Not the most flattering picture of her, but I thought I would be a good sister and let Sarah know I'm thinking about her. Apparantly she has pneumonia. When she came to visit, I had NO IDEA she was that sick and now I feel bad for pushing her to keep up at my crazy daily pace. Sorry Deck! Hope you get well soon!!

Reason number 3003049590 why I am so glad I found Ryan: Christmas at THE BEACH!
I grew up with a yearly beach trip as a TREAT and now I get to Destin ALL THE TIME! I cannot begin to explain how much I love that place. It makes me happy to just see the water. And this past weekend was BEAUTIFUL!!

We had a nice fam jam with all of his relatives and managed to squeeze in a little shopping date for the two of us. Believe it or not I requested a trip to Bass Pro Shop (please hold the gasps)! I have somehow lost my rainbow flip flops and with 75 degree weather all the time here in FL, I figured I ought to go ahead and buy some replacements. So that is the ONLY reason why I requested a visit to that nightmare of a store. No I have no completely changed! Turns out Bass Pro Shops doesnt sell them and I had to suffer through an hour of torture. Basically Ryan was a kid in a candy store. "OOH shiny object!!" I was just waiting to find him in the huge tank swimming. And THAT is why I love that kid so much...he never ceases to surprise me ... EVER!

And I'll leave you with a funny picture I like to call, "Where's Ryan?!?!?!"

This was in the moving truck and I came out to find him jumping from box to box tying things down with my LONG cable cord because it was 11 pm and we had nothing else. This just makes me smile for so many reasons. One...he was absolutely LOVING this. Two: Im just happy that I dont have to deal with moving for a while. I could go on and on!

Soooo....I have A LOT of spare time on my hands with the rest of the week off and I've done everything so far with my apartment as far as unpacking goes. Im getting kind of ancy because I haven't had free time in I dont know how long.

So here is somewhat of a tour of my place since I moved too far for most to pop in and visit!!

**I still don't get blogger very well, so I apologize for the randomness of the order of the pictures!

Ok so we will start in my room. I've always loved this dresser. It was my mom's growing up and I have had it for many years now! Seems like a lot of my furniture, well mostly all of it, is from my college days. Sadly, I won't be buying any replacements soon because as much fun as the non-profit world is, the paychecks dont allow for an extravagant lifestyle!

One side of my closet. The only reason I posted this was to show that I have NOT organized this to the OCD extreme I've kept my closets for the past 15 years of my life. I actually let mom hange everything up and havent touched it since. I'm sure there is a 2 am adventure coming soon where I wake up and HAVE to get this thing in shape!

HAHA and here's Sarah asleep on the couch. I would have taken a picture of the couch but she's sick and passed out.

A tribute to tack verticle blinds. I HATE these things! But they're too much of a pain to try to replace!

And this guy, he was my biggest impulse purchase I've ever made, except for the $800 flight for Ryan to Aruba...Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Ryan.

A shot from the kitchen into the living room. I dont know if you can tell but I have vaulted ceilings. I love these...takes me back to my Ross Park days!

And a random shot of the stove. You can tell I'm very bored Im sure!

My desk. And yes, this is my desk from 2nd grade. She's quite the trooper. I want to save it for when I have kids one day and I just pray she doesnt completely fall apart!

The fireplace that will probably never get used. I sent Ryan a text the other day while i was at work telling him I wanted to build a fire that night...no response. Later that night he suggested it, as if it were his brilliant idea. Too bad I don't have tools for it, I responded. And then he said, "I could make do I'm sure."

Right.

I LOVE this thing! It holds all my earrings...none of which are ever worn. I stay on the phone all day at work and big heavy earrings are just not practical these days for me!

Back to my room. The sad little old tv that needs to be replaced asap! Eww and old tv? Not a flatscreen or plasma?? GROSS!!

Just Kidding.

Kinda.

My bed.

Im just now realizing how boring my room is.

Some of the master bath.

Sorry, the other bathroom is just not presentable!

And there you have it, my place. Kinda sad now that I pay attention. A lot of hand me downs and college purchases.

Ryan and I have been having a little argument lately. My parents are hosting an engagement dinner for this girl....

LOVE Sara Whatley (but more on that later!).... and the invitation says, "Coat and Tie."
Now if you have ever met Ryan, you will immediately laugh because you know he is not a coat and tie type of guy. He doesn't own a suit and his idea of dressed up is a pair of khaki slacks and a nice button down shirt tucked in with a nice belt and some loafers. So, the idea of having to wears something any dressier than this just repulses him.

BUT, he knows that he can't always have his way so he has been asking around trying to come up with what actually fits into the coat and tie category. He doesn't want to be over or under-dressed.

Down here in Florida, they do things a lot different from us traditional southerners. Here, dressed up is jeans and a nice shirt. I seriously haven't pulled out my dressy clothes in MONTHS because I would simply look like an idiot wearing a dress to dinner.

He has had quite an aray of suggestions, some terrible/some semi-tolerable. The WORST would have to come from his sister and her husband. I was shocked because Jamey normally dresses very well and would fit right in in Montgomery. The two of them suggested he wear a nice pair of jeans with a dress shirt and tie and a corduroy jacket. I'm gagging!! NO SIR!!!

