2008 was GREAT!

January: Was actually my first year to ring in the new year with someone to kiss...yes, I never really dated many guys prior to Sean...the ones I did date didn't last long as I knew they weren't good enough.

February: Sean and I celebrated our first date as well as valentine's day.

March: St. Patrick's Day we went out, had some green beer and fun with friends. We also went to 'Frank's Place' where the owner gave Sean and I a "shot on the house" because we met at Frank's and were then engaged. Also, for Easter, we went and had 3 brunches again...which just thinking about makes me sick. Sean is always afraid of the Easter Bunny from the Sheraton...as that costume is 100 years old.

April: My birthday month...I guess we celebrated all month long! I think this is also when Sean started full time in Walgreen's management.

May: We housed a mother's day brunch...it was nice...until the injury! (Sorry aunt Lynda!) In the middle of this month, Sean and I both completed the Cleveland half marathon...such an amazing moment. At the end of this month we were off to our first wedding of the summer...we had 6 weddings in total for this summer.

June: We were both in a wedding on 6/7/08. This was Sean's birthday month; and we had a surprise birthday party for him; which he was VERY shocked when he arrived.

July: We took my nephews to the 4th of July parade...my favorite thing to do; so much candy too...and fire trucks Stevie! We also had a cookout, and went to see fireworks. The fourth is by far my favorite holiday. We also finished up all of the final touches for our wedding planning.

August: We tied the knot! It was such a beautiful day...when we weren't crying with joy we were smiling ear to ear. Our honeymoon was also such an amazing time...I would do that again in a heart beat!

September: We were back to reality.

October: We traveled down to TN to see Christina get married. This was a long drive, but such a fun trip! We started our Christmas shopping for our family and friends....this was a lot of fun for him and I to do; we actually took time to find meaningful gifts. For Halloween, we had a good time at a friends' house...we dressed up as college students...lol...jeans and a logo'd sweatshirt!

November: Voted for Election 2008...what good citizens we were. We found out that we are expecting our first bundle of joy! We couldn't be happier about next year at this time...

December: We wrapped all our Christmas presents...had a Christmas party for our friends...and celebrated Christmas together and with family. (see most recent post for Christmas memories).


Misc. Questions:
Where did you begin 2008? At Mike & Mary's house for Natalie's 1st birthday!
What was your status by Valentine's Day? Engaged and very happy!!!
How did you earn your money? Kids Fitness Director...and now Kids & Front Desk Director
Did you have to go to the hospital? No, knock on wood!
Did you have any encounters with the police? Well, there was that one time....just kidding!
What did you purchase that was over $1000? We got married...lots was over a $1,000...and our TV...and car...and way too much spending in 08!
Did you move anywhere? Nope....we are happy in our little condo for now...but will be looking soon...a bittersweet move.
What concerts/shows did you go to? Jack Johnson with Stevie (Thanks Mary!) and Blue Man Group in Vegas (Thanks Kate)
What's one thing you thought you'd never do but did in 2008? Got married. Seriously; I didn't think I would ever meet a guy who would meet my expectations, little did I know, I would meet one who exceeded all of my expectations.
What has been your favorite moment? There have been many GREAT moments in 2008, seeing Sean balling his eyes out as I walked to the alter was a good one...and seeing that extra pink line was also another GREAT moment.
What's something you learned about yourself? I think I am starting to learn to give myself some credit when credit is due...I am pretty hard on myself.
Any new additions to your family? Sean and his whole family...and the lil one in my belly.
What was your best month? August by far!
Made new friends? Haven't met them, but have through my blog I have met new friends. And, I have also gotten closer with a few friends; which is fun.

Well, there's a recap of my 2008; which has been GREAT! Here's to wishing that 2009 is just as GREAT for all! Be safe if you plan on going out this evening.

Christmas...

After all the hustle and bustle, Christmas has come and passed for another year.  I hope you and your family had a GREAT Christmas.   

Our Christmas in a nutshell was great! As you know it started on the 21st....then, on Christmas Eve, we went to Sean's Dad's house to celebrate and open presents.   We also played a game 'Table Topics', which brought up many discussions, and lots of laughter.  Christmas morning, it was just Sean and I.  We made breakfast and then we opened our presents...it was so fun to give my presents to Sean...and see what he had up his sleeves for me.  He spoiled me yet again!   Our Christmas morning was very delightful.  We then went over to my Mom's to exchange gifts.  Then around 2:30 we were on our way to Sean's grandparents to say hello for a bit.  On our way for dinner at my uncles at 4 we stopped and picked up my nephews from their other grandparents so they could eat dinner with us and share what presents they got.  Finally at 4:30, we arrived and my family had been hanging out eating appetizers'.  After dinner, we discussed what donations we gave out this year- we donate instead of doing a gift exchange to help either causes nationally or locally.  Around 9, we were pretty tired and went home.  

