baby comes. The next post could very well be a post announcing the birth of Baby Miller, along with plenty of pics! If all goes well, Baby Miller will be here sometime on Tuesday, May 5, 2009! We'll keep you posted!

Surprise Baby Shower & Nursery Pics

2009-04-26T00:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday, March 20, 2009, my friends and family threw me a surprise shower. All along, I thought my mom was throwing it for me on Saturday. I was totally surprised. My shower happened to coincide with my aunt and her kids being in Naples for spring break. It was very FUN!

My mom, me, and my Aunt Nancy.
My sisters, (Meg, Margret, & Sarah), along with my cousins, and a family friend.

Auntie Margret, me, and Auntie Meagan (two of my sisters)

My cousins, along with my sisters, and a family friend.

Baby Miller's crib...I love the dark (chocolate) wood with the blue!

This is the hallway which leads into the baby's bedroom.

The room...my Aunt Gwen painted the stars, and the stripes on the walls. Thanks, Gwenie!

My mom helping out with the layout of the room. I found this cute wall art that went with the theme of the nursery. It was quite a coincidence! :o)

Insomnia (No I am NOT Napping), a Lovely Day & Contractions....

2009-04-21T21:57:00.000-07:00

Here it is nearly 1:00 AM, and I am WIDE AWAKE, checking e-mails, catching up on friends' blogs, and attempting a new blog post, myself. My husband is sound asleep( I don't blame him...envy him, maybe, but no blame), and the dogs are all curled up right next to me. Anyway, as of late I have not been able to get to sleep at night. Earlier in my pregnancy, I used to be able to take about an hour nap, and I would still be able to get to sleep at a decent bedtime. I don't even nap anymore, and yet I can't sleep! On the nights when I am able to get to sleep at a decent time (i.e. before 11:00 PM), I wake up around 1:30-2:00 AM, toss and turn for 45 minutes or so ...then I fall back asleep. Sometimes I wake again around 4:00 or 4:30 and from that point, I just lye in bed until the sun light peeks through the blinds. This "routine" I have gotten myself into happens more than not. I guess it's par for the course...as insomnia is fairly common amongst pregnant women, especially in the 3rd trimester. I have resolved to not let the lack of "traditional sleep/sleeping pattern" get the best of me. If I can get a couple hours in mid-morning, afternoon, so-be-it. If I can tack on a few more hours in the evening I am fine with that. I have to be.

On another note, Jason & I spent a wonderful day together. He didn't go into work today, as his car had to be brought into the shop, and I had another dr. appt. Our day began by dropping off the car. From there we went out to breakfast. It was so nice to enjoy each other's company. I love spending time with him. He "gets" me...on top of that, some of the qualities that I LOVE about him is ; his conversational ability, his wit, and the fact that he is such a good listenter. He truly is my best friend. OK, back to "our day"...during breakfast, I began to feel some contractions. They were somewhat irregular, and slightly uncomfortable. I figured I would mention them to the doctor when we saw him. When we got to the doctor's office, my BP was higher than it was on Fri, but not as high as it was last Tues. I wasn't sure what he was going to recommend...Jason, my mom (she wanted to meet us there )& I were making "bets" as to what he'd say. To cut to the chase, I won the "bet". He didn't feel the need to do anything (i.e. induction)based on my BP. He did tell me to monitor my contractions closely, but more than likely he'd see me next week. After the appt, Jason & I had some time to kill before his car was ready. So, we drove around for awhile...then stopped at "our beach" for a short time. It was nice. My contractions had sort of subsided (much to the disappointment of my mom, whom I feel secretly wanted me to go into labor today, LOL!) From there Jason & I headed to get the car, and then decided to "splurge" and go out to dinner, too! We had a lovely dinner, despite the horrible server/service. We didn't let that get to us...we realized that we aren't going to get many of these days together for awhile once our 'lil peanut comes. A quiet evening at home after dinner, was spent together just the two of us...aahhhh! It was a perfect day.

Meanwhile, my contractions have started back up a bit, and they seem to be a bit more regular but not regular enough to pack the bags & head to the hopsital. We'll see...if they continue through the night, I might make a call to the doctor in the morning I will update my blog if that happens! Good night!

A Good Doctor's Appointment

2009-04-17T15:28:00.000-07:00

Well, I went to the doctor today for a follow up appointment. I had been to see him on Tues, for my regular weekly appt. At that time, my blood pressure had sky rocketed. My doctor was extremely concerned. I have been on bed rest for the past 3.5 weeks for this reason. I was shocked to hear that my BP had gone up. And I was WORRIED....worried for my health and the health of Baby Miller. Basically, he explained that we were looking at three possible scenarios:

1) If my BP drops, then we carry on.. and do nothing
2) If my BP goes up, then he was going to induce me on Friday.
3) If my BP stayed the same, more than likely he would indce me on Sunday

Obviously, Jason & I, and the doc were HOPING for scenario #1...being the best possible scenario. So, after I left his office on Tues, I was SHOCKED, and scared. I think Jason was feeling the same way. Sure, I am 36 weeks...and plenty of women give birth to healthy babies @ 36 weeks, I wanted more time, and felt like Baby M needed more time to grow healthy & strong in his mommy's belly. After all, our lil peanut weighed (as of Tues) 5 lbs 10 oz.

Following my appt, I decided to put myself on STRICT bed rest. I did ABSOLUTELY NOTHING for the next three days that followed. This was my routine; Wake up, Jason brought me breakfast, I watched hours upon hours of tv, got up only to go to the bathroom (I did a lot of that as I was drinking GALLONS of water), & make myself lunch. On Thursday, I think I set a personal record of watching tv for 12 hours straight! Oh dear...that is somewhat embarrassing to admit!
So today, (Friday), I went back to the doctor. I got up this morning, and packed "The Bags". I packed the diaper bag, and my bag for the hospital. Along with those items, I put the infant car seat, camera, and boppy pillow in the car. I had no idea what was going to unfold but I wanted to be prepared. Jason & my mom both met me @ the doc's office. While, we all tried to appear cool, calm, and collected I could feel the uncertainty & nerves of everyone. I did my best to engage in conversation, all the while my thoughts were on my BP. Finally, we got called into the office. The nurse had me pee in the cup, weighed me, and then she took my BP. That was nerve wracking to say the least....but I was happy to hear the nurse report what my BP was & that it had gone down significantly! A huge SMILE appeared on all of our faces. We met with the doc & he was very pleased with my BP. He said for me to keep doing whatever it was that I was doing....which of course was NOTHING! I was glad to hear him say let's keep going and see if we can go for another week or two! YAY! Music to everyone's ears!! :o) So, I go back to the doc on Tues. We'll see what he has to say then! In the meantime, I will be spending the weekend on BED REST! :o)

36 Weeks....Where Has the Time Gone?

2009-04-12T07:18:00.000-07:00

I will be 36 weeks pregnant this week. I can't believe how fast my pregnancy is going! I have ABSOLUTELY LOVED being pregnant. I/we have had some "bumps in the road" with this pregnancy but despite that, I have felt incredible throughout. Sure, I was tired and had a 'bout of nausea in the beginning but I welcomed those symptoms. With each day that my 'lil doodlebug has been inside of me, my love for him has grown stronger and stronger. With every twist, kick, turn, somersault, punch, and hiccup my heart fills with joy. I never knew I would feel this way. I have never experienced a love like this. I can only imagine how I will be feeling when Baby Miller gets here. It's a weird feeling knowing that in a few weeks our baby will be here. While we are more than excited to meet our doodlebug, I have been a little sad. I love having him with me, every second, of every day. It may sound strange, but I almost want to "freeze" time. I guess, in essence what I am trying to say is that being pregnant is such a gift from God, and I feel so BLESSED to have experienced the gift. It is perhaps the greatest gift I have ever received.

With only a few weeks left, Jason & I have been busily finishing up his nursery. All the furniture is put together, we have been making a few trips to Babies R Us to pick up items that we hadn't yet got. I love looking into the nursery, it's amazing. I will post pics soon. I have lost my battery charger (for camera) & my USB cord, so no pics can be uploaded at this point. But I will get them up, I PROMISE!!

Today, I am going to enjoy a day with my family...it's Easter. We are going to brunch & then just hang out. There are 17 of us today. It will be so much fun just to be together. I heart my family so much!

A Long, Overdue Post...

2009-02-16T07:46:00.000-08:00

I know this may seem like a step "backwards", but I never did post pics from our wedding. One of my friends "scolded" me for not including at least a few pics from our beautiful day. So, here I go, I will take you back to that MARVELOUS November day in Naples....Getting ready...I was so excited, I just wanted to get the "show on the road".

My mom and I moments before we left for the beach.
My mom and my sisters helping me get ready in the room.Here we GO!