I argued that any time an invitation indicates the dress code, it usually tries to suggest the level of formal-ness the party will have. And my interpretation of coat and tie is, put the suit on and ladies wear a simple cocktail dress. Basically what you would wear to a 4pm wedding.

So, please give me some suggestions. I voted for a suit but he vetoed it!!

About Sara...

I am sooooo thrilled for her!! I've been friends with Sara since 5th grade and I have some pretty good stories of us throughout the years!! We've been partners in crime for all this time and I am so happy that she is about to become Mrs. Caldwell!!

Here are some more pictures of Christmas weekend...the good ones will be posted whenever my mom sends them.

Heres little Lexington sitting on her throne!!

Basically if she can find someone to hold her or sit next to (preferably mom or dad), shes all about it.

this is one of Ryan's candids. I went through the pictures and found a bunch of "what is this?!?!?" Shots!!!

A little peak into the past few days...

Ryan and I headed "up north" back to Montgomery to celebrate Christmas with my family. It was a very busy weekend but we somehow managed to get it all in. More on that later. Sarah just got to my apartment and Im off to have some quality sassy time aka watching movies like a bunch of slobs for 2 days!

Madison watching Dad open his favorite gift...the laser picture level complete with a tripod stand...gotta love restoration hardware and their cool stocking stuffers!

Sarah sick and wrapped in her down comforter. i think it was really an excuse to stay in sloth mode for as long as possible!

And I couldn't help but take a picture of Madison and Ryan. What more could I want???

Here are some pictures from last week's fundraiser. Its called a "lockup" because we "arrest" high profile people in each community and make them raise their bail. Its all really fun, but a lot of work. ALL worth it when you see exactly where your money is going!

This is Lottyn. He is 10 and has a very rare form of muscular dystrophy. He's one of 50 in the WORLD with this disease. You can't see but he has leg braces and uses a walker to get around. He absolutely stole my heart! His sweet little heart is something everyone could learn from and he is beyond happy to be so disabled. THIS make every hour of work totally worth it!! Here he is with two of Tifton's firefighters. Their number one charity is MDA so we work with firefighters every where we go!!

Here's Lottyn's mug shot!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I woke up early this morning and have a few spare minutes before I kick off another round of 15 hour work days and then a road trip up to Alabama to celebrate Christmas. My office has been working hard this week to get ready for yet ANOTHER fundraiser. We're leaving this afternoon for Tifton, GA and staying overnight. We'll spend ALL DAY there and come back late Thursday night.

My job is SOOOO different from my last job. There is always something to do. I have yet to have a minute where I think, "hmmm what can I do now?" In fact, my thoughts are more like, "How am I going to get everything done?" But staying busy is good...busy makes the day go by SO FAST!

Ryan and I are heading up to Montgomery Friday night to stay the weekend. This will be my Christmas celebration with my family. We've still got a little last minute shopping to do! After lunch with Dad's family in Sylacauga, were heading to Birmingham to squeeze in a few more purchases!

I just havent been able to get into the Christmas spirit this year. Im sad to say that! I have just been way too busy to even decorate. All the gifts are unwrapped in my linen closet. I really have NO idea when those will be wrapped. Im hoping Ryan may read my mind and have these wrapped when I get home :) .... Yeh right!

And just a little comment on the weather here. I've pretty much come to grips with the fact that a cold Christmas is not really an option. It feels like spring time here. The Uggs havent made an appearance in days :( !

One last thing...I scored an amazing haircut last night from the cutest salon here call The Green Peridot. The average price of a haircut in Tallahassee is around $80 and Im proud to brag that I got mine for $40! And no, this is not a bo-bo salon. Its an aveda salon with all senior stylists! That deal felt really good!

Dear Lauren Conrad,

Im really getting sick and tired of you. What have you ever done? "Designed" yet ANOTHER line of jersey dresses and tops (that look cheap)? Made a huge deal about the rumored sex tape you had with that skeez Jason? LC, Im on to you. Because you took a WHOLE season of The Hills and made one of the BIGGEST publicity stunts ever! Like we didn't all know what you were up to trying to make us all turn our backs on Heidi. Please. She's just an idiot who fell for a crazy. YOU, LC, YOU are the one who turned that sex tape scandal into something way bigger than it ever would have been, had you left it alone.

But despite my frustration with you and your so called celebrity-ness, I have to put this out there. I am BEYOND sick of your hair!!!!


Seriously, we've seen this look on you since, oh, the FIRST time you were on tv. Its boring. And that long "wavy/curled" look is beyond dated. I cant stand this look on ANYONE! Why don't you branch out a little bit? You did earlier and look how cute your hair was!!

It was mature and stylish and not trying too hard. Think about it. Yeh that long ugly don't that youre sporting may be your signature, but I've seen it enough! For christmas, do the world a favor and change things up a little bit!!!

Thanks!!

Moving on from that little rant! So I guess Im due for a little catch up. This has been a very crazy week with work and still getting all the little odds and ends done that come with moving. So, wednesday night, Ryan picked up on my stress level and was oh-so-sweet and decided to make thursday night a date night.