To complete Christmas, Sean and I woke up at 7:30 on Friday; we both had the day off; and we went shopping!!!  And, we bought lots....for really little.   Finally, all of our families came over to our condo just to get together; as mentioned before, our families mesh very well together and we couldn't be more happy about that.  Before everyone came over, my Dad came over early so we could give him his presents as well...(he was at work yesterday when we exchanged with my Mom).  We have discussed this get togehter is going to be a family tradition to have both of our families get together the week between Christmas and New Year's...we did that last year too.  

So, there's our busy, yet GREAT Christmas...I am sad it's over, but...we already bought stuff for people next year! 

Juggling act

Life is just that...a juggling act...and we don't even have a child yet...I know this is going to get worse...so, I am doing my best to get this under wrap now.  

You see, I have a bit of a philospohy to enjoy life and try to be with those you cheerish as much as possible.   Well, lately I feel like I haven't been a good wife, sister, daughter, aunt, friend, etc.   It may just be hormones, but it was brought to my attention it has been almost 4 months since I have spent time one on one with my nephews....yes, by my 11 year old nephew; not like he wanted to make me feel bad...but it just put things into perspective for me. And, when I did spend time with them; they were helping me take up my carpet.  I can't do it all; and I can't juggle it all either!  I have no clue the last time I went out with my Dad or Mom. This juggling act has also come down to time with my husband.  I have realized, that both he and I agree and say yes to others much faster than  really thinking about us...and it has been 3 months since he and I have actually gone on a date with each other; and with him and I working opposite shifts...it's a miracle, we've had the time to conceive....but of course we did find some time! 

Well, about two weeks ago, while Sean was at work, he called me and it was like a phone call from the past- he asked me if I would like to go out on a date.  So, this past Saturday, we went out to dinner and a movie; just Sean and I.  It was great.  I was in the kitchen and he asked me if I was ready?  I said yes, and he said...don't move; I will be right back!  So, I stayed put and he went outside; closed the door and rang the door bell.  It was cute; a friendly reminder of how fast time does indeed fly by. We had a great night; despite the fact that we were both pretty quite because well, we were both tired. 

I can't believe where I am in life, I love it....wouldn't change it for anything in the world...but just feel I need to learn this juggling thing a lot better.   I have several friends who I haven't seen in months....maybe even a year since the last time I went out with them; yes, I know they too are busy....but e-mails aren't always enough.  

So, is anyone out there who knows how I can learn how to balance all of this and a 45 hour work schedule?

Tis' the season!

...the stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there...

We are all ready for Christmas, which is a good thing, because with so many different families, our Christmas begins today!   

As Sean and I have reflected on this past year, I have told him how great of a year this has been for him and I...I really am living the fairy tale of a life.   I couldn't ask for any thing else other than where I am today.   

For Christmas we had a little get together with some friends where each brought something to eat and I made a big pan of yummy rigitoni!  We also played 'Loaded Questions', a game I recommend for anytime get together, we were laughing so hard at several points. 

Here's to wishing you and your family a great holiday season...and I hope Santa brings your everything you have wished for!

7 Weeks...

Yes, that's correct....7 weeks pregnant!!!

It was Tuesday, November 18th and we were watching 'The Biggest Loser' and as I was counting the days; I was like; "Sean, I am late- you count"...so he did....in the middle of a commercial break; I rushed upstairs to take the test. As I came down; without looking at the test, I thought; that test is going to be a void I didn't get it wet enough. About 15 minutes later after our show was over; Sean and I went upstairs to check...and low and behold there was a faint pink line. What!?!? "Sean, I have never seen that line before!!!". And, he quickly picked up the directions, and said aloud, "one line may be fainter than the other". It was official, we were pregnant. I got so excited, I had to pee...yet again. We took another test- this time there was no doubt that it was wet enough; and it too was positive. And, for kicks and giggles, we took the last EPT test the next morning....it too was positive.  

We took some time to let the shock set in on how easy it was.  After a few days, I called my sister and told her via the phone....she lives in Washington state.  I could safely say she dropped the phone and was screaming and came back about 5 minutes later.  We went door to door to tell our family with a cute little box (a gift from the wedding) filled with baby food with the label saying "We're having a baby!!!" alternating colors with baby food and pink and blue sizzle paper.

Sean went with me to the first Doctor's appointment and we saw the little heart beating. We are expecting our first little bundle of joy July 30th!! 

We are both so VERY happy about our little one. 

Not the typical Monday...

This past Monday has sent me for a whirlwind at work! You see, I was teaching a preschool class, and I see my boss walking by with boxes. After teaching, I go to my friend; and she says..."they are letting me go...and they are making cuts today!" The lightbulb went off; my boss was part of that too! So, I continued on doing my work; trying to not get caught in the mess...and I go upstairs to registration offices and tears/red eyes could fill the room....I felt so bad for these people; and was just waiting for my turn. Shortly after 11; rumor had it; the cuts were over...and I was in the clear.

Then a little after noon, the General Manager and Owner march into my office. I take a deep breath and expect for the worse; but continue to smile. And, low and behold; when they walked out; I had a new job responsibility- the front desk...and more money! How do I leave on a day of cuts with more money? I feel horrible for those who lost their jobs; I am sure God does work in mysterious ways. I am excited for the new challenges in my job and hope to be able to keep in touch with those who left. Also, I believe that God has given me this opportunity because I was so bored with my job and praying that some new opportunity would come my way; and here is my chance! Very excited for this!