We had a beach wedding. The beach parking was limited, so some of our guests took trolleys to the beach from the hotel. It was a fun way to get around town.This was the gorgeous program that my friend, Kelle's dad, (the pastor who also presided over our ceremony) made for our special day.

Our moms pouring a bit of the unity sand.

My sister, Sarah, (one of my bridesmaids), and my cousin, John.

My sister, Margret.

Meagan, the oldest of my three younger sisters.

My dad and I walking down the aisle. Thank goodness no one tripped, or slipped on that bridge. It was sandy, and thus slippery.

Rik (our pastor) did such an amazing job with the ceremony. Our family and friends couldn't stop talking about how wonderful it was.

The day was beautiful...the sun was shining, the breeze was gentle, and the sound of the ocean waves crashing behind us was so serene.

Jason saying his vows. He was precious...

The unity sand...it turned out great. The jar sits on top of our bedroom dresser.

YAY!!! We're Mr. & Mrs. Jason Miller!

The Naples Hilton did such a outstanding job with the room decor. Our flowers were BEAUTIFUL beyond words. Thanks to Kim, the owner of Flower Children (a local florist shop in Naples, FL).Let the PARTY begin! WOO HOO!

Alright all you single ladies...

Rik letting loose...I LOVE it! He sure knows how to dance!

Our wedding day was so full of life, laughter, and most importantly LOVE. It was truly one of the most magical days of our lives!

Getting the Nursery Ready for Baby....

2009-02-15T08:40:00.000-08:00

I know, baby Miller isn't expected until May 12th (he knows he needs to stay in mommy's tummy as long as possible), but I/we figured it's not to early to get started on decorating his new room.

We had the baby bedding and furniture (crib, changing table, and dresser) all picked out ordered and delivered. Well, the bedding came, and let's just say it wasn't exactly what it was supposed to be. So, I got to thinking that perhaps I should take another look at the furniture. I was really contemplating whether or not to stick with the light furniture or not. Thus, the search began anew.

We love this crib, and this is the bedding we are now going to go with it. I looked at a lot of changing tables, and I really like this one. I know we need storage space, thinking about this dresser. Now that we have the bedding all picked out, we can move onto the paint color(s). I am going to look with my mom today. We are also replacing the carpet in the bedroom, because it needs it. So, we have a lot to get done in a relatively short period of time. I love to decorate and have to stop myself from getting carried away. It's so easy to do....good thing I have Jason to "pull back the reins"...LOL!!

Looking at my "baby ticker" at the top of my blog, I can't believe how fast this pregancy has gone! It seems like just yesterday I was taking the home pregnancy test...and now I am almost 28 weeks pregnant. I have absolutely LOVED being pregnant! I love having my 'lil peanut with me every minute of every day, and feeling all the little kicks, punches, flips, and somersaults throughout the day & night. I talk to him, sing to him, and just dream as to what our life will be like with our 'lil guy! I am so excited to hold him, love him, kiss and squeeze him! For now, I want him to continue to grow healthy and strong. This is an exciting time in our lives, and Jason and I continue to count our blessings each and every day!

The BEST Christmas Present Ever....

2008-12-25T06:49:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS! I woke up with a smile on my face, love in my heart and peace in my soul this morning! Today is Christmas, which is special in and of itself. But today, on Christmas day, I am 20 WEEKS pregnant!!! I am half way through my pregnancy! What a Christmas gift, I couldn't ask for anything else! I had my 2o week u/s earlier in the week and everything is perfect. Our lil boy is growing, and everything looks GREAT!!! We get more and more excited with each passing day! Jason and I have started planning for the nursery! My aunt is going to help us paint it! Details will follow!

For now, I will make Christmas breakfast, Jason and I will open up presents, make phone calls to relatives far away, and we will spend this afternoon with my family! A PERFECT CHRISTMAS!!!
Merry Christmas to all of you! May it be filled with family, friends, love, and laughter!

A BABY BOY......

2008-12-04T03:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was one of the MOST INCREDIBLE days of my life! Yesterday Jason and I found out that we are going to have a BABY BOY!!!! We had a level 2 u/s because we had a little scare (I will post about the scare/concern we had at another date). The FABULOUS NEWS is that our son is HEALTHY, HEALTHY, HEALTHY! Right before the tech began our u/s she asked, "Now, do we want to know the sex of the baby? We'll definitely be able to tell during this u/s." Jason and I looked at each other, we had spoken about it the night before, and even while we were in the waiting room. We both shook our heads and said, "YES"!
Originally we were going to keep the gender a surprise....but given the circumstances I needed to know that my baby was HEALTHY and then I just had to know if I was going to have a son/daughter! So, when Maggie, the u/s tech(who is MAGNIFICENT by the way), was able to reveal the gender she typed these words next to our lil guy's anatomy on the screen,
B-O-Y!!! There was no doubt in her mind that we were looking at a boy!!! Tears filled my eyes with love, excitement, and happiness. Jason was overwhelmed with emotions too! It was a moment that we will never forget....it was so precious!
After the u/s Jason had to go to work. My mom and I went shopping. We hit Baby Gap, and Target. It was so much fun looking and shopping around not just for baby stuff (don't get me wrong that can be fun in and of itself), but baby boy stuff!!! Baby Gap had a great sale...so we bought a few newborn outfits! We also bought him is first toy, and his first book, Good Night Moon.
I am going to have to sheer willpower to not go overboard buying things...we'll see how I do! Wish me luck!! As I close this post, I feel a different person. I am a wife, mommy-to-be, daughter, sister and friend. My life seems to have such a new purpose now! My life is complete. I am so happy! I am feeling very blessed, and am thankful for all that I/we have!

We're Having a Baby!

2008-10-19T07:26:00.000-07:00

Jason and I have BIG news!! We are having our 1st baby!! We are going to be parents! Both Jason and I are sooooo excited, thrilled, ectastic....I think you get the idea!!! :o) We had our 1st ultrasound ( I was 8 weeks), on October 9, 2008! I have pics of our cutie pie from the doctor's appointment. When I took a pic of the pic, it didn't come out as clear! I didn't even think of bringing my camera to the doc for our 1st u/s....I am definitely going to bring it to our next appt. I/we go back to the doctor for my 12 week appointment on Nov. 6th. I will be getting another u/s at that appt, and WILL DEFINITELY post pics!! When we saw our 'lil peanut for the first time, we were in awe! It was incredible....it's truly remarkable! We saw the baby's heartbeat & HEARD the heartbeat...LOUD & CLEAR! 168 beats per minute!! WOW! WOW! WOW! The doctor said everything looked beautiful, and gave us our due date! (Drumroll, please....) I am DUE on May 19, 2009! Jason & I keep going back & forth as to whether or not we want to know the sex of the baby! As of right now, we don't plan to find out. I figure, there are so few PLEASANT surprises in life, that this should be one of them! For those of you who know me, you might be thinking to yourself, "How is Lavin going to be able to wait that long....she can't stand it when her b-day or Christmas comes along and she doesn't know what her present(s) are!!" Well, this is a present that I have wanted more than anything in life! I can wait for this present!! I have ALWAYS wanted to be a mommy. Being the oldest of 17 grandkids, and the oldest of four children, I definitely have had practice w/babies! I was the family babysitter for MANY, MANY years! I loved every minute of it! Jason is going to be a great daddy! He is into the baby books (yes, I bought some, and one of my friends let me borrow some of her baby/pregnancy books, too)! He is so cute, he likes to rub my tummy softly and talk to the baby! My heart just melts when he does it! He makes sure I am taking my vitamins, getting enough sleep, and eating!
Our families are beyond excited! They already love this baby soooo much! Whenever I talk to my mom on the phone or txt her, she ends the conversation w/ I luv u, all 3 of you! :o) Jason's sister has one little boy, and is expecting her 2nd child ( a girl) this Feb. So, our baby will be the third grandchild on the Miller side of the family. This 'lil peanut will be the 1st grandchild on my side of the family, and the 1st
great-grandchild!!! My grandma Lavin comes to FL from Jan-April. Well, now that her 1st great grandbaby is due in May, she has already decided to extend her stay until June! LOL....so cute!
Jason & I feel so lucky to have each other, and our baby! We have been blessed!

Wedding Checklist

2008-09-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

Location....CHECK
Wedding Dress....CHECK
Bridal Party....CHECK
Flowers....CHECK
Officiant....CHECK
Attire for Groom....CHECK
Attire for Bridal Party....CHECK
DJ....CHECK
Dinner Menu....CHECK
Guest List & Invitations....CHECK
Photographer....CHECK
Accessories (for the Bride)....CHECK
Hair & make-up appointments scheduled....CHECK
Wedding Rings (his & hers)....CHECK

The ability to sit back, relax and enjoy the next few weeks, relatively stress free....PRICELESS! :o)

Yes, I am pleased to announce that we have accomplished a lot in the last few weeks in regard to our upcoming wedding! We are both soooooo excited, and can't believe it is just about 7 weeks away! I would say picking out & purchasing the wedding bands make it SOOOO much more real!!!! CAN'T WAIT!!!!

