Top Ten Tuesday - 2010 Edition

Top Ten Tuesday is back…finally! It feels like it’s been forever since I posted a list. I actually had some to post but for some reason or another I never was able to do it. So, today’s post is actually somewhat a cry for help. What I mean by that is that I will need all the support possible to help ensure this list is completed and to make sure I am held accountable for my word. This week I present…

Ten Things I WILL Accomplish in 2010

10. Go to an awesome concert.

9. Shop less – I have developed a bad habit of buying more than I need. This year I commit to buying things that logically make sense and stay away from the “As Seen on TV” isle.


8. Floss more – I do floss, I PROMISE, but I don’t floss as much as I should. Come on you know you were thinking you need to do the same, I just happen to say it out loud.


7. Purchase a professional quality camera and expand on my love for photography – I have always loved photography since my first 110 camera in elementary school but now I want to take it to the next level.


6. Volunteer at least 3 days at the local Humane Society


5. Walk a Half Marathon or 5k – There is a 5k in Austin in March and a half marathon in San Antonio on November. Anyone want to join?


4. Take a fun leisure learning class


3. Visit my family and friends more often


2. Pay-off ALL my credit card debt – I did a good job this year of paying off the discrepancies on my credit report. In 2010, I want to focus on paying off the plastic.


1. Work on improving me physically, emotionally and spiritually – This means eating better, working out more, reducing stress and anxiety and most importantly letting God take the wheel.


I am fully committed to completing all items on this list. I thought that wording the list this way instead of referring to them as resolutions will make me more accountable. So, HOLD ME TO IT! I am printing this list and posting it at home and work to keep reminding myself they need to be completed.

Now that I have shared mine, what do you commit to doing in 2010?

Hit the Road 2009

Ok, so i haven't fallen off the face of the Earth I SWEAR! Have you ever had one of those months where if feels like your world as you know it has been turned upside down? Well, I have! Needless to say, this past month has been emotional and hard and I am not sad to see it and 2009 be over and done! I would like to elaborate about on what all has gone down, but I don't want all of it to be for public viewing. So, if your intertesed, ask me and maybe I can give you tidbits in a less public form. Another reason I haven't been able to blog like usual was I was lacking the neccessary equipment: a computer. Luckily Santa aka Zac brought me a new Sony Viao to help mend the wounds. Let the blogging proceed!

Well Christmas 2009 was a very white one! It was my first Christmas in Lubbock in a few years. Unfortunatley, I spent the holiday home-bound thanks to snow and a car very low to the ground. Sorry I didn't get to see my Lubbock friends. I did however get to see most of my family. My whrilwind trip inlcluded stops in Paris to and from Lubbock which allowed me to see most of everyone I wanted to see. This even included my Dad who was able to take leave from Iraq to spend Christmas at home. I will be heading back up to Paris to spend New Year's with him since I only got to see him for a grand total of 30 minutes.

By the way...Zac loved the snow! Being a Louisiana boy he had never seen that much snow or have it last that long. He and the dogs LOVED it and played for hours. I have some picutres I will post later.

I promise to get back on blogging track! I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas!

Top Ten Tuesday

Nothing puts you into the holiday spirit like a good Christmas tune. In fact, many of my Christmas memories involve music. I have numerous memories since I was a child of singing Christmas carols in nursing homes, Alzheimer’s care centers, school concerts, church plays, and the list goes on. Some Christmas songs are fun and some can make a tear come to your eye. That’s why this week I present…

My Top Ten Favorite Christmas Songs

10. When it’s Christmas Time in Texas by George Strait – This so true of Christmas in Texas, but I’m sure my Louisiana friends can relate. Sunny and warm Christmases happen in the south. Although, I have had the pleasure of experiencing one white Christmas in Texas; it was many years ago.


9. Feliz Navidad – Ok, this song is just fun!


8. (TIE) Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer and Frosty, the Snowman – These two famous Christmas staples bring back so many memories for me. I remember being so excited (ok, so maybe I still get excited) when these movies came on CBS every year and I remember many solo performances I put on for anyone that would listen. They have become a holiday tradition and hopefully be one passed down to my kids.


