The Daily Drennon

2012 Goals

2011-12-31T08:18:00.000-06:00

In my working world, I write a lot of marketing goals for clients. I think it is time that I write down my goals. I have financial, spiritual, relational and personal resolutions for 2012. Hopefully having these written down on the ol' blog will hold me accountable.

Because There Is No Better Reason Than Christmas...

2011-12-15T09:00:00.006-06:00

...To show you our new(ish) house (we actually started building in February and moved in May).

So welcome to our home.

Lights by Sparky...not by Baxter

Mesh wreath made by my mom and stack of presents inspired by Pinterest.

Mesh door garland and ornament wreath

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

Razorback tree in dining room

My favorite wedding decorations:

elf hats on the mantel and dancing reindeer doing a handstand

With all the hustle and bustle of the season, a small reminder to

not forget the Reason for the Season.

Click over to The Nester for more Christmas Homes.

Lindsey's Giveaway

2010-10-11T20:36:00.002-05:00

I am alive! I promise!

Hopefully, this post will turn around my blogging slump because there is something I am really excited about.

My BFF (since birth) Lindsey is have a great giveaway on her blog! You can win a big ol' stockpot, perfect for fall and winter recipes. I know I would make chili, taco soup, red beans and rice and much more in this perfect pot.

Lindsey is a simply wonderful newlywed. She is a coach's wife and a lot better about updating her blog than I am. Enjoy her giveaway!

Me, Lindsey, and Andrea

We Chose...

2010-03-12T09:59:00.004-06:00

House #2!!

Move in - April 1!!

House Hunters

2010-03-09T10:45:00.006-06:00

I love to watch HGTV. The best show to watch is House Hunters - so play along with me. Baxter and I have been searching for homes to rent when we move. Here are the final three contenders.

HOUSE 1

This two bedroom two bathroom house is cute, cute, cute! Comes with all appliances and some upgrading to the 1940s house. The house has a fenced-in yard that Nelson would love. It is located in the Hillcrest area of Little Rock with easy access to downtown where Baxter and I will both work. Parking is a drawback because, well, there is none.

HOUSE 2

This two bedroom one bathroom dollhouse has been recently upgraded. It comes with some appliances, but is the most expensive. The house has hardwood in the bedrooms and great room. The kitchen and bathroom have slate tile. There is a huge backyard with no fence. This cutey is in Hillcrest and wuold take us about 15 minutes to get to work during rush hour.

House 3

House 3 is the largest with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It also has an enormous (like football field size) backyard with a fence. It is a little outdated but VERY affordable. I has a carport, which is an advantage over the other two. This home is located in Benton - a 45 minute drive to work during rush hour. This house is also closest to my parents.

Which do you think we picked?

DISCLAIMER: I am doing this for fun and not for creepy stalkers to try to find out where we are going to live, so no addresses or identifying information. Also, these are not my photos.

Like A Proud Mother

2010-03-05T09:40:00.003-06:00

I have been beaming for two weeks and let me tell you why.

My sweet, sweet sorority sisters worked their little booties off to compete in the Sprite Step Off, a national step competition. The won the local competition in Fayetteville, dominated in Houston, and on February 20th they took the crown in Atlanta against some of the best steppers in the county.

After the win, controversy erupted. You can read more about it on CNN, Washington Post, Philadelphia Inquirer, The Associated Press, ESPN, and ABCNews.

Throughout everything, these girls have personified a true Zeta lady "...to look for the good in everyone; to see beauty, with its enriching influence; to be humble in success, and without bitterness in defeat; to have the welfare and harmony of the Fraternity at heart, striving ever to make our lives a symphony of high ideals, devotion to the right, the good, and the true, without a discordant note; remembering always that the foundation precept of Zeta Tau Alpha was love, "the greatest of all things." Zeta Tau Alpha Creed by Shirley Kreasan Strout

You can watch the show on YouTube. It has more than 550,000 views since the competition. You can also tune in to MTV2 at 2 p.m. on Sunday to watch more of these fabulous, award-winning ladies. What an honor to be associated with classy, talented women.

Help A Sister Out

2010-02-10T14:25:00.002-06:00

Hey Bloggies!

I am glad that the sun is out and this snow is melting. Can I get an Amen? Am I the only one ready for May?

Last week, B and I found out that would be transferred to the Little Rock office of my current company! It is something that we have prayed about for months. We are both so grateful to have this confirmation that I will continue working for such a great company. But nothing is ever perfect, right? I will be starting at my new location tomorrow and will be rotating between the two offices until my position is filled up here. I may have to go several days without seeing my new hubby and puppy!

B and I are going to look for rent houses this weekend. We are also trying to make connections in the area. This is where I need your help! Please! We need to find:

Church
Family practice doctor
Dentist
Eye Doc
Girl Doc
Hair salon (for both of us)
Vet

Please help us make connections in Little Rock! Thanks!

Photo Album Rejects: Self Portraits

2010-02-02T07:48:00.002-06:00

Can't seem to get it quite right...you know the ones you take of yourself. They never work out quite right. These were not edited, cropped, or rotated - as you can tell.

Back in the summer SIL and I went to the "BIG RAZORBACK SUPER SECRET ANNOUCEMENT" - this is how excited we were. And after the announcement - which was no more than a pole in the ground - there are no pictures because we were mad we wasted our time.

In July, I was in a wedding with my longtime BFFs Joy and Jill. We had a mini-glamour shot shoot that turned out as you might expect.

B and I headed to Memphis for a weekend getaway. We tried to capture the excitement - but all we got was a nostril view. Good think there isn't a bat in the cave.

To see more photo album rejects, head over to Superchikk.

New Year's Resolutions

2010-01-29T16:09:00.002-06:00

Hey Guys, its B. not Allison. She has been asking me to blog on here for a while, so I thought on this snow day that I would. It is the end of the first month of the year, and I have so many things to look back on. Allison and I celebrated our one-month anniversary with dinner and a speech by MLK III. We spent a weekend in Eureka Springs with Bro, SIL, and Mary Alice. In addition to those fun things, I have set and kept several New Year's Resolutions. I thought I would share mine and update on my progress.

