Merry Christmas Eve!

We loaded up the presents, luggage, and cats yesterday and made our way to Lufkin. I have to say that the boyfriend was a very good sport about it all. First, we had to drive across town to pick up Madelyn's present from my parents: a huge, 5 feet long, 2 1/2 feet tall, dollhouse. Thank goodness we were able to turn it on its side so we could put the cover on the bed. Otherwise, I'm not sure where we would have put all of the presents!

The next surprise was a little surprise Smokey made for us about an hour into the trip. Thankfully we were only three miles outside of a town at the time. The rest of the trip I had to keep her on my lap, and let me tell you, her New Year's Resolution needs to be to drop a few pounds. She is heav-y.

Today will be busy with preparations and visiting family. I'm just going to enjoy our only travel-free day for I don't know how long... Quick birthday shout out to my sister-in-law Lindsey and my sweet friend Amy, as well as cousin Noel tomorrow!

In better spirits

I'm in better spirits today. Partially because our report has been distributed to our members. Halleluljah! Partially because there's just one more work day left in the work week. Yes! And partially because of something I witnessed at lunch.

Given that it's 80 degrees here in Texas, and the work load has lessened significantly in the last 24 hours, we decided to take up an invitation for lunch at Hula Hut. Nothing gets you in the Christmas spirit like a nice Mexican/polynesian lunch out on the lake, right? Of course we weren't the only ones that thought today called for Hula Hut. The restaurant was packed. Our 20-30 minute wait was actually closer to 45. We had been waiting for awhile when a guy in military uniform comes in with his family. They get on the very long waiting list and go outside to wait for the table. Right after they left, another couple was buzzed for seating. Having seen the military guy come in, they told the hostess that they would give up their table to him and his family and would move back to the bottom of the list!

So on top of that very sweet gesture and the fact that I enjoyed a free three hour lunch, I'm in a much more Christmasy mood today. Let's just hope 5 o'clock traffic doesn't spoil that...

Bah humbug

I'm trying my hardest to get into the Christmas Spirit. Really, I am. I swear. I'm just having problems getting there. My apartment is decorated. The office is decorated. Christmas presents are bought (well, about 98%). Presents are wrapped. Travel plans are made. And all I really want to do is crawl under my covers.

I'm sure the craziness of work and my hectic social schedule plays a large part in all of this. We've been working on the report that just won't come to an end, for forever. And a day. I'm only stopping to write this blog because I'm waiting for the 120 page document to print. It wasn't until today that I realized just how exhausting this whole process has been. I'm just worn out. I think my eyesight has worsened from the constant staring. For serious. I've noticed the last few days that it takes longer for my eyes to focus in the morning when I wake up.

And it's not like we get to take some huge breather or break after this is finished. Session is less than a month away, my friends. Less. than. a. month. away. Then the fun really begins. And until then, there's just a hint of uncertainty as to what the future holds, which has also been stressful.

Hopefully when we sign, seal, and deliver this report to our members, a weight will be lifted and my spirits will improve. If not, I will muster up the strength to go through the motions of what I am sure will be a wonderful holiday with loved ones. And I won't think about all of the traveling (Austin - Lufkin - Spring - Lufkin - Austin - Mesquite - Austin)...

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

After I returned home from Thanksgiving, I was ready to be in the Christmas spirit. I've got my tree up (yes I know it's small) and I'm burning my favorite holiday candle. Now I just have to get through the million things on my calendar and to-do list and figure out what the heck I'm getting everyone for Christmas. I have to admit, it's put me in a little bit of a bah-humbug kind of mood, even with the fabulous Christmas party my boss hosted this week. Hopefully Adam and Rory's wedding tomorrow will put me back into the holiday spirit!

An odd gift.

Well hello there, friends. My apologies for the lengthy absence. I'm not sure where time has gone! Still doing a lot of writing for work, the deadline is looming. Plus, things are just crazy hectic anyways since there was an every so important day on November 2 that has left a lot of things up in the air.

Last weekend I went to Lufkin for my cousin Nick's wedding. I know it's shocking, me attending a wedding. That's something I never do. It was great to be with family and friends, Nick just happens to be a year older than me and he married a girl that I have known since we were in the same fourth grade class. The happy couple was beautiful and the reception had some of the yummiest cookies I have ever tasted.

While I was in Lufkin, we also celebrated my Great Uncle Reginald's 78th birthday. Hard to believe he's getting that up there in age. I'm still convinced that he's going to out live us all. As with most families, my family has their unique characters. Reginald is definitely one of those characters. For at least the last 15 years, he has lived in Mexico for most of the year, making a trip back to Texas two times a year to take care of business. He lives at this little motel in some small town where he can stay for $15 a day. Originally, when he was in Lufkin he would stay at my Ganny's house. She wouldn't let him stay in the house though, he had to camp in her car port! Eventually she grew tired of his visits, and she shipped him off to our house since there's lots of space for camping at the compound. After a few years of camping out by the pool, my parents let him upgrade his living quarters to our pool house. That's where he stays now.

So every October and April, Reginald comes to visit. He used to come for a week at a time, but now his trips have stretched out in length. He's actually been here for four weeks. As he gets older, he's not sure how much longer he will be able to make the trip, even though he currently has no health problems. You might think October and April are odd times to make an annual trip, but it also coincides with Halloween and Easter. Reginald isn't very religous, nor is he into witchcraft. He is however, a huge fan of a bargain. And he loves to take candy back to Mexico, so that's what he does when he's here. He stocks up on cheap treats.

I tell you all of this because when I was leaving my parents' house on Sunday, Reginald had just returned from the birthday lunch my mom cooked for him at the lake. I had just loaded up my car and had a fun-size Snickers in my hand. I went to say goodbye to him, since I wouldn't be returning to Lufkin before he ventured back to Mexico. He told me to wait just a minute, he had something for me. This surprised me, because Reginald has only ever given me something one other time in my life. He goes down to the poolhouse and returns with two things: a bag of fun-size Snickers and a belt. I'm assuming the Snickers were because he saw me eating one. The belt, I'm just not so sure of. It was purple. And I'm pretty sure it was from a baseball uniform. I'm almost certain I had the exact same one when I played softball on the Phillies in third grade. This was not the same belt, Reginald had bought it for a dollar at a garage sale.

I'm not sure what inspired Reginald to give these gifts, I have noticed he's going a little soft in his old age. I am going to treasure that dollar belt forever, because I know it's probably the only time he'll give me a gift in my life, and goodness knows I can't do anything else with it.

MIA

Yes, I've been MIA. I have a good excuse. I've been writing. Lots and lots of writing. For work. So therefore, my creative energies have been spent. We have a big deadline approaching in a few weeks, and there's lots left to be done.

Meet the fam went well. I'm fairly certain I've been replaced as the favorite when it comes to my niece. I guess sometimes all it takes to buy the love of a three year old is a tinkerbell dress. And shoes. And head piece. How quickly she forgets the three years I've spent buying her love... one weekend should not replace me!

And speaking of meet the fam, I will be meeting the parents tomorrow. Or at least, meeting the dad for the first time, I met the mom a month or so ago at an A&M game.