R.I.P. Oliver Ray Morris...1/18/02-12/05/08

My Dad had to put his Dog Oliver (the one on the left) asleep yesterday.  And, my Dad is a mess...and I was too yesterday.  You see, Oliver was a GREAT dog.  We found him shivering in our backyard when he was about 4 years old in the middle of January.  When I saw him, I quickly ran and got my Dad; we were both out there; shivering as well; and my Dad took his belt off and made a leash; we brought him in the warm house; put a blanket on him...and after two weeks of searching for his real family...he was ours.  

Oliver definitely took to my Dad...and sometimes to me.  I loved taking Oliver for walks.  He was already trained; "sit", "shake", "kisses"...and he even gave us hugs.   After a few years after getting Oliver; we felt he needed a playmate- that's Olivia (on right)....that was MY dog...but very short lived because she was nothing like Oliver...nor do I think we could have ever trained her to be; so we sent her to a farm. 

For the past few months, Oliver hasn't been able to walk with his back legs.  And, much to our dismay, yesterday morning he woke up and couldn't really move at all.  My Dad had to carry him the past few weeks up and down the stairs...and it's not the life a dog should lead.  The vets said there wasn't anything they could do; no meds or anything...but they also said he wasn't in pain.  After a careful decision, my Dad decided to put his best friend down.    

Now, for the most of you that know me; you know I am not keen on animals; but those who really know me; know that I had a love for Oliver....he can never be replaced!  R.I.P.

"I must really love you, since I keep buying you nice things..."

The title of this post are the exact words that came from my loving husband yesterday as we sat at dinner....him still trying to talk me into liking the new toy he bought me. Yes, he bought me the below car...2009 Ford Escape! I was at work and knew that he had all intentions of going to look at cars. My response was simple, "it's a waste of your time; because I say no!"

Well, he takes my "Green Goddess", my 2000 Focus into the dealers with his friend....and brought this car to work for me to see. My words..."I don't need anything with bells and whistles, I don't need a moon rooof; nor do I care for one; our car works now...really- let's sleep on it" Well, he didn't listen. He did this to make me happy- and also to help prepare for the future family of ours...so, I told him to put a bow on it; as it will be my Christmas present.

He also was able to receive....FREE remote start. FREE Teflon- extra layer of strong wax to prevent scratches. And FREE upholstery scotch guard. We also have 6 months FREE of Sirius Satellite Radio.

• Has this car won my heart over yet? Kind of!
• Does Sean still have my heart? Of course!

**Christina~ One thing that I cried about was thinking of the memories of the Green Goddess...and how we would drive around town blaring the oldies.

Holidays are here....and so are...

THE MOVIES!
How many of us as children loved to watch 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas', 'Frosty the Snowman', and the one movie with those clay people? I know I certainly did!! I also know that last night while flipping through the stations, I stopped at "The Grinch"...it just brought back memories of when I was younger...drinking hot cocoa with my feet by the heating vent when the heat would kick on (of course fighting my sisters for the vent as well). I didn't watch the whole movie, but it was one of those warm and fuzzy moments all inside!

What are some of your favorite holiday memories?

Thankful....

As this is the week of thanksgiving, there are so many people and things that I am thankful for.

Of them all, I am so thankful for my family. With that said...

• I am thankful for my new husband, who I don't think I could love anymore than I already do, but each day I love him more and more. 
  
• I am thankful for both of my parents and their health.
  
• I am thankful for my sisters and the families that they have grown.    
  
• I am thankful for all of my family.....my aunts, uncles, cousins, everyone
  
• I am thankful for both sets of in laws....yes, both sets.
  
• I am thankful that my family and in laws all get along well together...and are asking for a get together for the holidays! 
  

Family is so important to me and I thank God for sharing these special people with me!  

This Thanksgiving, what are you thankful for?

Holding true to my maize and blue

VS.

Well, I think it is going to be a wash- unfortunately....Ohio State will probably win again this year, but....as most of you know, I will stay true to my maize and blue! Go Wolverines!

Nothing is worth more than this day.--Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Do you ever wish that you could really look into a crystal ball to see what the future may bring?

This is something that I feel like I need to work on.  I constantly am planning, making 'to-do' lists, wanting to know what's next in life and wanting my dreams to come true.  While this isn't terribly a bad thing; I call it goal planning, I tend to get lost in the present.  There are times I look at Sean and wonder how I have been so lucky to have him.  I know that hopefully by the end of 2009 we will have our very first home together.  As this is a GREAT thing, I also will miss the cozy times in our condo.  So, for this week, I am making a pledge to do my best to live in the moment; be happy with where we are in life currently and stop dreaming about the future (just for this week I will stop the dreaming....)

Happy Wednesday

It's been one of those days- as soon as I leave work today, I plan to go home and pour a glass of wine, cuddle up with a warm blanket and a good book!

