Weekend

So one of my longest ever friends had a baby this weekend. Baby D was born on Friday Evening - he is precious!



B and I headed to DFW area to visit his family this weekend. They are incredibly nice and I also got to meet his grandparents. It was a relaxing fun weekend - way too much food and lots of lounging - much needed! They also have two adorable dogs- Roxy's half brother and half sister. IT was fun seeing them play around and I really enjoy seeing his family.



We spent Sunday evening seeing Baby D and then going out to dinner with my parents and my grandfather. It was a very family friendly weekend. :)

50 Questions - #46-50

46. What would you do differently if you knew nobody would judge you? The thing is - I don't really care who judges me - I do what I do. I like what I do.

47. When was the last time you noticed the sound of your own breathing? Whenever I am sick - I hate it!

48. What do you love? Have any of your recent actions openly expressed this love? I only express that I love things often - except for the relationship I am in...it is silly, but I can't help it. I want to say it but I guess in time it will come.

49. In 5 years from now, will you remember what you did yesterday? What about the day before that? Or the day before that? What i did yesterday- I will remember seeing baby D always for the first time. He is so sweet. Newborns are amazing. I will probably not remember the hand holds and the cuddles from B exactly- but I hope in 5 years I know how they still feel.

50. Decisions are being made right now. The question is: Are you making them for yourself, or are you letting others make them for you? I am trying to be more independent and make them for myself.

50 questions - # 26-45

26. Would you rather lose all of your old memories, or never be able to make new ones?
This is incredibly difficult. I have lived such an amazing life. I have done, seen and explored more than most. I wouldn't ever want to lose the memories of my loved ones that have passed away but the idea of never making new ones saddens me. I believe in living in the present - and sometimes straying into the past- so I will have to say I would rather lose old memories so that I can live in the present. THIS was the most difficult question so far!

27. Is is possible to know the truth without challenging it first? Nope.

28. Has your greatest fear ever come true? It was my greatest fear- then it happened and now I have a different one.

29. Do you remember that time 5 years ago when you were extremely upset? Does it really matter now? No I don't and no it doesn't.

30. What is your happiest childhood memory? What makes it so special? Happiest- jumping on the trampoline with the water hose with my brother. It was fun. We laughed like crazy. My parents watched us from the kitchen window. IT reminds me how my life has been. Fun times with my brother and I laughing and our parents so happy to see us so happy.

31. At what time in your recent past have you felt most passionate and alive? Reconnecting with B. Hands down it has been the most amazing time. I don't want it to ever end. I laugh and smile every single day. I am so lucky to have him in my life.

32. If not now, then when? If not now, then never. That's what I think. ;) Patience is not a virtue of mine!

33. If you haven’t achieved it yet, what do you have to lose? If I haven't acheieved it I am not done trying!

34. Have you ever been with someone, said nothing, and walked away feeling like you just had the best conversation ever? Yes. And it was the best conversation ever.

35. Why do religions that support love cause so many wars? If we only knew! You have too many people that have such strong convictions that they fight for those convictions and lose sight of what the convictions actually stood for - usually they stand for love and peace. It is sad really.

36. Is it possible to know, without a doubt, what is good and what is evil? In everything- I don't think so. In some things I think it is possible to know.

37. If you just won a million dollars, would you quit your job? One million? No. $20 million. yes.

38. Would you rather have less work to do, or more work you actually enjoy doing? More work I enjoy. IF you enjoy it - it isn't work.

39. Do you feel like you’ve lived this day a hundred times before? This day? Nope. It is new. It is wonderful.

40. When was the last time you marched into the dark with only the soft glow of an idea you strongly believed in? huh? No idea about this one.

41. If you knew that everyone you know was going to die tomorrow, who would you visit today? My family. The idea of not seeing my parents or my brother after tomorrow is unthinkable to me. They are my rock. I would love to see my godparents, friends etc - but quality time with my parents and my brother would be essential in my moving forward in my life.

42. Would you be willing to reduce your life expectancy by 10 years to become extremely attractive or famous? No. I love my life. While I would love to be skinnier - I would rather be alive.

43. What is the difference between being alive and truly living? Alive is merely existing. Truly living is - laughing, playing, enjoying time with others, enjoying alone time, seeing sights and FEELING emotions. I would never want to just be alive.

