You Eat Like a Girl

New Vera Bradley

2008-10-24T16:48:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about how much I love the new Vera Bradley spring patterns. I love the look of Hope Garden. This bag will make an excellent addition to my collection!

BINGO!

2008-10-24T16:44:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday, my mom and I attended a local bingo. Now, I know what you're thinking...BINGO?!

Seriously. It's so fun! We go to Longaberger and Vera Bradley bingos every chance we get. The last two times we've gone, I've won! The proceeds of the bingo events always go to a local cause. This one was for our county's School Cook's Association. My mom was a teacher for 35 years, so this was certainly near and dear to her heart!

It's a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with the woman you love the most!

This time, I won an adorable Longaberger basket with salt and pepper shakers. There was also a gift certificate to Olive Garden inside! How fun! :)

Scrabooking Class!

2008-10-22T16:19:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited! I'm taking a scrapbooking class ONLINE! :)

It should be great fun...I'll be going to get my supplies soon!

Hello, weekend!

2008-10-17T05:06:00.000-07:00

Most. Hectic. Day. Ever.

2008-10-16T06:11:00.000-07:00

Busy Day!

2008-10-15T05:49:00.001-07:00

Daily Happenings...

2008-10-13T11:20:00.001-07:00

Halloween Favorites

2008-10-13T06:16:00.003-07:00

7 Reasons I love Starbucks...

2008-10-09T15:28:00.000-07:00

This one's for you, Jan.

1. Baristas. How cool is that? The people that make the drinks are called baristas. Quite frankly, when I grow up, I want to be a barista!

2. The green straw. A funky straw makes everything taste better. Remember crazy straws? Everything tasted better with them right? Same goes for the green straw from Starbucks.

3. Seasonal flavors. White Chocolate Peppermint Mocha. Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. What could be better than coming up with seasonal drinks? I'd love to be on the taste testing board for determining new drinks each season. Mmmmmm...

4. Skinny lattes. Oh, right. Like anyone ever gets those! I think Starbucks is just being funny here.

5. Coffee mugs. Some of my favorite coffee mugs are from Starbucks! From the Valentine's Day thermos to the Philadelphia mug, I love all of my unique Starbucks coffee-holders.

6. Looking important. C'mon. Let's be honest here. Don't you feel like a corporate exec or a cool coffee houser when you stride with Starbucks in hand? You know you do!

7. The mermaid. A brand that has a mermaid as its "mascot" has to be top-notch.

Scrapblog!

2008-10-09T06:53:00.001-07:00

I have returned!

2008-10-06T18:07:00.000-07:00

I'm back! I missed blogging so much. Seriously.

With work, school, T, family and friends...I have had time for zip, zero, nothing! I've been traveling a little for work and have been overwhelmed with all my new duties. I l.o.v.e. it, though!

Hopefully I can get back into the swing of things...

23 candles and baby Tyler!

2008-09-08T04:26:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a busy weekend! Sorry I didn't update much...I was super busy with pre-birthday celebrations and meeting my new cousin, Tyler.

Future Husband's family had a birthday celebration complete with a cookie cake and cards! Tom's awesome mom had the Victoria's Secret Pink dog put on my cake! :) Love her!

Then, we went to meet baby Tyler! He's my cousin's second baby. Soooo cute.

Some of my other eats from the weekend...

A yummy tasting plate. Soooo good. Brenton crackers, pepperoni, cheese, pumpkin seeds, a sliced apple, and Barney Butter!

This AMAZING peach my parents brought back from Amish Country.

Annie's white cheddar shells (with a little parsley). YUM!

Udi's Granola (camera back in action)!

2008-09-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

OH. MY. GOODNESS.

I came home after a looooooooooooooong Friday and found an enticing FedEx package waiting for me! I tore it open and found these glorious packages inside!

Udi's sent me: 1 pacakge of original granola, 1 package of "BanaBerry" granola, and FIFTEEN sample packets of cranberry, hawaiian, au naturel, vanilla, and muesli!!! AMAZING!!!!

I already tried the BanaBerry (for kids) and it is outstanding! My mom was so excited to try it as well. I can't wait to show the Future Husband the amazing package I got!

So, Cynthia...thank you! You are AMAZING! It made my day!

On the food sampling note...my review for Barney Butter:

WOW! It was SO good! I took a packet to work and had it with Pretzel Crisps. It was quite filling! Super yummy! Thanks again, Barney Butter! You guys rock.

My parents went to Amish Country in Ohio and got back today. Look at the amazing produce they brought back! YUMMMMMM. My mom also got PUMPKIN SEEDS! *love her*

I'm off to make a yummy plate full of my goodies for dinner! I'll be working on my final HC&M paper before my class moves into GREEN MARKETING. I'm quite excited about this.

Tomorrow, I'm meeting some ladies from my church (along with my mom) for my pre-birthday celebration breakfast at Cracker Barrell. It will be hard to be good!

Camera issues.

2008-09-04T16:38:00.000-07:00

:(

Sadly, I won't be updating tonight...my camera cord is having some issues. Grrrr...

Toodles!

2008-09-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

I was SO good today!!!

This morning, I woke up and had a strawberry Chobani with some Bear Naked Granola. YUM!

I stopped by the grocery store and picked up some yummy (healthy) snacks to have at work...check out my "snack bar"!