Take some time for yourself....there's still 2 more full days of work until the weekend!

Is this normal?

Is it normal to be so in love with someone that you don't want to even leave their side? I am not sure how this can be, but it seems as time is passing us by at a rapid pace, I am falling more and more in love with my husband; which I may add I didn't even think this was possible. I just wanted to note why I love him....

1. I love to catch 'that look' he gives me just to check on me when I am on the other side of the room.

2. I love how he protects me to make sure I am okay.

3. I love all the little things about him; his lips, his personality, his generosity.

4. I love how he, without asking will pick up messes in the house and not complain that I am sitting on my butt reading...while he cleans.

5. I love the way he walks me to bed every night and holds me until I calm down to sleep.

6. I love how he thinks of others; wanting nothing but the best for them.

7. I love how he reminds me right from wrong.

8. I love how he is patient; because those who know me, know I am not all that patient.

9. I love how he is not afraid to give me a hug, hold my hand, or show affection in public.

10. I love how he randomly tells me that he loves me out of the blue.

11. I love that he does things just to get a reaction from me; such as him biting his nails.

12. I love how he can make me laugh or even smirk at the drop of a pin.

13. I love how he people watches; his facial reactions are hilarious; little does he know that I watch him do this.

14. I love how he comes to visit me on my lunch breaks to make the most out of our opposite schedules.

15. I love how he is the first person I talk to in the morning and the last that I talk to at night.

16. I love that we always say "I love you" when we get off the phone, leave for a jog, before we go to bed, or in the morning before we get out of bed.

17. I love that he always gets the napkins for a meal; and I somehow always forget.

18. I love that he has a desire to cook; even if it's just hamburger helper (although he did make a killer salad last week).

19. I love that he loves my family as I do his.

20. I could go on and on about how much I love him....

This past weekend was so great to have some one on one time with him. We did complete 95% of our Christmas shopping. Best part of this weekend; I think I am getting Sean to love Starbucks just as much as I do...our new love...Peppermint Mocha! Wow, that was good!

"What does love mean?" These are answers from 4 to 8 year olds.

When my grandma got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toe nails anymore. So my grandpa does it for her now all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love.Rebecca - age 8

Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.Kari - age 5

Love is what makes you smile when you're tired.Terri - age 4

Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him to make sure the taste is OK.Danny - age 7

Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My mommy and my daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss.Emily - age 8

Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it every day.Noelle - age 7

Love is when mommy gives daddy the best piece of chicken.Elaine - age 5

Love is when mommy sees daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.Chris - age 7

When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.Karen - age 7

Our New President!

Okay- so here it goes; I try my best to keep my mouth shut when it comes to politics. And, this blog is not intended for me to get into politics; rather than just talk about being a newlywed and the fun things that go along with being newly married. But, for today, I need to get a little something off of my chest.

As many know, we now have a new president. I am one who encourages all to get out and vote; I don't care who you vote for; just vote because it's a GREAT right that we have to be able to do so. I kept my mouth quiet for who one should vote for....but now, here were are post the election and I have never realized the amount of people who complain! I mean I was at Starbucks and a business man gets on the phone 'yes, ready for change?'. I walk into work, and people ask me who I voted for and jokingly make comments about how this is going to be a bad thing and to get a seatbelt buckled!

Well, let's set aside color here, let's accept the fact that history has been made- we have a new president and let's see where we can go from here! I am so excited for Bush's last day so we can move forward and see the american dream come to life. FYI; If this were to be McCain, we would have that mentality of starting over with the American Dream; so why not for the winner?!?

Thanksgiving is going to be here soon, then Christmas; are you ready?

Well, as you know we have Halloween behind us and it almost instantly means we are hearing Christmas music, seeing Christmas displays in stores, etc. So, I ask, are you ready? Are you dreading it again this year; fighting the crowds?

Well, I will have to say I had an eye opening experience for me the other evening. I was working out and ran into someone I went to college with. She is such a great person, always nice, etc and it was so great to see her. Well, after catching up, she told me she was engaged, but it's another 12 months that she will see her fiance who just left overseas for the ARMY. I felt so bad for her as tears welded up in her eyes...and then I thought how selfish that I am upset that I have just about 2-4 days a week that I don't see Sean because of our opposite schedules. I am upset that he has to work Thanksgiving and probably won't see him until 7 p.m. that evening. I am so thankful that he is not in any type military force. This makes me so sad for her and selfishly happy for myself to make a positive out of Sean's schedule. Yet, I am thankful that her fiance is doing this for America. So, as we take note of things that make us thankful; I thought about this and thought I would share. Take a note of my sister's blog 'The Mommy Chronicles' take a look at what they are doing for 30 days of thankfulness....so cute if you ask me! By the way, Sean and I are going to begin a Thanksgiving journal to write in each year of what we are thankful for (Thank you 'This Little Nest of Mine' for that idea).