ENGAGED

2008-08-31T04:25:00.001-07:00

I am back from my hiatus! I had a wonderful summer, it went so fast. The MOST EXCITING thing that occurred over the summer was that I got engaged to the love of my life! Jason and I have been together for a little more than a year and a half. He totally surprised me, the night that proposed! Once upon a time, I envisioned a proposal where there were roses, candles, music....basically, the most romantic ambiance a girl could ever ask for. That however was not the case the night with Jason and I, but now looking back I couldn't have asked for a better "setting". We were at home, he had cooked a fabulous dinner. At the close of a nice, relaxing evening together he asked me to marry him! He told me that he has loved having me by his side, and wanted me by his side for the rest of his life. Then he asked the question, "Will you marry me?" It was SOOOO perfect! I WAS TOTALLY SHOCKED, AND CAUGHT OFF GUARD! I, of course, said, "YEESSSSSSSS!" After Jason proposed to me, I realized that grand illusion I once held, was NO longer important to me. The way in which Jason proposed to me, was PERFECT! After I had said YES to him, the phone calls to parents and some family members began! It was LATE, but it didn't matter! Everyone was THRILLED! We are so excited to begin our new life together, to embark on a new and exciting journey! We don't have a date set yet, but are leaning towards late spring or early summer of next year!

Snapshots From the 4th of July....

2008-07-10T18:14:00.000-07:00

So, technically I am still on my "blog break" but, I figured a sneak peek as to what we have been up to wouldn't hurt! Hope you all had a Fantastic 4th of July!

This is the pier (where the fireworks are shot off from) in Ft. Myers Beach, FL. It was a beautiful sunny day. The breeze coming off of the Gulf was so refreshing.

I think this is one of my favorite shots of the day

This shot was taken from the table where we were having dinner. We sat at the outdoor deck area of this restarant, The Pierside Grill & Blowfish Bar. It was right on the beach.Very romantic! :o)

This is one of the better fireworks pics of the night. The strand of lights were on the deck. They're kind of in the way, but you get the idea! :o)

More pics of our fun day/night can be seen here

Blog Break

2008-07-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

I have enjoyed blogging, it has served as a creative, expressive outlet for me to write about things from just every day ordinary life to expressing my inner most thoughts (and fears). With that said, I am going to take a little 'blog break' or hiatus from blog land. Summer seems to be slowly slipping away, and there is still so much I hope to accomplish before the start of a new school year!

See you in the Fall! :o)

Home Makeover

2008-06-23T06:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Jason & I stayed at home. We spent much of the day in the yard, working on landscaping projects and finishing up the big project(drum roll, please)......finishing the fence! Our yard (front & back) is completely fenced in! YAY!! We had the fence professionally installed in the front yard, and most of the back. We finished the part where you can't really see it due to trees, and shubbery. Basically, all that covers our "mistakes," LOL!! OMG, it was so H-O-T! That project alone took 4 HOURS! WHEW! From there, I headed here

I LOVE shopping....in the past it was clothes, purses, shoes, etc. Now my "wants and needs" have changed. I am more focused on items for the house. These things were on my shopping list:
Lighting fixture for front entrance/hallway

Lighting fixture for dining room (it will go over our kitchen table)

Fresh paint for the family room, dining room, and kitchen. The colors are: raffia (it's like a toasted almond), and parchment paper (cream).

New "wood" blinds for our windows in the family room & dining room. I say "wood" cuz there faux/fake! BIG $$$ saver. Plus, you really can't tell unless you inspect them CLOSELY.

Facelift

2008-06-19T15:17:00.001-07:00

***UPDATE...ok, I think I have put almost everything back in its "place", as it should be. I need to add my pic of the "Jakester", like it was before. I created a new playlist...figured a new blog "face" needed some new music! :o)

***Original Post~

Trying to give my blog, a facelift. I think I like this...not sure!? I would like to rearrange it a little bit. I am gonna keep playing with it until I get frustrated! It probably won't take long, for me to get frustrated that is! LOL!!L!

OH NO...I lost all my music and blogs/links...CRAP!

Checklist

2008-06-16T04:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday proved to be a busy one. I felt such a sense of accomplishment as I was able to check things off my "To Do" list...

Begin providing TLC to a garden, that sadly had been "neglected" ....CHECK!

Clean the kitchen, wash the floors, vacuum, etc....CHECK!

Clean the bathrooms....CHECK!

Replace the old kitchen table......

with a new table set.....CHECK!

The DOUBLE Twist....

2008-06-10T21:36:00.000-07:00

For those who know me, you know I have a "little" habit of twisting my hair...hee, hee! Ok, I have basically been twisting my hair MY ENTIRE LIFE! I think I came out twisting/twirling my hair! LOL! ;-) Anyway, I had this massive paper to write for one of my classes. It had to be submitted by 12:00 AM. I was putting the 'final touches' on it...I was stressed....I resorted to the, (drum roll please), DOUBLE TWIST! I just sat at my laptop with a blank stare on my face, and began twisting my hair! Poor Jason, he had to endure the wrath of STRESSED OUT STEPH! I think I snapped at him twice for NO reason....he finally retreated to the bedroom and just watched tv. The GOOD NEWS is I got my paper in AND on time. Now, I can relax and laugh at myself....had to include a pic of the DOUBLE twist for those of you who have never seen it before! Please keep in mind, this picture and post happened at 12:44 AM...just sayin' :o)
******Note to reader & disclaimer~ the original pic did not post, therefore the pic below is a reenactment! I had just stepped out of the shower, after the assignment posted....which is why my bangs look the way they do! :(
P.S. - no, the ring on my finger is not "indicative" of an engagement ring. My friend Lisa saw this picture, and called me to ask. It does have significant meaning though. Jason made me 3 promises....this ring represents those promises and normally is worn on my other hand. For those of you who know me well, I have another habit. I am constantly playing with/fidgeting with my jewelry...especially my rings. Sometimes I do it, without even realizing it!

Beauty and Grace

2008-06-09T19:23:00.000-07:00

My sisters have been dancing for over ten years. This past Sunday, the dance company they are with had their showcase. My sisters are truly gifted dancers, as are the other 44 dancers whom they shared the stage with. When I watch them dance, I am awed by their beauty, elegance, grace, creativity, and expressive form(s) of dance. Unfortunately, I could not take pictures during the performance(s), due to the flash blinding them. I couldn't help myself...I snapped a couple of pics. It is not an up close shot, and there is no flash. The other pics are with some family members after the show! It was a great evening!

This was the opening number. It was EXPLOSIVE...literally and figuratively. The dance was choreographed to the song, "TNT"!

Margret & Meagan (backstage...in between performances)

There were to be NO parents backstage whatsoever....can you tell they were getting a little annoyed with me! Hey...I am not a parent! ;-)

After the show...they were EXHAUSTED. They danced their hearts out!
(Mom, Meggie, Margret , and Gram Dorothy)
Meagan, me, and Margret!

Summer Reading

2008-06-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

I have a goal. My goal this summer is to read 2-4 pieces of good literature, aside from the required grad school reading I have to do. I have begun to read Ken Follett's book, The Pillars of the Earth, (I hate grammatical errors, and not underlining a book title is one of them...sorry. I can't figure out how to underline text).

This the 2nd book on my summer reading list. I saw Oprah preview it on her show.

Ken Follett was also on Oprah's show. That's how I heard of his book. He has another book entitled, The Eye of the Needle. I am hoping to get to that book before August. Has anyone read any of these books? I would love to get a book club going! Let me know! :o)

Martha Stewart, I Am Not!

2008-06-05T18:49:00.001-07:00

(Note to reader: the picture above was to appear at the bottom of the post....can't fix it, sorry)! Despite the dinner debacle, we made the most of it. I love it when we can sit down at the dinner table together, as a family! :o)

I have been so busy with work and grad school lately. I have had NO desire to cook or clean, or clean the kitchen. FORTUNATELY, Jason came to the rescue. He is a GREAT cook. I lucked out in that department. Well, I no longer have the excuse of being "too busy", as I am on summer vacation. So, I decided to prepare and cook dinner for the two of us tonight. A simple meal, is what I had planned. I was going to make turkey gorditas. YUM! Well, everything was going so smoothly. That's when it happened...I let the turkey meat begin to burn! YIKES!!! Well, I had gotten a phone call....headed over to the computer and I COMPLETELY forgot about the dinner that I was cooking! As soon as I realized it, I ran over to the stove and salvaged what I could! We made the best of the dinner...actually, it wasn't so bad. However, I don't think I will be getting any call(s) from Martha or her staff, wanting to feature my recipe for turkey gorditas! ;-) LOL! Thank God Jason loves me for reasons other than my cooking!