44. When is it time to stop calculating risk and rewards, and just go ahead and do what you know is right? Ha. If only I didn't calculate all of the time!!!

45. If we learn from our mistakes, why are we always so afraid to make a mistake? We would rather not make them - you can learn from OTHERS! ;)

50 questions - #16- 25

16. How come the things that make you happy don’t make everyone happy? Everyone has different tastes in life. I would be boring if we all liked the same things!


17. What one thing have you not done that you really want to do?
If I were to answer this a year ago - the answer would be fall in love - unconditional love. But I'm there. So now- I would love to one day get married. I believe in marriage and I believe in everlasting love - it will come - when it is supposed to come and I have no intention of hurrying it along - I am happy and very content in where I am. IF we are talking about something silly - I would say I really really want to go backpacking again for two weeks, somewhere.

18. Are you holding onto something you need to let go of? Ha ha. Yes. But I am in the process of letting go. It is an old friendship that brings a lot of pain into my life- I know it is time to say goodbye.

19. If you had to move to a state or country besides the one you currently live in, where would you move and why?
Italy- I love the country, the food (they are VERY gluten free friendly!), the people and overall I love it there. I can't wait to return one day!

20. Do you push the elevator button more than once? Do you really believe it makes the elevator faster? No and no.

21. Would you rather be a worried genius or a joyful simpleton? Worried genius. I value intelligence.

22. Why are you, you? I believe circumstance, nature and nurture makes everyone who they are. It isn't all genetics, but some it is and it isn't all just environment - I think when you go through something painful (or joyful) it changes you. Life is all about change.

23. Have you been the kind of friend you want as a friend? I think I am better with some than others. Everyone has let a friendship go now and then. Overall - I think I am a great friend. I do surround myself with amazing people and I do value their friendships.

24. Which is worse, when a good friend moves away, or losing touch with a good friend who lives right near you? When they are right near you and you lose touch. It is sad, but sometimes best.

25. What are you most grateful for? My family. Family isn't just the people who are blood related - I call my friends my family as well. I have the best parents I could ever have asked for. I've always felt loved and cared for. My brother is one of my best friends and while we don't always get along my life is infinitely better because of him.

Friday Favorite

Today's Friday Favorite is...

Tinkyada Brown Rice Pasta!

Since I can't eat gluten - I love pasta- and this rice pasta is a favorite. Tinkyada makes the BEST BEST BEST rice pasta! It takes just like "regular" pasta- only difference is when you drain - you must rinse with cold water and then add sauce. So delish! :) Even B had some the other night!

Fill in the blank Friday

It is Fill in the Blank Friday again over at Lauren's

1. My favorite thing about this week has been : boot camp. It isn't exactly fun- but I love a good workout - even if I can barely move today!

2. The weather this week has been: HOT and rainy. 100% humid.

3. The last (interesting) thing I received in the mail was: My magazines and earrings

4. The last movie I saw was: B and I had movie tickets from Groupon that were going to expire so we went to the Alamo Draft House and watch Knight and Day - predicitable.

5. If I could be doing anything I felt like today I would : sleep in, head to Austin, see my friends and have a date night with B.

6. As a teenager I was : I was pretty well behaved and made good grades- I didn't know how to truly rebel- my parents are thankful of that.

7. I wish I could trade lives for one day with: an actress- I think it would be fun to be on a movie set somewhere fun like Italy.

50 Questions - #15

What’s something you know you do differently than most people?

The way I express my feelings. Towards most people - I am happy go lucky all of the time. I smile all of the time. Towards my closest people in my life is when I allow myself to cry, be sad, etc. While I am not sad, upset etc for long - I just don't show that side - my "vulnerable" side to everyone, and I am ok with that.

50 Questions - #14

Have you ever seen insanity where you later saw creativity?

I see that in art all of the time. In life I think most things that I think are insane - are.

50 Questions - #13

Would you break the law to save a loved one?
Absolutely.

50 Questions - #12

If you could offer a newborn child only one piece of advice, what would it be?

Love. (life, animals, people, your surroundings, your job, your lover). Love your life and EVERYTHING you have been blessed with. Never lose sight of the little things.

50 questions - #11

You’re having lunch with three people you respect and admire. They all start criticizing a close friend of yours, not knowing she is your friend. The criticism is distasteful and unjustified. What do you do?

Say something. IF it continues just state that I have to leave the conversation as I don't want to partake it in.

