my red pillow- clearance fabric- designer look.
Cade's room is being transformed into a COWBOY room
two of three totes I've made
Maxie and Cade crossing creek 
Maxie and a hairy thing
Auntie Tara and Maxie after the train ride around the very exciting SA park....(BORING)
1. Sewing is going great. I've sewed two pillow cases- one in a vintage cowboy print for Cade's room and one in a raw silk..... I'm really proud of how they both turned out. Tomorrow I'm going to my second lesson and starting my tote bag project.
2. Thinking about going back to work...it will most likely happen next year but I'm ready to get back into teaching and putting more green in the bank. A friend from JL has a job share position- where she works 3 days on week and 2 the next. It seems like the perfect fit for me. Travis could watch Cade Monday and Tuesday and my parents could maybe watch him one day....and then I would be home the rest of the week...... very ideal and it would be 3x more than I make now.... so I'm thinking about it.
3. I got my haircut above my shoulders. It's super cute and easy to style. I would post pictures but I can't find my camera charger.
4. Wishes the Bachelorette would be on everyday not just once a week..... I want to know who Gillian picks. I'd pick Jake or Kipton....and there is one other one I like.....can't remember his name.
5. Going to start taking Cade to the gym with me. I think it'll be good for both of us. He'll get to play with other kids and I'll be able to work out. Travis is trying to get in touch with a trainer in Conroe....but so far we haven't been able to reach her. His mom is using her and seems to like the program. If I don't get a trainer I'm going to look into getting a workout buddy....I asked a few friends but they aren't sure they are ready to commit.....I know I'm ready- I just need to be pushed out the door.
6. The past two nights Cade has crawled in bed with us....tonight if it happens again I'm going to put him back in his bed. There just isn't enough room for the 4 of us (lucy is a tosser as is Cade).
I'm not sure why he's waking up.... he had been doing so great in his bed since we converted it over!
7. I'm wishing we could afford landscaping. Our house would really benefit from some kind of barrier around the bushes out front. I have so many ideas for it but there just isn't any money for that sort of thing right now. I also want a covered patio and some kind of playground equipment in the backyard. Sam and Charlie have a homemade one with ramp, slide and sandbox.... Travis is supposed to get Charlie to give him and estimate on materials and then we can come up with a design. Cade would love to have one and so would I.... The porch would definitely be an up sale whenever we decide to move.
8. Is wondering when my Junior League assignment is going to start. I'm ready to get back into it. I miss it!
9. A clean house feels good.
10. Thinking about making a trip out to Hobby Lobby to get some more fabric. Maybe I'll stop by Krissy's and check in on her.
SEW-I signed up and completed my first sewing lesson. I've had my machine for several years and I just never got the hang of it and I basically packed it away... occasionally I watched Travis pull it down from the top shelf and sew a patch or an extra strap on his duty clothes but other than that it just sat there on the shelf covered up and forgotten.
Well that all changed when I visited Sam's house the other day. She excitedly pulls me into her nursery and shows me her latest project-- her handmade diaper bag and diaper holder. I knew she could sew but these were the cutest things I've seen her make! Then she walks me over to the office where she pulls open a drawer full of fabric and shows me what else she's been working on..... I was so inspired by her that I googled a teacher that night and signed up for lessons.
My first lesson was this past Wednesday. We went over all of the parts of the sewing machine, practiced a few different stitches first on paper then on fabric and then I was quizzed over everything I had learned. I am supposed to be making a tote bag at my next class....hopefully I'm ready for that. Sounds pretty advanced but I'm excited because I get to go pick out fabric and I have something to look forward to each week during the month of June.
1. This past weekend we traveled to Austin to visit friends and family. On Saturday Donny and Taylor tied the knot in Lockhart. The wedding was sweet and simple- just what they wanted. After the wedding we met up at Baby A's for ritas and queso then headed to Magnolia grill for dinner. We met some great friends of Donny and Taylor... I hope we can all get together another time!
2. On Sunday we made a trip to the San Antonio zoo. I have mixed feelings about it. Yes it's a really nice zoo but it was hard to navigate through and there weren't any vendor stands selling drinks, the lion area was STINKY- and it's not stroller/wheelchair friendly. I think Cade's favorite exhibit was the hippopotamus (when he says it, it's like the longest word ever.....hippomoctomus- or something like that)... Maxie seemed to have fun. She was most excited about getting an Icy.
3. Cade is identifying numbers 2 and 5.... I think the iPod touch has a lot to do with that skill. I downloaded a toddler game that goes over letters, shapes, and numbers.....when he turns it on a voice asks him to touch a number or a certain letter.... I can't believe how smart he is... he surprises us everyday.
4. The U on the laptop is now working and we are now able to take the laptop into multiple rooms without having to have it plugged in and charging. We shipped the laptop off last week to get repaired while it was still under a warranty and it arrived yesterday all shiny and new. I'm not kidding I thought we had a new one....the screen didn't have tiny finger prints everywhere and the keyboard was crumb free and all the letters were secure and in place.... now lets see how long it will stay like this.
5. Cade has been in his big boy bed for over a week. I'm wondering how long he'll fit in this size bed.... he's growing like weed!