Last night was the end of an era. It was my last time to work on the sales floor at Bath & Body Works. After ten years. I will now only work floorsets, because I can't kick the habit completely... but at least now my weeknights and weekdays will be free to fill however I please. I also ordered my 10 year anniversary present: a digital camera that will be shipped on November 4. Woohoo!

This made me smile...

I had a little fun today. I figured nothing could brighten my week better than my 5 favorite kiddos. So here is Madelyn, Eric, Ella, Will, and Braxton performing a little Halloween diddy...

Hopefully I'll get to see them all this weekend, at the very least... 4 out of 5!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

A loss

It is with a very heavy heart that I write this.

My cousin Karla suffered a massive brain hemorrhage yesterday and will be taken off life support sometime today. My cousin, who would be celebrating a birthday this week (I believe 52). My cousin, who didn't smoke or drink and walked almost every day. My cousin, who is leaving behind two beautiful daughters, a senior in high school and an 8th grader. I am overwhelmed with shock, grief, and sadness for my family.

I just spoke to Karla on Tuesday. I've been planning the big meet-the-fam trip to Lufkin for this weekend with the boyfriend. We were going to attend Lufkin's Homecoming football game with Karla this Friday. She was so excited for us to tailgate with some of the extended family before the game. Instead, I will be attending her funeral this week.

This loss has hit me incredibly hard. I've cried more tears than I've cried in a very long time. My family has had it's share of losses this year: my great uncle Ralph, great aunt Kathryn, cousin Bob, and now we will lose Karla.

There are so many memories. My friends will remember the trip to Splashtown that we took one summer in high school with complimentary tickets from Karla. They will also remember the dinner she co-hosted with my Aunt Judy at Roma's my Senior year of high school. Of course, they will remember her yummy stuffed french toast recipe that they beg my mom to make for us. I will remember the summer I spent babysitting Amy when she was just 2 years old. I also remember the many Christmas Eve's and Christmas brunches, the countless weekends at the lake, the endless skipbo games with Ganny and Great Aunt Margaret.

She's leaving us far too soon, but I know her mother Margaret and my Ganny are so happy to welcome her to heaven.

My strange kitty creatures

I hate to admit it, but I'm a cat person. I don't consider myself a typical cat person, because my cats are not typical cats. A few things that I find odd about them:

1) They greet me at the door. I've always been told that cats rarely want anything to do with you. Mine seem to have dependency issues. I always find them waiting for me at the door, and if I do come home at an odd time, within 2 minutes they have re-located to whichever room I am in. Yesterday I walked in to find them waiting like this:

2) Smokey is obsessed with water. If a faucet is running, she's right beside it. She gets in my shower after I get out and licks up the remaining water. If I'm getting ice out of the freezer, she's right at my heals just hoping that a cube will drop to the floor. You would think a cat who like water so much would enjoy a bath every once in awhile, but she does. not. at. all.

3) Smokey needs her attention. She paws at me until I pet her. She meows (quite loudly) if I come home and immediately don't acknowledge her. She tries to edge out sister Giada if I'm giving her attention.

4) Giada is the shyest cat I've ever come across. She won't be seen if a stranger is in the house. She often hides in the corner behind a table or under a chair. She also won't nudge for attention like Smokey. Instead, she will stair at the couch or chair where you are sitting for awhile, then suddenly jump up right beside you and then look at you like "What am I doing here? How'd I get here?" And then walk around you until you snuggle with her.

My kitties are strange, but they're mine... so I guess I'll keep them. I don't think anyone will ever say my cats aren't lacking in personality. And I promise not to talk about them again for a very long time. Otherwise, it will lead to even more teasing from my family and close friends...

Facebook Faux Pas

I saw Social Network (which I highly recommend) last weekend at Alamo Drafthouse. For all of you non-Texans out there, Alamo is a great little theatre that serves dinner and drinks. They are also known for their fun videos they show before the previews before the movie. Sometimes it's vintage stuff, sometimes it's video shorts. Before the the showing of the Social Network, they showed a little video talking about the top ten most annoying facebook habits. Since it's facebook's world, and we're just living in it, I thought it was time for me to share some habits that annoy the bejeezus out of me.

• Constantly asking me to "Like" something... whether it's your business or just something you think is really cool. I'm very picky with what I "Like". I try to stick to the businesses of family and close friends. And I try to limit my likes. If you have 250,000 likes, then what's the point? So if you ask me to like your business and I don't. Don't ask again. And again. And again. Just like you shouldn't be asking me to like something different every five days. Are you really that passionate about that many things?

• Baby pictures. Don't get me wrong, I love a good baby picture. And wedding pictures. And basically any kind of pictures there are out there (minus the dirty ones). It's easily my favorite feature on facebook. However, I do not enjoy looking at 50 pictures taken within a 10 minute timespan of your non-mobile 3 month old. Pick out your favorites and store the rest somewhere private! Most facebook users have very short attention spans. Know your audience.

• Constant status updates. I think you should limit your status updates to once a day. Twice, maybe three times if something really spectacular or interesting happens. Status updates are not the place to go on religious or political tangents. Especially if you have no idea what you're talking about. Or maybe you do, but 500 of your closest friends do not, and facebook is not the place for a heated political or religious debate. Write a blog. That's where real ideas get shared. Ha!

•  Profile pictures taken by reflection. Especially if said profile picture involves a shot of your abs. I get it, you work out. You're hot, and you're not afraid to make sure everyone knows it. How about next time you just get someone to take the picture FOR you? And keep your shirt on!

• Friending people you don't know. I always feel bad when I get a friend request from someone I have no idea who they are. If we have NO friends in common, it's an automatic ignore. If we have multiple friends in common, with no common link, it's an ignore. If we have multiple friends in common and they all share a link, then I accept... because the second I ignore, I'm going to run into that person EVERYWHERE I go. I like that I can say with almost certainty that I know all of my 1,000+ friends.

Well, there you have it. My top 5 Facebook Faux Pas. I know you were all just dying to read them. Sorry for my absence over the last week, I found myself in Houston for work Wednesday-Friday and then a surprise getaway to San Antonio for the weekend. This week isn't much slower, just all Austin-based... the boss-man will be here, we have a hearing, there's a monument re-dedication that I'm part of on the Capitol grounds and I get to travel out of town to speak to a DAR chapter this weekend. And I thought the fall was supposed to be less busy???

Fall!

I heart Fall. I'm so happy that it has arrived! We've had cooler temperatures the last few days in Austin, and it's been heavenly. I've turned the A/C off and have opened the windows. We had boot camp outside last night and it was so freakin' wonderful to be outside! While I'm thankful to not have to work out in the heat during the summer, I miss the lack of cardio.

I thought I'd share my two favorite things about fall:

This candle is so amazing. We're using the wallflower at work, and the guys in the office are digging it. I'm so excited about being able to burn this sucker again!

I heart football! I've always been a huge fan of high school and college football, and lately I find myself watching a whole heck of a lot of professional football, as well. We won't discuss the Horns poor showing against UCLA last weekend. Nor will we talk about the possibility of their season going down the drain if they lose to OU this coming weekend.