50 questions - #10

Are you more worried about doing things right, or doing the right things?

Doing the right thing. I am a very particular person but in the end, I always want to do what is the right thing.

50 questions - #9

To what degree have you actually controlled the course your life has taken?

I would say that I have worked hard for the things, experiences etc that I wanted. I don't believe I am "in control" of my life - but I am in control of my actions towards others and towards myself. I try to do the right thing and I think doing the right thing does help in life. I believe in do unto others as you would like done unto you. So that's how I live my life.

50 questions - #8

If the average human life span was 40 years, how would you live your life differently?
At this very moment? I wouldn't change anything. In the past I still wouldn't have changed anything. I absolutely love my life. I am doing more, loving more, and living more than I ever have.

50 questions - #7

Are you doing what you believe in, or are you settling for what you are doing?

I am trying to get to a place to do what I believe in. I think this is a work in progress- always.

50 Question - #6

If happiness was the national currency, what kind of work would make you rich?

Something that involves helping people. I loved working with MADD when I was younger (no I am not a mom, just a huge advocate for not drinking and driving) - one of my best friends was killed by a drunk driver. I would love to work for MADD again- but it is heartbreaking.

I wouldn't mind working at the zoo, an animal shelter etc - but all of those jobs require a little bit of heartbreak.

So maybe....a cook? I like cooking - I would love to REALLY learn how to cook - like take a real course on cooking.

50 questions - #5

What is the one thing you’d most like to change about the world?
Intolerance. Racism. I see it everywhere. It annoys me. Some people say "reverse" racism - which I think is RIDICULOUS...as racism is racism. You can't have REVERSE racism.

I guess I would also say violence. All kinds.

I cheated - that is 3.

50 questions - #4

When it’s all said and done, will you have said more than you’ve done?

I talk a lot. I like to do a lot of things. I am sure that it will be about 50/50.

50 Questions - #3

If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do?
I find myself wondering something similar all of the time. So I did something about it. Sure no one wants to do dishes, clean up clothes, do laundry etc - so I think you find balance. You do somethings that you should do and some things that you WANT to do. Life is all about the balance.

50 questions - #2

Which is worse, failing or never trying?

Never trying. Without a doubt never trying.

50 questions - #1

How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?

Somedays I feel so much older than I am right now. I am 27. That is not OLD nor is it YOUNG...I am almost 30, approximately 1/3 into my life. There are days when I think I am 18 again and days when I wonder HOW can I act so old! Overall though- I think I am like most single/unmarried 27 year olds. I think I (finally) act my age. If I would have answered this 5 years ago - I would say I acted 30. But now- I am slowly finding the balance being old and being young. I feel that I am at a great place in life.

50 questions that will free your mind?

Has anyone ever heard of this?
After reading the questions - I really want to do this...so forgive me if I am boring for a while, but I am going to answer them, slowly but I want to get through all of them.

Tuesday Top 2

Top 2 purchases I've made this year...

I haven't done a whole lot of shopping this year...so my purchases are going to seem strange...

1. REI sleeping pad - B and I go camping A LOT- this saves my back and makes me wake up not so cranky! ;)

2. Sam Edelman cork sandals. I love them! I live in them!

Friday Favorite

FRIDAY FAVORITES....



Today's favorite has to do with makeup...my favorite blush is



NARS in the color orgasm...I just love it. While I wish their names weren't so...ahem anyway...I love the color! :) It makes my cheeks the perfect "flush" color...on days when they are blech!

Fill in the Blank - 4th!

Lauren has a 4th of July Themed Fill in the blank this week.....

1. This weekend for the 4th I'll be - hanging out with friends, possibly a brunch, and spending most of the time with B. It is a great life!

2. Fireworks are- thrilling. I love them- When I was younger we used to rate them.

3. Nothing says summer like - the beach, the lake, watermelon and being surrounded by family and friends.

4. My favorite summer memory is - hanging out at the pool, then going to fuddruckers and then going to the tennis courts at the club.

5. My favorite thing about summer is - feeling more relaxed and enjoying life a little bit more - plus being outside is wonderful!

6. Summer in a word is - hot! (I live in Texas!)

7. If I could choose to have Summer or Winter year-round I would pick - I live in Texas- it is Summer about 75% of the year!

Have a happy 4th of July!!!