This weekend, Sean and I are going to wake up early Saturday morning to pretend we are going to work and go to Starbucks for some coffee. Then we are shopping for all of our family and friends for Christmas. I have been looking forward to this weekend for a long time now and am so happy it's here. We hope to complete our shopping on Saturday so we can then have time together on Sunday. This is his FIRST weekend off (he of course had to use vacation days to get a weekend off) since prior to the wedding....and we don't have to drive to TN and back. We are also shopping early so in the month of December with evenings he has off, we can spend time making cookies, going to see some choirs sing carols, etc....to make memories of our first Christmas. We are still trying to think of some things that we can do as a couple this Christmas to start some traditions. We already know we will have Christmas morning together; he and I. He has Christmas day off...and Christmas Eve after 6 p.m....so, we will be going to evening church service. Do you have any ideas as to a tradition he and I can start for Christmas?

Free Chipotle...say what?!?!

So, if you dressed up like a burrito on halloween, you get one free!  What?!?!  I'll definitely do that!  So, my cousin and I went ahead and put some aluminium foil on (mine was a head band and Stevie wore it as a necklace).  I also got one for Sean!  It was so good, so filling; yum! 

Note: We really didn't want to go all out; but we did see a guy dressed like a Knight with a foil mask; pretty fun day to go!

Happy Halloween!!!

Happy Halloween all...have a fun and safe day!!!

The first snow!

It's official; we've had our first snow! As I walked to the bathroom this morning; there it was on the rooftop next door! My reaction; I screamed in agony basically; "Oh no! Sean it snowed". Guess what Sean does??? He jumped out of bed, moved the curtains and looked through the blinds to see....he was like a little boy on Christmas morning! I guess this is a prime example of how opposites attract!

As I was driving into work some cars had an inch of snow on their cars; which tells me that they live farther north with more snow! I am not ready for this....thank goodness in two days it will be back in the 60's!

These are some pictures from last years snow fall....we had 16 inches in one day...

(My car...I had already brushed snow off of it once that morning!)

(This was a picture I took when I went to explore the storm;

I walked 4 miles that day!)

I've been thinking...

So, I am a frequent coffee drinker at the local dunkin doughnuts. So much, that I go there several times a week. Well, today I am freezing in my office. I keep hearing wind that it officially snowed earlier today (I am refusing to look out the window to see it fall). Well, as I am sitting here working on my budget, I thought, 'you know a coffee will help me get through this day'. So, I called my friend Kalyn, and out the door we ran (hiding from our bosses as we run out of the building).

We walked over to dunkin and ordered our coffee. I handed the fine young lad my frequent coffee drinker card...and proclaim "I always forget to get that thing punched". He then asks, "Well, how many have you forgotten". Now, I have never seen this kid, so I said, "well, if you punched it all five times, I wouldn't feel guilty". So, he did. I was a bit taken a back because he used an everyday hole puncher. I even questioned, "you know, people could just get a card and punch that!?!?" He said, "I have questioned why we don't have a special one".

So, Kalyn then announces, "So, with the free coffee, do you think we could get a glazed doughnut". I laughed a bit; but then as we were about to walk away; he was like, "you guys are making my job hard!" REALLY! Is it that hard? We walked away without the doughnuts, wouldn't want him to lose his job over .89 cents; plus I really didn't want a doughnut. Anyways, we found out that every evening at 5:30; he takes the trays and empties them straight into the TRASH! I asked him, "why don't you donate them to a local charity!?!?" No response of course!

From a business aspect of this; it boggles my mind, how they overcharge my medium coffee to compensate from the items they freely through away. I mean, if they donated those doughnuts; tax write off. This got me thinking about the economy today; how people are losing their jobs left and right. How companies are going out of business; so I wonder what can I do to help this local business from throwing away money opportunities?

Where has time gone!?!?

Hello all!

Well, it's already been a week+ since my last post; sorry to keep my avid readers hanging on what's going on in the life of me...really not much! Okay, so we've been pretty busy. Let me update you I guess on the weekend. This past Saturday, Sean and I celebrated Sweetest day. I woke up Saturday morning at 7:22am; I didn't see Sean next to me, since he left for work at 3:30 that morning. However, I didn't recall him giving me a kiss good bye; so I basically threw myself out of bed screaming his name trying to wake him up since I was thinking he over slept. He was no where in sight as I ran downstairs to see if he was sleeping on the couch; he wasn't...he was already at work; but there; on the dinning room table were a dozen of red roses plus one pink and one white. He also gave me a stuffed puppy dog (I think this was his settle hint again; that he wants a dog). Saturday evening, after church, we made some spaghetti and salad; with some chocolate covered strawberries, yum! We then cuddled and watched....'Sex in the City'...yes, it was my pick!! Sunday, Sean was working again, but I went and participated in a Breast Cancer Walk with my cousin, Stevie. It was fun to participate in it.

(I look like I was still sleeping in this picture)

Sunday afternoon, I was home to prepare for guests. Yes, we were housing our first game night; and what a night! I think everyone had fun. We had some pizza, other goodies to eat, and watched the Browns game; then played 'Dirty Minds' game....I think our team won 4 of the 5 games....however, it wasn't by any help from me as I was holding a baby the whole time; he was too cute; I just had to hold him!