My first and most important resolution was to read the Bible through in one year. This has been a resolution numerous times, but I have not been able to keep it. This year has been different. At least so far it has been drastically different. I found this website www.youversion.com, and it allows you to create an account and find a Bible reading plan. You can access the plan anywhere you have internet or on your iphone or Blackberry. You have the option of reading the Bible in any translation you choose and check off the books you have read. The plan I am using requires you to read four chapters a day. It only takes a few minutes, and I can't believe how much God is showing me. Each time I read, it makes me want to read more. I am so thankful that I found the website and have been able to stick with it long enough to create a habit.

My second resolution was to run a 5K by March. To help with this resolution, I found a from couch to 5K plan on the internet. I have three workouts a week and have been doing them at 6:00 am. I started out with intervals of jogging for 60 seconds and walking for 90 seconds and have progressed to where I will run 2 miles straight next week. Starting slow and working up has made it much easier to keep with.

They say that 75% of New Year's Resolutions are abandoned by the end of January. I guess I haven't quite made it that far yet, but I plan on making it for the long haul this year.

Did you make any resolutions? Have you been able to keep them?

Our First (Month) Anniversary

2010-01-22T14:25:00.004-06:00

Tuesday marked our first month of marriage. Mr. Involved had an event that included dinner at Powerhouse. :)

We met at Powerhouse for some yummies at sat across the table from the speaker - Martin Luther King III! I am not kidding here. It was a great way to reflect on Monday's holiday.

At the event, B eloquently introduced III in front of the huge crowd. I was so proud of him. III spoke about several topics - but honestly the only thing I remember him taking about specifically was violence.

B and I have been so blessed to interact with such influential people in our world including III, Ehud Olmert, George H.W. Bush, Anderson Cooper, Malcolm Gladwell and Apolo Ohno. How many people in their 20s can say that?

The Way to a Man's Heart

2010-01-11T18:02:00.004-06:00

I know that you have heard it said that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. I am glad that I have an understanding man because my Martha Stewart skills are very slim and do not begin to compete with his momma's.

But there is one recipe that I might someday win an award for - it is so simple! B just loves it and begs for me to cook it every week. I got this recipe from my mom, and I don't know where she got it from.

So here it goes...the best red beans and rice you have ever eaten. So, so good on a cool night!

Ingredients

2T Butter

1/2 C. Celery chopped (I don't normally use celery though. You have to buy such a large quantity and it always goes bad in our fridge.)

1/4 C. onion chopped

1/4 C. green pepper chopped

16 oz. canned kidney beans

10-1/2 oz can beef broth

1# smoked sausage

1/4 C. Water

1t Garlic

1t oregano

1/4t red pepper

1/4t white pepper

1/4t black pepper

1-1/2 C. Minute Rice (I usually use brown instead of white)

1/2 to 1# ground sausage

Saute celery, onion and green pepper in butter in a 3Q pot. Add beans, smoked sausage (cut into 1/2" slices), broth and spices. Stir and bring to a boil.

Brown ground sausage in another pan.

Add rice to pot, cover and remove from heat.

After 10 minutes, add ground sausage. Mix it up and you are ready for dinner. **Note this is not a soup-y recipe. You eat this with a fork!

We like red beans and rice with french bread and a side salad.

Enjoy!

With a Bang

2010-01-06T16:19:00.010-06:00

For a good laugh, let's take a look at what happened to me in the past decade before it gets too late!

The decade started off with a bang and big bangs. Yikes!

I turned 16 and started to drive. I still had bangs, unfortunately. But weekends with my best friends were a whole lot of fun. Yes, I know we have on everything from the Shults family costume closest, INCLUDING A JR. HIGH ZOOTSUIT!!! We were/still are cool like that.

I graduated Benton High School in 2004 (and had finally gotten rid of the bangs),

moved to Fayetteville to attend the University of Arkansas,

and pledged Zeta Tau Alpha.

Then I met B and fell in love!!

He graduated college and went on to law school in Fayetteville.

I graduated the next year...

and started my first REAL job.

We got engaged in December 2008.

B was offered a job in October 2009, that he will start in 2010.

We got married on December 19! And just like the decade came in - it went out with a bang.

Thanks to Benfield Photography for this image!

I have a feeling that 2010 is going to be a great year for the Drennon family!

Excellente!

2010-01-05T20:58:00.006-06:00

Blogging two days in a row? Heck yes I am!!!

I wanted to tell you all about our perfect honeymoon. I am not even exaggerating. If you are looking for a couples getaway, Excellence Playa Mujeres should top your list.

Baxter and I headed to the LR airport at 4:45 a.m. the morning after our wedding. It was early but we were so excited it didn't matter. We flew a little plane to Charlotte, NC. We landed early and had to exit the plane using the sky-stairs.

We had a short layover that turned into a four hour layover thanks to Blizzard '09. We tried to remain calm so we ate lunch at 10 a.m. We had been up since 4 so don't judge. :)

Our flight and arrival to Cancun was uneventful, and Customs was a breeze. After a brief scare we found our luggage and walked outside to our driver. It took 45 minutes or so to get from the airport to our resort. We stopped once at another resort to drop off a family.

The staff at Excellence Playa Mujeres greeted us with cool towels and drinks. Ivan led us to our room after check in and showed us around.

This is the inside of our room with the shower on the left (the window thing) and the sinks behind the suns.

And the sitting area in front of the bed with a flat screen tv.

...that looked onto our balcony. This balcony had a lounge bed and table for outdoor dining. The trifold window has a jacuzzi tub behind it. The windows retract and you can feel like you are in a hot tub outside - or you can shut them for more privacy. I used this a lot since the water in the ocean, pools and tubs outside were pretty chilly.