Snapshots of a GROWING Puppy...

2008-06-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

Jake is getting SO big, SO fast. He is almost 14 weeks. In one month's time he had TRIPLED his weight! WOAH! He LOVES his "daddy"....this is one of his favorite spots to be. He is always snuggled up next to Jason or me! He is so cuddly!

He is SWEET, and CUTE as ever! He is such a good puppy. Every now and then, when no one is looking....he gets himself into puppy trouble!

Love & Goosebumps

2008-06-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

(Note to reader: pictures to follow. I am not at home, and don't have the pic or my camera to post right now).

As many of you know, or have read...last week there was an enormous brushfire where we live. Long story short, we had to evacuate. Jason faced this task alone. He grabbed what he could, what he thought to be most important. Amidst our "things", he brought only one framed picture. When he showed it to me, I absolutely lost it.......UGLY CRY to the MAX! It was a picture of my cousin, Kelly, and I. For those of you who don't know, my cousin Kelly died in a car accident eight years ago. We were so close, she was like my sister! Jason told me that he knew this picture was SO SPECIAL to me, and he couldn't stand the thought of me not having it. Fortunately, our house was not damaged by the fire. We are GRATEFUL.

I was so moved by this emotional, thoughtful, loving gesture by Jason. He's INCREDIBLE!!! Thank you Jason, I LOVE YOU!!!

Spread A Little Hope

2008-06-01T07:07:00.001-07:00

What a cool idea! Check this out...I was so inspired, I added the site to my blog! Here is an example of what some people are doing!

Have a SENSATIONAL SUNDAY! :o)

Safe

2008-05-30T07:41:00.000-07:00

We're safe. Our house is structurally sound! All is good! Thanks to al our family and friends who had us in their thoughts and prayers! It means a LOT!!! xoxo!!

In A Split Second

2008-05-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

one's life can change. Mine did today. SWFL has not gotten a real downpour of rain in a very long time. It is dangerously DRY! So dry in fact, that a brush fire started today. A brushfire in our neighborhood. A brushfire that began as a 1/2 acre fire, and now is a blazing fire that has spread about 200 acres.

Today was going so well. It was the last day of school. I had gone out with some friends after work. I had called Jason early in the day to tell him of my plans. Tonight was supposed to be "date night". As I was at dinner, he called and said he was finished with work and headed home. It was earlier than expected, but I thought to myself that perhaps he was just tired. He proceeded to tell me the reason being was that a fire broke out, and he was going home to check it out. My heart skipped a beat, a HUGE lump in my throat developed, and I was at a loss for words. He calmed me down, and told me to stay where I was. If things changed, he would let me know. Well, he called about 35 minutes later, and told me that the fire had spread to 30 acres, and it was all around our house. The sky was filled with smoke, helicopters, police cars, and fire trucks were whizzing back and forth. I became frozen...now what!? I desperately wanted to get to my home, get to Jason and our "kids" (the pups). I called my parents, they could tell something was wrong. Perhaps it was my panic stricken voice. I explained what was going on, and they did their best to calm me down. Jason wanted me to stay with my parents, he intended to stay at the house until told otherwise by the authorities. My parents and I requested that he packed up the necessary belongings, and head to safer grounds. He refused, I could tell that he was worried. He was scared. I wanted to get to my home, I wanted to get to Jason. But, at the rate the fire was spreading, he thought there was a good chance that I would not be allowed on our street, or the surrounding area for that matter. So, I was to stay put and wait....until I got the "call" from Jason. I could detect a shaky voice. I knew the fire was getting worse. I knew and I saw it on the tv. He said that he grabbed everything he could, grabbed the dogs and he was headed to my parents' house. The police were storming up and down the streets telling people that they NEEDED to evacuate! Jason did as he was told, thank God!
He got to the house SAFELY. I greeted him in the driveway. It was the most emotional embrace the two of us have shared. He just grabbed me and didn't let go for the longest time. We unpacked the car, settled in and have been watching the news, and getting updates from the Collier County Sherriff's Dept. We are going to try and get some sleep. It is going to be hard. We don't know if our house is still standing. If we're lucky we'll be able to get to the house and assess damages, if any by early afternoon. In closing, I have to say we are lucky. We are safe. We are together. We have our dogs. We have our family. We are LOVED. We are lucky. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers! Love you all!

Finding Balance

2008-05-22T17:49:00.000-07:00

Imagine life is a game in which you are juggling five balls. The balls are called work, family, health, friends and integrity. And you're keeping all of them in the air. But one day you finally come to understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back.

The other four balls -- family, health, friends, integrity -- are made of glass. If you drop one of these, it will be irrevocably scuffed, nicked, perhaps even shattered. And once you truly understand the lesson of the five balls, you will have the beginnings of balance in your life.

--- From James Patterson’s "Suzanne’s Diary For Nichola"

I am finding out this life lesson, first hand! With bringing the school year to a close, starting a new semester of grad school, keeping my relationship with Jason strong, maintaining a household, keeping my friendships strong, trying to "reboot" my workout regime, and finding time for myself. I am juggling those balls, keeping in mind that the goal is to remember which ball when dropped will bounce back, and which one will not.

Sensational Sunday

2008-05-18T20:00:00.000-07:00

5th Avenue here I COME! ;-)

Yeah, she wasn't digging this hat too much, was she?

She loves anything "girly". She especially loves bead necklaces. Very trendy, indeed!

I think this is a superb shot of her! She was really getting into being a "DIVA"!

"Oh dear, just look at my nail! Time for a manicure! " (Hee, hee)

I know, I know this is an "oops" (I posted it twice). I am sorry, but I can't get enough of the BIG hat(s) and the OVERSIZED sunglasses! Some might say it runs in the family! ;-)

She Makes Me Smile

2008-05-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

Today was a girls' day out for Sarah and me. She is the youngest of four girls. She is the baby of the family, although she is not really a baby. She is a teenager. I love all my sisters. They are my heart. But, Sarah...there's just something special about her. She always has a way of making us SMILE!

We had FUN today. It was just the two of us. We spent the day just shopping around, met Jason for lunch, and then it was back to shopping!

She was so giggly, and sometimes shy, as I was shooting away! But I know that deep down she was loving every minute of it!

Isn't this picture so sweet?

Sarah actually picked out this ensemble herself! Look at her "cheesy" smile. She cracks me up!

Can you tell she was having a blast? OMG, she loved this hat! I think she was astonished at first, that I whipped out my camera and encouraged her to try hats, glasses, and whatever else she wanted(within reason), right in the middle of the store!

***More pics of our INCREDIBLY fun day to come!

Home Is Where The Heart Is....

2008-05-14T19:12:00.000-07:00

Our new KING size bed and bed frame (accessory pillows & shams still to come). Thanks Mom & Bud for our GIFT. We LOVE it!!!
I just love this puppy! He's so darn cute.
Jason & "his" Bubba!
Puppy play...gotta love it! (Brady - boxer, and Jake - rottweiler)

My New Camera

2008-05-14T17:00:00.001-07:00

This is Sissy. That's exactly what she is...a BIG sissy! She really is a good girl. Sissy is an American Bulldog. Ok all you moms and Disney movie enthusiasts..it's trivia time. Can you name the movie that had this breed of dog, cast as a leading character? For those of you who said, Homeward Bound, you're right! The dog's name was Chance!
This is Bubba. He is the oldest of our 4 dogs. He is a boxer. Sadly, he is sitting on the ever growing hole that our two mischievious dogs somehow keep making bigger! :(

The "Jakester"...he is so cute. Even when he's up to no good!

Bubba, the "Protector"

Brady & Jake sharing (actually tearing apart) a toy! They love playing together.
Ok, this is a very "random" picture. I am getting used to my camera. But, I do LOVE this bathroom fixture. I just got it for the guest bathroom. It looks even better when the tea lights are lit!

"YUMMY bone," says Brady (the boxer). He just turned ONE last month!

This is Jake. He is the newest member of our family. He is almost 11 weeks. Look at that tongue!

This is a flower from my garden. It is one of my favorite flowers of all times. It is a red and orange hibiscus.