For a mid-morning snack I had a Peanut Butter Pretzel Clif MoJo...YUMMMMM. It was delish!

Then, for lunch, I met my BFF at Hatfields for lunch. I had the grilled shrimp risotto with some fresh veggies...it was FABULOUS. For campus food, Hatfields is usually fantastic!

I attended a Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) welcome picnic today at 2. It was beautiful outside and I got to meet some fabulous kids! The best part...pizza. And, much to my surprise...I didn't eat ANY OF IT! WOOT! It was a stretch for me to say the least. Although I "eat like a girl"...I LOVE my pizza!

When I got home, I checked the mail and noticed a peculiar envelope. Then I saw the return label...Barney Butter!!!! They sent me some sample packets of Almond Butter! YAY! I already stashed one in my lunch for tomorrow.

Future Husband and I are headed to my granny's for homemade spaghetti. Fabulous, I know! Then, it's school work and hopefully some One Tree Hill!

Tagged by Katy!

2008-09-03T05:44:00.000-07:00

Check out Katy's blog! I've known her...since...um before I can remember!

Anyway...Here are the tagging rules:
1. Post the rules on your blog
2. Write 6 random things about yourself
3. Tag 6 people at the end of your post
4. If you're tagged, DO IT and pass on the tag

Some random facts about yours truly:

1. I have known my fiance since I was three and he was five. My mom taught him in kindergarten and I spent a lot of time in the classroom!
2. I'm obsessed with chick lit and YA novels.
3. I L.O.V.E. grad school. I don't think I want to stop! :)
4. I love all things black and white. I swear...our whole house may be black and white!
5. I HATE hamburgers. I mean HATE. I don't eat steak either. I really think I could do away with meat for life (aside from seafood).
6. I love doing new things -traveling, trying new foods, exploring, learning new things, etc. I'm big on learning!

I tag...

1. Carissa...cause she needs to update!

2.Jessica...she's such an awesome mommy!

3. Amber...she's the coolest green
girl I know!

4. Jennifer...because Lucas rocks!

5. Caitlin...I love her blog and she's a fellow bride-to-be.

6. Eating bird food...because she has inspired me to try tofu!

Happy 18th Birthday, Johnny

2008-09-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

Today, Tom's cousin Johnny would have turned 18. He died 3.5 years ago when he was only 14 from a long battle of brain cancer. Each year, we celebrate his birthday with his favorite dessert (which I forgot to photograph). We release balloons based on how old he would have been. This year, we released 18 beautiful orange balloons -his favorite color. Each balloon has a note with his parent's address attached to it. They get letters and cards from the people who find them.

Eighteen orange balloons ready to go!

Pap with his balloon

The family after the release

Going, going, going! Keep going!

Tom and I being silly afterwards.

Nikki, me and Tom.

Tom lifting his cousin Ashley. Show choir dorks!

2008-09-02T04:24:00.000-07:00

It's already Tuesday!!! That is what I love about three day weekends.

For breakfast, I had a Vanilla Chobani and with some yummmmmmy Bear Naked granola on top. I LOVE my Chobani! I'm almost out, though...sadness. I've eaten it every day since they sent it!

For lunch, I'm having some Pretzel Crisps with Laughing Cow Cheese, a sugar free jello salad my granny made, and a chocolate covered strawberry left over from Scrabble night! I also have an apple sauce the fridge at work. I'll probably eat that too!

Some great news...I got a 99/100 on my first HC&M paper! YAY! I've gotten 20/20s on both discussion board postings as well. Grade so far...99.2

Off to work!

Scrabble Mania!

2008-09-01T17:26:00.000-07:00

Tonight, the family and I relaxed by playing a few games of Scrabble. The fiance and I teamed up...but I didn't win any games! My dad and his twin are Scrabble FREAKS. They are amazingly good!

Our lovely Scrabble board...

Chocolate covered Pretzel Crips...YUM!!! A much lighter version to the orginial chocolate covered pretzel.

Chocolate covered strawberries. Delightful!

Now, I'm happily snuggled in my bed watching the season premires of Gossip Girl and One Tree Hill! Then, reading Twilight before bed.

Labor Day Eats

2008-09-01T09:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day!

I started the day with a Clif Z chocolate chip bar. YUMMMMMM.

Then, my mom and I went next door to my grandma's. She insisted that I make chocolate chip cookies from this HUGE tub of chocolate chip cookie dough she bought at Sam's. When grandma tells you to do something...you listen!

After my cookies were done, I heated up a bowl of homemade broc. cheddar soup along with a glass of iced tea and a cookie. I had to taste-test it, after all!

Later tonight...Scrabble tournament...complete with snacks!

Weekend Munchies

2008-08-31T10:51:00.000-07:00

I love long weekends! Although I have a Health Communications & Marketing paper to write, I've still enjoyed myself! Plus, no work tomorrow! Yippie!

Yesterday, I began with an iced coffee and a strawberry Chobani with some granola. Yummmmm. I'm going to be so sad when my Chobani runs out!

Then, for my mid-morning snack, I ate a Clif Kids Peanut Butter bar. I l.o.v.e. Clif products! They are so yummy and filling!

Next, was my trip to Sam's. Ahhhh...I love Sam's (especially during food demonstration time)! I scored this amazing tub of hummus! It's full of garlic...just how I like it!