And this, my friends, is our outdoor living space. I know that it looks straight HGTV, so I made Baxter get in the picture so everyone would know I wasn't making this up! Our room suite was called the rooftop terrace. We thought we were getting a bedroom with loft stairs that led to a little private pool and deck area. Well most rooftop rooms are like that - but Ivan, our bellhop, told us we got the second largest room/outdoor living area that they had! Lucky!!!! But what a way to start off our vacation. There were three lounge beds, a pool and two chairs on this massive space. It connected to our little balcony area.

We made some very cheesy videos because we loved our room so much. So if you want a live tour of the outside.....

Tomorrow I will show you around the rest of the resort. I also have big plans to share with you the food and entertainment. Stay tuned!

We're Married, We're Featured

2010-01-04T11:29:00.000-06:00

Hello from a snowy NWA! We are married! Wahoo!!!

And today, Dale and Meredith from Benfield Photography have featured our wedding on their blog today! Check it out!

We have also been nominated for several Benny Awards. The Benny's are an annual party thrown by Dale and Mere for their wedding couples. Not only is it a party, though, it is also an awards show. The winners get real prizes - like a canvas or wedding album!

Best Bridal Portrait

This portrait was taken outside of the Kappa Sigma (Fabulous Xi) house. Baxter and I have many great memories here and he was so surprised that my bridal portrait was taken at the beautiful house.

Best Wedding Portrait

We took this week portrait in Benton by the Christian Care Clinic! It is very shabby chic and we just love it. Don't the red roses pop?

Best Drama

Jill, one of my longest and best friend, caught the bouquet when we were riding off in the carriage. No one really knew that I was going to toss it and it just landed right in Jill's arms. She was shocked to say the least. This picture captures her emotion perfectly.

Best Getaway

And this was my reaction when we turned the carriage around and Jill was holding the bouquet. A classic moment that I will never, ever forget!

We are so pleased with our pictures from the wedding. We waited only ONE WEEK, yes, SEVEN DAYS - and they had all the wedding pictures ready for us to view. It was the best homecoming present!

I promise to get more pics on here and tell our wedding and honeymoon stories soon!

9 DAYS!!!

2009-12-10T10:44:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Dale and Mere @ Benfield Photography for this great engagement shot!

OH MY STARS! B and I are getting married a week from Saturday. I can't believe the time is almost here.

We still have a lot of things to do before then:

Thank you notes! I am so sorry if it has been weeks since you sent a gift, and you still haven't received a thank you note. Our family and friends have been so generous, it is hard to keep up.
Finals! Baxter has two more finals and a take-home test before then wedding. He is studying so hard during the day and at night. Pray for him as he tries to refresh and learn material. I am sure he is stressed, but he would never admit to it.
Finals! While Baxter is taking tests, I am doing another kind of finals - DETAILS! There are too many little things to list. I am going home tomorrow and will work out of our other office until the wedding. I am so thankful for my job and kind boss.
Christmas gifts! We need to finish getting a couple for family and wrap them all. We are just exchanging stockings this year since we will be on our honeymoon. I have a couple of things I am still looking for to stick in there.
Pack! I am, for the most part, already packed for the honeymoon. B is not. I know that is not a huge surprise to anyone who really knows us. :)

Have you signed up for Kelly's giveaway? It is a computer!! I know that we could use new one for sure.

Love Love

2009-10-07T15:45:00.000-05:00

What are your middle names?

Mine is Leigh and B's is Duke

How long have you been together?
5 years last week! This is about a month after we started dating. He may kill me for this! Bahaha!

How long did you know each other before you started dating?

Probably 3 weeks or so.

Who asked whom out?
He asked me.

How old are each of you?
me - 23
B - 24

Whose siblings do/did you see the most?
We see my Bro and SIL at least weekly. B's bro (13) and sis (10) still live in the Hypen (Helena-West Helena).

Do you have any children together?

No, not yet!

What about pets?
Of course! Nelson is now 2 years old. He looks more like his daddy every single day! haha. No really - this past weekend he was compared to Sprocket from Fraggle Rock. What do you think?

Did you go to the same school?

Yes! Woo Pig Sooie!

Who is the smartest?
B! And speaking of being smart - B recently accepted a job for after graduation. He starts in August at Wright Lindsey Jennings in Little Rock. We are thrilled, but sad we have to move

Who is more sensitive?
Me. Just call me bawl-bags, but I am getting better.

Where do you eat out most as a couple?
We love to eat pizza together. Anytime. Anywhere. Except Gusanos. I don't really like their pizza.

Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
We went on a cruise to Grand Cayman, Jamaica, and Cozumel.

Who has the craziest exes?

That is debatable - but since I am the blogger I will say B. I will not put a pic here!

Who has the worst temper?
Neither of us get mad easily.

Who does the cooking?
Baxter does the best cooking, but I do more cooking recently.

Who is more social?
B. I could stay on the couch and communicate via written word and be happy.

Who is the neat-freak?
Me. And I notice everything.

Who is more stubborn?
Probably me. But I have been working on it!

Who hogs the bed?
Nelson. End of story.

Who wakes up earlier?
I think I do during the week, but it isn't because I want to. B is an early riser. I will be able to answer this question more thoroughly after December.

Where was your first date?
I went to the Kappa Sigma house to hang out with B and we ended up going to see Napoleon Dynamite at the Razorback 6 with friends Mary Anne, Brittney, Dusty, and someone who I can't remember! This pic is possibly from the first day we hung out - at the ASG Retreat - we went on our first date that night.

Who has the bigger family?

B. He has 5 grandmothers.

Do you get flowers often?
No, but I am ok with that. I love them when they are alive and beautiful.

How do you spend the holidays?
We have been switch off - Thanksgiving here, Christmas there and rotating years. This Christmas we will spend on our honeymoon!

Who is more jealous?
We don't have anything to be jealous of.