28

When I was in the ATX I got a makeup lesson and loved it...now I am addicted to learning more tricks of the trade!

crazyness

Life is crazy hectic these days - lots of new things happening! Will post as soon as I can.

Friday Favorites

FRIDAY FAVORITES....

Today's favorite is...

ANTHROPOLOGIE

I love this store! Granted I can truly only afford things that are ON SALE or cheaper than their $250 dresses but I can't help but smile when I go in there. The colors, cuts, everything makes me happy. I love the reto-ish feel of some of the clothes. MOST are modest and flirty.

family

I love my family. I love that I talk to my little brother almost every single day. I love that I see my dad every day and that he gets me and I love that, while she drives me crazy, my mom is my hero/champion and knows my heart more than anyone in the world.

I am a lucky and blessed gal.

Top 2 Tuesday

Top 2 Reality TV Shows you would be on....

1. REAL HOUSEWIVES...of HOUSTON? Not that I could be interesting enough or have that kind of drama in my life OR the money ;)

2. Bethenney Getting Married?! I just love her...no idea HOW I would fit in on that show....

3. I used to want to be on REAL WORLD...way back in the day...when they got to do real work and had real people...like Real World LONDON.

Weekend

B and I went out to Marble Falls this weekend. We met new people, camped and had a great time...I came back bruised and bug bitten but very happy! We stopped in Austin for Mexican Martini's and drove through campus. It's nice to remember college and to have him in those memories. College was such a wonderful time in my life - I feel lucky that we knew each other and are part of some of each other's college memories.

Every single day I truly think - how did I get so lucky to be with B. It's true. I can't help but be happy.

Friday Favorites

So I have seen a lot of MUST HAVE MONDAYS on lots people's blogs...and I LOVE the idea...because I have purchased/tried out lots of things people have talked about I've been contemplating jumping on the bandwagon...but Monday is crazy for me...soo...

Friday Favorites

Today's favorite -

On my toes in the summer-time I love-OPI's Chapel of Love....so pretty, lovely pinky shade and it makes me smile. As my legs get tanner (or a little less pale) it looks even better!

Good company

B was out of town for the past 8 days and to say I missed him would be an understatement. I think since I take care of Roxy when he's gone it makes me miss him more - she is so sweet and loving!

So he got home yesterday and went to see his his dad's great aunt and one of her kids...what would that make them to him? (great great aunt and 3rd cousin?...not quite sure!)

ANYWAY....

After they went to dinner I met up with B and his dad at our wine bar. It was great to see his dad and catch up and it was wonderful to see B again. We shared wine and cheese and chatted up with his dad. His dad left halfway through and then B and I caught up.

I didn't realize how touch is such a powerful love language. I missed his hugs, kisses and I missed how he always seems to hold my hand, put his arm around me etc. It was lovely. Impromtu date nights always are lovely.

It's Wednesday...

So it is Wednesday...anyone else ready for the weekend? It needs to get here a little faster...just sayin.

Top 2 Tuesday

It is TOP 2 TUESDAY again...




Top 2 Guilty Pleasures

1. Bravo TV - Seriously I love all things Bravo- turn my TV on...95% of the time it is set to Bravo. I cannot help myself! B is not a fan of this guilty pleasure.








2. Shoes...I love shoes. TJ MAXX, Marshalls, Nordstrom, Dillards, DSW...love love love! :)

Giveaway Announcement

Please Rest Assured is having a fabulous $50 Saks giveaway!

You are welcome ;)

ATX weekend

Loved seeing the BFF and loved ATX.

Highlights:

• Went to Opal Divines for Alum Brunch
• Pedicures
• Wine!
• Playing with the pups
• Playing Wii- I've only played once before- so fun!
• SHOPPING (got 3 pairs of shoes, makeup, 2 shirts and a strapless bra!
• dinner at a Benihana-ish restaurant
• Strawberry Margaritas- YUM!
• Chatting up the BFF

Lowlights-

• I miss the BF- and that makes me upset with myself! I feel like a phony! I am a very independent and driven person and the fact that he's been gone a week and I miss him makes me feel like a phony when I tell my single gal friends that "you don't need a bf, single life is tres fab!" yes...I'm a phony...I miss the man and I want him home...stat.
• I missed Roxy. I know she isn't "technically" MY dog...but whatever she so is and I missed her and her adorable nature. She was SO EXCITED when I walked through the door.