Yesterday evening, I decided to munch on some Pretzel Crisps with a nice helping of my hummus! Fabulous snack.

Last night, the fiance and I went to see The House Bunny. Soooooo funny.

Sunday dishes are coming next! Toodles.

Grocery Haul and Yesterday's Eats

2008-08-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

I stopped by the grocery store at like 7:45am yesterday. I had to pick up some snacks for work!

So, I purchased: Bear Naked Vanilla Almond granola, Clif Z bars, Clif Twisted Fruit, two Larabars, Oikos Yogurt and a People StyleWatch for good measure!

As a mid-morning snack, I had my yummy Oikos vanilla yogurt with some granola...YUM.

For lunch, I had some WW crackers, two wedges of Laughing Cow cheese, applesauce, a Clif Kids Twisted fruit, and a Horizon Organic milk.

The fiance and I had a lot of fun at our high school's game. We had some cheesesticks and some popcorn...but I forgot my camera.

Chobani and Pretzel Crisps!!!!

2008-08-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Yay!!!! I came home today to find my lovely Chobanis already in the fridge!!! I scooped them out to take a quick picture...Many thanks to Chobani for sending me samples!!!

I figured that I MUST try the blueberry...OMG. It is to die for!!! I think Chobani may be one of my new favorites! I had a little bear naked granola with it!

Then...I sorted through my mail and found some things from Pretzel Crisps! I received a letter and some coupons!!! Thanks, Pretzel Crisps!!!

What a fabulous Friday! I have more foodie pics for later...but the fiance and I are headed to our high school's football game. We'll have a fun nite eating the concessions we used to love in high school!

Chobani!!!!

2008-08-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FRIDAYYYYYYY!!!!

My mom just called and informed me that EIGHT Chobani yogurt samples came today!

I can't wait to get home and try it. I'll be posting reviews later!

Breakfast Cookie

2008-08-29T04:21:00.000-07:00

I whipped up a breakfast cookie last night (thanks to Gina's blog). I popped it in the fridge and went to sleep.

This morning, I woke up and shot out of bed. I scrambled to the kitchen hoping I would find a cookie-like substance in my refridgerator. It was delightful! It reminded me of a no-bake cookie in a way...YUM! I had it with a big glass of fat free milk.

Three meals out

2008-08-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

Today was an interesting day on the food front. I didn't really *plan* to eat all three meals out today...but somehow, I did! I did fairly well though.

For breakfast, I met my dad at Panera Bread. Normally, I get the caramel latte over ice. Sadly, the espresso machine was broken. So, I had to settle for an IC Caramel with a chocolate muffie. Still delightful!

I had a Clif Kids Twisted Fruit in mixed berry for my mid-morning snackie. I still like strawberry the best! Notice my fun Sharpie I found in my desk. I have a thing for permanent markers!

For lunch, I went to a local pizza shop with my friends Jan and Jessica. It was a good girlie lunch...we discussed favorite TV shows. I swear...I'm going to convert the world to One Tree Hill!

For dinner, we went out for T's brother's 28th birthday. We went to the Texas Roadhouse and I ordered the chicken critter salad. However, I fogot to take a picture before I scarfed it down.

However...I managed to take an awesome shot of Tim sitting on the saddle at the Roadhouse. Blackmail...future brother-in-law!

Tomorrow is Fridayyyyyyyy! T and I are going to our high school's first football game. Alumni representing! Go Hawks!

I heart Trader Joe's!

2008-08-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

Remember when grandpa used to tell you about the "general" or "company" store? Did you always want to race back in time with him and get the yummy candies and "soda pop?"

Well, you can! Sort of. Trader Joe's is an amazing grocery store chain that is deeply focused on the simpler way of life. Trader Joe's is a fabulous way to shop! They have the foodie basics...milk, bread and eggs. However, TJ's has an amazing array of yummy, exotic snacks! Plus, nearly everything TJ's sells is manufactured by the company. Therefore, the middleman is cut out and prices are insanely low!

Love organic/natural products? Trader Joes is the PERFECT solution! I have never seen so many environmental-friendly products in one store (Whole Foods is a close contender...but still a little too expensive for my small wallet)!

I would absolutely die if TJ's decided to build in West Virginia! The closest is Pittsburgh, and it's totally worth the trip. Heck, the price break in food almost equals the price in gas!

I'm sending TJ's a little note asking (really begging) them to consider building a store in my hometown. The fiance and I would die and go to heaven!

Wednesday Bliss

2008-08-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

Happy over the hump day!

This morning, I made a yummy smoothie...I'll call it "Chunky Monkey!" It had non-fat milk, ice, low-fat chocolate syrup, natty pb, and half a banana. I at the other half of the banana while I was doing my makeup (it was a rather hard task).

On my way to work, I had a YUMMY Clif Kids Twisted Fruit in the strawberry flavor. It was fabulous! I think I may even like it a *little* better than the sour apple!

For my mid-morning snackie...I had Oikos yogurt with Honey on the bottom. Love this stuff!

We won't discuss what I had for lunch...it was terrible for me! I was with my BFF though, so that's all that matters!