How long did it take to get serious?
Less than 2 months. But we waited over 4 years to get engaged.

Who eats more?

I hope he does!

Who does/did the laundry?
I do! I actually like doing it.

Who’s better with the computer?
Me! :)

Who drives when you are together?
We switch, but he drives most.

My Boyfriend's Back And We're Gonna Be In Trouble

2009-08-18T19:56:00.000-05:00

Okay, so maybe we are not going to be in trouble...and he isn't technically my boyfriend...but I am so happy that B is back!

We celebrated last night by having a great dinner at Ruth's Chris. It was delicious...maybe an 8th or 9th wonder of the modern world, y'all. It really was that good.

(B is wondering what I am writing about...he wants everyone to know "how good lookin' he is". Ha! But I do agree. He is good lookin' and I am glad that he is in the same town that I am in so I can see him and all his good looks everyday!)

We are getting prepared for his 3L year of law school. If what the folks say is true...the professors are going to bore you to death this term. I hope so! We have a wedding to plan! We did buy his books yesterday and he went to the school today to get a little head start. Back to the grind. That is how I like it.

Hopefully I will be a better blogger when we get into a routine. I think I can update y'all soon on wedding stuff, and law school stuff, and work stuff, and our new connection group!!!!, and Nel's arrival to the apartment, and other stuff.....

Hannah Banana

2009-07-16T09:15:00.000-05:00

This is totally one of my favorite weeks of the year. The big hair, the beautiful voices, the confident women. I love Miss Arkansas week!

This year (and last year) my BFF Hannah Leigh is competing in the pageant. And today is her 20th birthday (so wish her a happy birthday on Twitter @hanleigh).

Hannah is one of the best people I know. She is very loyal and brings me up.

Last night was the evening gown competition for Hannah's group. She didn't win the prelim, but I heard she looked better than ever. Oh...I forgot to mention that I couldn't be there because of work and the pag is in Hot Springs. :(

Tonight Hannah will be singing "I've Got Rhythm". I know she will blow everyone away.

But today is Hannah-Day all day long and I think I will celebrate! I love you Han!!!

Hannah at Arrival on Sunday

Hannah at Arrival with Miss Arkansas 2008 - Ashlen Batson

Me, Han, and Lindsey Lee (also a MA contestant) on Bid Day

Han, Nate, Me and B on Bid Day

Me and Hannah before Bid Day activities - we were so happy!

Hannah and I at the Kellie Pickler concert.

Very sad we didn't get to hear Little Moments at the Brad Paisley concert!

E. Pics!

2009-06-18T08:11:00.001-05:00

Short post because I am at work...Shh!

Go check out the Benfield Photography blog. Baxter and I love our engagement pictures so much! We would recommend using Benfield for photography!

Back to work... :)

We Are Family

2009-06-08T19:51:00.000-05:00

Aww...FSIL's bridesmaid luncheon @ LR Country Club

What a good looking fam! Doesn't my mom look amazing?
L-R: Dad, Mom, Grandma, Grandpa, Me, B

Getting ready in our cute robes!

Sisters of the bride and groom

Beautiful bride - FSIL is now SIL!!!!

Not Me Monday

2009-05-11T14:04:00.000-05:00

I have always wanted to join in on all the fun at MckMama's site on Mondays.

I never get in such a hurry that Monday's roll on by and I read all the posts on Tuesday. No. That is not me.

I do not lose my camera. Ever. It was not lost for six months until FSIL found it in B's wrecked truck. Not me.

And now that said camera is back, I have not lost the stinkin' cord that connects to said camera so that I can share all my glorious photos. That is soooo not me.

Additionally, I never ever forget said camera (sans cord) during the most Kodak moments of my life (please, Lord, let me find that cord before wedding season begins). Again, not me.

Really though, I hardly ever lose things. Except when it comes to this camera! I think there is a hoax. Good think I have a photographic memory. And good friends/photographers who I can always count on.

With that being said, here are some wonderful photos (from Lauren, Kelley, and the Benfield crew) of FSIL's bachelorrette madness!

Two by Two

2009-05-08T13:54:00.000-05:00

I should have known we had a problem last week when the cats next door started lining up two by two and WalMart had a run on umbrellas.

It is still raining here in NWA! We had a break yesterday but now it has picked back up. I seriously had to remind myself that in Genesis God promised that He would never destroy the Earth by flood. Maybe he is just trying to get our attention though?

I digress.

Between B and Betty (with a smidge of help from yours truly), everything is moved into the new place. I really wanted to be able to contribute to Kelly's Tour of Homes today, but I didn't think that the cardboard boxes in the living room would be of interest. That, and the fact that I can lay in the floor and touch 3 walls in the living room. You could say we are cozy.

The pup is coming this weekend. I guess I forgot to tell him that it isn't Pup and Circumstance. He will be wearing his black to congratulate FSIL on her gradumication!

Back to work --

The Big Day (Sort of.)

2009-05-01T09:59:00.000-05:00

It is officially the big day. Well, not that big day. But nonetheless, it is another milestone.

While I am working my little booty off today at the office - B and Betty are moving all my junk into a new place. And. I. Can't. Handle. The. Excitement!

I have never had my own place before. B is going to move some of his stuff in before he leaves for the working world next week. Then I will decorate, arrange, rearrange, organize, repeat.

The black, furry one will not come to the chalet until I get settled. Where am I going to put his castle??? I think that he will really love it. There is a lot of grass around and there will be so many new smells. I hope I can keep him away from the pool. He sure does love to lay out!

On my lunch, I am going to go take some pictures of the movers. Did I mention it is raining today? And like 100 percent humidity? Gosh, I love them!

Happy Nesting!

Girlfriends!

2009-04-22T22:54:00.000-05:00

Y'all, I know. I know. I am being a terrible blogger.

I write almost all day long at work and when I get home, writing is not my top priority. Plus, the fact that I just got internet back at my house on Monday. So there ya have it. I apologize again.

