Life Lately

I meant to update about my weekend. Then I realized it was Friday. Where does the time go?! Long story short, we grilled. We swam. Laid around the house. I made cookies. Will ate cookies. and a house was started across the street from us. Who wants to be neighbors?!

This weekend we have a wedding, which is 100 more times exciting now that we've had our own I might add. It is so exciting to relive that moment and get to watch friends enjoy theirs!

Most noteably, I've been thinking of going back to school. This is a pretty big decision considering it could dictate every other decision I make for the next 2 or so years. Is it worth it financially? Do I really want to sacrifice time at home, when I already don't have enough of it? Do I really want to give up my grad school plans just because I have a husband and a new house? The million dollar question. I'm totally open for comments and advice on this one. I've been exploring programs. I guess we'll see if I'm still thinking about this next month. Usually that's about how long it takes me to get over my hair brained schemes.

As it is time to finish up the work week, I leave you with a TGIF! And also TGFCF. That stands for "Thank God it's casual Friday". I'm a lazy dresser, and I love cute comfy summer tops. Today's choice.

Happy Friday!

sunday morning scenes & thoughts

I absolutely hate sleeping in on the weekends, because there is something so peaceful about the mornings. I don't want to waste the only time during the entire week that I don't have to rush somewhere, be on a call, or even get dressed for that matter. Will is a night owl, and usually has to rise pretty early, so I let him enjoy sleeping in while I take care of my usual morning routine with the pups. That usually goes something like this.

Soundtrack is always B105. Weekend mornings = country music. I turn on the radio and handle these monsters. Holly likes to sit outside and patrol the yard. I have a feeling once we get a deck installed she will never come inside. Sadie prefers a morning treat.

Pretty sure this is all the grass we will get this summer. Praying for a long fall to lay some more seed.

Not sure what Sade was doing while we slept last night. Her eyes are pretty questionable this morning...

Then there's yard work. And by yard work I mean turning on the sprinkler. I've never operated a lawn mower my entire life, and I plan to die without doing so. Luckily for me, Will finds cutting grass relaxing.

Of course there's coffee. Have I mentioned how much I love coffee? I also really appreciate being able to drink out of a glass mug instead of a travel tumbler. I love my Tervis but it's just not the same.

Have I also mentioned how much I love this tables scape I'm working on? I especially enjoy the new table runner and place mats I've picked up over the past week or so. Runner in Flax from Pottery Barn here, and gratitude placemats from Pier 1 here.

Last but not least, I usually plan my meal for the day. Today instead of dinner, I'm planning dessert.

A few things I've been thinking about this morning...

I'm really concerned with the intelligence of people in this world, specifically our country. I've asked this before, but really, why do people not read books anymore? I've been reading a lot of articles lately about the decline of reading in the US, not to mention the reading of actual books. I love e readers as much as the next girl, but there is something about a book in it's actually physical form that is just magical to me. In how ever many dozen years when we have grandchildren, I doubt they will be snooping around our house and find themselves mesmerized by an electronic device that will be in an old junk drawer somewhere. I want them to see an actual book that is weathered and has that old book smell.

I once read that engaging your brain in actually reading a book makes it stronger. More able to fight off brain disease and just think better. Don't even get me started on how much I'm afraid for my own eye site, and even more so the site of future generations, because all we do is stare at screens all. day. long.

OK, rant over. I've also been thinking about how the work week should be four, 10 hour long days. I am determined to one day find a job that would let me work this schedule. I usually work 10 hour days anyway, and who doesn't feel better after a three day weekend? Psychologically, just being able to stay home on a Monday would probably make me an overall happier person.

One can dream, right?!

Happy Sunday!

J'avoue

It's that time of the week again. I suppose I should start with the saddest confession of all. Though I took four years of French in high school and college, I still had to use Google Translator to write this post's title. #goggleknowsall

On a less pathetic note, I confess...