The fiance decided he wanted to make dinner tonight (with my help). So we had yummy chicken breasts that we marinated in Italian dressing, salt and pepper. I LOVE these new pans! We also had sides of corn, mashed potatoes, and wine. Yummmmmmmm.

I'm so full...I must have eaten *most* of the right things today!

Working Girl...

2008-08-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

I had quite a few pictures on my camera from the past two days!

My lunch today was yuuuuuumy! I had a whole wheat English muffin with a wedge of Laughing Cow cheese, cinnamon applesauce, a mini-bag of cheese crackers, and a mini Coke. I do love my Coke every now and then! These little cans are the perfect solution!

The yummy Clif Kid Twisted Fruit. Love this stuff! I receieved an e-mail from Clif Bar today letting me know they were going to send some new samples to me! Yippie! Can't wait to try them out!

Oikos Greek yogurt. Um. Fabulous! There are no other words!

My Vera Bradley message board at work. I'm incorporating more blue and gold (school colors) into my office.

Finally...bedtime! I made a smoothie with: non-fat milk, peanut butter, low-fat chocolate syrup, and ice. Dessert for me! Snuggling up with Meg Cabot's The Princess Diaries: Princess Mia. I told you I had a thing for YA novels! Plus...Meg Cabot is one of my all-time faves! :)

Snack Attack!

2008-08-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

After reading some lovely food blogs, I decided to do a few reviews of my own!
I took pictures of each of these yummy snacks, but my camera cord won't work with my computer at my desk. Humph. So, I've resorted to the stock photos...hopefully I can replace them with my own pics once I get home...

On my way to work this morning, I had a Clif Kid Twisted Fruit in the Sour Apple flavor. It was SO yummy. I can't believe these little guys have one whole serving of fruit! Perfect for kids (or those who have kid-like appetities).

Fairly simple ingredient list as well...

Ingredients: Organic Apple Puree, Organic Apple Juice Concentrate, Organic Flavor, Pectin.

For my snack, I had my first greek yogurt! OMG. It is SOOOOOO good! I picked up Oikos Organic Greek Yogurt with honey mixed in. I. loved. it. It is full of protein, so it kept me full for a REALLY long time. I want to try the blueberry flavor next!

Finally...for my mid-afternoon snack, I picked up a Cashew Cookie Larabar. I have a few friends that eat these and then I've read some rave reviews on blogs.

I'll be reviewing the Larabar later!

Joining the Twilight Zone

2008-08-26T05:55:00.001-07:00

After reading all the amazing reviews about the novel, Twilight, I've decided to give it a try. I just ordered the paperback version from Amazon for $6.04! What a steal! Free shipping...and it's arriving Thursday.

Can't wait!

Light whipped cream? In a can?

2008-08-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

Land o Lakes has done it! I recently discovered LAND O LAKES™ Whipped Light Cream! It's amazingly light. It seriously has next to no fat, calories, or sugar!

Plus...it tastes AMAZING!!! It's perfect for topping yummy desserts or even my fave...coffee drinks! T and I made smoothies tonight and topped them with this delicious whipped cream. He thought it was amazing. I know if he loves it...it must be good. He's quite the picky eater!

I bought them at Sam's Club in a three-pack. Yumminess in bulk!

Queen of Babble in the Big City

2008-08-25T13:24:00.001-07:00

I just finished Queen of Babble in the Big City! It was an easy, wonderful read. I found myself cheering for Lizzie throughout the entire novel. She is such an endearing, comical character.

I seriously can't wait to read Queen of Babble Gets Hitched. I want to know what happens! I need to check and see if my library has this in stock. If not...ordering it from Amazon!

I heart Swoozies!

2008-08-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

Just call me Elle Woods. Seriously. If I would be taken seriously, I would submit my resumes on pink scented paper and take notes in cute little notebooks.

Which, is why I *heart* Swoozies!

Swoozie's is the leading contemporary gift and social paper retailer in the US, recently named one of "the most innovative" stores in the US by Kurt Salmon & Associates.

Here are a few of my faaaaaavorite Swoozies products!

There's tons more...but these are my current faves! Check it out!

Move over, Starbucks

2008-08-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

If you haven't notcied already, I'm a coffee girl. Not Maxwell house coffee with a little cream...but a Starbucks girl with a lot of calories! I'm obsessed with frozen coffee drinks and that little green straw the pokes out of the top of the glorious dome lid.

Sadly, I don't have time for a morning coffee run before church on Sunday. So, this morning I decided to make a cup of Vanilla Nut Fudge Fireside Coffee with a helping of Land-o-Lakes whipped cream. YUM-O. I drank it out of my "Accessories are Necessities" Barbie cup! Fabulous, if you ask me.

Almost done with Queen of Babble in the Big City. Horray!

Food Bloggie

2008-08-23T17:27:00.000-07:00

With my recent ab exercises, I thought it would be beneficial to keep a food blog of my daily eats. I'll continue to post fun pics, book reviews, and the like.

Some of my eats from today...

Pretzel Crisps and Laughing Cow cheese! Such a wonderful and light combination. The calorie content in both of these are crazy low!

Horizon Strawberry Milk. I seriously love organic milk! Horizon makes great flavors. Both the chocolate and vanilla are equally scrumptious!

My mom and I made these amazing low-cal smoothies. They have FF milk, a 100 calorie oreo pack, a spoonfull of peanut butter, and some low-fat whipped cream on top. Yum!