I got excited because honestly, we dont go out...ever! Seriously. Basically already a boring married couple (minus the rings!). So when he suggested this, my mind started running wild with ideas of things we could do. Dinner, drinks, movie, shopping, walk around Lake Ella, etc. I was curious to see what he would pick.

Well Thursday as I was leaving work, a MONSOON (yes, Sarah I said Monsoon) rolled into Tallahassee. Im serious. The 2 minute drive home was miserable so I knew I wasn't getting back out in that again! I got home and the cable guy was there. So at that point I'm realizing that date night "aint happnen" (quoted from the lady at chevron).

So this is what our date night consisted of...

A three ingredient entree cooked by Ryan. He felt proud of his Chicken Parmesan. Too bad I wasn't all that impressed that he dumped spaghetti sauce and mozzarella cheese on top of chicken breast and baked it. Very typical.

Ive given him a hard time about our lame date night. Because I ended up cooking all the side dishes and cleaning up. So, last night I drug him to the mall with me to start my marathon of Christmas shopping. He suffered through a long adventure in Banana Republic and one if Victorias Secret. He was miserable.

Now I have a list of 1000 things to get done by Sunday because I have to go out of town for another fundraiser this coming week, then were heading up to Montgomery to celebrate Christmas with my family. I have to buy gifts and do all that good stuff.

But when the invitation to join the Tri group for breakfast here was extended....

the list is being shoved in the corner! Sorry, theres always time for a good meal like this!!

Have a good weekend!!!

Dear Santa,

Dear Santa,

I know I'm a little late getting my wish list to you. I've had quite a busy fall. With moving and starting a new job, I havent had time to be selfish and make a list of things I want and need.

Santa, I'm ashamed to say that I have had a hard time thinking of some things for you to bring me. Everything I need is quite expensive and I can't think of anything that I simply want.

So, I can give you a start. You know me fairly well. Every year, you've been good to me... a few let downs (never got that Auburn cheerleader outfit I always wished for and never told anyone about because I thought you were that magical and already knew), but nevertheless, you've been right on target.

Here are a few things you could pack in that sleigh of yours. Locations of stores for all of these items can be easily found, just ask :) !!!

Santa, you know how unruly my hair can be. And now, living in Florida (basically a swamp), I think its time I invest in a good hairdryer. Not the bo-bo kind from walmart. No sir, I want the real deal!

And because I have a boyfriend with a botomless pit for a stomach, a Publix gift card would be greatly appreciated by BOTH of us! Santa you know as well as anyone that Publix is our store...the only place I let Ryan act like a true 5 year old. Yep, I even let him skip around and dance and sing in there. In fact Santa, its kind of a tradition now. Its our thing. We know we're wierd.

You know it never hurts to dream!! Anything in this store is sure to bring a smile to my face! You know me Santa. Surprise me!!

And because you know I live in Banana Republic, a gift card would be greatly appreciated and quickly used! My co-workers will thank you too when I come in with pretty clothes!!

And again with taking care of my hair, you know I LOVE this stuff!! So keep my stocking in mind when you stock me up on this goodness.

A few more ideas:

*at LEAST 3 GUARANTEED phone dates a week with my partner in crime Sarah Mills

*magically locate for me a new hairstylist and set of doctors

*a new bed for my guest bedroom (throw in a magical clean up of all the boxes in there!)

*a weekend getaway trip to somewhere cool like Savannah or New Orleans

*more pots and pans for my sad collection

Yep, that should do it Santa, you're the best!

Love,

Rachel

Its been a VERY VERY VERY BUSY week so far.

A little recap for ya...

Monday: I started my new job full force. Things are very different in the non-profit world. And I think I'm really gonna like it. Compare an office of 200+ to my now 7 people office, Im in for a treat!! I actually learned everyone's names within the first few hours. It took me weeks to do that in Montgomery, and that was just for my department!!

We worked until 2 then loaded up two cars with all kinds of boxes and headed to Destin, FL.

Please be jealous...

Yes, my first day of work was spent at the beach.

Ok, so it wasn't a fun trip by any means.

We stayed up until around midnight doing all kinds of things setting up for our fundraising event.

Tuesday: Woke up WAY too early in the Hampton Inn (memories flooding back to me from Abby's bachelorette party). Breakfast at 6:30 then off to work until around 9pm.

The event was a lot of fun, not as successful as we had hoped, but was quite the learning experience. I was beyond exhausted from it, but thankfully got a really good nights sleep.

It was a good thing because we went full force ahead today in the office.

All in all, things are going well. Im getting the hang of things little by little. I just want to fast forward to when I know how to do everything without asking. I need some patience!

Life outside the job:
haven't really had one recently minus the moving part.
Ryan and I did go to a wimpy christmas tree farm with heidi and jamey. We were looking for the beastly 18 ft perfect tree but didnt have any luck. First and foremost, the types of trees they had were NOT Christmas trees. I'm sorry i want a tree that can hold ornaments. These puny little things probably couldnt even support a strand of lights.
Ill stick to my traditional fir...thanks.

Progress has been made.

Everything has been moved.

BUT...

Its all piled in boxes ALL throughout my apartment.

Every time I've moved in the past, I would get everything moved in and then stay up all night until everything was put away.