The Adventures of Flat Jerry, Part II

Last weekend I traveled to Ithaca, NY for the nuptials of my bffle Molly and Jean-Baptiste (JB). I can't really put into words just how wonderful the weekend was. It was great to spend time with some of my favorite people in the whole entire world. The wedding ceremony took place on the gorgeous (or gorges?) campus of Cornell at the Sage chapel and the reception was at a vineyard outside of Ithaca.

Because once again, Jerry was unable to attend the wedding... Flat Jerry came in his place. Flat Jerry probably had the most fun out of EVERYONE. He explored Ithaca and made quite a few new friends at the wedding. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves....

Flat Jerry in downtown Ithaca.

Flat Jerry hearts White Cheddar Cheez-Its, too!

Flat Jerry is very good at drinking games.



Flat Jerry enjoying a glass of wine and the beautiful view at the Reception.

 

Flat Jerry with the Bride Molly and Groom JB

Slow-dancing with Lacy.

Us (Lacy, Me, Sarah, and Sarah) with Flat Jerry and the really awesome reception MC.

Flat Jerry with Mama and Papa Elgin (parents of the Bride)

Flat Jerry West Coast representin' with Stefan 

This is Flat Jerry break-dancing.

Flat Jerry with the adorable Cossart siblings (siblings of the Groom)

Kisses from Farah, the beautiful maid of honor (she introduced the bride and groom!)

Cuddle time with Flat Jerry!

*I should probably explain the Flat Jerry picture: Summer of 2002, I traveled with Jerry, Molly, and our friends Justin and Will through most of California and onto Arizona. We were driving from L.A. to Flagstaff to our next meeting and I discovered that the van we had been riding in for over a week at that point, had no air conditioning! It was HOT. The boys stripped down to their swimsuits and Molly and I were in swimsuit cover-ups and light-weight PJs. We bought gallons of water to just hold on ourselves, to cool us down. Then in the middle of nowhere, the car starts to shake. We could barely talk because the car was shaking so bad. It turns out that it had been so hot outside that the back (brand new) tires had melted! This is a picture of Jerry with our melted tire. I figured it was appropriate to commemorate one of the craziest adventures I've had with Jerry and Molly for this weekend.

The Adventures of Flat Jerry, Part I

About a month ago, I attended the wedding of my dear friend Andy Stancil and his sweet bride Jennifer in Greensboro, GA. They were married at the BEA-U-TI-FUL Ritz Carlton Reynolds Plantation. And the wedding was quite a time. Quite a time, indeed.

I've been friends with Andy for probably 12 years or so at this point. We met where I've met most of my favorite friends: C.A.R. So this wedding was also a time to catch up with some of my C.A.R. friends who I don't get to see very often. Just a handful of his were able to make the trip to GA, but it only takes a handful of C.A.R. kids to have good times on your hands.

My favorite Califorinian, Jerry, was supposed to make the trip, but couldn't at the last minute. Instead, Calvin brought along a picture of Jerry that he had found in his suit. This is one of my favorite pictures of Jerry because 1) Jerry has a beard. I have never once seen Jerry with a beard in the 10+ years I've known him. 2) Jerry is playing the flute. Hilarious.

We decided to take pictures of what our friend Renee has deemed as "Flat Jerry" enjoying parts of the reception, since 3-D Jerry was unable to be in attendance. Who knew that a phenomenom would be born from this? Flat Jerry also attended Molly's wedding in Ithaca this past weekend, and I'll be back tomorrow to show you his adventures from then!

But for now, Flat Jerry at Stancil's wedding:

Flat Jerry in his seat at the reception.

Flat Jerry enjoying a glass of wine.

Flat Jerry with two lovely ladies he would have had the pleasure of sitting next to during the reception.

Flat Jerry is VERY exicted about the tasty menu!

The California boy loves his California rolls!

And some non-Flat Jerry pictures:

Cal, Rian, Andy (the groom), Jennifer (the bride), Dave, and RJ

Me with RJ, Dave, and Cal



Things I've learned...

I learned a few things this weekend when I traveled to Ithaca for Molly's wedding:

• Never pack after attending a Diez y Seis party. It may result in forgetting your shoes and clutch for the wedding. Oops.
• There are a LOT of people at the Austin airport at 5:30 in the a.m. I arrived exactly one hour prior to my 6:30 flight, already checked-in and with only carry-on luggage to make it to my gate for final boarding call. Insane!
• It is common for people to randomly yell out their windows as they drive by in Ithaca. This happened to us 5 times. And no, these weren't cat calls. Or at least, these weren't cat calls I was familiar with... just random AGGHHHs! One friend put it perfectly when he said that maybe guys in Ithaca aren't used to seeing such pretty girls, and therefore do not know the appropriate way to cat call.
• The Super 8 is Great! If ever you find yourself in Ithaca, I highly recommend you stay there. Just make sure you specifically instruct them to take the bottles and leave the cans. Also, make sure you aren't too picky about the temperature regulation in your room.
• Molly Elgin is the second strongest force in the universe. The first strongest force? Molly's fist!
• The police are very strict regarding noise complaints. They will threaten to evict everyone from the hotel (that you aren't staying in) and have them lined up on the streets of Ithaca with no where to go!
• Flat Jerry very may well be more fun than 3-D Jerry. More on that in a later post.
• I absolutely adore my C.A.R. family and the time we get to spend together. I just wish we saw each other more!

The "b" word.

I called someone the "b" word.

I know what you're thinking, I never use such strong language. In fact, it's been years since I've used the "b" word. I can count on my fingers the number of times I've called someone the "b" word.

I put off using the "b" word for quite some time, but you can't avoid the truth. I have to call it like I see it. And I meant it. In fact, I plan on using the "b" word more often.

Yep, I called someone the "b" word.... boyfriend.

RIP, Mamaw

Kathryn and Madelyn at Mady's first Thanksgiving '07

My Great Aunt Kathryn passed away yesterday. She was 89. What a woman she was! A loving, kind, gentle, Christian woman who adored her family, friends, and children. Mamaw was the first babysitter my brothers and I ever had. For a good part of my early childhood, I thought I had 3 sets of grandparents (try figuring out the math on that!). My Ganny taught 2 year old Sunday School and Mamaw worked in the nursery at church, so we would see her every Sunday morning because they were across the hall from each other. I know she is dancing in heaven right now as she is reunited with her husband Bryce and many of her friends and family. We will all miss her dearly, but are so fortunate to have had her with us for so many years!

The Squyres ladies, Thanksgiving '09

Where does the time go?

I can not believe that it's September. Doesn't it feel like summer just started? Though I must say I am looking forward to cooler weather.

So speaking of time flying, and September, guess what I am celebrating this week? My official 10 year anniversary with Bath & Body Works! Can you believe it? It's quite an accomplishment, especially for someone who seems to have issues with long term committments.

I started thinking back on my time at BBW the other night. I counted up and realized that I have worked with 5 District Mangers, 12 Store Mangers, easily 50 Assistant Mangers and Sales Leads, and HUNDREDS of fellow Sales Associates during my tenure. I've met some great people (and a few not so great) over the years, gained some friends for life, and even two best friends.