Back to working on my Health Communications & Marketing paper. I may squeeze in a little time to read Queen of Babble In the Big City before bed...

How to be Popular

2008-08-13T12:56:00.000-07:00

I just finished Meg Cabot's adolescent fiction bestseller, How to be Popular. It was a fantastic read! Although I'm nearly 23, I still love books for kids and teens as much as I love adult reads. I took a literature for adolescents class in college and realized these simple books can have so much meaning!

How to be Popular focuses on sixteen-year-old Steph Landry. She has awful hair (her best friend, Jason, calls her "crazytop") and she has been the laughing stock of her classmates since she spilled a Big Red Gulp on Lauren Moffat five years ago. So, she finds a book called How to Be Popular and decides to give it a try. She changes the way she dresses, the way she talks, and eventually changes friends. However, she then realizes the popular kids in school aren't that great after all.

It's a wonderful coming of age story and I think I may encourage Tom's teenage cousins to read it. Girls need to understand that being popular isn't always what it's cracked up to be.

Next, I'll be reading Meg Cabot's (I'm on quite a kick) Queen of Babble In the Big City.

Hello, Abs. Meet Tourture.

2008-08-12T13:38:00.001-07:00

Sadly, my abs ain't what they used to be. I decided with a new job and THE WEDDING coming up, it's time to get my abs back into shape. Hopefully my butt and thighs will follow.

I'll admit it. I'm not a gym girl. I'd rather scoot around on my bedroom floor while getting into different exercise positions. I'm more comfortable doing my workouts in my pajamas rather than making myself look halfway decent to go to the gym.

Therefore, I've picked up some ab exercises from the Internet and have decided to do these everyday (sometimes a couple times a day). One is a video from www.eatliverun.com Jenna offers some great tips for abs and they WORK. I already feel it after a few days.

I've also adopted a couple other exercises from Winsor Pilates. I used to do Pilates in college and I loved it.

It's day three and I am SORE. Good sign. Stay tuned for updated progress...

Target Steals!

2008-08-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my mom and I made a trip to Target. Gosh, how I love Target. Anyway, we decided to break out our All You magazine plus the Proctor and Gamble coupon booklet that comes each month in the newspaper. We made a pact to purchase things ONLY with coupons. Wow! What savings.

We got this entire stash for...$14.44!!! Check it out...TWO Fusion razors for my dad, bonus pack of toothpaste, salsa, two pizzas, laundry detergent, Silk soy milk (yum), Jif pb to go, and some fruit cups!

Plus...for purchasing the two razors, we got a $5 Target gift card. :) Awesome, right?

Meet Eve!

2008-08-06T12:04:00.001-07:00

My cousin came for a visit and brought seven-month-old Eve! She is a sheltie and is quite the live wire! She's so cute though! Eve is visiting until tomorrow and then she goes back home to Ohio!

Current Obsessions...

2008-08-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

Size 14 Is Not Fat Either

2008-08-03T13:10:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading Size 14 Is Not Fat Either by Meg Cabot. What a great read! I love Meg Cabot's Heather Wells mysteries because it is like CSI for the girly-girl! Tom is obsessed with CSI, but I can't bring myself to watch it for all the blood and gore. However, Meg Cabot has a great way of making a murder mystery seem...dare I say...funny! Heather Wells is such a lovable character.

I've started checking out books at my local library. What a great way to save money! Plus, since I'm still a college student, I can check out ten books at a time. Like I'd ever have time for that...

Next on my list is How to be Popular. I believe it is more of a young adult read...but I'm looking forward to it nonetheless. Meg Cabot rocks! I'll probably be heading back to the libray this week to see what other reads I can score!

The Producers!

2008-08-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

Tom and I went to see The Producers today at West Virginia Public Theatre! It was SO good. It was quite funny and was full of great music. Sadly, we weren't able to take pictures...but I managed to find a logo from West Virginia Public Theatre's Web site!

If you have a public theatre in your area, I would totally reccommend trying out a show. It's so much fun!

New Job (AGAIN)!

2008-08-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

Wow...I have been blessed beyond words. As many know, I have struggled the past year with my first job out of college. I was a Marketing Director for a fast food chain and it was one of the most horrible experiences of my life. I was essentially a delivery girl (no tips) and absolutely hated my job.

I was recently hired as a graduate assistant (GA) at WVU's P.I. Reed School of Journalism. I earned my BS in Public Relations and am working toward my Master's in Integrated Marketing Communications. Therefore, this job is Heaven on Earth. It's a wonderful, respectable place with amazing people.

Well, I receieved a verbal job offer today to serve as the School of Journalism's (SOJ) Program Coordinator. I start August 15 in my new position. I am SO excited. I'll be advising, recruiting, and doing a little teaching.

WVU's P.I. Reed School of Journalism (isn't it pretty?)

Oatmeal Pancakes and Iced Coffee

2008-08-01T06:21:00.001-07:00

This morning, I decided to give oatmeal pancakes a try. I've become an avid reader of www.eatliverun.com and Jenna makes these awesome oatmeal pancakes.

I tried it with half of a mashed banana and a spoonful of peanut butter. I also had a Fireside Vanilla Nut Fudge iced coffee. YUM! It was so filling and super yummy!