7. Carol of the Bells by Trans-Siberian Orchestra – This song is a mix of Christmas and rock-and-roll flare! I can’t help but enjoy it every time I hear it. I also had the pleasure of seeing Trans-Siberian Orchestra in concert, and one word: amazing.


6. Santa Claus is Coming to Town by family – My Mom and Paw Paw used to sing this to me all the time before Christmas and I would get so excited to see what Santa brought me. They liked to emphasize the part about Santa making a list and checking it twice which meant I had to be good for goodness sake!


5. All I Want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey – So, in junior high I had the Mariah Carey Christmas CD and I fell in love with this song. I would repeat it over and over and try to relate to it with my stupid crush on Jay Carpenter, oh how that makes me sound like a dork. I still love the song and wish I still had that CD. Maybe I’ll get one in my stocking (hint, hint, Mom JK)…


4. Santa Bring My Baby Back to Me by Elvis – The Elvis Christmas album is one of my favorites. My granddad and I listened to it together many Christmases and no one except Elvis could make a Christmas song have so much style.


3. Melle Kalikimaka by Bing Crosby – My favorite movie is National Lampoon Christmas Vacation. I have been watching it every Christmas season for as long as I can remember. So much of that movie reminds me of my family. This is the song that plays while Clark is dreaming of the saleswoman in his pool and I just love it (the song that is)!


2. The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole – Even though I have never seen chestnuts roasting by an open fire, this song just reminds me of what Christmas is all about. It’s such a great song and Nat King Cole was amazing.


1. Breath of Heaven by Amy Grant – I first heard this song during a Christmas play I did with my church youth group in middle school. It is literally one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard in my life. I love the song because it tells of what Christmas is all about. Forget Santa and elves, Christmas is the time to celebrate God sending his only Son. What an amazing sacrifice and the best gift any of us could ever receive.


Now that I have shared mine, what are some of your favorites?

Top Ten Tuesday is BACK!

In lieu of the Thanksgiving holiday this week, I am dedicating my list to the Ten Random Things I am Thankful For. I’m going to steer away from the generic list of things like family and friends because hopefully they already know how thankful I am for them. Also, notice how “top” was taken out of the title? That’s because this list is not necessarily a “top ten” of things, just a few things I am extremely thankful for. Here it goes…

Ten Random Things I am Thankful For

10. Chapstick – Yes, it’s making its second appearance in the series. That’s how important it is to me. So, thank you chapstick for keeping my lips feel moisturized year around!


9. Katy Kress – Thank you Katy for opening a dance studio and starting an adult dance class! The class has been the best therapy I have ever paid for.


8. Target – Thank you Target for allowing me to purchase shoes and clothes that are fashionable, yet still affordable.


7. 6” Roast beef and cheddar on wheat from Subway – Thank you sandwich for being the best dinner option when I need something filling and without a ton of Weight Watchers points.


6. Jack FM – Thank you Jack FM for playing music I can sing along with at work and not be embarrassed of the lyrics. You help me keep my sanity on those long days, and for that I am forever grateful!


5. Random Lady at Pitt Memorial Hospital – Thank you random lady for telling me I looked like I just had a baby, because of you I will remain on my diet this Thanksgiving and not gorge myself on unneeded calories


4. Koozie- Thank you dear Koozie for keeping all my beverages ice cold. It’s because of you I am able to enjoy my Coke Zero with Zero for hours after I have opened the can. Thanks a million!


3. Facebook (yes, I went there) – Thank you Facebook for allowing me to reconnect or stay connected with family and friends all around the country and the world. With your notifications I am able to cyber stalk from a far and still feel somewhat involved in the lives’ of old friends that I haven’t spoken to in years. Thank you for making me sound a little creepy…


2. DVR – Oh I sound like a dork, but whatever. Thank you DVR for keeping me in the loop with all my shows. Because of you I am able to live my life worry free from missing an episode of The Mentalist or Biggest Loser. You’re a lifesaver!