There's no telling how many scents I've seen come and go. It would be easier for me to tell you what has stuck around the entire time I've been there: Sweet Pea, Cucumber Melon, Warm Vanilla Sugar, and Moonlight Path in the Signature Collection (which has had a few different names, itself). Eucalyptus Speariment and Lavender Vanilla have always been around in the Aromatherapy collection, but have undergone various transformations along the way. The Antibacterial Collection has always been there, but it's nothing like it once was. I laugh because they introduced a "new" product this summer which is actually a product we carried when I first started. Other than that, I've been there when everything in the store has been launched. And re-launched. And changed, and launched again.

I get to pick out a present for my 10 years. At 5 years I picked out a fossil watch, which I never really wore. I had decided on a food processor/crockpot/cookbook gift package for this go around, but then someone was sweet enough to give me a crockpot this past weekend. There's some nice pearl earrings that I've got my eye on, or I might spring for the bike. Decisions, decisions!

In other news, dealing with some car issues this week. The alternator went out. I'm kind of excited about it because we were worried it was a belt, which is much more expensive to replace. Let me tell you, it is no fun to be driving down the road and to have all of the inside dashboard lights start flashing at you. My thoughts are with my Squyres fam as we mourn the loss of my cousin Bob. He had been ill in the hospital pretty much all summer. My Great Aunt Kathryn (Bob's mom), is also in the hospital, and not doing so well. She will celebrate her 90th birthday this year.

Should the car issue be solved, the plan is to attend the A&M/SFA game to cheer on the 'Jacks on Saturday and then head to Lufkin on Sunday for the remainder of the Labor Day weekend. I will finally get to try out our new boat!

I've been profiled.

My super cool friend Becca recently started a blog on the post-college experience. Each week she does a profile on various people she knows and their experiences. A few weeks ago I got an e-mail from Becca asking if she could feature me on her blog, and of course I had to say yes! So check it out... http://postcollegiate.wordpress.com/

It's a....

BOY!

Boy, oh, boy my brother and sister-in-law are having a baby boy! I get a nephew for Christmas! Madelyn is still wanting a baby sister. In fact, when they called my mom to tell her, Madelyn said she was getting a baby sister instead of a baby brother. It does vary from day to day on whether she wants a brother or sister, so there's hope that she will come around. If not, I imagine there will be lots of dress-up in Baby DJ's future.

That's what I always did. Anytime my brothers wanted me to play a game with them, they had to play my game first. I dressed them up in dance costumes and dresses until... well, let's just say it's a very good thing both of my brothers were so masculine. Otherwise, there was a possibility of them to grow up with cross-dressing tendencies.

Also, until a name has been decided on, I will be calling the baby "Baby DJ". Jay and my dad both have the initials of DJD, so the new baby will have the same. Let us know if you have any suggestions. My personal favorite is Dracula Jamie : )

Worse with age?

I have come to the conclusion that one or all of the following three things is true:

1. My East Texas accent is getting worse with age.
2. I'm meeting more new people, who constantly notice my accent.
3. People have always noticed my accent, just never said anything (to my face).

I'm told that it's cute. Not sure if I believe that.

When I was in high school I used to tell people that I was going to take speech therapy to get rid of my twang. Perhaps it's time to start looking for a good (speech) therapist...

Wedding Season, redux.

I just spent the better part of my morning sorting through my calendar for the next two months. It is not a pretty picture. The free time is very minimal!

I'm beginning to think that it's an old wives tale that most people get married in the spring. I officially have 5 weddings to attend this fall. Granted, it's not the 7 of this past spring, but 5 isn't much fewer. Plus, I'm not in any of these weddings, so there will be far fewer wedding-related events to attend. I'm also really excited about them! There's 2 C.A.R. weddings, a former roommate, cousin, and rowdy friends, so there should be some quality celebrating... even if it does get in the way of some of my football watching.

Mom had a check-up with the doctor yesterday. It's becoming a weekly date. They still can't get her meds regulated for the congestive heart failure. This isn't abnormal, sometimes it can take up to a year to figure this dosage out, though it's still a little frustrating! It probably wouldn't be as frustrating if we didn't have to get this done so we can move forward with her cardiologist in Houston.

Heading to Port A this weekend with my favorite DAR ladies for a State Junior Membership planning weekend. I have a feeling this will be a weekend of little work and a lot of play. I'm looking forward to it!

My little Legislator

I got to spend some quality time with the niece this past week. Madelyn and Lindsey were in Austin from Wednesday-Friday and then we went to Lufkin for the weekend. Minus her being the worst bedmate in the history of bedmates, it was a fun time! They came to the Capitol on Wednesday then they went to Seaworld on Thursday.

On Saturday I took Madelyn to the C.A.R. State Workshop in Liberty. I figure at her young age the Workshop is the best meeting to take her to because it requires the least amount of an attention span and there's so much going on with skits and such. She had a blast, though we didn't see a single skit. She spent the morning playing hide and seek in the hall with her friend Kristen, playing upstairs in the bedrooms of the Price Daniels Mansion, and being the special helper at lunch by taking drink orders and holding the cups while they were poured.

We had a fish fry at the lake on Saturday night with most of the Durhams. I love fish frys. And my Aunt Joyce's yummy pies. It was also good to be with most of my cousins. We don't all get together as much now that everyone (minus me, Brad, and Edward) has kids.

Here's a cutie patootie picture of Madelyn that I took of her when she visited my office at the Capitol. Who wouldn't vote for this adorable politician?

29.

I don't know if you know this, but I recently celebrated a birthday. And I promise I will stop talking about it. Soon. ish.

29. It's interesting being 29. I started freaking out when I turned 28. Not because it had anything to do with being 28, but because it made me think about 29. Why was I anxious about 29? Because next comes 30. 30 just seems so grown-up. And I don't always feel so grown-up.

Perhaps it's because of where I was when I turned 28. I had just moved into a new place. All. by. myself. And I didn't have a job, with very few options presenting themselves. I was driving a 10 year old car that was hanging on by a thread. The potential catastrophes that laid before me sat very heavy on my heart. Sometimes I could physically feel the pressure.

Luckily, I have amazing parents. Completely supportive and thoroughly convinced of my success in life. They handled my freak-outs and made me realize that while I was/am single, I am definitely not alone. That is comforting to even the most independent person. Because of them, I was able to keep it cool in front of everyone else. Otherwise I may not have been very fun to hang around all last summer and into the fall.

A job did come around. A job that I adore, with people that I respect. And there's so much to learn. And I'm learning. My car did die. It has been resurrected and is living a new life with my twin bro, but we had to part ways. I cried. And my new car just isn't the same, but I'm dealing. Living by myself hasn't been so scary. I've renewed my lease and will be hanging out with just the cats for at least another year. So, while I didn't begin 28 in the best of places, I'm content with where it ended.

That brings me back to 29. My last year before I'm a real grown-up at 30. I'm starting 29 in a comfortable place. I'm comfortable with my job, my home, my car, my friendships. Comfortable with my life. But we all know that comfortable can lead to complacent. And given that I'm such a creature of habit, comfortable can be a scary place for me. So, my goal for this year? Break out of my comfort zones.