Yeh....this doesn't really work when you move 3.5 hrs away and there are only two people moving a TON of stuff.

Bless his heart, Ryan was such a trooper.

When I was getting tired and cranky, he kept on working and sweetly motivating me to keep going.

I am so lucky to have him!!

So we stayed up until around midnight and said, ENOUGH!

Slowly but surely I am getting stuff put up. There is A LOT more to do though!

Im sneaking in a break while Ryan goes to get our Starbucks.

And can I just brag about how sweet the location of my apartment is!!
Literally a half mile from my office, Starbucks, Publix, Moes and TCBY!!!! Be very jealous!
And not too far is a Fresh Market, Target, Walmart.
AWESOME!

Today's plan:
Mom is coming to help out, so I hope we get ALL the apartment FINISHED!

And then tomorrow:
CHRISTMAS TREE SHOPPING with Ryan, Heidi and Jamey!!!! And can I just add in here that I am beyond pumped about this!!!

Ok, back to work! Have a good Saturday!!

Oh yeh, one more thing...CHOMP CHOMP...WAR DAMN GATORS!!!
Im pulling for the other set of orange and blue to DEMOLISH bama in the SEC championship!!

Please Dont Hate Me...

So please don't pass too much judgement on me.

This past weekend, I committed a little bit of adultery...I cheated...

on my beloved Tigers...

With this guy...

Instead of being the loyal fan I was raised to be,

I spent the day of the Iron Bowl at the Florida/FSU game.

And can I just say, I was not impressed...

AT ALL!!

Excuse me FSU AND UF, but where are your cheers?

Where is your mic man?

Why haven't I heard all your fight songs?

Where are your freaking shakers??

Why aren't you dressed in your Sunday best?

SERIOUSLY!?!?!?

THAT is what makes football.

And to make things worse, I went agaisnt ALL of my rules for football (well maybe not all of them)!!

I showed up in a FSU T-shirt, jeans and Merrells...

Im humiliated at myself.

A t-shirt???

I NEVER wore a t-shirt to an Auburn game...EVER!

In fact I ALWAYS had a dress on...ALWAYS!

Im ashamed to say that I sported the enemy's color (crimson...Ryan argues FSU is Garnet...but whatever its not orange and blue)

BUT...

I DID NOT do that stupid tomahawk chop they do!

And when the UF cheerleaders were yelling, "Orange and Blue"

I yelled with them.

Ryan looked over and said, "Not gonna do the chop?"

and I said...

"Just can't do it, Im a one team fan"

So AS SOON as we got home, I went and put on my obnoxious Auburn sweatshirt. I've worn it for the past few days.

Its funny what you will do for love.

I stood in the NASTY cold rain for HOURS.

I forfeited watching my tigers on the most holy football day of the year.

I wore the enemy's color.

And I did it all for him.

After the chop comment, I said...

"Next year, we're going to a REAL football game...with shakers and cheers and tailgaiting and ridiculous traffic. Without T-shirts and skanky girls walking around with barely any clothes on. With kids running around, boys in Auburn Jerseys and girls in Auburn Cheerleader outfits on. With the WHOLE town revolving around this ONE DAY! With bars packed full of fans and with everyone sneaking in bourbon to the games in their floppy flasks (seriously, the fsu fans dont even know what this is). With the flying of the eagle for the start of the game. With a big "WAAARRR EAGLE HEY!!!" at each kickoff. With a bunch of "Weegle Weegle War Damn Eagle..."s. With the fight song and a never ending entertainment session from the band."

"And regardless of whether we win or lose, we still say WAR EAGLE at the end of the day, and continue to yell, "Its great to be an auburn tiger!"

He thinks I'm crazy but I don't care.

I never really got that quote that I saw so many times about how you will never understand Auburn, its family and traditions until you experience it for yourself.

I grew up an Auburn fan.

I had one uncle who paid us to say those two dirty words, "R*** T***"

So I've been spoiled.

Until I went on someone else's turf, tryin to expand my fan horizons.

I realized that theres a reason I tell people Auburn is in my blood.

And to top off the day, I leaned over to my sweet FSU "fan"/ soon to be converted to be a real fan of Auburn, and said...

"You realize, Im teaching our kids to be auburn fans. In fact, the first phrase they will learn is War Eagle!"

So, all you Auburn fans, dont hate me.

I cheated...

a little bit.

And came to my senses!!

I will forever be an Auburn Tiger, win or lose.

First of all I am on cloud nine right now...

Because I have a WHOLE WEEK without any work obligations!

Now that does NOT mean that I am bored and have nothing to do. In fact, I have the longest TO DO list ever!!

Moving is never a fun adventure, especially moving to a new state.

So, during my "relaxing" week off, I will be packing my days full of exciting things like getting a new drivers license, setting up utilities, etc.

AND...

On top of all this, its unpacking time at Ryan's and his sisters.

So no laziness for me!!

I was really dreading putting in my resignation. I really thought I was going to catch a lot of mess from my bosses and co-workers. But thankfully, everything went very smoothly.

So far I've gotten nothing but positive feedback about my decision to move.

Im sure everyone has their opinions and are keeping them to themselves, but I havent heard a negative word yet.