Anyway, I started the newest Beth Moore bible study tonight with our little young "not married but not single" girls. I heart them by the way. I think Esther is going to be a dandy study. Have any of you ladies done this yet? What did you think?

In other news, FSIL's Bachelorette Bash is this weekend. It is going to get pretty crazy. We are planning on staying up until at least 10:30 and drinking lots of ice cold Coke (or in my case DDP). We all have our weaknesses. But like Mom always says..."Everything in moderation."

We are also doing Race for the Cure/ Brides for the Cure on Saturday morning. I love that organization! In college, my sorority always helped with the Survivor's Breakfast at 5:30 a.m. and provided the "in memory of" and "in honor of" signs. ZTA does both of things things at every race for the cure in the country. I just think that is so cool!

Ok. Enough ramblings. It is way past my bedtime....ZZZzzzz

Easter Sunday

2009-04-08T15:35:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a church this Sunday (or really any Sunday for that matter), please come to First Baptist Springdale.

This week will be an awesome culmination of the 3-week dramatization Three Days: Tell Me The Story Again. Y'all. It has been amazing.

There are six, yes SIX, options for services times. 2 on Saturday and 4 on Sunday.

Let me know if you want to go with B and me. We always sit on the front right.

Go to fbcs.net for more details.

My Friend, Mr. President

2009-04-06T21:58:00.000-05:00

Tonight I had the honor of dining with our former President, George H.W. Bush. It was a moment in my life that I hope to never forget.

He is sharp as a tack and humorous too. There are many stories to tell.

I am so thrilled that B had the opportunity to escort him and introduce him. We even sat right across the table from him at dinner (which was de-licious). B did a wonderful job.

Tonight, I also had the opportunity to get the President's picture with baby Stellan's name. I hope to send Mckmama the photo and the signed copy of Stellan's name.

Pictures of the night to come when I find that blasted camera cord. Where did I put that thing??

Oh yeah...Mr. President will not be able to attend the wedding. He asked when it was B said December 19. He asked what time. I responded 2 in the afternoon. He sighed, "I am busy then. So sorry, wish I could be there." haha!

I'm Lovin' It

2009-03-09T20:29:00.000-05:00

I have realized over the past couple of weeks that I really love my job. It is challenging. It is exciting. It is ever-changing. And, the best part, it is fun.

I am so blessed that I have the opportunity to do something that I love.

Last week, we had a photo shoot for the new Fayetteville campaign. B and Hannah came out to help/support me. It was nice to have a familiar face and they were great sports. In the end, our shots turned out great and I can't wait for you guys to start seeing the ads in April (think local mags).

The Art Gallery in the metro district is a great place for all you artsy-fartsy folks. I didn't even know it was there. It is tucked between Pink Papaya and Wine Cellar. Only local artists are featured. So neat!

I should have some wedding updates for all ten of you later this week. I can't wait to give you a little peek!

Say Cheese, Please

2009-02-24T13:03:00.000-06:00

Bloggy friends, I need your help.

Please let me know ASAP if you want to be in a photo shoot in Fayetteville on Friday. It should only take an hour and one-half max. I need 4-5 people. Call or message me for details!

Thanks!

Buh-bye Bachelor

2009-02-20T16:37:00.000-06:00

For real y'all!

If the internet rumors are true...I am sayin' buh-bye to Bachelor for-ev-A.

To catch up, go to reality steve dot com or ihategreenbeans. Lincee's comment section is full of insider scoop.

But hey, if I give up the stinkin' show - I will have 2 whole hours to add to my Monday nights.

Off to LR... for people who really fall in love and get married. UNLIKE JASON MESNIK!!

I Am Still Here!

2009-02-19T17:59:00.000-06:00

Sorry to be neglecting all you blog friends (all five of you).

FSIL and Bro have 2 showers this weekend AND FSIL and I are hosting a shower for our old roomie, Rach. I would have never imagined that we would all be getting married around the same time. It is exciting and overwhelming!

B and I...well I...finished our save the dates on Sunday. Coming to a mailbox near you soon!

We also booked our photographer this week. We are freakin' excited that Dale and Meredith are going to be there with us for all the wedding excitement. Really, you should check out their work here and read Dale's blog. He is hilarious and Mere is super sweet. I know I will have nothing to worry about with these two running the picture show.

Work has been crazy busy too. We revealed the new Fayetteville logo last week. I love, love, love it. Are you feeling Fayetteville?

Fashionable Friday

2009-02-06T11:56:00.001-06:00

Finally Friday Folks! Woo hoo!

As a shout out to my favorite Monday night show...this post is inspired by the girls of the Bachelor.

1. Must buy more scarfs. Light-weight, wool, patterned, solids, fringe or no-fringe. The scarf is a staple. But note...they are not wearing the Old Navy polar fleece scarf...maybe its not cold enough in Cali. (I will be putting mine in the back of the closet for now...just in case.)

2. The poof. Poof the bangs...poof the pony. But whatever you do, don't use a clippy on top to hold up your poof. (Melissa you would never make it though rush like that.)

3. If I have said it once, I have said it a thousand times. Side pony (period).

4. I think I need a new baby blue polka dot robe. It is B's favorite color.
5. Finally, I cannot emphasize enough - Less is more! (Ahem..Steph) If you are going to use hot pink blush...don't cake on the lipstick. Wearing a hoodie? No need to wear chandelier earrings. And please...a cockroach ring that covers two knuckles on your finger AND a cat hair vest? That's a no.

Works for Me Wednesday: Wedding Thank yous - Simplified

2009-02-04T16:40:00.000-06:00

A coworker gave me this tip when I got engaged. It seems so ingenious - I just had to share it with everyone.

When you address a wedding invitation, do the outside and inside envelope...and also the Thank You note...at the same time.