With 30 around the corner, I have to get serious about what I really want in life as a grown-up. It's time to man-up and make plans. Otherwise, I'm going to be 40 living this exact same life, and while I think it's completely okay for a 29 year old, not so much for a 40 year old... Wish me luck!

Pre-Birthdays, Birthdays, and Birthday Do-Overs

Hands down, I have the best family and friends around. I am so incredibly blessed.

I turned 29 on July 12. Surprisingly, I am very okay with this. At this moment, I am actually looking forward to my 30s. I'm kind of *so over* my 20s. I do, however, reserve the right to change that opinion. Especially 6 months from now.

Anyone who knows me, knows that I like to celebrate my birthday. A lot. My goal in life? To have my birthday declared a National Holiday. National Jamie (and Jay) Day has a nice ring to it, don't you think?

Each year another year of Jamie (and Jay) is rung in with much celebrating. First, there's the Annual Jamie and Marianne's Pre-Birthday Celebration in DC. This year was our 5th. My dear friend Marianne celebrates her birthday on July 16. We've been friends for 10 years now (crazy!), and have spent many of those years celebrating our birthdays together. Originally, this was done on C.A.R. Regional Tour. After our C.A.R. days had come to a close, Marianne moved to DC. I always find myself in DC around our birthday because of DAR, so what better reason for a bunch of our C.A.R. friends to get together than to celebrate us? These celebrations are usually nights of much shenanigans and debauchery, though this year was quite tame. Maybe we are finally maturing in our old age (29/26)? Ruth came up from Staunton, VA for the evening and we were joined by other TX former C.A.R. and some DAR friends. We hit up Iron Horse Tap Room, which was quite fun... even though Ruth broke my favorite flip flops and I had several bruises on the backs of my legs afterward. The pre-birthday was also celebrated with cupcakes on the 4th made by former intern Kaylee and being treated to dinner by Anne and Shannon at M&S grille.

Next, was my actual birthday. I had originally planned to celebrate in Austin with a happy hour with some friends, but that plan obviously changed once my mom went into the hospital. For the first time in years, I spent my birthday with my twin brother... even though there were no presents or even birthday cake on our actual birthday. My dad had left our presents at the lake house and no one had thought about a cake. I ended up going to dinner with Emily, which was very much what I needed. Afterwards, there ended up being quite the impromptu party at our casa, which turned around an otherwise abyssmal day.

My mom did get out of the hospital that day, and I got my birthday present when I went to visit the lake the next day. My great birthday present from the folks? A blender. That's right, a blender. Oh, and some cash. The reason why I was upset about the blender? I wanted a crock pot! No lie. I really thought that's what I was going to get after we had discussed the usefulness of a crock pot when Lindsey received 3 at a wedding shower this spring. But I do appreciate the thoughtfulness of my parents when they thought I could use a really nice blender to make fruity, frozen drinks.... something they thought I did often, but didn't realize it was only ever done at the lake. Oh well, they try.

I finally made my return to Austin that Thursday and was greeted at Trudy's by some friends, all planned by my cousin Bunker who was visiting Austin for the weekend. Andrea brought me a yummy Hey, Cupcake! and Bunker got me a Mexican Martini, definitely making up for a lackluster birthday. I have also been treated to birthday lunches by cousin Becky and Great Aunt Catherine, and have future dinners/lunches to look forward to with some of my favorite former co-workers, Sarah and Travis.

Last night I celebrated an official Birthday Do-Over with a happy hour at 219 West with some friends, and it was quite a success. It was fun to see many of my worlds collide: high school, Lufkin, DAR, Capitol, and political. Elizabeth brought yummy Delish cupcakes and I was treated to the very yummy treats they serve at 219 West (mini bugers and mini corn dogs... MMMM). Afterwards, Andrea and I decided to end the evening with a little champagne and a peaches and creme dessert at Cru. Absolute perfection.

So, I think it's safe to say that year 29 has been fully celebrated. I'm so grateful for everyone that has helped me embrace my last year of my 20s whether in person or spirit. It's been fun! And it's helped me forget about some of the more not-so-fun things that have been happening in my life.... so thanks!

While I was away...

Madelyn turned 3! I can't believe how big my precious niece is getting!

It was great to spend a few days with her last week in Lufkin. She has started sleeping in a big girl, so I have gained a new roomie when I'm in town. There are now two twin beds in my room at my parents' house, so we figured that's the best room for Mady to sleep in so someone else is in the room with her and she doesn't try to wander downstairs in the middle of the night. Well, Mady is a snuggler, which I love, but I don't love sleeping in a twin bed with a 3 year old who loves to toss and turn. So, I start out the night snuggled with her and just as soon as she falls asleep, I get in the other bed. This confuses her when she wakes up in the morning and asks why I'm not in bed with her... but she'll learn to deal.

She has also become quite the swimmer. She feels pretty comfortable with her floaties on, and LOVES to jump off the diving board. I am completely amazed with how fearless she is! We had a little scary incident when leaving the pool one night and I was worried that it would effect her love for swimming, but she immediately asked if she could go swimming when she woke up the next morning so I think she's going to be fine.

So Happy (very belated) Birthday, Mady Marie! Love my niece to pieces!

Recovery

I'm recovering.

It's been quite a two weeks.

10 days in DC for DAR Continental Congress. Paging at the Shoppe from 8 am - 4 pm every. day. Quality time with my biffles/biffcars/biffdars... including a visit with every Royal Roomie (minus one Becca Grawl).

Then the bottom fell out. Mom went into the hospital on Thursday 7/8 with fluid in her lungs. She lost 15 lbs in 24 hours. It's congestive heart failure. They also discovered that a valve in her heart is functioning at 20%. She'll probably need surgery. We will know more after her check-up today. They have to get her meds regulated correctly for the congestive heart failure before they can proceed further.

Flew back to Texas on my birthday (7/12), went straight to Lufkin. Mom was released from the hospital that night. Celebrated my 29th with hospital visits, car break downs, and emotional break downs. Luckily, we have some pretty great friends who helped turn the day around. They even baked Jay and I cake (out of mix and ingredients that had been in our pantry for at least 10 years. I didn't eat the cake, but it's the thought that counts).

Car. My "new" car. Thought the transmission was going, but it turned out to be the spark plugs. Then I took it to the shop to get the alignment done, and that went from costing $59 to $1400 and took a full day of labor.

Then there was the fraudulent, accidental $1300 charge to my debit card. I love that it takes only a day to deduct a charge but 5 business days to put it back.

Thought about declaring another birthday and skipping my 29th year all together, but things have started to settle down. At least for now.

A Month of Mocktails

I can't believe July is already here! Where did June go? It will be fall before we know it, and after that it will be Session. Time continues to move faster and faster.

So I decided sometime in May that I wasn't going to drink the month of June. My body needed me to dry out a bit after the many, many social functions I attended from February-May where alcohol was involved. It actually was really easy, and I only succumbed twice, but both were very special occasions.