The latest and the greatest

2008-07-31T07:41:00.001-07:00

Since we came back from Indy, our schedules have been jam-packed! We started Vacation Bible School at our church this week. The theme for this year is "Power Lab: Discovering Jesus' Miraculous Power." It's been great fun! I am the snack lady and provide "test tube treats" to 130 kiddos each night. Tom helps with the snacks and also does a few sing-a-long songs with the kids. He does "Dem Bones" each night and the kids love it!

A few nights ago, the kids had a dance off with WVU Football star, Tito Gonzales. He's really been a hit with the kids!

With all my time off from school...I've been reading a book by Meg Cabot called Size 14 Is Not Fat Either. It's a great read. Perfect chick lit for the summer!

I also purchased an adorable fall tote while in Indy this weekend at the Vera Bradley store!

Hanky Panky

2008-07-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Ever wear a thong? Yeah? They suck, right? They are uncomfortable and I personally feel like I have a wedgie 24/7. However, thongs are sometimes a complete necessity. For starters, they are sexy. On another note, they eliminate the visible panty line (VPL). Oh, the horrors of the VPL. Nothing is worse than seeing a woman in high-waisted jeans that the VPL that makes her look like she has 4 cheeks instead of 2.

So, how does a hip chick remain sexy, avoid the VPL, and stay comfortable? Hanky Panky, of course! Some of my friends raved over these thongs sent from the underwear gods. I was skepticial at first, but I thought I'd try them. I bought them at Nordies a little over a year ago and have been hooked ever since. Of course, I'll wear my trusty bikinis every now and then. But, on most days, I'm strutting in my Hanky Pankys.

They are a little pricey ($18 a pair retail...gasp)! But, they are totally worth it when you can find them on sale.

HSN has some pretty sweet deals going on right now. $19.90 and $9.90 for three-packs.

http://www.hsn.com/cnt/search/searchresults/default.aspx?Ntt=hanky+panky&N=0&Ntk=Std&st=1&criteria=&days=&minprice=&maxprice=&o=esearch

I reccommend the low rise...and they are one size fits most.

Try a set...you won't regret it!

Peacing Out!

2008-07-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

Tom and I are off to Indiana for the weekend! We're super excited for this trip! We're going out to dinner for my BFF's birthday tomorrow night, hitting the outlets and the zoo Saturday, and simply relaxing and enjoying ourselves.

We've developed an insane love for One Tree Hill. We finished season 1. So, for the trip...we're taking my trusty portable DVD player...and season 2!

We should have lots of fun relaxing and catching up on our new favorite show! Be back Sunday! Happy weekend!

Google Calendar!

2008-07-24T08:30:00.001-07:00

Google Calendar puts the FUN in functional! It is SO easy to use and it really keeps me organized. It's fantastic for work, school, activities, and what not. I've always been quite the pen and paper kind of girl. However, Google Calendar has changed that for the better! No more crossing out activities or making writing mistakes! I can change times, move around events, and so forth. Plus, I'm using this pretty pink color for all my appointments.

It's easy to flip though and I can use it for the day, week, month, or year! I have to admit, I play with it a lot and find myself looking for events to add! I took a screen cap of this week!

Fireside Coffee

2008-07-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I blogged about Fireside Coffee. I orginially tried the Vanilla Nut Fudge

Since then, I've also tried the Caramel Mochaccino and the Hazelnut Mocha. These coffees are SO yummy and provide an excellent alternative to coffeehouse drinks! They are low in fat and in calories! Plus, they are only $7.25 a can...for 14 servings! That's only .52 a serving! Much cheaper than a $4 drink. They are AWESOME over ice as well.

Here's the recipie for Fireside Iced Coffee...

Simply add 4 tsp. of your favorite flavor of Fireside Coffee (or 3 tbsp of Fireside Chai) to 2oz. of hot water. Stir well to dissolve. Then add 3oz. of cold water, stir and pour over ice.

Check it out at Fireside Coffee!

Bad Blogger!

2008-07-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm such a bad blogger. However, I have a very good reason for being MIA for the past week and a half. You see, I'm in graduate school and it takes up an insane amount of time. I just finished my adavnced PR class with a 41-page paper. Yes. You read right. 41 pages. I worked SO hard on this beast. Nonetheless...I got an A on the paper, an A in the class and kept my 4.0 GPA. So, missing out on the blogging for a little while was well worth it.

On a more relaxing note, we are heading to Indiana on Friday with my BFF Jessica to visit her boyfriend, BJ. It will be quite fun! Tom and I are super excited to hang out with such great friends. We're going to the Vera Bradley signature store (GASP!) and to the Indy Zoo. Yay!

I recently purchased this fabulous VB bag on Ebay. It is normally $82 and I got it for $40 shipped! It's great...perfect for WVU!

Music is love

2008-07-12T18:25:00.000-07:00

I don't think any other saying could apply better to my family. Or, to Tom's family. Ironically, we both come from extremely musical families. We're talking 40+ years on each side. That's over 80 combined years of concerts, dances, and witnessing the Gospel to thousands of people. Music is literally one of the main reasons Tom and I are together. He joined my dad's band in 2005 and then joined our church's praise team in 2006. I'm sure that Tom would agree that we truly don't remember a time when music wasn't present in our lives. While I am (sadly) not musically inclined, I truly understand a musician's heart, soul, and mind. My father and his twin brother are both fantastic musicians as was my late grandmother. The amazing thing? They've never had lessons nor can they read music. They play by ear -by sound and feel.