Address the envelope for the thank you note, stuff it with an unwritten card, put a stamp on it, and file it away (in alphabetical order of course) in a shoebox. When the gifts start flying in, all you have to do is get your shoebox out. It takes so many steps (and time) out of the process.

For more Works for Me Wednesday tips, head over to Rocksinmydryer.

P90-OW!

2009-02-03T18:38:00.000-06:00

Last night Ames and I started our new workout regimen - P90X. I cannot walk today. I hurt everywhere.

Yall have to hold me accountable. For real.

I would post my "before" pictures. But in the case that any small children read my blog - I am withholding. I don't want to scar any small eyes.

One small story - we put in the wrong DVD. The one we did was for extreme athletes. Tony kept saying things like "Do you want to better your time for the NFL combine?"No. "Are you wanting to become the MVP of the America League?" No. "Does your reason have to do with a ring..." Yes! Now you are speaking my language Tony! "....a rink, court or field?" Oh, no...that is not me. I was talking about the Beyonce kind...

7 Day Weekend

2009-02-02T10:31:00.000-06:00

"There's power to parts of our office and no heat. Get a flashlight and a heavy coat."

So I brought FSIL's mag-light and Snuggie to the office. But get real. It was so cold in there this morning that by 9:30, I was already back home.

I have never wanted to work so much in my life. Cabin fever!

B and I went to a beautiful wedding on Saturday night. One of his childhood friends married a girl who I went to high school with! I tell ya...something must be in the water in "The Hyphen". They raise those boys right!

Nelson got a haircut on Saturday and stayed in Benton with Betty and Pops. He will enjoy that. B and I will be back next weekend for the Arkansas Bar Association banquet so we will bring him back after that.

Happy Monday!

Enough Already

2009-01-29T12:32:00.000-06:00

I have had it up to HERE with this winter weather stuff.

Monday was great because we left work an hour early in anticipation of things to come.
Tuesday was exciting because everything was canceled, we all had power most of the day, and we have not had any winter weather in NWA.
By Wednesday, I was getting cabin fever. I finally skated back to my house (instead of B's heated and lit plus a generator for back-up pad).

I woke up early this morning to get ready for work. The streets were dry and I was surprised to see that the U of A was closed...not only today but tomorrow as well! I got ready for work and began to thaw out the car. Much to my...delight?...my windshield cracked from one side to the other. (B's did the same thing yesterday.) After much scraping by Bro, I headed to the Ad World.

Low and behold, if I did not get a phone call when I was halfway there that we weren't going. What? No power at the office. And in all honesty, we probably won't go tomorrow either. Downtown Fayetteville is looking rough.

FSIL drove around mid-morning. Old Main lawn is so sad. I could almost cry. It is no wonder that classes are not being held. (But the basketball game is on...free tickets to boot!) We then went to Kinkos to finish my Save the Dates. We were a quarter of the way finished with the project when the electricity went out at Kinkos. We packed up our stuff and without paying (because we couldn't), left the well-educated staff to figure out their own problems. Hostility.

It was on to our new favorite store - Walgreens. Yeah, Wal-Mart you are so off my list. We went to get FSIL some Dimatapp to dry up her nose. Their electricity was out too.

Let me make a quick clarification. None of these places (my office, Old Main, Kinkos, or Walgreens) are anywhere close to each other.

We left WG without any medicine - unless ice cream counts. Yes, almost 5 gallons of ice cream came home with us. They were giving it away free. Who can say no to that?

And I have had enough already.

Ice Ice Baby (duh-na-na-na-na-nuh)

2009-01-28T09:56:00.001-06:00

So as I sat here last night bragging about how we had electricity and heat while almost 100,000 others in NWA were sitting in the dark...our power went out. In the middle of my post. Grrrr. (I guess that is what I get.)

B, Nate, and Nathan have a great gas fireplace that has kept us warm and cozy. We were never powerless for more than 15 minutes...until just after midnight. The power was out for 4 hours...and it got chilly fast.

I just could not stop thinking about how blessed we are. This situation could have been much worse for any of us. There are some trees down in my backyard and throughout our neighborhood but no injuries or too much discomfort.

The boys and I played the longest game of spades ever yesterday. Nate and Nathan won.....but we took it easy on them. Nate had never played before so when he did something dumb we would let him fix it. (Aren't we nice?) It was nice to relax.

I left all the wedding stuff at my house so B, Nelson, and I could spend quality time together. I am getting ready to go into work at noon....but the car is still frozen over. It has been running for an hour.

Have a Happy Wednesday!

I HEART Miss America Pageant!!

2009-01-24T21:35:00.000-06:00

It is official. I am totally and completely obsessed with the Miss America pageant. Betty and I watched every year when I was young. And now I am one of those people who watch the freakin' reality show on TLC. (Unfortunately this year they needed to step up their game a notch). I like it for the fashion. I like that my girl Hannah has the potential and drive to be Miss America soon.

I will forever cheer for Miss Arkansas no matter the year, her talent, or chances. This year our Miss Arkansas really surprised me. She was fresh and modern...but more than anything she looked her age. Look at other 21-year-olds. See what they wear and the latest hair trends. She really had "it".

I was totally surprised that Miss Iowa made top 5. I mean really?? Am I missing something??? (P.S. Ditch the talent part. It was not helping anybody.)

I think we all knew from the beginning that Indiana was slated to win. She pretty cute and totally lives up to the traditional Miss America image. I think she will have a great reign.

What is it that Miss America does again?

Eleven Months

2009-01-19T22:06:00.000-06:00

That's right bloggy friends. Eleven months from today I will be married! Eeek!!

This weekend was full of wedding stuff. Saturday, Betty, FSIL, B's mom, and I went dress shopping at the Factory in Brinkley. (For all of you bride bloggers...good luck there. Not a good experience for me.) Then we went to a little treasure of a dress shop in Pine Bluff. FAB-ulous. These women are great. No purchase...but I have a suspicion there will be one soon.