Monday, I finished my 3 ceramic projects that I have been working on in class. I take a ceramics class on Monday evenings; and it is so relaxing for me. The projects are Christmas presents; I brought them home and Sean was like; "You made those!?!?!"...which made me feel good.

Tuesday, Sean was home that evening, we went to the local rec center and ran; then we went to Chipotle and home to watch 'The Biggest Loser'....love that show. But, this season I feel that certain people like Vicky need to go! (Do you see the Oxymoron in this evening? Working out; watching a show on losing weight; and eating 5,000 calories on fast food mexican!! Nice!)

And, well; blink my eyes, and I have cleaned out my closet, dresser, and cleaned out the laundry closet, winterized our deck; rearranged furniture and looked at all 2,381 pictures that we have received for the wedding....now it's Friday! Yeah! Thank goodness...it's been busy at work and home; and I can't wait to relax hopefully at some point this weekend. This evening we are getting a group together to see Saw V and then off to a haunted corn maze. Tomorrow morning, my family is off to outlet shopping for Christmas. Sunday; hopefully relaxation!

Is it really Monday already!?!?!?

We're back! Sean and I had a great time this past weekend. We laughed, played jokes on each other...(will share below) and had an amazing weekend!!! The wedding was beautiful and Christina looked stunningly happy. When it was time to kiss they kissed to "Living on a Prayer"; very cool! The reception was held at a barn, with chandelier's, white poofy balls and twinkle lights hanging from the ceiling (see above pic)...it was as if we were looking at a live shoot of a magazine; so unique.

(This was me being creative; this was adjacent from the reception barn)

After the wedding, we headed about 4 hours north and found a hotel; we were exhausted and went to bed pretty early. Sunday morning; I felt a bit ornery and as we were getting ready, Sean was in the shower; just about finished and the alarm clock went off AGAIN! I couldn't get that thing to stop; it was ringing "BEEP, BEEP, BEEP!!". So, I thought; this would be fun...."Sean, the fire alarm is going off!!!"...I don't think I have ever seen anyone grab a towel so quickly and there he was dripping; as he turned the corner; I stood with the alarm clock laughing! It very well could have been a "had to be there moment"!

We drove 3 hours to Columbus to visit Sean's sister Kate. Her studio apartment is so cute; I want to live there! We then walked around Easton Mall and had lunch at PF Changs. Wow! Those lettuce wraps were so amazing! It was good to see Kate and catch up with her.

We then hopped in the car and headed home (2 more hours in the car) for laundry, vacuuming, shredding of bills, and well, basically reality!

Also, today- is my favorite niece's birthday! (My only niece!!) She's 4! I can't believe it.

Happy 4th Birthday Peyton; you are too cute!!!

It's FRIDAY!

It's Friday! And, I am so happy! This weekend, I get to spend Friday, Saturday and SUNDAY with Sean! His schedule is practically opposite of mine; so having a weekend off together feels like I have won the lottery! We are headed to Tennessee to see my friend get married then taking a pit stop on the way home to visit his sister in Columbus. I have been thinking I should wear my Michigan sweatshirt on Sunday; however, I think I will refrain. I feel like this is a continuation of our honeymoon...take two!

Do you have anything fun planned this weekend?

Traditions...

Okay, I know that some are not a fan of Jon and Kate plus 8...but I, indeed love that show! They don't live that far from us either- which I would love to take a field trip; but I'm sure they wouldn't like a stalker at their door step!

Anyways, I am not sure why I love that show that much; maybe it's sincere comments the kids make that just put a smile on my face or maybe it's to see what Kate has up her sleeves. This evening there was a marathon of the show on TLC; I of course, tuned in. Kate made everything special for the kids. It was Mady and Cara's birthday; they got a special field trip as well as a homemade cake. It was Valentine's day and Kate gave them a scavenger hunt to find a HUGE box of goodies, oh yes, everything that day was in the shape of a heart including their pancakes, lunch sandwiches, etc. Now, all of these are just the little things to keep things going as well as create memories.

As a child myself, I can remember certain things that became tradition. Some traditions of such involves my older sister Mary on Thanksgiving morning. To be ever so kind she insisted every year to get me the egg strata for breakfast; and every year; there would be the heart of the turkey in the bowl for me to eat....yuck! I would scream; forgetting that I should expect that. Every year including the most recent, on April Fool's Day, my Mom would sing "Happy Birthday to you...." when I was younger I really thought it was my birthday....my real birthday is the day after April Fool's....anyways; those little traditions are GREAT to me.

As I am beginning a marriage, I would like to begin some traditions...think about all of the holidays that are coming up....Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. Do you have any ideas of something small but can mean so much for my husband and I??!?!

Stop the Mouse Invasion!