ATX

B is in Utah for work...so I am headed to the ATX to visit friends this weekend...

I cannot wait for:

• Alum Brunch with my sorority sisters
• shopping with my bff
• a pedicure
• mexican martini
• time in the sun
• relaxing at zilker park
• playing with the bff's 2 labs
• sleeping in
• chatting all hours of the night with the bff
• the drive to and from in my car

Does anyone else love alone time in your car? I love semi short- 1-3 hour drives where I am by myself with my thoughts. It makes me happy.

New tab....

I am slowly making tabs on my blog...here is one!

100 things about me!

Blogger questions

Whenever I type my blog posts these days it won't let me press enter and have a space between paragraphs...not sure what I did...anyone know how to correct this problem?

Top 2 Tuesday - BOOKS!

Top 2 Favorite Books...

As an English major in college this is a VERY tough one for me to narrow down but I will do my best!

1. The Giving Tree- yes the one you read when you were little. The thing is - this book has so many lessons and yet, no matter how old you get, go back and read it - it makes you want to be a better person. At least for me.

2. Wuthering Heights or Pride and Prejudice - I couldn't choose sorry. I love them both but for different reasons. :)

If anyone has any book suggestions please give me them as I love love love to read and I am always wanting to read more- and I love all kinds of literature!

Beach camping

B and I went camping this weekend...on the beach. Loved it. Roxy didn't like the water so much but she dealt with it by pouting and sleeping in her bed.

The setup

Us after swimming and setting up camp. Love it.

Fill in the blank FRIDAY!

1. My dream vacation would be a trip that is in Greece. I loved Greece when I backpacked through Europe- but I even wrote in my journal that it is a place to bring someone you love to. So I would go again once I'm married. It is beautiful.

2. The best trip I've ever taken was when I backpacked through Europe. It was the best summer of my life.

3. The most important items to take on a road trip are books, my ipod and sweet tea!

4. The next trip I'm looking forward to is the one I'm taking next weekend to see my best friend K! I cannot wait...then again B and I may head to the Beach this weekend!

5. If I had to pick one CD to listen to for a long road trip it would be a mixed CD for sure.

6. The biggest disaster I've ever encountered while traveling was when my brother and I were young and on a roadtrip with our mom and the car was overheated. My mom pulled into a service station and some guy there CUT HER FAN BELT. My mom was so angry and called the cops on him. The cops escorted us to a new place to get things replaced. Now it is funny, it wasn't then!

7. My favorite traveling memory is my first trip alone with my brother. I was 18, he was 15 and we drove from Texas to Miami to visit our grandfather. It was a blast. I loved it. The summer before I left for college. Truly - it was so nice to have 2 weeks to do whatever we wanted and we did. It was fun and memorable. I am so lucky to have such a wonderful brother.

One year

It rained and rained last night and I slept and slept. It was wonderful. Sometimes the rain makes me sleep better, sometimes not. But last night, I passed out.

I went to dinner with the girls, Indian this time. DELISH. While we were out- I realized how different all of our lives are now. In less than a year all of us are different. L is pregnant with a baby girl, V is single...VERY single and very happy single, R is finishing up school and starting to let go of the bs she has held onto and me...I am 180 degrees from where I was a year ago.

Yesterday marked a year since my ex and I split. Like I said - I remember certain dates and the break up, I remember. I remember because that was the day I started to become myself again. It took less than one year to be me.

My fb profile says "One day I made the decision that I have one life so I might as well love it and be happy every single day - so I am. Try it. " and the truth is...I did that. I literally sat down with myself and said - You have one life. You can be sad and hate it or you can be happy and love it. So I am happy every single day of my life. Sure I have my moments- but that is what they are - moments. There is no need to not smile - I have a wonderful life.

And once I was truly happy with my life - everything fell into place. I was working out more (gotta get back on the wagon!), making new friends, reconnecting with old friends and finding out things that I love to do! I traveled, partied, road tripped, danced and sang along the way.

It sounds crazy to say but I've never been more "alive" in my life. I think every other relationship I have been in somewhat made me feel trapped. Whether it was on the phone due to long distance, being with someone who couldn't do all of the things I wanted to do, or someone who never wanted to do things with me, or someone who somewhat thought of me as a person to clean up after them - I never felt that I could be 100% me.