1. The Bible – Thank you for being there to answer all life’s questions when no one else could.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! In all seriousness, I am thankful for all the amazing people I have been blessed with in my life. I wish everyone a great holiday!

These are the best days of my life...

I know I am totally slacking on this blog. I promise I will do better; just been a little busy lately! Top Ten Tuesday will return next week I promise!

I want to start with updating everyone on what’s going on with my sister. Jaclyn delivered Adrianne Paige Rubin Smith (Rubin is the father’s last name and a “silent” middle name) on Friday the 13th a little after 1 p.m.

The delivery happened extremely fast. When I got there (around 11:00 a.m.) she was dilated to a 5. She thought she needed to use the restroom so she kicked us all out of the room. Turns out she didn’t need to go to the bathroom at all, she needed to have a baby! Within 30 minutes she had completely dilated and it happened so fast they didn’t even have time to move her to a delivery room. The nurse had to run to the cafeteria to get the father, my mom and me and we took off running towards the room. Of course only the father was allowed in, but I impatiently waited in the waiting room. I called our other sister Tamara to tell her the good news, and she had the audacity to put me on hold to order Taco Bell! (I’m never going to let her live that one down) Literally not even 5 minutes later we received a picture mail of the new family member. After only three pushes, Adrianne entered the world at 32.4 weeks weighing a grand total of 3 lbs and 2 oz and 15 ½ inches long, and to me was the most beautiful niece a girl could ask for! Yes, I was the only goober in the waiting room that cried when I saw the picture, but I was overwhelmed with emotion, partly because that beautiful baby girl is my niece and secondly holy wow, my little sister just became a mom!

I spent the next three days playing my sister’s nurse and earning the title of “Breast Pump Queen.” I loved it because I got special moments with my sister and Adrianne that no one else got to experience. I was the one who wheeled Jaclyn down to see Adrianne for the first time, and I was the one that got to watch her hold her for the first time (well, it took a little persuasion to the nurse on my part for the hold to even happen).
My favorite part was what I called my “midnight visits.” As soon as Jaclyn would fall asleep (which was after midnight most of the time) I would sneak down to the Neonatal ICU and spend alone time with Adrianne. I would pray with her, give her “auntly” advice, rub her tiny feet and let her hold my finger. Those seriously were some of the best times I have ever experienced in my life. No matter how tired I was, how much I hated the cafeteria food or even how uncomfortable the vinyl chair was that became my bed, I would not have changed a moment for anything in the world.

Of course this is just some tidbits of all that happened this past weekend but I wanted everyone to know that mom and baby are doing well! Jaclyn has been having some problems but they seem to be better and she hopes to be discharged today. She will be staying at the Ronald McDonald House for a while to be close to Adrianne while she is still in the hospital. Adrianne is definitely a little fighter. She was off the ventilator in less than 12 hours and breathing on her own. That’s outstanding for a premie! Everyday she keeps getting better so hopefully she will be discharged sooner than expected. They originally said she would be in the hospital for a month, but we can only hope for less since her progress is amazing.

Ok, another update on my other sister Tamara. She went to the doctor yesterday and just like I predicted she’s having…..A BOY! Franklin Riley (as seen in the photo directly above) is due in February and I am so ready to meet him. The name Franklin is in memory of the father’s brother who passed away and Riley is after our amazing step-dad. Let the countdown to February begin…

I want to say “thank you” to everyone for all the thoughts and prayers. Power of prayer is awesome and I can say it was felt by all of my family this past weekend.

Adrianne's Coming

We thought Jaclyn had gotten better and we were going to get to hold off on the delivery for a while, but God has a different plan. After a Jaclyn's blood pressure went back up and she started having chest pains, they decided to do a stress test on the baby. It was determined Adrianne would have better chances outside the womb. They have began inducing her for labor and we expect tiny Adrianne to be here sometime tomorrow. Please keep the prayers flowing becasue Jaclyn, Adrianne, our family,  and everyone involved need them dearly! Thanks for the support so far! Jaclyn is amazingly strong and I just hope Adrianne inherited a little bit of that to fight her way through....