Push

2008-05-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

I need a push. I need LOTS of people in my corner, encouraging me to better myself. I said I want to further my education. I said I want to learn more, than I already have. So why is it so hard for me to get back in the swing of things when it comes to STUDYING!? I am so disappointed with myself. I was so excited and had pumped myself up to continue on with this endeavor." I CAN DO IT, I CAN DO IT," is what I had to continually tell myself as I was registering for the classes, and then again when I was forking over the $$ to pay for tuition and books! OMG!! But now, I need a "push". Could it be that I know summer is approaching? Could the crystal blue gulf waters, sandy beaches, and the sun be on my mind? Could it be that the end of the school year is such a busy time of year, and I am overwhelmed? Could I be a little distracted with our new puppy? I am going to be honest...playing with the dogs, especially Jake, is WAAAAY more fun for studying or working on assignments for grad school! LOL! Could it be that I have tried to tackle the most difficult class(w/in this program), right out-of-the-shoots, after a 2.5+ year hiatus from it all. Not to mention that this class is on-line! UGH! Could it be that this book is BORING....DRY....umm, what other adjective could I use to describe this book? Hee, hee! I CAN DO IT...not counting these two summer classes I am currently taking, I only have 4 classes plus my summer internship. Then I am DONE, I will have my master's in Educational Leadership! This is what I have wanted. We've been toying with the idea of traveling to Europe, once I am done. HAPPY GRADUATION present to ME! LOL! Now, all I have to do is STICK with it! Jason is behind me 110%. He's so cute, he has set up one of the guest bedrooms, so it is more like my study lounge. Away from all distractions, a place where I can just focus on my studies! ILU, HFG(Happy Fish Guy)!!

So, if you ever hear me complaining, whether it be on this blog or elsewhere, please tell me to "ZIP IT". Go ahead, I need that PUSH!

My Mother

2008-05-10T18:47:00.000-07:00

My mother is amazing.

My mother is my hero.

My mother is my best friend.

My mother is funny.

My mother is protective.

My mother can handle most anything.

My mother is my confidant.

My mother is full of energy.

My mother is full of wisdom.

My mother is full of LOVE.

My mother is a role model.

My mother is the BEST mother a daughter could ever ask for!

I love you, mom! Thank you for ALL that you do for your girls! Happy Mother's Day!

Self Improvement

2008-05-09T19:31:00.000-07:00

I want to help.

I want to find comfort in others.

I want to be a better listener.

I want to love.

I want to trust.

I want to be heard.

I want to ask for help.

I want to be more patient.

I want to be needed.

I want to see the beauty in each day.

I want to comfort others.

I want to be strong.

I want to be loved.

I want to communicate better.

I want others to need me.

I want to be healthier.

I want to be a better daughter.

I want others to trust me.

I want to be a better sister.

I want to be respected.

I want to laugh.

I want to be a better friend.

I want to step outside my "comfort zone".

I want to learn.

I want to smile.

I do not want more dogs (sorry folks, four is ENOUGH)

I want to teach.

I want to better myself.

I want. I need.

No One Says It Better Than A Poet

2008-05-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, that poet is not me. So, I have to "borrow" the words of other people. I wish I has such a free flowing poetic mind. This post is dedicated to my lil' cousin Katie. She has completed her Master's Program at Marquette University,(Milwaukee, WI)! She will be graduating next week! YAY Katie Cakes, I am SO proud of you!!! LOVE YOU!!

Some Say

By:Ericsson Olujimi Odegbami

Some say

It's the way you look

Others say

It's the way you walk

Some others says

It's the way you talk

But I say-

It's the warmth you radiate

Through your charismatic unending smile

Coupled with your humility

And outmost respect for all

These are only a few of the many reasons

Why you are admired and loved by all

Especially by me.

Dreams

By: Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams

For if dreams die.

Life is a broken-winged bird

That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams

For when dreams go.

Life is a barren field

Frozen with snow.

**P.S. - I know I said that this post is dedicated to Katie, but I feel guilty not mentioning the fact that I have two other cousins graduating from college next week, as well! (Note to readers: I am the oldest of seventeen grandchildren, on my mother's side...there are LOTS of us). Jennifer (a.k.a. Jenna Benna) is graduating from Bradley University (Peoria, IL), and Daniel is graduating from Marquette University, as well! Way to GO! I am soooo proud of you two!! Love YOU! :o)

The Hills

2008-05-06T02:44:00.000-07:00

Shhhhh! I have a secret. It's one that I feel comfortable telling some and cringe when I tell others! I am secretly ADDICTED to a show on MTV, The Hills. I don't know what it is about the show, but I am ABSOLUTELY drawn to it. I think my addiction actually began a few years ago with the show, Laguna Beach. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the quality tv shows on MTV, The Hills is actually a spin off series from Laguna Beach. ;-) It's so funny because there aren't many people my age that watch it, or at least they don't admit to watching it. Come 'on people, there's no shame, no shame! We all have our vices, LOLOL!!! My sisters, Meagan and Margret, are just as obsessed as I am about the show. We'll have conversations about the characters, or situations surrounding the characters, like we know these people. Sometimes I hear my sister or myself talking like LC, Lo, or Audrina are our BFF's! Jason thinks it is so silly! To top things off when a new episode airs, I sit on the couch with phone in hand. I am glued to the TV, and really don't fancy interruptions! During commercials, either I call my sister, or she calls me to talk about the show. Of all the secrets and addictions one could possibly have, mine is not so bad! And I guess it's not really a secret anymore! ~:-<>

P.S. - The season finale airs next week at 10/9 PM EST, on MTV. For those of you who need to "catch up", I am sure MTV will be airing a Hills marathon(s) sometime between now & next Monday! Hee, hee!

Movin' On Up...

2008-04-29T20:47:00.000-07:00

That's right...you heard it here, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yOAMN6M83Y&feature ,

FIRST!! I'm movin' on UP!!! You see that icon at the top right of my blog? According to that website, my blog's reading level is now of the JUNIOR HIGH level. Can I get a "OOOHH, OOOHH!?"(raising hands in the air above my head) LOL!!!! For those of you who may not know what I am talking about, I am celebrating the fact that I have moved UP, according to the critics who grade different BLOGS' reading levels. Just the other day my blog's readability level was at the ELEMENTARY LEVEL!! I wrote about what a BLOW to the ego that was! :p

SERIOUSLY, I have NOOOOOOOO idea who those people are singing the theme song! I went on You Tube and typed in theme show for The Jefferson's (I love that show)! A ton of videos came up, this was my FAVORITE! I laughed so hard, I almost had an accident! OMG...seriously!! WHOMEVER they are, I thank them for being CRAZY ENOUGH to post that video!! I may be crazy, but I could never put a video out there like that! Oh, it's funny! My belly hurts just thinking about it! :o)

Today I Feel

2008-04-28T14:47:00.000-07:00

Today I feel:

happy because my work day is done!
blessed to live in such a tropical paradise...it is/was such a gorgeous day!
more in love with my boyfriend, Jason, than I ever did before, (I LOVE YOU, Bubby)!!
like THROWING MY CELL PHONE in the GULF of Mexico...I just got my bill, and it was U-G-L-Y!!
telling my "someday" sister-in-law, that her 'lil guy is going to be ok, once he has his surgery! XOXOXO!!
a little sad. A little sad that some of my friends live SOOO far away!
like telling those friends (near & far) that I LOVE 'em, and making sure to do my part so that we stay connected! HELLO, Summer is ALL I have to say!
overwhelmed with the PILES of laundry that await me...YIKES! :(
EXCITED that summer is only 23 SCHOOL DAYS AWAY!!
sad that my gram is going back to IL until next Turkey Day! :(
like a teenager who can't wait to watch the new episode of "The Hills", tonight!
loved when I get "puppy kisses" from our doggies!
like cooking something easy for dinner...I'm thinking turkey tacos! YUM!

I Feel Like I Am A Kid Again And I Just Failed A Test!

2008-04-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

The mark on the paper says "F". It's written with a FAT RED MARKER. I have a pit in my stomach! I am afraid to bring it home to show my mommy for fear of what she'd say!

You see that icon at! the top right hand side of my BLOG page? Long story short, there is this website that critiques how well BLOGS are written. All you have to do is enter your BLOG URL, and within seconds you get your blog "graded". Now I am not, nor have I ever thought my writing was dynamic! But come on...I mean ELEMENTARY LEVEL!? What a blow to the EGO! LOL!!! Oh well, I still plan on blogging. Gotta go, vegetable lasagna is being pulled out of the oven as I speak. Well, ok..I mean type! :P

Class Project

2008-04-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

Today is Earth Day. In honor of Earth Day (and simply trying to teach my students to become more environmentally conscious), we embarked in a special class project. I got this idea after I had found this website called, http://www.plantabillion.org There are a group of scientists, that work for a Nature Conservancy. This group of people have set out to accomplish a HUGE GOAL. The goal is to plant ONE BILLION TREES in 7 YEARS, in Brazil's Atlantic Forest ! For me to explain the project in its entirety, would be too long and perhaps complicated. Basically, if the students complete certain tasks each day, they will earn a $1.00 (classroom incentive money). Each day they earn that $1.00, I will donate an actual $1.00 (real money), towards this cause. By the end of the school year, the students will have had the opportunity to earn $26.00, in turn I will donate whatever they earn. $26.00, means 26 trees that will be planted because of my students' hard work! In my eyes, this is a lesson not only on protecting the environment, but also responsibility, team work, and dedication! They are sooooo excited to have begun this project! I am excited to see such enthusiasm from my students (especially this late in the year)!