I wish I could go tell every person that is starting to truly date to always be truthful to who you are, find someone who treats you wonderfully and love yourself more than you thought possible. I learned a lot of lessons over the past years - I somewhat joke that should I had just dated B from the beginning when we first went out on our first date I would have saved myself a lot of pain - but even then I know that we probably wouldn't be as great together had it not have been all of the learning experiences we have had. I wouldn't be nearly as much appreciative of all that he does (and he goes beyond anything I could ever imagine).

Everything falls into place. It all starts with being comfortable with who you are...then you are comfortable demanding what you want in life.

I demanded happiness from myself...and I got it - in every aspect of my life. It truly amazes me how one year can change everything.

#5

#5
I made and sent a postcard to postsecret.
I love this blog and I have always wanted to send one...whenever it comes I MAY attach a link.

M and H's wedding weekend

So B and I headed out of town this weekend to go to a wedding reception of one of his close friends. It was beautiful, their family and friends were so incredibly nice that I truly felt at ease- up until his ex gf showed up. Granted we knew she was coming but truly I was nauseous just thinking about it. I just didn't want drama, didn't want to be upset about anything and didn't want to deal with bs. She played nice I suppose, but totally left me out of all conversation and every time I left B's side she swooped in. In fact we were staying at a bed and breakfast and she WAS AT THE SAME ONE! Blech! First thing she said to the two of us- " We share a wall tonight so please try to be quiet." I could have died. I felt like I was in another universe.
Dinner time- he sat between us. I mean we sat down and she sat next to him. Seriously!

It is what it is but I'm just glad our normal life can resume and we can love each other and hold on tight to one another- but I didn't play it cool- I was not the nicest person to him- I drank too much and I'm sure I said a few things I wish I could take back- I was upset and yet I was not going to play the "he's my boyfriend" game. They talked- I was awkward and not included- it happens. Not often but it happens.

but in the end- this is what matters- the reception was wonderful, the bride and groom were lovely and B and I - we are fine. In fact more than fine- he makes everyday a better day by being in it- I'm just glad we don't have to run into her that often!

And we spent Monday hanging out the beach. I had a wonderful time with B. We spent Saturday going to a farmers market, a winery and seeing the small town the Bride was from. It was fun. Actually the whole weekend was a blast - just a few little crap moments here and there - and I won't let her ruin a weekend.

Plus...seeing him and how he handles things - I just always feel so lucky. I have no idea what I did to deserve such a wonderful person, but I can say that I am with someone that is as nice to me as I am to him and it is just lovely. 100% lovely.

Random I know...

Does anyone else ever wonder what your "blog" friends voices sound like? I have "blog" friends from all over - Arkansas, NYC, LA, Seattle, Maine etc - I just wonder what everyone sounds like...like I said...Random.

Top 2 Tuesday....dates

It is Top 2 Tuesday again....this week it is...

Top 2 Dates

1. I am a very sentimental person. I can't help it. I love to remember the past and I love the little things in life. When someone remembers something I have said and brings it up later it just melts my heart. Point in case- this date happened the weekend before last. As one can see in my blog I have a list of 101 things to do in 1001 days. One of them was visit a lighthouse. I had mentioned this to B a long time ago. There is a lighthouse about 70 miles from where we live and I said next time we are in that area I wanted to stop by and see it. Well we never did that. Instead, while I went out to San Diego to visit him we were hiking and looking at the ocean and just happened to come across a light house. I wanted to cry. I just find the little things in life to be so wonderful and for him to have remembered just melted my heart. Like I said, not over the top, just thoughtful. Just the way I like it.

2. Our Coffee dates. I love them. In college B and I would meet up at Starbucks and just catch up with one another and how life was going. Now, we don't do coffee as much together, but I love when we take a moment get a cup and just talk. Like I said, I am sentimental :)

Fill in the blank...

1. One fashion trend I really regret is those babydoll tshirts back in the early 90s. THe ones with like a sunflower in the middle of your chest!

2. The one thing that always completes any outfit is earrings and lipstick/gloss. My grandmother always told me- a lady with holes in her ears and no earrings and a lady without lipstick is a lady that doesn't want to be noticed. While I don't always agree, I see her point :)

3. I would describe my personal style as somewhat preppy and somewhat classic. Like I don't wear pink and green but I also don't wear super trendy. I like dresses, cardigans and classic staples in jewel tones.