On Sunday the trio went to the ADG Bridal Fair at the LR Statehouse Convention Center. That was total chaos as well. I did see a stationery place that I really liked and I know some of you bloggy peeps have used them (Hobart Printing). Cake tasting was delicious...I really liked Mickey's.

I didn't win any fancy door prizes like I had hoped. So we loaded up and went to Michaels. FSIL and I are making my save the dates. When we are finished and they have been mailed I will post it on here.

B and I (and Nels) are really interested in hearing your wedding advice! Let me know your local vendors...especially photographers.

Tele-vision

2009-01-15T19:30:00.000-06:00

Goodness gravy...there sure has been an abundance of television this week!

FSIL, Ames, and I got a dose of Jason the Bachelor on Monday. Man, those girls have drama alllready. I really like Melissa AND I like Jillian...but if Erica and Megan stay much longer I will have to turn it off.

On Tuesday - B, Ryan and I watched 4 (yes, F-O-U-R) straight hours of 24. FSIL slept through the whole thing. It was pretty intense.

I have been trying to catch up on AI on my breaks. I am about to decided that the show is overrated. Its not funny...and nobody is that good.

That brings me to a more serious note (get it...note? AI...). Tonight set your DVR to TruTV at 9 Central time. Forensic Files is having a special on Juli Busken. Juli's parents (Bud and Mary Jean) have been friends of our family for years. Juli was brutally murdered several years ago right after graduation OU.

MJ was my boss for several years when I worked at Longhills. She has the kindest spirit and is one of the strongest women I know. We all loved MJ. Pray for the Buskens during this time as they re-experience the trajedy. Please also pray that justice is served in this case. The murderer is currently appealing his sentence. His first appeal court date is in February.

My Girls!

2009-01-13T18:20:00.000-06:00

I am so excited about my girls, my besties, my support group, my sisters - my bridesmaids!

I sent each one a personal note using our wedding colors (and I think everyone loved them).

Sarah Maulden (FSIL - Matron of honor) - She lived one door down at Reid Hall. My dad forced me to go speak with FSIL and her roomie Michelle (like shoved me in). I was shy and didn't know anyone - but I sure did like their bed risers! Our friendship grew from there. I never expected that conversation to turn into a best friend and sister!!

Lindsey Dawson - I think we have been friends since she was born. There has not been one major moment that we have not experienced together (most we were dressed alike). She always has great advice.

Joy Shults Ligon - Joy and I have been friends since we were five. We were first Darlins and church friends but our friendship quickly great. She always has me laughing. I adore her new hubby but I hope he hurries up with seminary so they can head back to the great state of Arkansas.

Andrea Mooney - Bugs and I have been life-long friends. We have shared so much together. I was so happy when she decided to come to the U of A and be a ZTA (and my "grand-lil sis). Bugs is going to be a pharmacist, but I hope she stays in Fayetteville a little longer!

Heather Love - Heather and I met through a mutual friend during rush. She was my first "ZTA friend". HLove always has me laughing but has a soft shoulder to cry on. She is the kind of friend that will literally fight for you.

Hannah Caldwell - I met Hannah in the summer of 2007. She was dating one of B's roommates. We instantly clicked. She has a fabulous, bubbly personality and a wonderful voice. Hannah is also my ZTA sister and I think she will be Miss America someday!

P.S. I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE THIS MOVIE!!

2009-01-09T13:21:00.000-06:00

Heck Yes I have a Snuggie!

2009-01-09T11:16:00.000-06:00

And it is the best thing ever! Ask Sarah. It is actually hers. I got it for her for Christmas and she sleeps in it (literally) every single night. Like in her bed...with the Snuggie on. (I will try to get pictures)

We are headed for Eureka Springs this weekend with Mare. Mean 'ol Mare and the four of us. Good times are to be had by all. And I will get some good bloggy material!

But for now - I will take up space with the following questionnaire. (The 9 is in honor of the new year)

9 TV Shows I Watch:
1. Good Morning America
2. Local News - every stinkin' day 6a (cue to get up), 6p (gue to eat dinner), and 10p (got to bed)
3. Law & Order: SVU
4. The Hills
5. The Bachelor
6. Food Network (Challenge and Ace of Cakes)
7. TLC (What Not to Wear, Say Yes to the Dress, Jon & Kate, 18 Kids and Counting, Countdown to the Crown)
8. Grey's Anatomy
9. America's Next Top Model

Favorite Restaurants:
1. Loafin' Joes
2. Pasta Jacks
3. Olive Garden
4. Larry's Pizza
5. La Huerta
6. Slim's
7. Tim's Pizza
8. Bonefish
9. Wasabi

Things to Do in '09:
1. Plan a wedding to the man of my dreams
2. Make myself indispensable at work
3. Guide someone to Christ
4. Phone home daily
5. Have financial peace
6. Be physically healthy
7. Live a year of love
8. Get Married
9. Live Happily Ever After

Ahhh...The Weekend!

2009-01-04T14:00:00.000-06:00

We have done a lot of relaxing this weekend. In fact, as I type Nelson is napping at my feet and B is wrapped up in the Snuggie on the couch.

Yesterday, we bought a puzzle at Hobby Lobby. We are almost done. Nelson has not been much help. I think he may have ate a couple of pieces because there are 2 edge pieces we cannot find anywhere.

We also went to WalMart after talking to B's mom. We bought tons of Christmas ornaments for the wedding. I don't know what we are going to do with them until then. Hopefully B will take them to my parents house sometime this week. They have more room than we do.

I am about to go clean B's room. He is a pack rat. I keeps everything...and I really mean everything. It should be fun to see what we find.

Happy Sunday! I hope you are having a wonderful day of rest.

News on the Home Front!

2009-01-02T10:53:00.000-06:00

Hey All!

B and I got engaged on Christmas eve! Now Nelson will have a momApoo and a dadBpoo? The date is set for December 19 in Btown. I am love him more now than I ever thought possible. Wedding plans are awesome.