6. While we were in Austin we went to eat at the Salt Lick. It's my new favorite hot spot in the Texas Hill Country. Travis and I both ordered the chopped beef sandwich...... we would have licked our plates if we weren't in public-- that's how good it was! When we were paying we added a bottle of sauce and dry rub...... tonight I made pork chops with the dry rub-- I have never had such tasty pork chops. I think we're going to purchase a gift set for Travis' brother and sister in law who live out of state.... they are missing the food over here I'm sure!
7. My parents and my sister and her family are going to be going to Port Aransas in July to stay a few days at a friend's beach house.... should be a fun trip!
8. Our friend's Sam and Charlie welcomed a new baby into their family of 3 on Tuesday- Brooke Nicole Webb. We went up and visited with them on Wednesday..... she is precious! So happy for them! Cade seemed a bit jealous when I was holding her....hopefully he'll get used to seeing that whenever we decide to have another....
9. Tomorrow I'm getting my haircut! I can't wait.... I love getting my haircut-- it always looks so soft and touchable....I'm trying to figure out why I can't get it to look like that everyday.
10. Travis and I are on a health kick. It's time to get back in shape and back on track.
1. The letter "u" is broken on my laptop. It only works if you press it towards the left with extreme pressure.
2. Today Travis put Cade in his crib only to learn that Cade can now climb out on his own. When I asked Cade what he did today he said, "mama no help. Cade fall."
3. We had our last Junior League Meeting/Dinner of the year. Our Provisional class has now graduated and we are now considered "actives." Yay!
4. My mom and I might be driving up to Austin Thursday- Sunday. My cousin Mark is back from Germany...he brought along a friend....I want to meet her and see him- so now is the time to do it before they head back to Germany on Sunday!
5. Did I mention how much I love the iPod touch....the apps are so addicting!
6. We assembled the worlds biggest Thomas the Train track in our guest room. It's remote controlled and everything. It's pretty sweet. Cade enjoys it until Thomas takes a corner a bit too fast and derails from the track....When this happens, Thomas is usually thrown across the room out of frustration.
7. I want to buy a tree for the backyard (so sad that our neighborhood didn't "come" with trees) I also want a brick mailbox with a flower box..... can you say weekend project Travis?!
8. This will be my 3rd 10 on Tuesday post.
9. I want to get back to the gym. Hopefully Travis and I can work it out with his schedule that I go when he is home so Cade doesn't have to go to the germ covered children's area.....but I might just have to break down and just GO. I need to- besides isn't that was sanitizer is for?
10. I love LOVE LoVE the weather we are having. It's gorgeous!
1. Cade is really talking it up these days. He's putting together sentences with 3 and 4 words.
2. Tonight I "graduated" Junior League. So now I am awaiting my placement. Hopefully I'll get one of my TOP 5 picks.
3. Tomorrow is my last day at ELP. I will miss my 5 year olds a bunch.
4. Tomorrow I'm going to see America's Got Talent with my Mom. She's really excited....so excited she's already picked out the jewelry she is going to wear. =)
5. One thing my Grandma told me awhile back was that "you can't miss what you don't have" and I believe it.
6. Travis and I finally found a church that we BOTH enjoy and are really looking forward to joining this June.
7. I had a great mother's day! We went to Market Street and walked around and then to Berry Hill for some beer and 'ritas. We also had dinner with my parents. I especially love my gifts from Travis and Cade- a leather journal and an iTunes gift card....but i was somehow tricked into loading it on Travis' iPod....so was it really mine to begin with?
8. The parent's at school all chipped in and got me a $50 gift card to Macys, $15 to Starbucks and $25 to Target. I aslo got this amazing car organizer from 3 other parents.....It came stocked with goodies for Cade too. I can't believe how generous the parents are!
9. I am trying to find something fun for Cade to do this summer. Something fun once a week for him and I to do. And then something once a week where he can do something on his own.
10. It's going to be a great summer!
MHR- My Husband Rocks
My husband rocks for the sacrifices he makes for our family. Lately Travis has picked up a bunch of overtime shifts in addition to his normal shift.... it'll pay off in the long run but I can tell that what he really wants is to be at home with Cade and I instead of catching up on sleep and then heading back to work. Poor guy! BUT we love you and appreciate what you are doing for us as a family! I promise Sunday will be family fun day!
--------
In other news:
Travis celebrated his 32nd birthday. We had a bbq Sunday afternoon where all the guys and gals came over for dinner and cake. Travis had stuffed peppers and chicken going on the Old Smokey and I had BBQ chicken thighs in the oven. I will definitely be making/baking BBQ chicken again....yum!
Travis received an iPod Touch from his mom. I happen to LOVE it. I wish it was mine! haha. I did purchase a nice rubbery green sleeve for it- green b/c I like green. Travis is sharing it nicely...even Cade has an application on it just for him- it has letters, shapes, colors, all those fun pre-school games. He loves playing with it he even came into our room today and said, "iPod coming, iPod coming too." He wanted the iPod to come with us to the mall..... haha!