I rarely have alcohol in my apartment, so I didn't miss drinking on a day to day basis. I thought I would miss drinking when I was out and about being social, but that turned out to not be the case at all... in fact, I was even able to manage an evening at Jim Ann's in Lufkin with only drinking club soda and lime. If you're going to be tempted to have a cocktail, it's definitely going to be in your home town when you run into several old acquaintances. I also survived an evening of drinking games at Phillip's last weekend while sipping on my cranberry and sprite. It was quite entertaining to watch everyone else get tipsy, I'm pretty sure I've never laughed so hard.

I also saw a few health benefits of not drinking this month. I lost 6 pounds! This probably doesn't seem like a lot to most people, but I can not even begin to tell you how hard it is for me to lose any kind of weight. Of course, this wasn't strictly from not drinking alcohol, it was from the healthier life choices that came with not drinking... eating healthy and being more consistent with exercise. So the month of no drinking was a definite success.

This morning started off with a nice little surprise... a bomb threat to the Capitol. This is our second threat in 3 weeks. I can't really complain because I didn't have to come into work until 10 and was able to finish packing and getting everything together for my trip to DC. Speaking of DC, I leave this evening for Houston and fly to DC tomorrow morning (for DAR) and will be there until my birthday (July 12)... so there will definitely be no blogs posted for awhile. Sorry guys!

I have gotten completely sucked into the World Cup. Very sad that Brazil just lost, that was Carolyn's team and today is her birthday. Looking forward to seeing Uruguay and the three hot Diegos play this afternoon. Have I mentioned my favorite part of the game is at the end when they take off their shirts? Ha ha.

Enjoy your 4th of July weekend! Kind of cool that I'm going to be spending the holiday in our Nation's Capitol, it's so patriotic of me.

Apparently we ARE in Kansas, Toto...

I love my brother sometimes in only for his ability to keep me thoroughly entertained.

I got a call from my mom earlier this week informing me that she had bought a boat. A freakin' BOAT! We've been in the market for a new jet ski. Currently only 1 out of 4 actually run, which shouldn't be surprising since they are getting up there in age (15+ years). Well, apparently Jay has been looking for a boat, too, and found a really great deal. It's a Hurricane Deck Boat of some sort and will put our 200 hp motor to good use that currently resides on our Bayliner (that is also not running?).

Said boat is in Missouri. Jay drove to Lufkin and got the money to pay for the boat, then drove to Ft. Worth where he purchased a new boat trailor, and then set out for Rocky Mount, Missouri. While I was getting ready for work this morning I get a phone call from Jay. He needs help because he is lost. Somehow, Jay managed to drive to KANSAS on his way to Missouri. I'm not sure how he did it, and I'm not sure we will ever know... but this is not the first time this has happened.

School had just let out my Junior year of high school and a few of my choir buddies were going to come to Austin to compete in the State Solo/Ensemble Contest. I'm not sure why, or how, but Jay, Luke and myself ended up also going on this trip. We piled in to Rachel Villenueva's mini-van along with our friend Michael and off to Austin we went... I have no idea why my parents let us go off over-night, but they did. I get into the backseat of the mini-van because I'm going to take a nap, and Jay says "Remember 103 East when we are coming back." Yes, when we are coming back from Austin we will be on 103 East, so this is right. I doze off and about 45 minutes later I awaken to Rachel yelling out "7 miles from the Louisiana State Border?!?!?!?".... apparently they had taken 103 East. This is just one of many times that Jay has had to take a detour on a road trip. He is seriously directionally challenged, and it baffles me because it's not like he hasn't spent his entire life traveling!

And speaking of directionally challenged, I got to spend my lunch hour on the phone with Jay staring at a map of the middle-of-nowhere Missouri directing him to the place to pick up the boat. I anticipate several phone calls this afternoon/evening as he tries to return to Texas, hopefully not by way of Montana.

World Cup Mania

The World Cup has started, so my mornings and afternoons at work are spent with a soccer game playing in the background. Carolyn is a HUGE soccer fan. Like she'd be in South Africa right now if it wasn't so freakin' dangerous there, soccer fan. She even brought her tv from home since it's much bigger than our (not very small) flat screen in the office.

We also all did brackets for the World Cup. I'm not sure how well I'll fare in it, since I have very little knowledge of national soccer teams of the world (minus what I've been told since I started working here). I picked Spain to win it all, but after their poor showing against Switerzland this morning, that might have been a very bad choice. My top four teams are Spain, England, Brazil and Argentina. We shall see how this all shakes down come July.

My carpets are being cleaned this morning as a thank you for renewing my lease. I had to lock the poor kitties up in the laundry room, we shall see what kind of a mess I come home to in there. I can't believe we are already half-way through June... I don't know where the summer is going!

Committment Issues.

Since moving to Austin, I've had some serious committment issues. And no, I'm not talking about relationships (though I'm sure there's a case to be made for that, given my perpetual single status), I'm talking about my need to move every year. In the 5 1/2 years that I've lived in Austin, I've moved every single year. One year I moved THREE times!

Of course, I can't take full credit for my need to move. It hasn't all been my fault. Most of you know, I'm quite the good luck charm when it comes to engagements. This all started with my roommate Ashley. We lived together for probably 2 1/2 years total. We got cats together. Obviously, we were very committed to one another until she met Cody. And not even four months later, they were engaged! Ashley cracks me up because she holds the title for shortest time until engagement and longest engagement, since they still haven't gotten hitched! She is in the middle of completing PA school, so the relationship has been long distance for the last year or so.

After Ashley moved out, I was going to live by myself since I couldn't find a roommate. In walks Candace, a fellow SFAer looking to make a move to Austin to work in the political arena. A mutual friend introduced us, and I helped her find her first job. It was great timing since I needed a new roomie! She moves in, and low and behold, meets a guy (or I should say, becomes romantically interested in a fellow she has been friends with for a while), gets engaged, and is now married... all happening in less than a year (and no, there are no babies involved)!

After that, I decided I was tired of having to find a new roommate AND move every single year... so I decided to get a place by myself. It's in the same complex that Candace and I lived in, so it wasn't much of a hassle to move.

Well, I am happy to report, that I signed my lease renewal on Sunday and for the first time since I have moved to Austin, I AM NOT MOVING! I was annoyed because they upped my rent a little, but it's within my budget so we're good to go. Tanya, who actually worked at the last complex Ashley and I lived in as well, offered me a better apartment for basically the same rent I will start paying in August, but I just really, really, really don't want to move.

I feel more settled and grown-up not having to send out an updated adress to all of my family, friends, and various organizations I belong to for the first time in forever. It's such a hassle! Now that I've worked through my obvious living committment issues, maybe we can move onto my relationship issues, ha ha.

Me time.

This weekend I did as little as possible, and it was every bit as wonderful as I could have imagined it to be! This was the first weekend since FEBRUARY that I haven't traveled or had some sort of social obligation. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed celebrating every aspect of the 7 weddings, family birthdays, holidays, and attending conferences... but it all gets exhausting after awhile!