ONE BILLION TREES, SEVEN YEARS.... Are you up for the challenge? Hopefully YOU can join us in helping to REACH THIS GOAL!!! :o)

A Bucket Full Of Tears

2008-04-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my friend got married, to his beautiful bride. They sent us a few short video clips from the ceremony, as we were unable to attend. As we were watching, Jason asked me two questions, that totally caught me off guard. "Who would walk you down the aisle, when we get married? Who would be your maid/matron of honor? Before I knew it, I had tears in my eyes & had to get up for kleenex. Some of you may be wondering why I got soooo emotional!? Since I was little, I had pictured a wedding where my Grandpa Jack would walk me down the aisle, and my cousin, Kelly, would stand right by my side, as my maid of honor. My mom remarried when I was a junior in H.S., and my stepdad became such an integral part of my life, that I wanted him to be able to walk me down the aisle, as well. So, my "plan" changed. My grandpa would walk me the 1st half of the aisle, and my stepdad (whom I consider to be more of a father to me than my real father ever was), would walk me the rest of the way. Kelly, of course would still stand by my side. Often I would catch myself daydreaming about "my wedding", it was so perfect in my mind! Little did I know that my world, as I knew it to be would come to a screeching halt when my best friend in the entire world, passed away! Her death was unexpected, a shock, and totally, totally changed how I viewed the world! I never wanted to feel that alone, that sad, and heartbroken in my life again! I didn't think I would be. Well, it happened. My world came crashing down, as my grandfather (who was in very good health), went in to the hospital for an elective surgery, and NEVER came out! Again, I had become numb with pain. Two of the most important people in my life, were gone! Well, it has been 8 years since Kelly died, and it will be 2 years this May, for my grandpa. There is not a day that goes by when I don't think of them. And now that I know Jason is the one I want to marry, I have to realize that once more, my vision of who will stand by my side, and who will give me away will change. Kelly, and my grandpa will be with me that day. I know it. They are with me everyday. Both Kelly & my grandpa hold such BIG pieces of my heart! So, when Jason asked me the question, I resolved to the ugly cry, and think I must have cried a whole bucket full of tears!

From Baby Food To Table Food

2008-04-19T03:41:00.001-07:00

Our Jake seems to be growing up so fast, already! We got him from the breeder's just about a week ago. He's getting longer & taller. It's AMAZING how fast they grow! Jason & I don't have children of our own yet. Our dogs are our kids! Those of you who own dogs, or any kind of pet know just how much those pets become like members of your families! When we first brought Jake home the breeder told us that her pups had been on wet puppy food for a week. We were to continue feeding him that for at least another two weeks. But when Jason took him to our vet, he disagreed. He said that we could start weaning him off the wet food (aka "baby food) and introducing the dry food (aka "table food"). Jason & I had mixed emotions about this whole transition to "big boy" food! Neither one of us enjoyed popping open the wet can food lid, it doesn't smell so good! (Plugging nose w/fingers just thinking about it). Sorry to those of you, who do give your pups/dogs that type of food. I don't mean to offend. On the other hand, we were sad cuz dry food in our minds, always has been associated with our big dogs! I have to say, it's been about a day and a half since we have transitioned totally from the wet food to dry food. Jake has done pretty well gobbling it all down! YEAH, he's going to be a BIG boy! BTW, as way of background knowledge his parents are big dogs; mom is 100 lbs & dad is 110-115 lbs!

Jake is doing quite well, nights are better. We are ALL sleeping much bettter! THANK GOD! He is getting along rather well with his brothers & sister. Sharing of doggy toys is the biggest issue we're dealing with. He's learning, he's learning! :o)

Weekends

2008-04-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

you gotta love 'em... LOL! TGIF!!! Have a great one, everyone! Hopefully I will be able to put up some new pics! It's been so busy in our household & at work!

A Good Night's Sleep

2008-04-16T03:01:00.000-07:00

Nothing makes me feel better, and more refreshed than a solid 6-8 hours of sleep! I finally slept through the entire night!!! So, did Jake!!! AAAHHH, thank goodness for puppy shots! LOL!!! Jake went to the vet's yesterday and got his 1st round of shots. The shots made him sooo sleepy! He was truly like a newborn, all he did was eat, sleep & poop!

This morning he has woken up as SPUNKY as ever! He's playing/teasing his big brothers & sister. He's running around the house, playing with his toys, and trying to nibble my toes! OUCH, I forgot how much puppy teeth hurt! "NO Jake, NO bite," is a phrase I am starting to hear myself say repeatedly. OH BOY....puppies, you gotta love 'em! :o)

OH MY...I was just saying to Jason last night, how I just couldn't wait to hear the "Jakester's" bark! J laughed, and said, "Yeah! Enjoy it, it won't be such a cute little bark for long!" Well, wouldn't you know, just as I sit here typing this entry, little Jake let out his first bark. He barked at the chair leg!!! LOL! Puppies are funny! Can't wait to see what tonight brings! :o)

This Is Jeopardy!

2008-04-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

DOO DOO, DOO DOO, DOO DOO, DOO DOO, DOO, DOO DOO, DOO, DOO, DOO (envision music from Jeopardy being played in the background, as you read this entry). Sorry, I know that may have been annoying for some or most of you to read! :o) LOL!

Anyway, today's "daily double" category for today is: Things That Make You Grumpy

The clue(s): Red lights, a School Bus, and Bad Drivers

Answer: What are catching every red light on the way home from work, getting "stuck" behind a school bus en route, and people who shouldn't drive?

UGH!! Have you ever had a day like this? This was my day, and I became incredibly crabby because of it! I need an afternoon with my Bubby, my dogs, and perhaps I could try and sneak in a 30 min nap. Perfect remedies for getting rid of the "crabbies". Oh yeah, can someone come make dinner for Jason & I? HAHA! Hope you all had a better day! Here's to tomorrow! :o)

Welcome To The Family

2008-04-15T03:02:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the family, Jake! This past weekend, we welcomed the newest member into our home. Jake is a Rottweiler puppy. So, we now have a family of six. Jason & I plus our FOUR dogs (Bubba, Sis, Brady, and Jake). That's right; 2 Boxers, 1 American Bulldog, and 1 Rottweiler! I know some of you may be shaking your heads, asking yourselves, "WHAAAAT? How did this happen?" Well, Jason has always loved Rottweilers. He had one, named, Mack, for 11 years, when he lived in OH. Since I have known Jason, he has mentioned on several occasions that he'd like to get another one someday. I never envisioned that someday would come so soon! I may have subconsciously been the driving force behind this "new puppy" decision. You see, last weekend I was at the mall. I ran into the pet store with my sister, Sarah. In one of the kennels was the CUTEST Cockapoo. She had been there for awhile, so she was 1/2 price. Now, I am not a huge fan of buying puppies from a pet store, especially since watching Oprah's show on "puppy mills", but I have some friends who have gotten their pups from this particular store. They have been very pleased with their dogs. So, against my better judgement I asked to see this puppy. OMG, she totally won my heart over. She was spunky, and had the most adorable face. Bottom line, I wanted her! My sister and I left the mall. I called my friend, Laura for advice. She was sooo helpful, she brought up MANY strong points for why a fourth dog may not be such a good decision. THANKS, Laura! I really appreciate your wisdom, time, rationale, and advice! I went home that evening, and talked with Jason about it. "NO, NO, NO," replied Jason! So, in my mind we wouldn't be getting, or even thinking of getting a puppy anytime soon!

On Sunday, Jason & I were enjoying the day together (running errands, went out to lunch), when he picked up the phone & called someone. "Uh huh, ok we'll be there within the hour," was what Jason said. I couldn't figure out WHO he was talking to!? On the way, he told me that we were going to stop by this one place (house). The woman & her husband have a zoo with lots of different animals (birds, goats, cats, emus, dogs, etc), and they have a litter of puppies. My eyes got really big. We got to their house and sure enough, there were a litter of puppies playing in the yard. After playing with the pups, and talking to the breeder for almost 3 hours, I knew there was a good chance that we'd be taking a pup home with us. Jason & I left for a little bit, and had a BIG heart to heart discussion. We ended up back at the breeder's house, where we picked out our puppy.