In addition to the green sleeve I also gave Travis a massage treatment. Nini from my chiropractor's office came to our house on Saturday and treated Travis to an hour long massage. Cade and I were conveniently out of the house while he was getting pampered! I also splurged on green tea shampoo and conditioner for him.... it's the little things that give the best thrills!
Then on Cinco de Mayo (his actual birthday) we went out to dinner with Amanda and Abbey. We met up at Rico's---for fajitas and ritas. Good times!
Only 7 more months until my birthday! argh. where does the time go?
On Wednesday, April 29 we celebrated 3 years of marriage.
We started the evening at CRU- a wine bar on Market Street. We each had a flight of wine and then headed over to Jasper's for dinner. Travis had steak with spinach and mushrooms- yum-o.
I opted for the Texas peach BBQ pork tenderloin with Bourbon corn.
After dinner we went to Truffles and picked out a few chocolates to share. Then headed home... We came home to a sleeping baby and a surprise chocolate cake baked by Julia. We shared a bite and then headed to bed!
This summer we will head up to Fredericksburg for our normal anniversary getaway- and then to Salado another weekend to do some antiquing and relaxing.
Just checked our wedding photos are still online.... www.lukehorton.com I love looking at them! Go to weddings and then click the top image of a bride.... my photos will pop up! Wish I could have that day back....
my little bunny boy
bunny napkin fold
meee loove cookie monster
Paula Dean's cheesecake cupcakes- yum!
all hunted out.1. Travis is finally recognizable.... I had almost forgotten how cute he was with all that hair and a beard.
2. Cade had his 2 year check up today. The doctor was very impressed with his vocabulary and various other skills. He had to stand on the big boy scale today- which he wasn't too happy about....but who would blame him- nobody likes those things!
3. I got some new kicks- pink, white and gray ones.
4. My friend Julie is having ANOTHER boy! This makes 4 for her. My other friend Susan is having at least ONE boy....maybe two. AND my friend, Amber just had her 2nd baby boy yesterday!
5. I have a sleepy toddler that won't take a nap today.
6. I'm excited about the lemonade stand we set up at school. All proceeds go to Alex's Lemonade Stand foundation- cancer research for children.
7. I hope we have a great turn out on Easter for lunch. Cade has been practicing finding eggs....he's got that down.
8. Wishes that buttons on phones, tvs and radios weren't so fun to push...... I'm surprised Cade hasn't called China yet.
9. Is so happy that the maid is coming back tomorrow. Maybe they can find my bedroom carpet......... for some reason Travis loves his clothes in piles not on hangers.
10. Is playing the lotto.
A few of my friends have a Ten on Tuesday post.....here's mine.
the hairy guy in the picture is my husband, Travis.
We are finally back in our house. Everything but a few minor things need to be completed but we're just glad to be back in our own beds. One thing we did before we moved in was hire an awesome maid service to come out and clean the house. It almost sparkled when they left. I told Travis I'm going to have to figure out a way to have them come out at least once a month.....it's so worth it!
Cade and Abbey 
Cade enjoying his chicken nugget
The favors were super cute- train hats and whistles from Oriental Trading. The funny thing was after I handed those out, one of the little boys asked me, Miss Tara don't you have any goody bags-- too cute!So since the last time I posted we now how 3 rooms with carpet and most of our wet areas are tiled.... next comes the wood. We should be moved in by next weekend which is fine with me.... The furniture people are coming out this week to repair anything that had water damage and then we can finally get those pieces back in the right places instead of in a huge pile in the middle of our living room. I can't wait for the cleaning crew to get here....this house is so dusty... even the key board has a layer of grit.
It'll all get back in order sooner or later....
I have so many people in my life that are pregnant right now. Some with their first, some with no. 2 on the way and some with their 4th and some that are trying! I keep debating when we will have another child. I definitely want Cade to have a partner in crime. Everyone says that their will never be the perfect time..... I just know now is not the time. I can see maybe trying later in the year..... I'd love to have another spring baby!
So our house was flooded about 2 weeks ago from a little plastic tube that connects the fridge ice maker to the water. The tube must have been detached all night with the amount of damage we had. I woke up to the mess and am still living in it.
The good thing is is that we are getting to upgrade our house with new carpet, tile and wood floors. We decided on tile for the bathroom and kitchen. Tomorrow I'm sure we'll decide on the wood. So many choices and putting it all together isn't as easy as I thought it would be.
Cade is good. He turns two next Monday. He's such a smart baby.. I mean toddler.
He can count to 10, and sometimes higher (eleventeen, twelve, thirteen)
He can say his ABCs and even identify some of them (W, E, and O)
He sings pat a cake with hand movements
Stacks blocks like there is no tomorrow
LOVES ice cream
And says, AMEN and Bless You
He's the greatest blessing~ Travis too!
For the past 23 months Cade has had 12 ear infections. Here lately it seems like he just can't get over them. So we made an appointment last month to get evaluated a second time by the ENT for the possibility of placing tubes in Cade's ears. It was highly recommended to help drain the ear and prevent further infections- while the ear can still become infected it at least can drain and not cause as much pain as a full blown infection. So we schedule the surgery.