I'm apparently way more spoiled than I realized. Will has been MIA due to some work obligations, and I am so thankful he is back in the picture. I'm semi nutso when it comes to things being the way I like them at home. Keeping them that way combined with work, sleep, and taking care of the pups is not an easy task. On the upside, the saying "Absence makes the heart grow fonder" is so true! These little experiences remind me how much I love that guy.

I still cannot get over this text from my 14 year old sister... There is so much wrong with this. Guess I really am old.

TGIF gets truer and truer with every week that passes. This weekend we have a neighborhood barbecue, family time, and possibly pool time to look forward to. Not to mention qt with the hubs after an insane week at work for both of us.

Summer TV needs to go. I know it's nice out and we should enjoy the outdoors, blah, blah, blah- I get it. I like going outside as much as the next girl. But I still need something to watch while relaxing after work.

Lauren Conrad's clothing line at Kohl's is the bomb.com. I haven't shopped there in ages, so maybe I'm late to the game, but I'm now a believer. I got this fab jacket today on my lunch break, and when I have more time, I will be back for more. Check it out here.

Happy Friday people. I repeat, TGIF!

Happy Birthday to Me. 25 in 25.

So, I'm 25. How about that?

I have never been one to make a big deal out of my own birthday. I remember loathing a June 20th birthday as a child. Firstly, because I had to share my special day with Father's Day weekend. I love my Dad, but none of your friends can come to parties when they're busy going to BBQ's or the zoo with their parents. Secondly, it's in the summer. No special treatment or cupcakes at school. No passing out your super cool invitations to all your friends in class, to the party they won't be able to come it.

Turning 24. Scarlett was less than thrilled.

I had no idea I was so bitter about this?!

But seriously. Though I'm not one to make a fuss, there's something about being a quarter of a century old that makes this one seem special. It is also my first birthday celebrated in this home. My first birthday as a married woman, with a new name.

While I still feel like a kid some days, I have learned a lot in the past decade and a half. It's hard to believe I've managed to graduate college, get married, and buy a house. I'm proud to say I've done all three, and they all three experiences have taught me so many invaluable lessons. It was a rocky road at some points, but my life is finally where I've always wanted it to be!  So here it is, the top 25 things I've learned in 25 years.

If you don't make it through al 25 items, I completely understand. But one day this may be very funny to look back on.

My 23rd. I think? My memory is going with old age.

1. If something seems too good to be true, it usually is. There are certain exceptions, but for the most part- this is true.

2. All pizza rolls are delicious, but cheese ones are the worst. There's just something missing. Every once in a while I give them another chance, but they just never compare to combo or meat.

3. Your parents are usually right.

4. Some of the best things in life are the hardest things. Hard does not equal bad.

5. No friendship, relationship, status, or career can make you happy until you are happy with yourself.

6. Get a job you love. Just because you're good at something, doesn't mean it's for you.

7. All good beers and good wines are a required taste.

8. Living alone before you live with a boyfriend is crucial. Everyone needs at least one apartment to come home to where they can run around looking like a bum, eating ice cream out of the carton, and just not caring if anything is clean. While I still sometimes do this today, it's nice to do it with no one else knowing it happened :)

9. Buying one expensive, nice article of clothing is better than 5 tops from Forever 21.

I still do that one too...

10. Apple > all other cell phone brands. And I've tried them all.

11. Pinterest will teach you all you need to know about cooking. I hear there are other websites that house recipes. I refuse to believe they're better.

12. Learn what to do when the power goes out and your car breaks down, without asking for help. It will come in handy.

13. You can meet nice boys in bars.

14. Most people don't know what they're talking about. Take all advice given with a grain of salt.

15. Be nice to people. And don't judge them. It's easier, and you will feel better about yourself.

16. Everyone should work in food service just once. When you get treated like a moron at your own job because you didn't get some jerk their dinner fast enough, it gives you a whole other perspective on society.

17. Cheesecake Factory has the best mac and cheese. Unless you're in Cincinnati. Then Keystone has the best, and Cheesecake Factory is second.