While at work on Friday, I had the duties of being manager on duty....what this means is every once in a while, I walk around the facility to ensure that everything is going okay for all of the departments.  Well, after securing the building so to speak, I walked back into my office, where I see someone walking out.  It was one of my staff members walking out with two cups- she proceeds to say "you don't want to see this!"  I gave her an inquisitive look, like- huh?!  She then proceeds to tell me "Oh, it's just spiders you don't like, right?"  Again, I stared with a blank stare.  She then proceeds to uncover the clear cups and thats when I realized she had a mouse!  Yes, she had caught it and was going to go let it free.  I freaked out!  She also had a three year old little girl with her, who loves to come and visit me; the three year old, Kate was like "Lynsey it's a mouse!".  I then went into my office and saw this fuzzy little thing in there....it was white- I thought for sure another mouse...but no...it was Kate's bird.  I told Kate to pick up her scary bird...she proceeded to correct me; "Lynsey the bird is not a mouse!".  I then stepped out for lunch; as I was walking in the parking lot- in between my stride- there was a dead mouse.  As I told people who work there- they told me that it was probably the 4th mouse that we had caught within 3 days!  I have never dreaded going back to work, as I am today....please Monday; don't arrive, can we get a snow storm or something!?!?

**I also took some pictures however, I am lacking the patience to upload them and actually get them to load...

Sean's a HERO...in my book!

Sean's all around a GREAT guy- that's one of the reasons why I fell in love with him! As I am settling in my life, I have been thinking of ways that I can help others; now that my life isn't chaotic as it has been. I heard of a blood drive at our local rec center and since I was available to go I told Sean, "Hey, this Thursday, I am going to go donate blood". Without hesitation he said, "Okay, what time are we going"? So, I said we'd eat dinner and then go.

I used to donate all the time when I was in high school and early years of college, just about every 56 days, a VIP donor in fact! So, I wasn't nervous; other than being deferred for iron. We were off, ready to go...we arrived, did the paperwork, and...I was deferred. I felt bad since it was my idea and now it was up to Sean to help save three lives.

As I sat there in the chair waiting, reading my book, I looked up and saw Sean; he looked a bit whoozy. Instantly I thought "CRAP!" I looked at the nurse who was with him- she saw his skin color fading into a pale as I did from the other side of the room....but there's Sean..."No, I'm fine!". Since I had all confidence in this nurse watching him, I tried my best to continue reading. Then, I heard "LYNSEY!!"...it was like I was in trouble, I quickly looked up, the nurse had lowered his head, and propped his feet, and was asking me to get some pineapple juice and a straw. I knew it. After a few minutes Sean was much better; and didn't pass out thank goodness! He's my little hero. He said he would consider to go again; at that point, I hope to join him.

Have you done anything lately to help out others in a small act of kindness!?!?!

Our fun filled weekend!

Okay- It's Tuesday and I am just updating from the weekend- but I guess better late than never, right?  

This past weekend was booked with lots of fun!  (If you haven't noticed yet, my main focus is making to the weekends!)  Friday after work, Sean and I met with some friends for an evening out at a Dinner Theatre, to see 'The Wizard of Oz'.   The meal was great (dessert was too!)...but even better was the cast and performance.  Now, don't get me wrong, I was so excited to go- but I was a bit questionable of how they were going to be able to pull off a tornado; and wow!!!  What an amazing feat!  With the use of strobe lights, a LARGE black parachute, and other fabrics- the tornado was amazing!  Sean's favorite part were the crows as the scarecrow was found....yes, there were crows!  I loved the munckins, they were little kids; and some adults.  It was a great night out and great to catch up with some friends. 

(This is us prior to the show!)

(This is us at intermission.  We were given these 3-D glasses to change the color so we saw everything green in Emerald City...all of the cast were wearing white- pretty cool!)

Saturday morning we woke up- before the sun!  Which is normally unheard of for me on a Saturday, however, my brother n law was participating in his first half marathon; so we wanted to be there to cheer him on.  We saw him at mile 1 and then drove to mile 6 and cheered him on more!  For Sean and I, we felt like losers on the sideline as we are normally the ones running...but we will definitely be running again soon, training for who knows what type of event!  Kevin finished his half under two hours- not bad for someone who wasn't sure the week prior if he was going to do it or not!  

(Run Kevin, Run!- this is at mile 6.3ish...he looks GREAT!)

Sunday was filled with some errands and church before Sean took off for work.  That afternoon consisted of a three hour nap for me as I continue to fight this sinus cold...now that it's Tuesday. 

Well, I am off to bed!  Did you do anything fun this past weekend?

Fall

The leaves are changing and fall is arriving.
I absolutley love fall time weather.
I love to put out my seasonal fall decor items.
I love taking a walk in the metropark trails, listening to the leaves 'crunch' under my feet.
I love to go to the park, sit on a blanket and dive into a good book. (Currently reading "Twilight").
I look forward to the first weekend in October because of the town's Oktoberfest...this year, I will be working the beer cart with my cousin, Stevie.
I love picking up my camera and taking pictures of the changing trees.
I love the candy corn that fills the shelves at the store.
I love wearing jeans, t-shirt, and flip flops, but bringing a jacket for the cool evenings.
I love visiting local farms and picking up fresh veggies (Sean and I just bought fresh corn on the cob, tomatoes and mixed them together for dinner; talk about delish!)
I love going to pumpkin patches.
I love going to haunted houses (or hayrides)
I love this season, this weather. Everything about it....except for the one, tiny, mere fact, that winter isn't trailing too far behind.