Yesterday we woke up a 6 and arrived at the surgery center at 7. He played in the waiting room until it was time to get prepped. That took about 20 minutes and then he headed back to the OR for about 10 minutes. We literally sat down and got back up to go get him. He was the least bit happy to see us. Finally he settled down and we drove home. He slept a good while once we got home....and then all of sudden he shot up and said JUICE. Not sure if he was really awake, I comforted him and carried him to the kitchen, handed him his juice and then all of a sudden he went BLAH all over himself and me.
Poor baby. We cleaned him up and then he did it again.... just a little bit. So we stripped him down and tossed him into the tub. I think that made him feel better. Afterwards he was his normal self.... a little wobbly and bit more cranky than normal but overall he was doing well.
As for sleeping last night- I rocked him and tried to put him down and popped back up. I decided to not let him cry it out since he just had the procedure done-- he did sleep until 7 with me. So that was nice treat. Hopefully he'll wear himself out this afternoon at the park.
We go back in 2 weeks for a follow up. Let's hope for good results.
Even I went down the slide.... so fun!I am back into couponing!
CVS-
2/$7 Panteen (-3.50 extra care bucks (previously earned), - $3 off 2 coupon)= 2 bottles of Panteen for .54cents
Oh and I earned an additional $2 in extra care bucks
Walgreens
3.50 Electrasol- (-2.50 coupon, - 1.50 mail in rebate) = .50 overage
2.99 Garnier Shampoo (-$2 easy saver coupon, - $1 coupon) .01 overage
The cashier at CVS said- soooo basically we just paid you to shop here. I said, pretty much you did.
Get inspired~ check out this lady- http://jane4girls800dollarannualbudget.blogspot.com/ she feeds her family of 4 on $800 a year just by couponing..... pretty amazing.
And look at hotcouponworld.com for other couponing deals!
I made a great dinner tonight.
I had the salad earlier this week at a holiday social and had to make it for myself. It's fresh and delish~ perfect for the season--and super simple to make. In a bowl, toss green salad with pomegranate, feta, nuts, and pears. Serve with Raspberry Pomegranate vinaigrette.
Salmon fillet with a brown sugar glaze--In a saucepan 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 tsp butter, 1 tbsp honey- stir over low heat until melted. Remove from heat. Whisk in a few dashes of s n p, olive oil, and soy sauce. Cool for 5 minutes. You really can't mess up the glaze......
Place fish on a foil lined tray and pour glaze over them. Bake 25 minutes at 350.
Such a yummy dish.
Tonight was the first pre-shift of the holiday market. I met up with Amanda and we directed traffic in the lot....vendors move in...vendors move out. We did that for an hour together then her shift ended and I was on deck, solo. I did have some company from some other girls- who were super nice!
The market looks like it's going to be a great success this year! My friends are going, and mom and all her friends and even Stephanie is making a special trip down! I hope it meets their expectations!
Tomorrow I have to work the mid-day shift. 11-3:30. I hope I don't pass out from starvation! Note to self: bring a snack. Then I have to come home and bake bread for Friday's shift... The only perk about baking the bread is that it's probably one of the easiest of all the possible recipes out of the JL cookbook to make.....or at least from the ones I picked from.
Friday isn't anything.....that evening, I'll probably head over to mom and Daddy's to visit with Maxie- My toothless niece. She lost her two front teeth and one bottom one this past weekend....and not by choice. A while back someone bumped into her on the playground and caused her tooth(loose tooth) to turn blue...she must have wiggled it for two months straight before the neighbor next to them was able to yank it out! The following day she had a run in with a tennis racket- she busted her lip and swallowed a tooth (we think) and another fell out (it was already loose). Poor girl!
anyway, that's all for now...........i'm in need of a shower and some zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz's.
Wedding plans are coming along nicely! We finished our wedding blog on theknot.com. Our registry is almost complete as well. We still need to register at Foley's and add towels at Linens and Things. We tried to complete the LNT registery yesterday but the scanner kept freezing up on us!
Today Becky and I are going to look at Bridesmaid dresses. The colors for the wedding are soft and romantic pinks and creams. It shouldn't be too hard to find those colors since spring is just around the corner. Actually spring might be here now- yesterday it was 80 degrees! Ohhh you gotta love that Texas weather.
We're engaged!
We're planning to be married in April 2006 in the Texas Hill Country. This week Becky and I are going to Fredericksburg to check out a few venues to host the reception at. We are interested in Kairos Celebration Barn, Trois Estates and the Enchanted Chateau.
Saturday was the first time I took the bridal party out to look at dresses. We went to David's Bridal and Panache. I wasn't expecting to find my dress on the first run but I did! I love it and can't wait to wear it! It's...oh, wait I can't tell you because it's a secret! I hate secrets!
So, I haven't purchased the shoes yet. I am just as disappointed as you. I did look last weekend but the mall was packed with wanna be gangstas. So I'm still surfing the net and sneaking a peek at the feet that pound the gym floor. I've add a pair of pumas to my list of possibilities. There are so many cute color combinations to choose from!
One more day before the weekend is here! I'm thinking about going over to my parent's house and spending some time with my mom. My dad is up in the hill country since deer season is now open. I'll probably head over kind of early on Saturday. I'm wanting to take her to breakfast at Panera Bread and then head to Old Town Springs for an hour or two. We usually hit up Maggies and stroll around that end of town. We avoid the doll shops by all means. Doll shops scare me and a visit to the doll hospital scares me even more!