18. Siblings are the greatest gifts you will ever be given. I expect children to be just as good, possibly better, but for now it's hard to say.

19. The only cable TV channels you really need are Investigation Discovery and HGTV.

20. Watching 19 Kids and Counting will just make you feel like you can be a great mother. That Michelle knows what she is doing.

21. Avoid political and religious conversations unless you love the person unconditionally, or don't mind if you end up hating them.

22. The book is always better than the movie.

23. Old friends are the best friends.

24. Don't let others dictate how you feel about yourself.

25. 25 lessons is hard to list.

And there you have it. I plan to write actual posts dedicated to some of the above topics, because they really are important lessons.

I will spend today working late and running errands. The joys of being old :) Here's to the next 25!

liebster and some facts

Staci from Luker Family Tales tagged me with this little award, so I thought I'd participate! I am seriously slacking in the creative thinking department lately, so this comes at a perfect time. She asked the questions, and here are my answers. I was also supposed to list 11 random facts about myself, but it seems I am continuously running late for something these days, so this is the best I've got.

1. What's your favorite holiday?

This is a tough one. I'm tempted to say Christmas. The food, seeing family, cookies, the food, presents, and time off work, combined with acceptable over indulging is hard to beat. But I think my most absolute favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. If you haven't noticed, I like food- and this day has always been the kick off to the Christmas season in my family. I do NOT condone Christmas trees or lights before Thanksgiving. It's just not right in my head.

This is my favorite holiday photo of all time. maybe taken in 2001? I have the most beautiful sisters!

2. Do you ever attempt to complete Pinterest projects, and if so, what's your success rate?

Sometimes. I think the more correct answer is somewhat. I have gotten a lot of recipe inspiration, but I hardly ever follow the whole recipe. I got the idea for my front door wreath from Pinterest, but I never quite completed it. Maybe one day?

3.What's the most challenging thing you've ever done?

I'd probably say maintaing a full relationship with my Mom and sisters, while living 5 hours away and being 10 years apart. The Mom part hasn't been so hard. She's my Mom, I love her, and she's awesome- so that's pretty easy.

The sisters have been more challenging. While they love stories about me changing their diapers, or spending my middle school years taking them to the park and having adventures, I doubt they remember much of it. I moved in with my Dad (who is not their Dad) when I was 14, and there went my two best friends. As they've grown, they've idolized me more and more, so I've tried to set a good example. I want them to know no matter what, I am their rock. I've been through it, and I will guide them, teach them, laugh with them, and get into trouble with him, no matter where life takes us.

Cell phones and Face Time has made it easier, but I've struggled many, many times over whether I was being selfish by not moving to Chicago to really be a part of their lives. Luckily, the older they get the more they can come visit, and now they can even come without our Mom. They love Will and his family, so I know there are many visits to come!

4. Which celebrity would you most like to meet?

This is a tough one. I tend to not be too celeb obsessed, but I think it'd be Heather Dubrow. Because if I was a gazillionaire I would basically be here. I'm pretty sure we were meant to be best friends.

3. What's the coolest or weirdest place you've ever visited?

I've never been anywhere especially unique, but I guess the "coolest" would be our honeymoon in St. Lucia. Which I really need to post about. Coming soon?

4. From what areas of your life do you draw the most inspiration for your blog?

Every day. What I'm doing, whether it's interesting or not. Because maybe one day it will be? Things I've learned. Or bought. Or eaten. My dogs. My hubby (still feels crazy saying that!), and whatever else is running through my crazy head at the time.

5. If you could go back in time and re-do one moment of your life, which moment would it be?

Cutting off all my hair. Maybe saying some of the goofy things I've said without thinking first, which happens a lot. Nothing too serious, because I'm pretty satisfied with where I am today.

6. Which of the following types of vacations would you prefer: beach, ski, adventure, or sightseeing?

Beach, hands down. I've never been skiing, so I can't really comment on that. I like adventures, but I don't like them more then I like sun, sand, and drinks. Sightseeing I could take or leave. Sometimes I'm impressed, but I'm usually bored after about 2 minutes.