Right now I am still numb to the fact that my whole life will soon change. Everything I'm comfortable with...gone.

Im thrilled and terrified all at once to be going out on such a leap of faith.

Moving to a city where my only friends are Ryan's friends...kinda scary.

I know 100% that this is what I am supposed to do, but I still have fears in the back of my head.

This changes everything now.

So instead of listing out all my fears and worries, Ill list what I'm thankful for (come on, give me a break...Im allowed to be cheesy once in a while)!

Im thankful to have a job in a time of economic crisis.

Im thankful I have friends and family who support me even when they don't understand me.

Im thankful that I am healthy and happy.

Im thankful that I got new insurance (here's the old lady coming out in me...)

Im thankful I don't have to pack anything because its already done and waiting in a storage unit!!

and last but definatley not least...

Im thankful Im getting out of the Jingle Bell Run because I just have to move that day...darn!

BIG NEWS!!

Well its official now!!

I'm packing up all my things and moving to Tallahassee.

I've kept this quiet for quite some time because I've been interviewing for this one job all this time.

I guess I should wait until I turn in the two weeks notice to my current job before I post this, but really, what are a few hours??

I am absolutely amazed at the way the Lord has worked in my life in the past 6 months. Now looking back, I see how His timing is perfect.

If you had told me six months ago that I would have fallen for someone in Florida I would have said you're absolutley crazy.

If you had told me that I would move to Florida to be in the same town as him, I would have said you're on drugs.

And now, after MANY months of wondering if my life would ever fall into place like everyone else I know, I'm starting to see the light.

Let me back up.

From the very beginning, I knew that Ryan was not just some guy I would date. It was and IMMEDIATE connection (** and I was always told this would happen by a lot of friends, but I never believed them).

It was only a matter of weeks until we both started talking about SOMEHOW finding a way for us to be in the same town.

Weeks went by without much hope, and believe me, there were many low points. Times when I thought that we just weren't meant to be in the same place.

MANY miles and hours were spent on the road, visiting each other on the weekends, and each time got harder and harder to leave.

BUT...

About two months ago, I reached a breaking point with my job and I decided it was time to start applying for a new job. As much as everyone thinks I started looking for a new job because I wanted to move to Tallahassee, I hate to say there was more involved.

I was dreading going to work everyday. I was ALWAYS stressed out and Monday - Friday, I wasn't happy until 5pm. So I decided, SOMETHING'S GOTTA GIVE.

I started applying for jobs and the wierdest thing happened.

I applied for one position and literally my phone rang no more than 2 hours later.

Things went really fast from there.

An hour long phone interview, followed by a trip to Jacksonville, FL for another interview with the regional director.

I was convinced I had the job...almost leased an apartment.

But, nothing happened.

Weeks went by and I heard NOTHING.

All along, I completely gave up my anxiety for this job. I prayed and prayed for God's will to be done.

So after not hearing anything, I simply took that as a sign that its not the right fit for me.

Fast forward to last tuesday.

I get a call asking if Im still interested in the position.

"OF COURSE I AM!!" aaaheeem, i mean, "Yes, I am."

So the in person interview with the local branch was set for Saturday afternoon and voila...this girl is a new hire!

I will be an event and healthcare coordinator for the Tallahassee branch of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

I cannot explain how happy I am to be escaping the evil corporate America I've been enslaved to since May 12.

To work and know that you are doing something good for others, it just makes me smile.

So...now starts the whirlwind of business.

I have NOWHERE to live, NO idea of when and how to move.

So, life should be exciting for me the next few weeks!

Its almost Friday!! Surprisingly this week has gone fairly quickly. I guess the ridiculous stress level my job so kindly provides helps pass the time. Literally I will get to my desk at 8 and the next thing I know, I'm being yelled at to get out of the office because its already 10:30. So each week when Thursday rolls around, I start preparing myself. Preparing for end of the week B.S. Theres just something about the end of the week that just gets me every time. 5 Days worth of stress and problems add up and Friday around 3pm I'm ready to either cry or hit someone. But buddy, when that clock hits 5 pm, all of this just magically disappears!

I'm heading back down to Tallahassee tomorrow for the weekend. We have plans to do ABSOLUTELY nothing!! CANNOT WAIT!!! I do have one important thing that needs to be done but more on that in a few days:)!!

Just thought I might leave you with this little tidbit. If you are a fan of Taylor Swift, go buy her album NOW! I LOVE LOVE LOVE it!! Despite some of the embarassingly immature lyrics ("when you're 15"), it is packed with some amazing songs. I love this girl because her songs are so real and they each tell a little story about her love life. I vividly remember a lot of the things she sings about.

Have a good weekend!!

I wish I had some decent pictures to share from this weekend, but sadly I don't. We had a long weekend and I must say it was quite nice to not do ONE BIT of work!

Friday night, Ryan and I went to Crockmiers. I've never been there and always heard great things about it so I decided to give it a shot. Besides being surrounded by tables of screaming kids, it was a nice dinner. (** Who brings kids to nice restaurants like this on Friday nights? This is a date spot people...if you can afford to eat here, you can afford a babysitter. I'm just saying. )

AND THEN...

Please be jealous...

We went to see Charlotte's Web at ASF on Saturday.