Jake is SOOOOO ADORABLE! He is black with tan markings, He has the CUTEST face, and his personality is so sweet! He has totally won my heart over BIG TIME! Jason is bringing him to the vet later today, for his 1st round of puppy shots! OUCH!! Overall, it has been a pretty smooth transition.We have slowly introduced our other dogs to Jake. He is actually doing well w/housebreaking ( fingers crossed). I/we are not new to this, we know that there WILL be accidents. We're just happy that the "Jakester" has been trying really hard to be a "big boy" (puppy). Our nights have been shaky. He's like a newborn, up every couple of hours, and does not like to be put back in the crate. Oh well, he'll learn. It took our other dogs took a few weeks before they stopped whining at night!

I have pics, can't add them now, I need to upload them from my camera to my computer. I will add them to this post ASAP!

A Boy, A Fan, and A Cowboy Hat

2008-04-10T19:20:00.000-07:00

So, the other day I came home from school. I quickly changed out of my work clothes, and began playing around in my garden. I was watering the plants, when all of a sudden I heard this fierce shrieking sound! I put the hose down, and went to find out where the noise was coming from. Our next door neighbors have two kids (a girl, age 9 and a boy, age 3 and a half). Once I realized no one was hurt, a huge smile appeared on my face. You see, the HUGE shriek came from the boy. He was standing in the driveway, he had a cowboy hat in his hand and there was a fan that was sitting on the driveway. The fan was plugged in, thanks to a little thing called an extension cord. God, sometimes I don't know what I would do without one! Anyway, there stood the boy jumping up and down screaming with excitement. I couldn't figure it out! What was this little boy doing, and what was all the commotion about? I sat there and watched, I was enthralled by the little boy. He was getting such pleasure from something, I just couldn't figure it out. As I sat there and pondered the question, he did it again! He held the cowboy hat in front of the fan, released it from his hand, and watched the fan BLOW his cowboy hat down the driveway. He ran and got it, screaming, clapping, and laughing the whole time. He could hardly contain himself. He was so engrossed with the fact that his hat was "magically" flying through the air. In his mind, it was AMAZING. For me, I was amazed that a little boy could derive such pleasure, such entertainment from a fan! Something about it made him happy. It made me smile. It made me want to look for a cowboy hat!

APRIL

2008-04-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

brings LOTS of BIRTHDAYS! Most recently, my friend, Kelly, gave birth to a BEAUTIFUL baby girl named, Lily Grace! Congratulations Kelly & David, and welcome to the world, Lilypie! Love you! In addition to sweet lil' Lily, Jason & I have a LOT of family (my sister Sarah, Aunt Deb, Uncle John, and Jason's mom~Ann M), and friends, who have celebrated a birthday, or will be CELEBRATING a BIRTHDAY this month! We are pretty good about making b-day calls, sending cards & emails on people's

birthday(s), but there are quite a few this month, that we wanted to make sure we say, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU....."

Here's to MANY, MANY, MANY more candles, cake & birthdays to CELEBRATE!!!! We LOVE you!!!!

"Going to the Chapel....

2008-04-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

and we're gonna get married...." No, not J & I. One of my dear friends, who is like my little brother, I watched him grow up from a kid in diapers to a Groom-to-Be. OMG...I can't believe it! I am happy for the two of them! They are a BEAUTIFUL couple, both inside AND out! Jason & I wish we could be there with them, to help celebrate such a special occasion! Flights right now are out of control! We wanted to go sooooooooooooo bad, that we even considered making a quick ROAD TRIP out of it! Unfortunately, we can't do that either! We have no one to watch the dogs & don't want to put them in a kennel for the weekend! :(

We will lift up our glasses, and toast the NEWLYWEDS, this Saturday! CONGRATULATIONS, M & K! We love you!!! PICS, LOTS AND LOTS of PICS, please!!! :o)

Creativity

2008-04-05T07:06:00.000-07:00

You know how some people just have "it"!? The "it" happens to be creativity. I have friends and family who have been blessed with the creative gene. Creativity seems to flow freely from them. The genre of their creativity varies. It may come in one, or more than one form. My cousin, Becky, whom I admire and love, is extremely creative. For 5 years, she worked as a neonatal/ICU nurse, at a hospital in IL. The work she did, and the lives she touched is inspiring and remarkable. Becky is now married, and has started her own business. The name of her company is, One and Only. She makes custom headpieces and jewelry for any type of formal event(i.e. weddings, proms, black tie events, etc). Go ahead, check out her website! I guarantee you'll be amazed at the individual, handmade designs.

As much as I am truly inspired by my family and friends' creativity, I have to face facts, that I was not blessed with the same gene. I may try to emulate something I have seen, but it never turns out how I had envisioned it. LOL! Oh well!

Where Can I Get One Of These?

2008-04-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

Check this out...ok, I was surfin around and came across this article. Someone INVENTED a BED THAT MAKES ITSELF! WHAAAAAAAAAT? How is this possible, and where can I get one!?!?!? LOL!! I love coming home to a freshly made bed. The problem is, I leave before Jason does, and he HARDLY ever makes the bed! This would solve our problem!!! :p

Here's the article link...check it out!!

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080402/switzerland_inventions_fair.html?.v=1

The Dotted Line

2008-04-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

So, I did it! I finally did it. I've talked about doing it for awhile now. I have decided to finish my master's in educational leadership. I began it in 2003, got half way through the program, and took a SUPER LONG hiatus. Well, today I made it official. I met with my advisor and "mapped out" the rest of my coursework! I had to resubmit my application, thus the reason for the title, "The Dotted Line". I had to sign my application, go through some "rigamaroll." But I am in. It feels kind of good. I feel like I am a kid again, and school is starting in a few weeks. I need to go school shopping and clothes shopping...hee, hee! I start back up again on May 5th. If I stay the course, I will be done with all my classes and most of my leadership practicum by next summer! :o) It means I will be busy...I seem to be a better time manager, when I have LOTS to do! In addition to grad school, I applied to teach summer school. One program is 4 weeks, the other is 6 weeks. I am hoping I get a position, either pre-k or 2nd grade. I think it will be a nice change of pace for me.

Jason is supportive, but he kind of thinks I am taking too much on. He told me that I didn't have to work this summer, if I didn't want to. I think he's worried that I won't have enough summer left to ENJOY. But, I will. We are going to take a vacation together. We're going to OH, to visit his family, then it's on to Chicago, to visit my family and friends. We'll head up to WI, and stay with my family, at the lakehouse! It is going to be a nice break for both of us. He works so hard, and barely takes any time off. I probably will stay at the lakehouse a few days more than him. When I get back I will be nice and relaxed!

I can't believe I am already talking about summer vacation plans! We still have 6 weeks of school to go, once we get back from break. I am not too excited about summer, now am I!? :p

Sunburn

2008-04-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

I forgot how much it HURTS! I went to the beach today with my family. Despite the fact that I did apply sunscreen, the FL rays got me! OUCH! Gotta go...ALOE VERA is going become my new best friend!

Top 10 Reasons

2008-04-02T15:51:00.000-07:00

In my circle of family & friends, I am probably one of the last "single" ones out there. I am in a serious relationship, and I couldn't be happier with where my life is at right now. When I was single (i.e. without a boyfriend), people would say, "Don't worry...when you're not looking, the right guy will come along." You have no idea, how many times I heard that one! Well, for those of you who are single, you probably can imagine! LOL! I would nod my head and say, "Yeah, you're probably right." However, I was not convinced. I thought it was just a line thrown out there to make me feel better about my single status. But IT'S TRUE....IT'S SO TRUE! That's when I met Jason. I wasn't looking for a boyfriend, or to begin a new relationship; I was too busy! But, that's when it happened! That's when I met the love my life...my best friend. I love him for so many reasons, but if I had to narrow it down to the TOP 10, here's what my reasons would be:

10. I love him because he drives a truck ( I think that's HOT)!!

9. I love him because he is spontaneous.

8. I love him because he loves our dogs.

7. I love him because he loves to teach me new things.

6. I love him because he has a very witty sense of humor.

5. I love him because he is intelligent.

4. I love him because he loves my family.

3. I love him because he wants to be a husband & a dad.

2. I love him because he loves his mom (and the rest of his family too).

1. I love him because he makes me feel like the most important person in the world!

Days Like These

2008-04-02T15:36:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh...Spring Break is upon us. If you ask me, it couldn't have come at a better time! I love the fact that I don't have to wake up to the alarm clock. I love the fact that I can stay in my pajamas all day, if I so choose! I love the fact that Bubby kisses my forehead gently each morning, while I am still sleeping, before he heads off for work ( I am usually up & out of the house before he's awake). I love the fact that I can go out to lunch or go shopping with friends, in the middle of the day. I LOVE that I can blog, and read the blog(s) 0f others once a day or ten times a day, without feeling guilty that I could be grading papers! I love being able to spend time with my family visiting from Chicago. I love spending time w/my sisters, who practically are like my daughters. We have so much fun together! I love taking my dogs for long walks. I love being able to take nap(s) in the middle of the day! It's days like these that I reflect upon what a good life I truly have. I am blessed beyond belief!