Tom has this same talent (as do nearly all of his family members). Tom has been singing on stage since he was three-years-old. In addition, he can compose. He can sing, write, and play seriously about 15 different instruments. Truly amazing. Plus, his entire family sings for the Lord. In the two years we've dated, I can't count how many churches we've traveled to for his family to sing.

I love both of my families for many reasons. One is that they are humble. They truly don't realize how talented they are. Therefore, I will toot their horns for them!

Some recent pictures...

Tom singing at a local church
Tom's grandpa, "Pap"
Pap and Tom
His Heart, His Hands, His Feet ministry
Tom and our Pastor

My dad

Yellow Bird

2008-07-11T13:41:00.000-07:00

My latest purchase.....Vera Bradley Hipster in Yellow Bird! I'm super excited about this bag. It's normally in the $50-dollar range and I scored it on Ebay for $20.50! It will be fab with my endless supply of black and white clothes. Plus, it will be great to take to amusement parks this summer with the cross-body style.

Gotta love Ebay! Now...off to more shopping!

4th of July Festivities!

2008-07-05T06:08:00.000-07:00

We had a fun 4th of July! We started out at my family's cookout at my aunt and uncle's house. Then, we headed downtown to shoot pool with Tom's half-brother, Erick and his girlfriend, Emily (who is also a great friend of Tom's). I am terrible at pool, but at least I tried!

Tom and my Grandma

Tom and Emily

Tom being a pool shark...he needs to teach me!

Tom and Erick being silly.

Tom teaching me to play pool...haha.

Happy Birthday, America!!!!

2008-07-04T05:36:00.000-07:00

What a great day to be an American!!!

We have a wonderful weekend planned...I'll be sure to take lots of great pictures.

Friday: T and I BOTH have the day off! Woot! I'm going to Starbucks with a friend from my old job to catch up. Then, Tom and I are going to hang out and relax. We have a big cookout tonight for the 4th. I'm so excited.

Saturday: T's family reunion! Checkers, bingo, and awesome food with my second family will be amazing.

Saturday night: Hopefully going out with some friends.

Sunday: Church (as always), then Tom's birthday dinner with his family. Everyone always buys funny, embarrassing cards and the birthday guest has to read them in front of the entire family. It should be hilarious. After that, his family is singing about 40 miles south. Yummy church dinner!

Monday: LEAVE FOR ANNAPOLIS!!!! YAY!

T's 25th Birthday!!

2008-07-02T05:32:00.000-07:00

For Tom's 25th birthday, I wanted to do something awesome! So, I got the idea to buy him 25 presents and wrap them indvidually. I bought things like his favorite snack, guitar picks, mints, his favorite beer, flip flops from Old Navy, some clothes, a Starbucks gift card, and so on. Some were bigger gifts and some were little things. I spent so much time making everything!

I even made tags for the outside of each bag that had a little clue as to what was inside.

I could hardly contain myself on his birthday! I was so excited to give him everything. Here are some pictures of the set up and then his reactions. He was so suprised (and really excited).

Refinishing Furniture!

2008-06-29T18:47:00.000-07:00

I recently made my first attempt in refinishing furniture. This shelf has been in my family for at least fifty years. It belonged to my grandparents (my grandma thinks it was once in my great-grandmother's house). Then, it was passed along to my mother.

It used to be this awful brown color. So, I decided to take it and paint it black to go with my room. For now, I'm using it to store my Vera Bradley bags and some wedding materials on the shelves. I still need to find the perfect knobs for the drawers. I was very pleased with how it turned out. It makes me want to go antiquing and attempting to do the same for other pieces of furniture. This piece will go with me when Tom and I get married. I think it would be great in our office as a bookcase.

I still need to find a cute base for my VB lampshade.

On Saturday, I went to TJ Maxx (love it for household items)! I was browsing through the office accessories and stumbled across a TON of VB stationary items. I picked up quite a few pieces.

My grandmother also bought us a beautiful wrought iron cross. I'm thinking I want to do a cross wall in my house. Possibly in an entry way or hallway.

Pedicures, Puppy Dogs, and Nieces (Oh my!)

2008-06-27T05:35:00.000-07:00

Last night, Tom and I had a great time. It was our two year anniversary and we went for couples pedicures and then to dinner. After that, we went to visit his nieces who are in town and to play with the new puppy, Peanut.

Tom's first pedicure!

I love pedicures!!!

Being silly in the car!

Tom and his adorable nieces

Peanut snacking on Tom's flip flops

Katie, Peanut, Tom, and Emmy

Tom and I

Emily teaching Peanut bad things

Two years!

2008-06-26T06:26:00.001-07:00

Today is our two year anniversary!!! We are celebrating tonight with pedicures and then who knows what...

A look back on the last two wonderful years...

Vera Bradley Polyvore...

2008-06-25T17:49:00.001-07:00

Remembering Grandma Mildred...