Yes, you read correctly.

This has been in the works since the first weekend I met the Nelsons. So this has been a long anticipated/dreaded??!?! event. We had some good laughs walking in as we walked through lines of five year olds. I had another one of my stupid moments, that I won't be sharing considering that a five year outsmarted me. And the best moment of all was at the end when the actors were taking their bows. Ryan is dying out laughing...were talking belly laugh at this point. I lean over and ask him what is so funny and his response was, "that we're here." Which was quickly followed by the lead actress tripping and busting on stage. This was it for him. He busted out laughing to the point where I had to hit him. Great memory.

Then we did the whole parents meet each other at dinner at our house thing. A few awkward moments. Let's be honest. How many people can claim the first meeting of the parents was the best time of their lives?? But everything went well and hopefully all the first impressions were good.

I took yesterday off to spend an extra day with the little five year old stuck in a 24 year olds body. And much to my surprise he stayed an extra night. I was beginning to be spoiled there. Almost to the point where I was starting to need some time to myself. I've never gotten to that point yet, probably because its usually 2 or 3 days MAX that we get to spend together all separated by the week.

All in all, a great weekend.

Add this one to my list

So, I've been known to say some stupid things here and there.

I've let a few embarassinginly stupid questions cross my lips a time or two.

And I've kinda become known for all this...to the point where there is a running list that is usually updated AT LEAST once a week!

BUT...

I don't think I've ever done ANYTHING more stupid than this.

Prepare yourself to say, "Wow" and roll your eyes at me...I deserve it!! :)

It was this past Monday and we all know how Mondays are. I hadn't quite gotten into the groove of the week and quite frankly I was tired from my weekend of laziness.

But this is no excuse.

I came back to the office around 4 pm and was freakishly thirsty.

Simple Solution: hit up the coke machine.

Im digging through my bag searching for change to get that Diet Sunkist I was dying to have.

And so, I came up with the change.

But much to my disappointment, the stupid machine wouldn't give me my drink.

I walk back to my desk and am just ticked off at this point.

I start fussing about how all I wanted was something to drink and I am so sick and tired of working for a bootleg company who can't even provide a decent coke machine.

Someone asked me what happened, so I explained.

"The stupid thing wouldn't take my pennies. All I need is ten cents, but NOOOO that POS is gonna be cranky and deny me my sunkist"

YEH YOU IDIOT....

Thats because vending machines dont take pennies.

NOTHING takes pennies!

Everyone was on the floor laughing at my stupidity, but at this point I'm convinced I'm not the only moron who has lived 24 years without knowing this.

So I send Ryan a text explaining to him how my whole office is laughing at me because I didnt know that coke machines dont take pennies.

I was banking on him not knowing this either.

A few hours later, I get this response from him.

"Sorry I've been at training with the team. So did you send me this text to make fun of you? By the way, everyone is laughing about this now!"

GREAT!

As if that group of crack heads (aka all the tri-athletes) didnt have enough to joke on me about.

Lets add stupid to my list of endearing qualities that they don't understand what he sees in me.

NEAT.

Everyone got some great laughs out of it and I guess I'm glad to provide the entertainment.

Ahhhh it feels pretty good to be doing ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!

After numerous weekends filled with trips to Lowes and then doing some time of renovation, I decided its time I spend some much needed time with my sister.

HOPEFULLY (**fingers crossed) this weekend will be the LAST weekend of work and the house will be FINISHED!

Ryan and his parents are spending some good quality family time this weekend installing the wood floors and putting the last touches on the house.

I decided to stay out of the way and make a weekend trip up to Auburn to hang out with old friends and Sarah.

I almost felt like a college kid again last night.

I'ld like to say that it was like I never left, but sadly I can't.

The yawns started kicking in around 11pm (embarassing), and I found myself discussing 401K's and the housing market while at a bar. 

REALLY???

But, it was a fun night.

I got to go out with some of my favorite girls and squeezed in a nice visit to our favorite, Fuji Sushi...too bad I left my debit card there (I guess thats the irresponsible college kid wanting to come out again).

Sarah and I have layed in bed all morning long watching the dvd series of The Starter Wife.  We're being ultra lazy, which we can do very well together, and loving EVERY second of it.

I got an early morning call from Ryan wanting to see how my night was.  After a few stories following with him laughing at how much of an old woman I have become, he starts telling me how he's already run a "quick 5."   Yes, he's now training for a marathon...kill me!

Quick run, trip to Starbucks for breakfast with his family (where else would they go??), and then 2 days of remodeling.

Yeh, I'm glad thats not my weekend plan (except for the Starbucks part).

Off to lunch at 1:3o with Sarah at Niffers.

Ahhh to be in college again!!

I've discovered something amazing...

If I weren't already a Starbucks addict (averaging around $40/week ), I've found a way to add to my problem.

And no I don't mean joining a support group.

The Starbucks Gold Card.