One of my co-workers didn't believe me when I told him way back when of how busy I was going to be the next few months. We were in Padre in early May for work and he made the comment about how he thought I had been exaggerating about my schedule, but he realized that I wasn't! He also said that my social life needs to be tapped for a new reality series, though I doubt my life would be interesting for anyone else to watch... there's definitely a lack of drama! Another friend just asked as a joke one day in an e-mail what wedding I had to attend that weekend... and of course, I responded with the friend and venue, not realizing she was kidding.

I was actually able to go to boot camp all this weekend... Friday night, Saturday and Sunday morning. Sunday for sure kicked my booty, it was so humid out that I was completely drenched by the time the hour was up. Guess I can't complain too much (though I did tell Sam at boot camp that I didn't like to do anything that I can't complain about), because it's just what I need to get back into gear. Friday night I introduced Andrea to the awesomeness that is Empire Records. I worked for a few hours at BBW on Saturday afternoon and then watched tv movies the rest of the evening. Sunday I made a trip to the laundromat since Smokey (yes, I'm talkin' 'bout cats) was apparently sick of my traveling as well and peed on my bed this week. My new comforter is too big for the machines at my apartment complex.

With all of this down time, I did some thinking and decided that this is going to be the summer of ME. You might be confused as to how someone who is single and lives by themselves could possibly need ME time, but I do. So that's what this summer is for. I'm going to keep the travel to the minimum and just try to enjoy some leisurely time in Austin. So, if you're looking for me this summer, you know where to find me!

Happy (belated) Birthday, Eric!

My main man Eric (Air-wic, as I like to say), turned 3 yesterday! I can't believe how fast all of the kiddos are growing up. I have really loved watching him grow and come out of his shell over the last year, it just completely amazes me. For the longest time, he wanted nothing to do with me. Not too shocking, seeing as he is a BOY, after all. He would just kind of stand back and watch as Ella and I played, rarely participating.

That is not the case any more. I am now greeted at the door as he says "I chase you!" and we start our running around the house. He loves to play and play and play. He's such a boy's boy... able to turn anything into a weapon or tool. He's also fearless. We were playing on the swingset at the lake last weekend and he wasn't afraid to jump at the monkey bars, which scared his Mama a LOT.

I love his precious smile and laugh. I love that he's so protective of his big sister, Ella. I love that I can actually get a hug and a kiss goodbye from him these days. I can't wait for our belated birthday dinner date the next time I'm in town!

Happy Birthday, Eric!

On a somewhat sad note, we lost my Great Uncle Ralph on Tuesday. He was 81. He had been in the hospital/hospice for the last few months, and had really been going downhill over the last year in general. With his passing, only Great Uncle Reginald remains of Ganny's siblings (she was one of six). It somewhat seems appropriate, since Reginald always wanted to be an only child...
Here's a picture of Uncle Ralph and Mady at the lake her first Thanksgiving.

All I want for Christmas...

...is a new niece or nephew! Jay and Lindsey are expecting! Lindsey is due January 2, but after Madelyn the doctor said that she wouldn't ever carry to full term again, so they are going to induce sometime between Christmas and New Year's (I'm sure they won't mind the tax break).

I have a really cute video on my phone of Madelyn announcing that she's going to be a BIG SISTER, but it's not currently cooperating. If you want to see it, you'll have to watch it on my phone sometime.

Is anyone else completely shocked that I was able to keep this a secret for THREE WHOLE WEEKS? Okay, so semi-secret. Lindsey gave the okay for me to tell people at work and such that have absolutely no connection to any of my family. We all know I can't really keep a secret. And yet that doesn't stop anyone from telling me secrets. All. the. time. Love it.

Headed to Lufkin in t-minus one hour for Memorial Day weekend. Taking a few friends with me, should be good times at the lake. Have a great holiday weekend... don't forget to remember those who have fought and died for our country so we can enjoy our freedom.

Happy Birthday, Ella Kate!

I can't believe that my sweet cousin Ella Kate is 5 years old today! Oh my, time sure does fly by fast! I had to miss the big birthday bash on Saturday because I had two DAR events in Austin that morning, so I took Ella to eat at Chili's last night (her choice, because "it's her favorite"). We had such a good time. She had what Brook calls her yellow meal: macaroni and cheese and corn on the cob. I told the waitress it was her birthday, so she brought out chocolate cake for dessert and they sang to her. Of course, Ella is super shy, so she hid under my arm the whole time they were singing.... but she loved the cake. She said that Chili's makes the best food ever!

I think the funniest part of the night was on our way back home. We had just finished dancing along to some song on the radio. She really wanted to hear the Boom Boom song, but I don't have that in my car, and she asks me who I'm married to. I tell her that I'm not married, and she says that I need to get married (I think she may be channeling her Granny Tempe with the marriage pressure). I asked her who I should marry and she tells me Jay. I told her that I can't marry my brother. So then Ella very politely volunteers to marry me. So then I tell her that girls have to marry boys.... so she told me to go meet a boy to marry. If it was only that simple!

So happy birthday, sweet Ella. I love you so, so, so much! Who would have ever thought that something so cute and nice would come from Scott? I adore the time I get to spend with you. I love spinning you, taking walks, spinning you some more, chasing you around the house, then spinning you some more, and letting you take pictures with my camera. I only wish I got to see you every day!

Ella eating cake on her first birthday.

Ella and I this past winter.

How can you not love her?

I went to Dallas this weekend for a wedding (surprise, surprise). I was able to go up a little early on Saturday and spend some time with my Mady. She makes my heart smile. And she loves her Aunt Jamie! We went to the Dallas Children's Museum at the Dallas Science Center. She had so much fun! She got to dress up as a fireman, play with water, pretend to be a farmer, check out the dinosaurs, and play in a giant sand box, just to name a few. Lindsey and I enjoyed watching her play.

When we got back home, Mady decided that she really wanted to come to the wedding with me. She's a party animal. She said "I go to the wedding with you and I DANCE!" Maybe next time, kid. I get to see her again this weekend, along with all of my favorite cousins: Ella, Eric, Will (I assume he'll be there), and Braxton. Who needs kids of your own when you have all of these cuties to love?

I've been here before

I was in South Padre for "work" last Wednesday-Friday. I was 3 years old the last time I went to South Padre. We went the summers I was 2 and 3 and stayed with family friends, the Bradleys, at their time-share condo on the beach. I know it sounds crazy, but I remember being in South Padre. I remember walking along the beach in the hot sand, and remember the giant jeeps that would drive along the beach and out into the water.

I hadn't really thought anything about those trips to South Padre until we pulled up to our hotel on Wednesday afternoon. My parents aren't ones for capturing every minute of their kids' lives, so I haven't been staring at pictures of the place where we stayed my entire life. I get out of the car and look up at the hotel and think "Wow, this place looks really familiar." I get out my phone and call my mom and ask her what was the name of the place where we stayed. She tells me it was the Hilton. Actually, at first she thought I was confused and talking about the EconLodge we always stayed in when we'd stop in Mobile on our way to the beach. I describe the place to her, and she thinks that it's the same place we stayed, too.