With that said, I hope to find some cute holiday decorations since Becky and I are hosting a Christmas party Dec. 9th. The following Friday my mom and I are going to the Nutcracker Market at the Reliant Center. The market is amazing. You'll find everything from salsa dip to elaborate holiday decor. We've gone the past 4 years and know the floor plan pretty well! As soon as we make it in the event area, we head straight to the back booth because that's where they have the best things, at reasonable prices!
The one item that I always leave with is a jar of amaretto butter spread. It's made right here in Texas! It's this yummy spread that melts in your mouth when it's warm! You can put it on pancakes, biscuits, toast................a spoon! It's just that good!
Speaking of yummy Texas products! I also love, LoVe, LOVE Fischer Weiser products, especially the Raspberry Chipolte Sauce. You can pour it on top of cream cheese and serve with crackers or use it as a dipping sauce for any kind of meat. There are several flavors to choose from and once you do, ketchup will be a thing of the past.
Also, how yummy does this sound...Hot Chocolate Cake!
I was surfing the net for new gym shoes today and and found the nike shox aprisa that I'm interested in. I've never owed a pair of black shoes but I thought that they would look nice with my black workout pants- which is very important to me! Of course, I'll be able to tell right away if they are a keeper the minute I put them on! Hopefully they'll be a perfect fit. I'm also considering the nike shox go because I love the color red. Tonight I saw a girl at the gym wearing them...I was so jealous!
Something cool on nike.com is that you can get a mini workout while you surf their site. You can break a sweat while doing a warm-up or whittle your waist away with a salsa dancing lessons. The instructor goes step by step and then puts it all together and even throws in a cha-cha-CHA.
These have to be the prettiest matches ever....I love the white box with red dots- it's just my style.
Today I was reading in a magazine about different ways to save money. One way was to clip coupons....imagine that. I'm always a big fan of getting the Sunday paper and scanning the ads for coupons! It's always a good feeling to look at the reciept and see that you actually saved money- even if it's only a couple of bucks. It all adds up in the end. The magazine mentioned a sight called, grocerygame.com. The site finds the "rock bottom" prices on hundreds of products each week and matches them up with manufacturers' coupons for the best possible savings at your local supermarket. How cool is that?! There is a $10 fee every 8 weeks if after your trial period you continue to use the service. Sounds like a good deal to me.
new music to check out-Lori McKenna.
Cupcake anyone?
I just finished baking a dozen and half Strawberry Cupcakes. They turned out so prefect! I served one cupcake on a piece of antique china and dusted it with powered sugar, muy magnificent! There couldn't be anything better than whipped cream and fresh fruit piled between a layer of super moist cupcake!
The recipe is super easy to follow and would be a great date night dessert to make with the one you love! And if you choose to do it alone, you will surely earn a smile or two once the dessert is served!
bon appetite!
I never thought that another ice cream could possibly top Cookies 'n Cream Ice Cream. I'm a huge fan of cookies and cream! I love the creamy texture and hard cookie combination. But the other day on the way to the hair salon we drove past a Ben and Jerry's and I made the comment that I have only had their Ice Cream once in my entire life but that I couldn't remember what kind it was. Well the day went on and I forgot about the ice cream. The next night we met my parents for dinner and on the way there, the Ben and Jerry's sponser car drove beside us. I knew this was a sign from God telling me to venture out into the frozen food section and pick up a carton of Ben and Jerry's. So tonight after my Pilates class I did just that! I know, I know it does defeat the purpose of working out if you're going to splurg on sugary snacks but one bite of Cherry Garcia will knock your socks off. Imagine cherries with chocolate chunks! Pure yummy goodness.
So moooove over Cookies 'n Cream and welcome Cherry Garcia!
Never again will you have to have a boring USB memory stick. Now you can get a USB drive in a variety of styles. Check them out here! I really like the camo-rubber ducky.
How ridiculous is this: SPRAY ON MUD.
It's true- now you can actually buy something to make your car/truck appear dirty.
For the last few months my interest have gone from scrapbooking to card making but since summer is here I have decided to pull out my paper, scissors and glue and get back into the game. And to help me along they way I turned to the internet for some inspiration. After searching what seemed like an eternity I came across a page dedicated completely to scrapbooking! Kinderdcreations has all kinds of ideas, from page lay-outs to tips and tricks of getting your page just the way you want it! It has given me the inspiration I needed to get back into cropping!
The latest trend in scrapbooking is the use of ribbon, rubber stamps and layering (to the extreme). All of that means thinking outside of the box- which I'm pretty used to but when it comes to cropping I tend to freeze up and not be a risk taker. With help from this site and from the members online I'm hoping they can inspire me to take my scrapbooking to the next level because I'm ready, I just need a little push.