2008-06-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

Today marks five years since my grandmother passed away. In ways, it seems like I just talked to her yesterday. But, in others, it seems like five years was forever ago. I couldn't sleep this morning and I thought about all the things she's missed in five years. Weddings, funerals, Christmas, birthdays, family reunions, births of new grandchildren, and so on. She was so full of life and I know she would be proud of how her family has stuck together over the past years. It hasn't always been easy without her presence. However, we all know she is with us no matter where we go.

I was only 17 when she died. It was right after high school graduation. I had such a weird summer of adjusting to life without her. I thought everything was so unfair and I was deeply saddened that she would miss out on many things in the years to come. Now, I know she has been with me through every step of the way.

So, grandma...thanks for standing by my side in spirit through it all...

-First year of college
-A horrible breakup
-More years of college
-Finding the love of my life
-Graduating from WVU
-Starting graduate school
-Beginning my first "real" job
-The death of my grandfather
-Issues with my first "real" job
-Dad's heart issues
-Getting engaged and planning a wedding

I've been through a lot in five years. Some horrible times, some so-so times, and a lot of wonderful times. No matter what, grandma has always been there. I had a dream not long after she died and she said, "I don't know why you're crying. I'm with you everywhere you go."

I love you, grandma. One day, I'll see you on the other side. Until then, continue to stick with me.

Black and white wedding...

2008-06-25T08:37:00.000-07:00

We've decided on a black and white wedding. It's something I've wanted for a long time! I want my wedding to be very simple yet elegant. It shouldn't cost a fortune and I've already figured out lots of ways to save money here and there.

Here are some ideas I've liked that were at polyvore.com. I decided to create an inspiration board to get ideas. Wedding planning is so much fun.

P.S. It's a little stressful too.

Polyvore Creations

2008-06-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

I love making creations from Polyvore.com. Here is one of some of my current favorite things. So fun and so creative!

Two obsessions...

2008-06-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have had two obesessions: Vera Bradley and Fireside Coffee.

My VB collection is continually growing. They are the most functional and affordable bags I own! I went to a little shop today and found this adorable limited edition bag for 40% off. So cute...I can't wait to show Tom.

It's a great little bag to throw things in and go. I'm planning on going to the VB outlet sale next May in Fort Wayne, IN to stock up on some great buys.

My second new obsession is Fireside Coffee. It's a MUCH cheaper and MUCH healthier version of Starbucks. Now, do I get the same satisfaction of going to Starbucks and sipping heaven out of a green and white cup? No. Is it cheaper on gas and my wallet? Absolutely! Plus, it's only 65 calories per serving. Way better than probably the 400 calories I consume at Starbucks!

My favorite is Vanilla Nut Fudge. However, I'm determined to try some new flavors.

Time for play...

2008-06-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

Today was one of the best Mondays I've had in...oh, about a year! It started off by going to breakfast with my dad at Panera. I have a new obsession for their carmel lattes (served over ice). Yum.

I seriously love coffee drinks. It's a fantastic way to get me moving!

I also went and met with some people about Avon. I've begun carrying some of my items that I've purchased in bulk (great deals or representative specials) and selling them out of a little basket. People LOVE it. I bring them to offices, daycares, and even churches. The ladies get to search through the basket and purchase the things they want on the spot. It's been a great way to meet new people, gain new customers, and earn some extra cash! :) I LOVE making money.

I finished my PR paper today...always a joy (seriously). I love grad school just about as much as I love anything else (not including people). The IMC program has made me feel like my knowledge is really WORTH something and not just a piece of paper. The work is challenging at times...but it makes me think. Plus, I love researching brands and learning about effective practices.

For dinner, I made an amazing dish with cheese tortellini and Vodka sauce from TJs. I love Trader Joes! Wow...we need one in Morgantown ASAP. The students would go bonkers over it. I can't wait for Tom to try it when he stops by later.

Tomorrow is a new day...

2008-06-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

The time has FINALLY come! Friday was my last day at Chick-fil-A and I couldn't be happier. While it was a great learning experience and stepping stone, I quickly learned that it was not worth my time, energy, or intelligence. I LOVE to work, but I also want to feel appreciated.

So, tomorrow is a new day and this past weekend was one of the best I've had in quite some time. If Friday wasn't fantastic enough, my family and I went to the races in Pennsylvania. While I'm certainly not the "racing" kind of girl, it was great to spend time with my great family while eating yummy food that is incredibly bad for me.

Saturday, Tom and I spent a wonderful day in Pittsburgh. We made our first trip to Trader Joes, an amazing grocery store. If you haven't been to TJs yet, it's a must! We traveled more than an hour to get there and it was way worth it. I've munched on a lot of things already and am so impressed. Plus, the prices are AMAZING! With the economy, food prices have skyrocketed. Not with TJs, though. Because nearly all of the products are made by TJs, there is very little middle-man action. Therefore, prices are cheaper (as is quality). We also shopped, went to eat, made a Starbucks run, and went to Sing Sing! Sing Sing is a dueling piano bar (there is also one in Denver, CO). It was fantastic! However, never attend Sing Sing during wedding season. It was seriously a bachelorette party fiasco. Bridezillas galore! Nonetheless, it was a great time and so funny.

Today was a typical Tom and Shalane Sunday. Church (as always)and then time with our families and friends. Then it was homework for me.

I can't wait 'til tomorrow. It will be literally amazing to not go to work.