7. What is your most treasured item of clothing?

This is tough. I have a closet full of clothes and I'm still that girl saying "I have nothing to wear".

But the most treasured article of clothing I own is of course this baby:

And maybe these shoes...

8. What skill would you most like to master?

Baking and cooking! Hopefully our Kitchen Aid mixer inspires me to become better in the kitchen. I'm OK, but not fabulous.

9. If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?

Writer or teacher. I love to read and write. Hence writing this blog and stalking so many others. I also think kids are hilarious (most of the time) and all in all, they're good. A lot of people in this world are, excuse my language, shit- so I'd love the chance to be a positive in kids lives who maybe don't get it anywhere else.

10. What's the best television sitcom or series you've ever watched?

The Office. Hands down. Friends would be a close second.

I love every single character on The Office. Even the ones I hate.

11. What's your favorite (or least favorite) thing about summer?

How late it stays light! In the winter, I go to work- and it's dark. I get off work- and it's dark. Having a few hours of day light to keep me awake and peppy in the evenings is priceless :)

Happy Wednesday!

A recipe, a profect, and a weekend update.

Why is it Monday always comes too soon? As always, this weekend went by way too fast. My weekend kind of started on Thursday, because I went to a nice little happy hour with my friend Sara. Actually it was more like happy three hours. This is my second time at Parker's in the recent weeks. I have a feeling this is going to become a habit...

Friday I made dinner, then the hubs and I went to see "Man of Steel". I was less than thrilled with the movie, but it wasn't terrible either. Overall I felt the whole thing was just a little slow. I've been impressed with all the other super hero movies we've recently seen, like The Dark Knight Rises and Iron Man 3, so maybe I was expecting too much? Next on our list is "This is the End". I'm hoping it's as funny as I've heard!

 This din din was delicious by the way. And super easy. Recipe here. My pics do not do it justice.

Saturday I took the journey to Ikea and picked up a bunch of things we "needed" for the house. I love having an Ikea so close to peruse for random items that don't need to be of any certain quality, but good grief does that place where a person out!

I was also able to cross another item off of my home to-do list. Kind of. I hung all the frames I've collected so far for our gallery wall. It does look half bad either. I still need to print pictures and find a few non photo items, but it's a start.

All of this decorating and organizing really has me thinking about our future as a family. It is so mind blowing to know this is the house we will experience the first years of our marriage in, and come home to when we have our first baby. The house our children will grow up in, and form their first memories. Babies and the future in general seems so much more real now that we are in the house where it will all take place. We are not "trying" to get pregnant, but I'm also not really trying not to. Basically, I kind of had the baby fever since before we were even married... but I've also always believed it's probably best to be married a year or two before getting pregnant. I also believe lots of things that turn out to be a total crock, so who knows what's best?

Saturday night we went out for dinner, drinks, and a game of Jenga with some new friends who live in our neighborhood. I have to say, one of my favorite things about our new home is how friendly and welcoming our neighbors are. I am a super social person, so the more friends we can make around here, the merrier!

Will was by far the star player :)

Speaking of friends, slowly but surely, more of my besties are moving to Cincinnati. I am so glad that life is bringing us all together again after years of being separated for college. Three of my pals now have jobs in the area, and should be officially moved in by the end of summer. I see lots of sleep overs and happy hours in our future.

Here's to another fab weekend on the books! Linking up with Syndal, Sami, Leeann and Carly.

reception recap and wedding video

In case you missed it, getting ready post here, and ceremony post here!

Apparently me being 100% committed to doing something means I'll do it a few days after promised... Better late than never, right?

Our wedding reception was everything I wanted and more. At the last minute our venue upgraded our room, so we ended up getting this giant covered patio with a beautiful view of the golf course. That I of course have no pictures of. It made for gorgeous views, and allowed for a totally separate space for people to hang out.