Creative Juices now being served online @:
Paper-source
bisous.biz
onescrappysite
HOUSTON STORE
This has to be the coolest idea ever! This morning I was looking online for a new pair of jeans. There are so many styles out there to choose from and it often becomes more of a frustration than anything when trying to find the perfect ones. During my search, I came across Intellifit which is a device that scans your body to see what size clothing you wear per designer. Think of all the hours you've spent in the dressing room trying on outfit after outfit. In as little as ten seconds the scanner measures your body and a computer print-out will lead you into the right direction of what will fit and flatter your figure. How smart is that...
Where to find the Intellifit.
Happy shopping!
Summer is officially here! I'm heading to Fredericksburg, tomorrow morning to spend a few days in the Hill Country. I'm really looking forward to spending time with Maxie and GiGi since I haven't seen them since Christmas! Lucky for me, Stephanie and Maxie came down this past weekend and I was able to spend a little time with them. Saturday night we all went over to The Watts' house for Jake's Graduation party. Then on Sunday, my Dad fired up the BBQ pit and made ribs and chicken for dinner. Right now I am at Travis' house, uploading songs on to my new iPOD shuffle. So far I have about 15 songs out of a possible 120 uploaded. This afternoon I'm picking Maxie up from my parents house and taking her to my apartment for the evening. We'll be watching movies, painting our toes and having dinner at a fancy restaurant like Chick-Fil-A. Then tomorrow, the three of us (me, maxie and the dog) will head to GiGi's house for some real fun.
one: If you are bored at work (which I know never happens) go to jbandsandy.com and click on radio player and select a megamix to listen to. It will definitely make your day better! My personal favorites are Napolean Dynamite and Britney Spears with Linkin Park. It's super sweet.
two: I was offered a job in Magnolia teaching Kindergarten!
The wait is finally over! Faith Hill's newest song in over two years was released yesterday! Her new single "Mississippi Girl," can be heard here.
Another one bites the dust- Kenny Chesney and Rene Zellweger were married this past Monday. I'm impressed that they kept their relationship under the radar as long as they did. There aren't too many pictures of the two exchanging vows but from the ones I have seen, I like the barefoot Kenny Chesney look! If I decided to get married on an island far from here, my groom should take note of this opinion.
I called in sick (cough, cough) today because I have interviews scheduled with two school districts. I'm interviewing with Klein this morning and then in Magnolia this afternoon. Hopefully something will come from this!
Yankee or Dixie?
Take the quiz to find out!
My score: 74% (Dixie). That is a pretty strong Southern score.
Heck yeah it is.
Only 5 weeks left of school! Just typing that makes my feet tingle!
That means it's time to organize the cabinets and the files. I actually started doing a little tidying up this week. My kids can't believe how much stuff can fit into one file cabinet drawer. I need to figure out how I'm going to transfer everything from school to home. It's going to take a few trips I'm sure but everything must go! This is my last year in Fort Bend. I have mixed feelings about leaving because I love my team so much but it's for the best and I'm looking forward to a little change.
So far I haven't had much luck in the job hunting department. I've applied in Klein, Conroe and Magnolia. I haven't heard a thing from anyone but it's still pretty early in the game. I just hope I find something because it is pretty stressful to not know where I'm going to be.
Travis is pretty positive about it which helps me a lot. I need to believe that I'll find something and that everything will work out in the end. Keep your hopes up!
----last night----
I met Susan up at Gringo's for dinner. We caught up with each other and decided Laura should be apart of the fun! She showed up just as we were leaving so we went back in for another drink. She is always so much fun and her laughter is contagious...that's what I like about her. We talked for a little bit then we decided to head our seperate ways. The drive home was fine. I love where I live- easy access to the beltway!
Happy Friday....
Travis and I have rented several movies lately, which is surprising to us both. We have probably only watched a handful of movies together- and have yet to actually go to the theater.
We rented 3 movies last Friday night: Ladder 49, Hero and Lucky 13. What? You've heard of the first two but not the last? Lucky 13 is about man (a no talent actor-Zach Baker) who revisits previous significant girlfriends in his life in order to win over the girl of his dreams- Gillmore Girl, Lauren Graham. This film would be great if the writer had written exactly the same thing but different. I fast forwarded through 70/95 minutes just to have a sense of closure. It was just that bad. It almost makes you feel dumber by watching the movie than by not watching it.
In the words of Napolean Dynmite, "This is pretty much the worst video ever made."
Is it to first bite the head off, then the butt, then stuff the middle in your mouth?
A: There's not really a correct way, but there is a preferred way.
According 1998 surveys by MSI International and International Communications Research (ICR), 60 percent of consumers eat Peeps head first. And if that's not grizzly enough, 40 percent stretch the neck out before the fatal chomp. No statistics on butt and belly biting, but 10 percent admit, actually admit, they stuff more than one whole Peep in their mouth at once.
Personally I like to eat half of a peep and then stuff the rest in Travis' mouth.
Click here to read more about PEEPs.
Have you ever started typing and then looked up and realized that you really haven't typed a darn thing. That just happend to me. So now I'm wondering where have all those letters gone, if they are not on my screen....
This morning Travis and I watched the movie, The Incredibles (or los increbiles). It was pretty funny!! Definitely worth seeing. I went ahead and bought a copy to add to my personal dvd collection, which is now up to 13.