Taken straight from www.starbucksgold.com:

"Starbucks Gold is for those of you we see every day. You're our heart and soul. You're the ones who keep us going. Join for an annual membership fee of $25 and receive:
10% off most purchases in participating U.S. Starbucks stores *
A free drink when you purchase your membership in-store
Option to pay however you’d like (cash, credit card, etc.)
Then when you register, you'll unlock additional value:
A free beverage on your birthday
Exclusive offers and discounts throughout the year
Free Wi-Fi access for up to 2 hours each day in participating Starbucks stores"

When I popped into what we affectionately refer to as "the green church" today to get my free coffee for voting (**which actually resulted into my usual grande non-fat 2 equal latte...NOT FREE), I found this amazing new discovery.

Its sad how I got so excited about this, I know.

But to be honest, I'm by NO MEANS the worst addict.

There are a few in the Tallahassee crew (aaahheem....Heidi and Jamey), who frequent the green church more than me. And I will continue to blame all of them for contributing to my problem.

You know its bad when you go to Starbucks 3 times in one day

You know its bad when you walk in the door and they know your name.

Its even worse when you don't have to order, you just hand over your card and a few minutes later, your drink magically appears.

You know its bad when you're sitting outside the green church, talking with family, and a Starbucks employee, who is leaving to go home, comes and has a nice chat with the group.

I could go on and on but I wont bore you too much.

Who wants to do this?

NOT ME!!

Now add in about 2000 more athletes and you have what is also known as the beginning of the most ridiculous, entertaining, amazing, etc. event I've EVER been to in my life...

IRON MAN!!

Saturday morning Ryan and I woke up at 4 am and drove from Tallahassee to Panama City to support his brother in law, Jamey, who is crazy enough to have done this insane race.

I've expressed to many people my lack of any form of understanding of the triathalon world.

I've sworn I'll NEVER participate.

I've said that I don't like them...blah blah blah.

ALL of that went out the window as soon as I saw the beach PACKED with THOUSANDS of participants and spectators at 7 am, waiting for thes crack heads to jump in the freezing water to start off their 9 hr+ race/adventure with a 2.5 mile swim.

Word of the event, used by even all my little tri buddies: IDIOTS!!

After about an hour, the morons pop out of the water and run to transition to their bikes to set off for something like 120 miles.

My thoughts on this: WHY?!?!?!

If I were to swim that amount (which wouldn't happen...I would definitely drown after one lap around the course), the absolute LAST thing I would even consider doing is jump on a bike for a good 5-6 hours.

Yeh, NO THANKS!

My thoughts would be either: a) take me to the hospital and put a morphine pump in me for a good 2 days

OR

b)Bring on the margaritas!!

AND THEN IF THAT WERENT ENOUGH...

guys, it gets worse...

after 6 or 7 miles, its time for a MARATHON!

Again, IDIOTS!

No, but really, it was trully amazing and probably the most incredible thing I've ever seen.

The amount of training that these 2500 people have put into this one event is unreal.

The intense dedication these people have is beyond admirable.

And the determination to keep pushing after HOURS of pain and torture is something I cannot fathom.

The looks on their faces when they crossed the finish line wer priceless.

HUGE men with tears rolling down their cheeks...a very humbling scene.

And if that doesn't do it for you, the little girl who was waiting on her dad at the finish line who grabbed his hand, ran the last few steps with an ENORMOUS smile.

"No, I'm not crying!!"

There was not a dry eye in the place.

What an amazing experience...one that I highly suggest you watching, even if you don't know anyone doing it.

Jamey earned MAJOR cool points in my book!!

I really dread the day when I become a new homeowner and I decided to take on a bunch of weekend projects.

For the past two months, Ryan has been in the process of putting all the finishing touches on his new house and it seems that this is a NEVER ENDING process!!

He's on the home stretch now because everything is done now except for the last step in finishing the floor and installing the crown molding.

This weekend, I was the oh so gracious girlfriend and played tilers assistant. From 7-11 Friday night and ALL DAY Saturday, we layed tile.

Thankfully, we got a really good system down, so we started moving very quickly.

The plan was to have it all FINISHED, including the grouting, by the end of the weekend, but any of you remodlers know how plans like these work out.

The mortar stil wasn't dry and so I luckily escaped the daunting task of grouting. Thank goodness because I was NOT looking forward to that!!

I can't really complain too much. We had a good time and had a lot of laughs at how absolutely disgusting we got from all of that work.

Believe it or now, I sacrificed my fresh manicure for this guy!! :)

And last but DEFINITELY not least, the weekend weather was PERFECT!

I finally could whip out some of my fall clothes for going to dinner. Theres just something about fall that makes me very happy.

Maybe its because I finally was able to wear these little gems for the first time!

I know, Uggs are the uggliest shoes made and I boycotted them for years.

But the second I put them on last year, I was a convert.

I don't wear them with skirts or shorts or leggings with T-shirts (which happened to be quite the trend last winter at Auburn).

They stay tucked under my jeans and doing their job: keeping my feet warm!!

Guess who FINALLY whipped out the new camera and took some pictures!!

Sarah, Ryan and I went to Six Flags this weekend, and I must say we couldn't have had anymore fun!!

What could be better than perfect weather at Six Flags with my two favorite people in the world?

Here's Sarah and me waiting in line to ride Goliath...which was quite a disappointment for us!
We rode it two years ago and thought it was the greatest thing ever. Our expectations were a little high this time because we got off the ride, YAWNING.

My new favorite picture of me and Ryan.