I guess that finger point is his signature move ;)

I'm not big into organized dancing, especially with 200 people watching, so I thought I'd feel terribly awkward during our first dance and my father daughter dance. It didn't end up being too terrible, and our toasts, cake cutting, and bouquet toss ended up going smoothly, and actually being quite entertaining.

I'd say the biggest show stealer of the wedding was the photo booth. Every single guest loved it, and the pictures we not have from inside that little booth will serve as blackmail for many years to come. As it got darker outside, everyone really began to "celebrate". I wish the night could have lasted the entire weekend!

Two of Will's cousins escaped onto the course. How cute are they?! Oh, and my nephew was bet $100 to stand at the hill behind the person taking this picture, then toss a golf ball to make a whole in one. And he did it. Twice.

Everyone in my new family. And this is just aunts, uncles, and most of the cousins. Can you say big family?!

That concludes my wedding recap! To tie it all up, something I know I will cherish forever... a piece of our video!

'The Edge of the Puzzle'-a trailer from Wedding Films on Vimeo.

 

A pretty wonderful weekend

What an amazing weekend. Every weekend goes by too fast, but this one seemed to be the right balance of busy and relaxing.

Friday right after work, we had someone come out and measure the house for window treatments. This is the last "big" thing we have to wrap up, and I cannot wait to actually order and have them installed. Will went to a baseball game for a guys night, so I spent some time working on the house, spending time with the pups, and hanging out with our neighbors.

Saturday we took care of some errands and mostly just enjoyed the day. Our sweet new neighbor Katie, who also happens to be the author behind of my favorite blogs to read, invited us to her Gender Reveal party. I also got to meet Sarah and Jax, two other bloggers I love who also happen to be in the Cincinnati area. It was great to meet these ladies and so fun to share in Katie's big news. We've hung out a few times with some of our other neighbors who were in attendance, so it was a great afternoon! I love love love that not only do we have the perfect house for us, but the best neighbors. The rest of Saturday was spent lounging on the couch, watching Snow White and the Huntsman, and eating our first dinner at our dining room table. It was exactly the Saturday I needed after so many weekends spent celebrating.

Don't mind my wrinkly table runner. Maybe I'll iron it one day?

Sunday was another of my favorite kind of days. Just enough to-do, just enough being on the couch. I attempted (and failed) to make omelets. We went shopping and I got my birthday present early, because it may have sold out in the next week or two of course. More shopping and house errands. Stopped for lunch. We visited my brother and sister in law at their new house. My in laws came to see ours. Yup, pretty perfect in my book.

Picked up one of these today. Hands down my most absolute favorite kitchen/family room candle for the summer.

And that about wraps up our weekend. I am 100% determined to post our wedding reception recap and video trailer tomorrow, so stay tuned!

Linking up with Sami.

Today

Today...

I woke up freezing my butt off. I love sleeping with the windows open, but what is it about the cold that makes it 100 times harder to get out of bed?!

I got to just relax in the house for a bit, and played with the pups in our new yard. I would't trade this life for the entire world.

I was 8 minutes late to work. Not a huge deal, but I'm a stickler on time when it comes to getting to the office. 10 minutes early makes me nervous, so this sent me into a semi panic. IDK what they're doing to the road I normally take, but the next two months of construction are going to call for a lot of early mornings!

It was a "full moon" at work. That's what we say when everything that happens during the day is totally insane. I love my job because there is NEVER a dull moment. Like ever. But that's  the world of working with people.

Most of the ladies in my office went to happy hour after work at Parker's Blue Ash Tavern. If you live  in Cincinnati or pass through, go there. It's delicious and beautiful! And .5 seconds away from my office.

My sweet Holly chewed up my new kitchen rug and the cord to our Dyson. Luckily, both are still functional... for now. She's luck I'm madly in love with her. I'll be happy when the puppy years are over.

I almost went to pick up the letters to finalize the front door wreath I'm crafting. Almost. I was this close. Here's to weekend errands!

Is it Friday yet?