After the movie we ran out to office depot where Travis bought a super comfy office chair. It spins, tilts, and just feels good.
--time to make cookies--
music.guide.real.com offers free listening parties on all genres of music. You can listen to any full length album or song for free. And if you really like a song you have the option of purchasing it for just .99 cents. Super cool.
You just have to have realplayer on your computer to be in business.
happy listening.
I have been told to update my blog by a particular someone who lives where the current temperature is 10 with a wind-chill of -9! Hmmm..Who could it be?
Well my plans to go to Austin were called off but that's alright because I've been able to take care of few things that needed to get done. I submitted my application to KLEIN ISD yesterday and have been working on updating my resume and cover letter all week! The Great Becky, Kristine and Travis have all helped me out tremendously on critiquing and editing my things!
This week I started going to 24 hour fitness and have introduced fish into my diet! Last night I cooked up salmon with a simple squeeze of lemon and a dash of salt & pepper. I also made this wonderful salad with basil pesto dressing-simply fabulous.
This morning I gave Lucy a well deserved bath. I think she secretly enjoys them because as soon as she is out of the tub, she does huge circles in my living room. It's a wonder how my carpet isn't torn to shreds...
The rest of my day will consist of going to the gym for a nice leg work out. Nothing too exciting. I was hoping to go to rodeo tonight but it doens't look like I'll be going. I know most of my readers on here don't listen to country music but there is something about Kenny Chesney's music that I love. Maybe it's how when he sings I can picture parts of my life in some of his lyrics. Especailly in the song- Be as You Are. I wanna go where I can lighten up the load-Drive a little while on the wrong side of the road-Get this laying low off to a flying start
I'm sure all of us have a particular artist or group that can take us places- just like Kenny does for me.
Anyway, hopefully I'll be able to start addressing lables and stuffing envelopes this evening. It'll be great to get them off in the mail this week. This is going to be a great experience- hopefully I'll find a job quickly!
Thanks for all your help Becky, Kris and Travis!
I'm officially on Spring Break! And to start it off right I met Susan at Papasitto's for Happy Hour! They have free appetizers just for teachers when you purchase one drink! Melisa, Kathy and Jenny came along too- It was great time!
Travis came over and we went out to a new resturant called Cantina Laredo for dinner! The atmosphere was great- dimmed lighting, spanish musicians playing, and the menu had so many dishes to choose from. We started with a super-sized margarita and chips and salsa and chose an appetizer to share. It was a nice evening!
Travis and I are planning to head to Conroe at some point today. No big plans there but to help him study for his exam on Monday. I'll be getting my haircut this afternoon at the Woodlands mall! I'm not sure what I'll go for but something needs to be done! Monday-Wednesday I'll be in Austin visiting with Stephanie and Maxie. We are planning on going to Salado for a little antique shopping. Wednesday night is the Kenny Chesney concert...I hope I'll be able to go! On Friday, Travis and I are babysitting Preston for the first time!
And there you have it...an update.
Today I met Susan at Memorial City Mall. We wandered around looking for nothing in particular. We ended up going to all the "usual" stores. Our last stop was to the accessory department in Foley's. I have been trying to find a pair of sunglasses that look good on me for nearly a year. I have tried on at least 50 pair and have never found the perfect ones. Today I realized that I'm not alone, Susan shares the same frustration.
We both tried on several styles: large frames, small frames, narrow frames, frames with sparkles, heart-shaped frames, wire frames, larger than your face frames- but nothing suited us. Although, come to think of it, the heart shaped, rhinestone studded frames did wonders for Susan...or not.
Since we didn't have any luck with the sunglasses, we went over to the COACH section and found something that fits just right.
Oh, and by the way I found this site to find the perfect frames for your face! Maybe my luck will change- at least I can hope.
You are LaFawnduh. Why are you so sweaty?
Heck yeah I do.
always and forever...
Which Napoleon Dynamite character are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
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This message has been brought to you by- Tara and Travis.
I am just about done unpacking my stuff from the big move. I love my new place! It's huge! I especially like the fact that it has wood flooring,crown molding and a ginormous bathroom! I told Travis that if you have to pay rent, you might as well put it towards something nice. Riiiiight?!
On Monday, I interviewed at the Ronald McDonald House to become a weekly volunteer. The RMH is a home away from home for families of children being treated for serious illnesses. Most of the volunteers at RMH are assigned to a floor/room and are expected to maintain it and also to accommodate the guests staying there. The person who I spoke to said that at Texas Children's Hospital there is much more one on one interaction. I think that's more up my alley. I'd like to do it once a week to keep me busy since Travis will be starting the Academy later this month. I'm also looking into taking a Leisure Learning class on how to sew. I bought a Singer Sewing machine a few weeks ago and last night we finally took it out of the box. We followed the directions on how to wind the bobbin and thread the needle BUT no sewing took place. The dang bobbin is getting hung up on something and causing great distress. A class is indeed a must!