A New Computer = A Happy Bubby

2008-03-30T17:21:00.000-07:00

So, in case you hadn't heard my laptop & digital camera both went "kaput" within a couple of days of each other. I was BUMMED! No computer, no blog. No camera, no photos (I have family & friends in from IL). BUMMER! I solved my computer problem, temporarily that is...I took Jason's laptop! Yeah, he was not so thrilled with the idea. I got a lot of grief from him, in a loving way, of course. :o) I think he was ready for me to either get my laptop fixed or buy a new one. I knew it when he started asking questions and making comments like, "Are you DONE with my computer YET? Can I use MY computer now?" "Please don't clog up my computer with all your stuff!"

Yeah, you get the idea. I did feel a little bad, because there were times he needed it for work. I finally got a new laptop! I am happy, and Jason couldn't be happier now that he has his computer back! As for the camera, I am still shopping. You'll know when I get it, cuz pics will be attached to my post(s).

The Adventures of Bubby and Gife

2008-03-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

(coming soon to a bookstore near you!) Let me introduce you to Bubby & Gife (a.k.a. Jason & Stephanie). You see Bubby & Gife are our nicknames. It all started when one of my sisters, introduced Jason to one of her friends. "Morgan, this is Jason. He is Stephanie's boy...well they live together, so maybe more than boyfriend." Morgan had a very puzzled look on her face, "OK...interesting, I guess." Margret came back with, "OK...this is Jason, he is Stephanie's boyfriend-hubby, her bubby". Jason and I laughed. So then I chimed in, "Hey...if he gets a nickname, I get to have one too!" After a few minutes of serious brainstorming by Margret & her friend, they both shouted "Gife...you're his Gife. You know his girlfriend-wife." So it is, we are Bubby & Gife! :P

We really could take off with this whole Bubby & Gife thing...we're talking comic strips, books, t.v. shows..hee, hee. OK....maybe not. But is fun to keep a journal of the daily adventures of a couple living together! So many people proabably have similar stories, or can relate on one level or another.

On a completely different note...today is the last day of school! WOO HOO! We are on spring break next week. I don't know whose more excited, the kiddos or the teachers! I am very excited because we have quite a large group of family and friends coming down from Chicago! It has been a very LOOOOOOOOONG winter! I can't wait to see everyone!!

Rainy Days

2008-03-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

in Naples don't happen too often, before the "official" rainy season that is! It was a gloomy, rainy day on Saturday. I was hanging out with Sarah, we had planned to spend the day outdoors; a bike ride, a walk, a trip to the beach. We weren't quite sure how the day was going to unfold. But, those plans had to take a rain check (hee, hee). We headed to the mall, as did the rest of Naples, or so it seemed. I think it was even busier than during the holiday season! Anyway, we made the most of it. Sarah got some new shoes, and I got a few new clothes. We had lunch at the foodcourt. We tried a new place to eat, Nathan's. They have hot dogs, brats, burgers...etc. It was pretty good. After we ate, the two of us headed to LA Nails. "Yes, we'd like two manicures please." The kind man replied, "AH, you will have to wait about one and a half hours. Can you come back?" Sarah and I looked at each other...deep sigh, "No thanks, we'll come back another day". We weaved our way through the traffic of people, and made our way to the car. From the mall, we went to Target. We shopped around and got some more stuff. We had to quickly head home, because our family was going to dinner in DT Naples. It was still raining...that didn't deter us from heading to Tommy Bahama's. There were 19 of us (family and friends)...good thing we made reservations. Good thing Tommy Bahama's has oversized umbrellas. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was fabulous, despite the rain! Everyone was pleasantly stuffed. The "crew" headed back to my Aunt Gwen's. The kids swam all night, while the ladies conversed, enjoyed sipping on cocktails, and the guys watched the NCAA basketball tournament. It was a great night!

P.S. - On a "sad" note, my camera is DONEZO!! It snapped its last shot. No photos to go w/this post! :(

2008-03-22T09:14:00.001-07:00

SHE...

She is sweet.

She inspires.

She is a ray of sunshine.

She is beautiful.

She laughs.

She is funny.

She astonishes.

She is full of hope.

She listens.

She grabs a hold of your heart,

She never lets go.

She is sassy.

She loves.

She is smart.

She lives.

She has a big heart.

She is brave.

She is a teenager.

She is a daughter.

She is stubborn.

She loves music.

She loves shopping.

She is daring.

She is strong.

She is athletic.

She is charming.

She is quiet.

She is surrounded by love.

She is my sister.

The Girls (Episode 1)

2008-03-21T22:46:00.001-07:00

Dinner For Two

2008-03-21T05:41:00.000-07:00

Jason came home from work last night with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a card (jn a Hallmark bag). It was our anniversary. The table was set, candles were lit. I was in the kitchen finishing up dinner; angel hair pasta w/grilled chicken, and broccoli. For dessert, I made Barefoot Contessa chocolate brownies. It was not a fancy dinner, but one of Jason's favorites. The kitchen was a mess, so after we ate the two of us did the dishes together. It was sweet....we cleaned, we laughed, we made cleaning the kitchen somewhat fun. The gifts...you may be wondering!? Am I engaged? We did exchange gifts, and no I am not engaged. I got (2) one hour massages from a local spa called, Massage Envy. WOO HOO! Jason got a new gas grill. His old grill had seen better days. I have learned that good things come to those who wait. I do not want to rush our relationship. I know we will get married, I know we will have a family. We love each other, and that's what matters most. Without love....nothing else matters! We ended the evening by snuggling on the couch, watching a movie.....a Lifetime movie on t.v. Now, that's LOVE! It was a splendid night, I love my "Bubby"!

My Wish...

2008-03-20T12:29:00.000-07:00

is that someday my garden will look like this (deep sigh)!

A Cup of Coffee, Ellen, a Perfect Day...

2008-03-20T08:48:00.000-07:00

So, I took a personal day, today. I haven't taken one all year, I figured I deserved it. I woke up this morning, not in a panic, not feeling rushed, but rather relaxed. As I got out of bed, and strolled into the kitchen, I made a pot of coffee. I sat on the couch, sipped my coffee, watched, The Today Show, all the while staying in my p.j.'s. Aahhh....what a fabulous start to my day. I perused through the most recent edition of "Cooking Light" (thanks, Becky), and refilled my coffee cup. I am a coffee drinker, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, you name it, I'll drink it. While I enjoy "spoiling" myself with a Starbucks non-fat venti caramel machiatto, every now and then, I do fancy a homemade cup of java. Today's special: Vanilla Biscotti....very appealing to the senses! YUM!!
Ellen came on at 10:00...I love her show! I hardly ever get to watch it because I am at work. I can just hear my family and friends right now, "Have ya ever heard of DVR?" "You haven't upgraded and got the cablebox from Comcast where you can DVR shows...what is wrong with you!?" I know, I know...it's on my LONG list of things to do. After Ellen was over, I became engrossed in my newest hobby. What's that you ask....well, the answer is gardening! I love to garden. My obsession with clothes, purses and shoes have been put aside, while I dabble with flowers and plants. I find gardening to be therapeutic. When I am in my garden(s), I have two of them, I find myself at peace with the world. It may sound corny, but it is true. All my problems seem to disappear, if even for a short while. My garden makes me happy! I will post some pics of my garden soon! The dogs were playing in the yard, attempting to drink from the hose, and loving the fact that they didn't have to be inside all day, while Jason and I are at work. So, I took advantage of that fact, and took them for a long walk. We just got home and everyone is pooped! I don't know what lies ahead this afternoon? A shower, the ability to curl up on the couch with a good book and a blanket, a nap? Whatever is in store, I am going to enjoy it. Jason will be home from work later. It's our anniversary today. I have a special dinner planned, that I will cook later. Spending time with my "Bubby" will be the end to a perfect day!

My Own Blog

2008-03-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

Wow! I am so excited...I have created my own BLOG! Many of my friends and family have had blogs for awhile. I have to admit, I am addicted to reading their blogs. It is nice to read what they have written, and its a great way to stay connected! I was inspired, and thought. "Why not!?". So, here I am with my very own blog, my very FIRST post....what a thrill! :o)