4. My fashion muse is I don't really have one...hmm

5. If I could own one designer piece of clothing it would be classic Manolo pumps and the mary janes.

6. I would love to raid the wardrobe of Lynn Wyatt- if you are in Houston you know who she is. Yes she is an older socialite but wow amazing fashion...and I love Tinsley's wardrobe! She always looks so cute and put together.

7. Today I am wearing a dress and a cardigan with cute little sandals. Told you I loved dresses!

Pep talk

One of my friends is going through a horrible break up- actually you could say that she was the "other woman" but she never knew she was. She sent her boyfriend of 6 months a text message one evening and his girlfriend responded. She thought they were exclusive- they had that conversation. He told my friend that he didn't know who to choose...what a jerk.

So I formulated a pep talk for her - It is strange how a year can change everything. My life is nothing like it was last year. I am in such a different place- I am in an incredibly loving relationship that I wouldn't trade for anything.

Here is what I said to her:

Do not talk to him. Whenever I wanted to talk to the ex and did it was worse - when I finally said no. I got better - not right away- but better and I rose above all the drama and everything else.

In the end - it didn't matter why he did what he did. I always wanted answers and the thing is the answers would not have made everything else ok. It wouldn't have helped.

It mattered that I was hurt and I needed to feel better.

Here is the thing - you gotta go cold turkey- no weaning. Just say f off, goodbye, good riddance. And it is not easy – you of all people know that last year it was not easy for me.

The day my ex and I broke up last year was one of the best days of my life. I didn't know it then, but I know it now. I know how miserable I was and how much more I deserved.

1 year without him. 1 year and look how much better it is.

The feeling that I got when it was all over was I am better than that. It is very rare that I will say that I am a better person than someone else, but I am better than him. I am a better, nicer, smarter and overall a better human being than him. And to be honest...you are better than your ex.

Here is why - There is only one reason that I will say I am better than the ex and you are better than your ex. Because neither you nor I would ever do that to someone. Ever.

It has been an incredible journey. I learned so much about myself. Mostly though- I know I lost me. I love myself. I love that I laugh all the time, I love that I am honest with myself about everything. I love that even though I can whine, complain and be kinda cranky at times, that I am true to me. I don't worry about how I affect others because I know that I bring a good person to the table- so I cannot affect them negatively.

THAT is what I want for you. Of course I want you to fall in love (and you will). I want you to at some point be in a wonderful caring relationship like I am, but truly what I want for you is the power to be yourself again. To stand up for yourself and demand someone to be just as great as you are to them to you. Because honestly- I didn't know that I could demand that- I didn't know it existed.

Top 2 Tuesday

Top 2 things you want to do before you die

1. Live in Europe

2. Backpack- a serious backpacking trip in Europe, Asia, Australia - somewhere at least 3 weeks with my husband...disclaimer- I suppose getting married should be here so that at some point I would have a husband to do this with..HA! I love adventure and I hope whomever my husband to be is- he loves it more than I do so that I can truly enjoy new things!

48, 63 and 69

I haven't uploaded the pictures yet...but I just came back from La Jolla.

B and I had a wonderful time. I truly have such an incredibly amazing boyfriend. I hope everyone is as lucky as I am.

We had a wonderful and romantic weekend. We saw a lighthouse, went hiking, had great wine, great food and truly I love every second I am with him. From laughing about our BRIGHT RED convertible, to watching the waves crash, to watching the sunset, sleeping in, walking around town- I am so lucky.

It was a wonderful romantic getaway.

RL friends

I have a RL friend that follows me now...HI C!!! ;) I hope you and baby C are doing well in Vegas! :)

I've been busy...

So I was out of pocket the past 2 days because.....

I BOUGHT A CAR!!!

Now it needs a Longhorn emblem and I'm good to go! ;)

Top 2 Tuesday (or Monday in this case!)

It is that time of the week again...Top 2 Tuesday!!!

Top 2 Dream Houses!

1. I'd love to live in Italy!

2. I'd love to live in Paris!

What are yours?

Manners

Janice is having a giveaway...go check it out! :) You are welcome!

Fill in the Blank Friday

Lauren has another ....

1. My favorite book growing up was...... Heidi and The Giving Tree...true classics.

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2. The funniest book I've ever read was.....I have no idea. I loved the Shopoholic series and thought they were funny :)

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3. The one book that has truly changed my life is .... The Secret. It isn't that I truly believe in everything the book says - what I do believe in is this - if you are a happy person you will surround yourself with happy people. The whole you get what you put out in the universe I do actually believe in.