Earlier this week I went to Whole Foods which is conveniently located right around the corner from my apartment. One step in the door and they have you wondering what on earth is that delicious smell?! It smells so YUMMY in there! I wasn't looking for anything in particular but there before me, pleasantly displayed, with labels facing outward is where I spotted the COOLEST water bottle ever! The bottle comes in two sizes, both are made of glass with the letters VOSS etched on the side. I told Travis all about them and he agreed that they did sound pretty cool! ;) So cool that he went to Whole Foods today and bought 2 bottles. One for himself and the other as a surprise for me. I immediately opened it and took a sip... ahhhhh. You'll have to see for yourself.
I'm sure the girls in BOSTON will appreciate this! I was reading Glamour magazine and found an ad for the site girl32.com. Check out the winter hat that you can wear even when your hair is pulled back into a ponytail. The hats are made of lambswool with Swarovski crystal buttons in back that open and close depending on the height of your pony tail! For only $78 you can wear a winter hat and have your hair pulled back into a ponytail....it just can't get any better than that!
Let the countdown begin! I will be moving in one week! I've already started cleaning out my closet and a few of my keepsake boxes that needed to be cleaned out. Who needs torn up envelopes anyway? I figure if I haven't looked at in a year, I'm probably never going to look at it again. I can't decide if I want to pack things up right now or if I just want to take my time moving things over? It would make more sense just to get it done all at once... so maybe I'll start that fun project later today.
About my weekend...
On Friday night I drove up to Buffalo to spend the weekend with Travis. He had prepared a lovely steak dinner- complete with potatoes and wine. And he made delicious cookies! My baby is the best! After dinner we lit the chimenea and did a bit of star gazing! The stars go on for miles up there. It's amazing! On Saturday we woke up early and went on a nice morning walk. Lucy came with us and ran the whole time. I don't know how she has so much energy!
Later that day we drove into Palestine to go to Wal-mart. While Travis strolled the down the tractor parts aisle, I headed to the crafts department. I decided I wanted to try my hand at crochetting. I haven't exactly got the technique down but at least I've got the first step down- making a chain! We also bought a 500 piece puzzle that looked like a painting. As an added bonus the puzzle came with a frame (the border), glue and wall hooks. BONUS!
Travis' dad and uncle came up on Sunday morning to work on the fence. So the 3 of them worked on that for most of the day. It'll probably take another weekend or two to finish up... but I don't think anyone will mind the trip back.
Here is another up and coming artist to check out! I personally recommend- No End In Sight
Sure do like those Christmas cookies, sugar! Sure do like those Christmas cookies, babe
Hope everyone had a happy holiday! I sure did! I spent Christmas Eve day with Travis' family. Travis and I exchanged gifts that morning because we weren't going to be together Christmas morning. Travis surprised me with a Kitchen Aide Professional Plus Mixer in the lovely shade of red. I can't wait to try it out! Travis knew about his BIG gift but he still acted surprised when he opened it! I bought him XM Radio. I love XM radio- no commercials and no tejano (unless you specifically select it- and that will never happen)! Another cool thing about the model I gave Travis is that it has a remote control...and if you know me I love to flip stations. And with over 200 channels to choose from you can imagine what it's like in the car- loads of fun. Maybe you're in the mood for Jazz or Texas Country...or maybe some uncensored Ghetto Rap. It's all there...
After we opened presents we headed into town and had breakfast at Panera Bread. We debated getting it to go or eating there- all because of XM. We were already hooked. We decided to eat it there and talk about the plans for the rest of the day. Our plans included a trip to Target and lunch in Huntsville with Memaw and Uncle T.
Christmas Eve dinner was spent at my parents house. My mom made lasagna and salad. Yum. After dinner we all put on our pj's and watched movies. Maxie and I watched Milo and Otis and the others watched ELF.
Do you like sugar?
Is there sugar in syrup?
Yes
...then YES!
Us elves try to stick to the four basic food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corn and sugar!
Maxie and I woke up right at 7 and went in to wake up Stephanie and Travis. She wanted to know if Santa came because she didn't hear the pitter patter. But we assured her that we all heard the pitter patter and the clatter last night!
She was really excited about her Santa presents: a Barbie
flashlight, an umbrella and pink cowgirl boots! She had a bag full of stuff and you could see the excitement in her eyes as she pulled everything out of the bag.
After Santa presents we all changed into regular clothes and then came back down to do the regular gift exchanged. My Grandma, Aunt and 2 cousins came down around 12. Travis also arrived around then with green bean casserole. My Uncle showed up right before lunch.
I decided my job this year would be to set the dinner table. So I went online and looked up table setting/napkin folding...There are so many different ways to fold a single napkin. I stuck with the beginners fold and ended up setting a beautiful table- the glasses were even set in the right spot...Can you say fancy?!
I spent the rest of the day with the family and Travis. Travis and I headed to Conroe, where we spent the night, around 8. What a long day it was...Here are a few pictures.
Mmmm syrup...We teased my mom with a new green bean casserole recipe.
happy family
Only 4 days of shopping left. I need to get a few more gifts and stocking stuffers and then i'll be done! I just finished my Christmas cards this morning and they are ready to be dropped off at the Postal Office. I almost don't want to send them because they are so cute!
Today Julie and I are going to make sugar cookies. This year we are going to focus on decorating instead of cut...so slice and bake it is! It's becomming quite the tradition for us to get together right before Christmas and bake!
...more to come!