And yes, this little boy is on a leash. We joked with Ryan and told him we were going to put him on one, but he didn't really think they existed until he saw this!

While waiting to ride Superman, Ryan read EVERY comic they had outside the ride.
Gotta love my little five year old at heart !!

Just when I said that I was going to get it together and actually start using my camera, I went on a five day vacation and left it in the car THE WHOLE TIME.

I'll blame part of that on Ryan because he left at the crack of dawn Saturday morning for his triathalon with my keys. Camera locked inside the car.

I really wish I had been able to get some pictures of the triathalon because believe it or not, I really enjoyed watching it.

The athletic ability these people have is incredible and watching this made me feel like a worthless slob. But, much to the triathalon group's dismay, it gave me ABSOLUTELY NO desire to EVER participate.

EVER.

Hopefully I can get some good pictures at the next one.

And we all know there are PLENTY of these in the future.

Ryan asked me Sunday, "Hey when we're in Aruba, if they have a tri, would you mind if I did one?"

I simply looked out the window, said nothing, and held my tongue.

Someone needs to learn what the word vacation means.

Thats all I'm saying...

LONG WEEKEND!!

Currently starring at my piles of clothes for the weekend, trying to be a little more realistic, and pack what I NEED.

Heading down to Destin, Florida tomorrow after work.

A long weekend is WAY overdue.

A weekend without staying in a hotel.

Without painting/renovating.

An actual vacation!!

I'll be a first time spectator of the Destin Crab Trap Triathalon.

And no, I will not, nor ever will, participate.

Gotta support my little kid at heart, Ryan, while he does what he loves most!

Stay tuned for pictures of everyone else who is in tip-top shape doing their thing (being insane and doing a tri).

I'll be the girl in the sundress with my Starbucks in hand and blackberry in the other.

Supportive, I know!

Im hoping my celeb crush Matthew McConaughey will make an appearance.

He's all about the triathalons.

And no, I dont really care to see J-Lo there.

Just had twins and doing tri's...

Nutcase!

No Mom Jeans for this girl...

Long-legged ladies, I found them.

After YEARS of searching, I found TWO different pairs of jeans that are beyond flattering and get this....

They are long enough!!

Believe me, I know all the designer denim brands.

I worked with them for years.

Season after season, I would watch new styles come in and I would simply have to admire them.

Because NEVER did these cute jeans come in long lengths.

Girls, I'm talking 36 inch inseam long.

Well I found two different brands and trust me, I snatched both pairs up immediately!!

Here is what just arrived with our friendly UPS man.

J.Crew's high heel flare.

And I think I'm going to have to take these in for alterations they are so long!

I sound ridiculous, but this is HUGE for me.

The other pair are by Joe's Jeans.

I think they are called Muse.

No crack-showing highwaisted, long enough, butt flattering, thigh and hip slimming jeans.

And yes I just sounded like a 40 year old woman.

But believe it or not, I'm starting to feel like I can't wear things that my 19 year old sister wears.

I never understood my mother when she would say, "I'm too old to wear that."

Starting to get it now.

Bring on the high waisted (well actually right at the hips) pants.

No more low rise ANYTHING!

or

Looking like I shop at Forever 21.

I caved....

I did it.

I caved.

I found a Target gift card in my car and knew EXACTLY what to buy.

Sex and the City.

The movie.

Put it on my list. It will be watched many many many times.

And yes, Ryan, you will be a part of this.

HAPPY MONDAY!

Lots of quality time being spent around here.

I had to go to Jacksonville, FL Friday for business, so I squeezed in a few hours with my sweet Ryan. I had booked my hotel room in Jacksonville, but thanks to cheaptickets.com (whom I will never use again), I was given a room in St. Augustine, FL. After 45 minutes on the phone with some lady who was probably in Tajikastan, I discovered that all the hotels in Jacksonville in my price range were booked. Im panicking at this point, then just caved and said, "you know what, just book me a room in Tallahassee. It all worked out and the added bonus was that I got to see the five year old.

I must say, the 3 hours I spent in Jacksonville, I want to go back sometime soon. I was quite impressed with the city.

After 9 hours in the car on Friday, I came home and crashed, got up Saturday morning and jumped in the car AGAIN with Sarah to spend a few hours shopping in Birmingham. We haven't really had sister time in months. Every weekend I'm either in Florida or Ryan is here, so one on one time with Sarah is hard to find.

We set out with the idea of shopping a little bit and ended up with a few extra swipes on the MasterCard. It was worth it though. My wardrobe thanks me!!

I finally caved and bought this perfume. ALIEN. Im serious when I say that I'm obsessed with it. It has jumped to my number one fav, and that is saying something.

Ok, you knew we would make a pit stop here. Banana is never disappointing to me...EVER!
And the icing on the cake...J.Crew

I've been raving about their fall clothes to just about everyone I know and sorry to disappoint, but the raving will continue. I did some damage there. OOPS!
And last but not least, picked up a new set of eyeshadows. So, for all of you who have to listen to me repeatedly talk about how I need new eye makeup...you're welcome.

Just a few days of reality, and then I'm off to the beach. I'm MAKING myself take pictures this time. Hopefully.

Have a good week!!