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4. If you're looking for a real "tear jerker" you should probably read.....A Walk to Remember

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5. If I could meet any author living or dead I would want to meet Mark Twain and Harper Lee. They wrote about books that truly changed people. Forward thinkers.

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6. The next book on my "to read" list is the Oprah unofficial biography- the Kitty Kelley one - it was at the used bookstore ALREADY and therefore I just HAD to get it. It was $4...you tell me you wouldn't be interested ;)

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7. If I was snowed into remote cabin in the woods and could only choose three books to bring with me I'd bring... Eat, Pray, Love, Mansfield Park and Huckleberry Finn

Cinco de Mayo fun

While this blog is mostly for fun and for my 101 in 1001 list - I slowly see that it has also become a way for me to remember my life. It is fun to look back and see and remember good times (and bad!).

Cinco de Mayo was so much fun last night - mostly because of B. (of course)

The day started off kinda scary actually! I was at his place because I had 2 meetings by his house yesterday. So as I was blow drying my hair Roxy started barking...so I turned off the blowdryer and told her to hush. Then I heard the front gate slam closed. I thought to myself "thats weird" but figured someone was leaving a flyer at the door or something. Then I started blowdrying my hair again. Rox then went crazy. So I turned off the blowdryer and heard the next door neighbors house alarm going off. Then I heard someone yell "oh shit" and THEN the scary part- they went running on the roof of B's place to escape! So I have a very overactive imagination- so I called B and he told me to call the cops (why I called him first I don't know) but anyway it took the cops 34 minutes to arrive...I'm glad no one got in!

Needless to say it was a crazy morning.

I met B and one of his co-workers for lunch and I was still shaking...my hair didn't get done and I went makeupless...thank god I have good skin! ;)

Then I went to my meeting and met B back up at his place after work. He hugged me and we chatted and we watched the rest of the Lovely Bones (scary but great book!) It was fun. I wasn't feeling particularly in the mood to put makeup on and get all fancied up so I said "does my face need any make up?" and he said "your face is always beautiful" or something like that...you have to know that B isn't really a word kinda person so I think whenever I hear him say things like that it makes my heart melt. Yes...it is that easy to make my day.

Then we met up with friends for Mexican food and too many margaritas.

B and I got there early so we enjoyed a margarita on the patio and just chatted (about lovely things like the new law in Arizona...always a great drinking topic ha!) and truly I just feel so fabulous when we are together. We drank and ate dinner with his friends (I mean I guess they are my friends too but they were his friends first) ;) Overall a fantastic night...

I so wish he wasn't out of town now...I'll start missing him in a few days! ;)

La Jolla, California

La Jolla:

Have any of you been?

B is going to be there for work soon and I will be joining him at the end of the trip for a few days...while I am sure he will have things planned (he's been there countless times before) any ideas would be great!

We are staying here

...a girl could get used to this kind of life ;) (just kidding!) But I will say I am very excited about this little getaway...it will fulfill #45 on my list!

Top 2 Tuesday

It is Top 2 Tuesday over at Taylor's again....

Top 2 Things You Splurge On

1. Wine...I know this makes me sound snobby and like an alcoholic but I enjoy a really good glass/bottle of wine. It is the way B and I unwind from a week.

2. Make up - I can't help it - I could spend hours/days in Sephora. Granted I am not allowed to because of this but one day I will be back! It is so stupid but for some reason I don't think drugstore makeup is as good as Sephora makeup- and I know that is wrong! :)

Fantastic Weekend

This weekend included lots of my favorites!


Saturday B and I headed to meet some friends at the Texas Exes Crawfish boil...crawfish and Texas Exes all in one...could it be any better?



Then we headed to the Racepark to make bets on the Derby - I was a big $6 winner! :)


Afterwards we all went for great seafood and then to watch the fight..where I promptly fell asleep.




Sunday brought gorgeous sun and B playing in his garage- and me sitting in a chair hoping his SUV doesn't fall on him while he put the lift he got for his birthday on it.


Then we headed to our favorite wine bar to sip chardonnay and talk....

then sushi date...

wrapped up with sangria at Muldoons!

All in all a fabulous weekend!