We spent New Year's Eve with some law school friends at Noel and Hannah's. There was great fellowship and reason to celebrate 20008 - engagements and weddings, success in school and new jobs. Most importantly, we toasted to our friend Noel. B and I are sure glad he is still with us in 2009.

Best wishes for the new year!

Picture Frenzy!

2008-12-23T21:29:00.000-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE GREEN'S!

I was so proud of this find...I got TWO! One for Betty and one for B's Dad.

Another Cute Plate for B's Mom and Mark

Christmas gifts from The Sells Agency!

Cookies I made for B's birthday last week. YUMMY!!

Here is the super easy recipe...
Cake Mix Cookies
1 Box of Cake Mix
1 Stick of butter
1 egg
(add 2T of water for chocolate)
Beat together
Drop by tablespoon onto cookie sheet 2" apart
Bake at 350 degrees for 9-11 minutes

After the cookies have cooled for 2 minutes, you can ice them with any frosting. I like to sandwich them together but you can just put the frosting on top. You can also add crushed Oreos, sprinkles, M&Ms, mini chocolate chips...the perfect cookie! :)

Ride

2008-12-19T19:10:00.000-06:00

I love Martina McBride and was so blessed to see her at the Mercy Charity Ball a few weeks ago. She sang about seven songs and each was amazing. Right now, I am loving her song "Ride".
Time Turns a Wheel and Love Collides ....

"Life is a roller coaster ride
Time Turns a Wheel and Love Collides
Faith is believing you can close your eyes and touch the sky.
so Shine while you have the chance to shine
Laugh even when you want to cry
Hold on tight to what you feel inside and ride..."

I was on a wild ride this week.

Coming down from the high of the amazing weekend, it iced on Monday. BOO!! But, I went to work an hour late to let the roads and the crazies clear. Nelson got sick first thing Tuesday morning. Puppy with tummy troubles really stinks...No Really Stinks. In heroic form, B saved the day by coming to my house and getting the patient. And I did something really cool at work. I was super excited. Thanks Grant!

The week continued in this fashion. Summits and highs and low depths. I learned some very important lessons.

Say it, say what you mean, say what you think they might think you said, say what you really mean again.
My boss is an amazing man. Mike, you really are the best!
Check your order before you leave.
I am uber blessed to have B and others who are wonderful and supportive.
God never fails, He has a plan.

If you have time this weekend or coming week, pray for B's law school study buddy and friend Noel. He was diagnosed with brain cancer this past summer at age 27. He underwent radiation and chemo AND took classes. He just finished another round of chemo. He is doing much better but could still use all of our prayers. Remember Noel, his wife Hannah, and their family during the holiday season.

"You wake up from your dream and, and you don't want to face the day
You can't find a reason to think your world will ever change
You can hide beneath the covers
Or you can run outside head up high and carry on

Life is a roller coaster ride
Time Turns a Wheel and Love Collides
Faith is believing you can close your eyes and touch the sky.
so Shine while you have the chance to shine
Laugh even when you want to cry
Hold on tight to what you feel inside and ride...

It brings you up slowly then shoot you like a rocket towards the ground
it twists and it shakes you before it turns you upside down
You can't see what's around the corner
and You can't look back, so just live it up and feel the rush

Life is a roller coaster ride
Time Turns a Wheel and Love Collides
Faith is believing you can close your eyes and touch the sky.
so Shine while you have the chance to shine
Laugh even when you want to cry
Hold on tight to what you feel inside and ride..."

What A Weekend

2008-12-14T21:24:00.000-06:00

I cannot believe that the weekend is already over. It really flew by but was truly fun.

On Saturday, I woke up early and started cooking and cleaning to have 10th grade girls over to my house for our Christmas party. The cookies I made were said "to be illegal in 13 states." They were that good and that fattening. I got the recipe from Superchikk! I also whipped up a batch of cookie dough (throw back to Patti Chester and DNow weekends). That covered the sweets and I added Bagel Bites, cheese dip, spinach dip, and (my favorite) Harry & David Kicker.

I didn't want to leave out B's 11th grade guys so I made my mom's Cream Cheese Brownies. They ate the leftover cookies and the whole plate of brownies. Thanks guys!!! And... Congratulations to SHILOH CHRISTIAN 4A STATE CHAMPS!!

At the party we had so much fun playing Apples to Apples. Almost 3 hours of fun. I was very tired for Sunday morning.

B and I went to Financial Freedom at 8:15 and learned a ton about finances. I know I have a lot more to learn. Then we went to worship for an incredible presentation of the true meaning of Christmas. And my favorite newborn was baby Jesus. I wish I could remember when I stole the Christmas pageant back in '86 as tiny baby Jesus. My pink Reeboks were amazing.

I went with Bro and FSIL to look for houses...and we found one! I am so excited for them and I cannot wait for their big day in May.

I also took some Christmas pictures of Nelson...Enjoy!

A Who??

2008-12-05T20:22:00.000-06:00

Let me introduce myself. I am the mom of the world's best dog - Nelson. The curly cockapoo melted my heart in October 2007 and I had to have him. That makes me MomApoo.

B - Dad of Nelson, my best friend, significant other since 2004 - WOW! That is a long time. Love him lots!

Nelson - Black and curly. King of our castle.

Bro - Great friend and one of my biggest cheerleaders. We have been through a lot.

FSIL - My best friend and future sister-in-law. We met as freshman in college, became best friends then roommates and now she will be my sister.

Betty - My mom. A family friend gave her this name years ago and it has stuck. As of now, she is only Nelson and Lucy's 'Betty' but in the future (far, far away) it is her grandma name!

Pops - My dad. He is amazing. Nuff said.

Lucy - Bro and FSIL's black lab. Nelson's BFF.

Aims - Other roomie. She likes beanie babies! haha. She inspires me to eat healthy, workout, and tan. :)