What is it about Fall that you enjoy?

It's Friday- let's celebrate!

Thank goodness it's Friday! It's been quite the week; I am so happy it's Friday!!! This weekend is going to be great weather; and I can't wait!!!

With such wonderful weather in store, we have lots planned. We have the Indian's game Saturday evening with his Mom and Step Dad. We haven't been to a game since spring, which is unlike us! After the game, we will be heading off to celebrate our friends 25th birthday.

Sunday, both Sean and I are off of work...so, we are going to venture out and do something fun. I am hoping we can go apple picking, pumpkin picking, maybe go to the local mum's fest, or even the hot air balloon fair (okay not all in one day, but some of it)...our options are open and we are looking forward to spending more one on one time together.

What fun things do you have planned for the weekend?

Mental Health Day!!!

Today I did something unheard of, I called off work!!!

Since the honeymoon, we have yet to have one on one time together, so, we found time. Nothing wrong with that, right!?!? We slept in on this rainy day, went to Starbuck's and shared a conversation and coffee....yes Sean had coffee! We then went to a movie, 'Righteous Kill' which was pretty good. Then went to my favorite store- Target...just so I could hopefully find a wallet and well, Sean wanted to look at tv's and one thing led to another and we left there with a new toy....

We have watched two movies, and of course sports too!! Sean is watching the Indians now and he couldn't be happier; he is jumping up and down like a little boy in a candy store. Of course, the icing on the cake; we left there without the new wallet I was looking for.

Have you done anything "out of the box" lately?

While you were out!!!!

Have you ever seen the television show, “While you were out?”?

Well, this past weekend, I decided to do my own makeshift “while you were out” to surprise Sean.  The plan was to think when Sean would arrive back home from a long day of work, he would have to help me rip out our VERY badly stained carpet….yes- we somehow managed to mock a murder scene by spilling red food dye all over our cream carpet.  Anyways, new carpet is on it’s way and we could save by ripping out all of our carpet in the bedroom, loft and two closets on our own.  Once started it seemed like this task would be easy, but little did I realize that I had to take a part the bed, move two dressers, a loveseat with a pull out bed then take the carpet (and padding) down two floors, then out to the dumpster...all before Sean would come home from work; we had 4 hours, and we needed to remain focused to get this task completed.  

Well, the plan worked!  It was great, I called in the recruits; my two nephews and cousin to help with such a task and we did it!  In the midst of not knowing his arrival, we even called to see when he would be home.  

It was a lot of fun, we found that sometimes it’s easier if you would scream really loud.  Even better, if you scream “ouch!!” even though it didn’t hurt.  It just makes you feel better if you say ouch!   

Sean’s reaction was pure shock, and he took us all out to dinner…..Cici’s pizza!  And, the boys even got to play some arcade games! 

Cooking...

So, I have been thinking; I would like to learn how to cook! You know become the next Rachel Ray. I will say I have a few killer receipes for appetizers as well as GREAT chocolate chip cookies...but making dinners; not so much!!! A typical dinner I make is either spagetti or chicken from the foreman with instant mashed potatoes. So, do you have any favorite- easy to make dinners that make it seems like hours to make?

Let's try this again...

Hello there,

I am not sure how many of you will read this, but for now; let's just try and get started. I used to have a blog...www.lynseyrae.blogspot.com just so I could comment on my sister's blog (TheMommyChronicles) Well, if you take a moment and read my old blog; one would never believe that I am the same person as I was then. Now, I am so incredibly happy. I have accomplished every last goal of mine once I turned 25; and am now already attaining some for my 30 year old goals; such as flying in a helicopter.

One of the most recent goal attained is my new husband....I say "new" like I have had others; but in reality; he's just NEW...2.5 weeks into our marriage...and we couldn't be happier. I love him so much that I can't even find the words to describe my happiness but if I can say one thing; it's great to be married to my best friend!!!

So, I guess what I will ask; why is it after two people fall in love and get married the number one question people ask is.... "When are you two going to have kids?!?!". Most ask this question, like they really care; others; I think it just comes off their tongue naturally. Anyways; we have developed the "When it happens, it happens" quote. Then, from there; people decide to give you their opinion...like..."you should wait...enjoy each other"...or...."if you're waiting for you to financially afford a child, then you will never have one"....thanks but I don't think I even wanted to have this conversation. So, now, I think you are probably wondering- when?!?! When it happens...it happens....but for now; both he and I are focusing on our marriage....and now our goals we want to accomplish.

So, I guess here I am just sitting here; surprisingly at a loss for words, but I guess "in due time" (no pun intended) I will have lots to blog about.

Oh, by the way- the reason why I created a new blog is because I was unable to figure out my password for the other; so; hey; why not start new?