That night at dinner I asked our Legislative Director (who is from the area) if the Isla Grande was a Hilton back in the 80s... and it turns out that it was! What are the odds of that happening? There are tons of places on the Island and I booked this place based on our Chief of Staff's recommenedation.

We were on the island from Wednesday-Friday and it was quite enjoyable. We relaxed Wednesday afternoon and then went out to dinner with the guys from the office and a lobbyist. Thursday morning the boss-man surprised us with hour long massages at a nearby resort and then we spent the rest of the day on the beach (so now I have a suburn on my belly button because apparently I missed a spot with the sunscreen), before heading to the boss-man's condo for a reception and dinner for his fundraiser we were in town for. Friday morning was the fishing tournament. I caught 5 fish (but only got to keep 1)! I've never been any good at it, but I did have better luck than my partner... he dropped a pole in the water and only caught 2 fish and didn't get to keep either. After a delay at the airport (and happy hour with the other 17 stranded tournament attendees), we finally made it back to Austin a little after 6 on Friday night.

I'm already looking forward to my next trip to the District! I hadn't ever thought of this perk of working for a Coastal legislator!

Compromise

I am a shopaholic. It's not something I try to hide. I'm constantly browsing online to find my next must-have. As I've gotten older, I've become quite the bargain shopper.... I'm constantly browsing sales (my Mom is so proud). For instance, I really want this dress from Anthropologie:

Catmint Dress

$148

It's super cute, but I'm trying to be thrify with my spending with the many weddings I have to attend this month and all of my travels. I just can't justify picking up this dress at $148 for just no particular reason at all (especially since I'm eyeing a dress at J.Crew for a wedding later this month). Imagine my delight when I came across this fabulous compromise at Target for much, much less.

Merona Blue Paisley Print Dress

$18

Of course, this doesn't mean that I won't pick up the Catmint dress when it eventually goes on sale at Anthropologie...

Mystery: SOLVED!

While at C.A.R. National Convention a few weekends ago, one of the greatest mysteries of all-time was solved. Okay, so maybe it's not one of the greatest mysteries... but it has been something that has annoyed my friend Sarah and I for many years.

About 4 years ago my friend Cal got married outside of Baltimore. Several C.A.R.s made the trip to celebrate his nuptials. It should go without saying, but C.A.R.s + open bar + dance floor = one helluva time. The only problem? The lack of memories. It's a good thing we have our cameras to take so many pictures!

The morning after the wedding, Sarah and I awake in our hotel room to find this:



We were completely baffled to find the ironing board in our room mangled and on the floor. While our memories were a bit fuzzy from the previous night's events, we were pretty certain that this was not our doing. For starters, I had no bruise to show for it... and there's no way I could have done that to an ironing board without getting a bruise, since my skin is very peach-like. We asked Sarah's brother Andy about it, and he didn't do it... so we weren't sure how this happened. We have often discussed this ironing board, but have never been able to figure out how in the heck it broke.

Fast forward to C.A.R. National Convention a few weeks ago. All of the old kids were hanging out in the guys' room on Saturday evening. Somehow, we begin discussing Cal's wedding. Sarah and I decide to bring up the fact that we found our ironing board broken on our floor and we had NO IDEA how it happened. Immediately our friend Jerry says, "I did it!".

What? What do you mean? You did it? How have you not told us this before? How did you even get into our hotel room? It turns out that Jerry ventured to our room during the search for my missing camera (it had been left on the shuttle from the reception to the hotel). While looking for my camera Jerry decided he was going to surf on our ironing board (at the very mature age of 25ish). Of course, the ironing board buckled under pressure and collapsed on our floor. This also explains why all of my clothes were thrown about the hotel room. I didn't think I had made such a mess while searching for my camera, but once again... fuzzy memories...

So, the great mystery of the broken ironing board has been SOLVED! This pretty much made mine and Sarah's weekend, so I couldn't help but share this bit of information with you all. I know you will all sleep a little easier tonight knowing that it was Jerry who broke our ironing board four years ago.

My stalker...

Well, dear blog-reader friends, it seems I may have a stalker on my hands. It started out as a very casual relationship. We'd see each other a couple of times a year, no biggee. Over the last year or two though, it seems that we're running into each other a bit more frequently. I wasn't too alarmed... it all seemed very natural. However, I have recently begun to realize that I am being stalked.

I didn't pay much attention at first, and hardly realized that their appearance was becoming more and more frequent. But over the last few months, it's been hard not to notice their presence in my life. It seems I can't escape them! Every aspect of my life is being infiltrated... it seems I have a full-blown obsessor on my hands.

And just who might my stalker be? WEDDINGS! I can't escape them! Just to prove my point... this past Saturday I attended a bachelorette party for my dear friend, and former BBW manager Andrea (Dre), who is eloping to Vegas this week. On Sunday I received a phone call from my biffle (that's best friend for life for those of you not in the know), informing me of her weekend betrothal. And then last night I was channel surfing and stumbled upon "Girl Meets Dress" on WE tv, and decided to pause there while I continued to look for something else to watch. I almost fell out of my chair when I saw a friend from HS on my television talking about getting her bridesmaids fitted for her wedding. This brought me to the conclusion that I have a full-blown stalker on my hands.

This week will once again be filled with bridal events as I am a bridesmaid this weekend. I can only imagine what my life will be like if I am (un)fortunate enough to catch the bouquet...

All dogs go to heaven... (I hope)

Our family dog Baron died on Monday. He was hit by a car and died during surgery from the extensive trauma he received. It has surprised me just how hard I have been taking this. Jay got Baron shortly after he and Lindsey started dating (she drove up to Dallas with him to help him pick out the puppy)... so we had him for almost five years, for all of which I have lived in Austin. He's ginormous, comparable to a horse, so I've never been one to cuddle with him. But I have been crying all week about it! I don't remember the last time I was this upset over a pet's death. When you grow up in the country always having at least 3 or 4 pets at a time, you get used to pet deaths.

Perhaps it's the circumstances of this death. Baron was not prone to wandering near the road unless there was something going on that shouldn't be. Also, he's HUGE (tall and probably close to 170 lbs), so it's hard to believe that someone would not see him in the road. And, that someone didn't even bother to stop and help the poor dog! I really hope some major damage was done to the car. From the extensive amount of wounds, the vet was pretty confident in saying that he was hit dead center and at excessive speed (the speed limit is 40 mph on unmarked county roads). Poor, poor guy.

I don't think I had realized how much I depended on Baron as my protector. Our house can be a pretty scary place when you're there by yourself. Baron was always good at greeting my car whenever I pulled into the driveway and walking me to the house. He would sleep outside the door, and I always felt good about hearing him bark at unknowns in the middle of the night. I'm so glad that when I was walking out to leave home last weekend I stopped to pet Baron and tell him what a good boy he was, that's not something I usually do.

Here are two pictures of Baron. One from when he was a puppy, and the other from a few months ago when we had snow in Lufkin. We're going to miss you, Baron!

I'm headed to Houston tonight to stay with cousin Kathryn, Noel, and baby Will before I fly out to D.C. bright and early tomorrow morning for C.A.R. National Convention. I have a lot going on that I want to blog about, so hopefully you will see a lot more of me when I return... but no promises...