Top Ten Tuesday Postponed

Hello readers. Usually I would be posting a top ten list for my weekly edition of Top Ten Tuesday but today I will be unable to do so. My mom called this morning to tell me my sister Jaclyn was in the hospital. I had mentioned her pregnacy in an earlier post and how excited I am to meet Adrianne. Well as I type this, Jaclyn is being transported by ambulance to a hospital in a city near by to the Air Force base where she is stationed. Turns out she has developed preclampsia and they will be delievering Adrianne sooner than expected. Adrianne is currently 32 weeks old and weighs approximately 3 pounds. So, today I am asking for prayers for Jaclyn and Adrianne during this time, as well as, my family as we all hope for the best. I am trying to arrange to be there Friday through Sunday  and the anxiety is overwhelming.

Weekend Recap

This weekend was pretty uneventful, which was just what the doctor ordered. I had a really bad day Friday, so Zac treated me to dinner at the new restaurant in town, The Landing. Since I had to weigh-in Saturday morning, I resisted the temptation of trying the cheeseburger and stuck with grilled chicken, but the food, atmosphere, and conversation was a nice end to a crappy day. Zac may not always be the best boyfriend, but he is good helping me through rough times.



Saturday started out pretty great with my weight loss that I spoke about in my last post. Well to celebrate, I not only treated myself to a mani and pedi, but I bought a couple new pairs of shoes. Hey, could you resist Kenneth Cole and Vans for 19.99? I think not! Saturday consisted mostly of spending as much time as possible with Izie. I brought her home from being spayed Saturday morning still in a lot of pain and super groggy. I thought she hated me because it took her forever to come to me, but she is back to herself and the love is still there. I actually enjoyed spending the evening chilling with my dogs and Zac. Plus, it was cheaper since I had already spent so much money on my celebration.


Sunday consisted of worship at The Edge and laundry. What an uplifting day right? Oh wait, I made these awesome grilled chicken and black bean nachos. They were amazing and low fat! I also had a great conversation with my friend Christina Joyce-Wilson. She provided me some great food-for-thought. She’s great at that! She’s the friend you call when you need guidance because she is going to tell you what you NEED to hear not just what you want to hear. I aim to be more like her!


This weekend was really low key and just what I needed to do some soul searching that was overdue. This morning I woke with some clarity and reassurance that it’s all going to be ok. The power of a great support system and prayer really do a body good.

Celebrate good times...come on!

Ok, so I am so excited I have to share it! Today was my weigh-in day at Weight Watchers and I am happy to say I have lost 20.6 pounds! This is a huge milestone for me and I can't wait to continue and see how far I can go. I treated myself to a mani and pedi to celebrate. 20 more and I get a facial! Talk about motivated; facial here I come!

Who would you write letters to?

   With all the horrific stories in the news these days, especially in Lake Charles (don’t believe me, check out this), I was glad to come across this story yesterday...
   A little girl named Elena was diagnosed pediatric brain cancer just days before her 6th birthday. The doctors only gave her 135 days to live, and even though she surpassed their expectations and lived 255 days, there is something more that makes Elena’s story special. Its obvious to me Elena must have been wise for her age and realized the importance of her final days unlike most 6-year-olds, that I imagine, would be traumatized and not able to grasp the reality of the situation. When I was six I was playing with Barbies and planning performances for my Fisher Price microphone and not worried about anything too serious, especially something like death. Elena on the other hand, was an extraordinary person, not child, PERSON. When Elena received the news she took it upon herself to write notes and draw pictures for her mom, dad and sister, Gracie. What did she do with these? She hid them. She hid them all around the family’s home in random places. Notes were between books, in drawers, briefcases and all over. So when Elena was gone, the family started to find these notes of comfort that she knew she would be ok, and that she loved them. The notes were also left as memories for her little sister to have. Since Gracie was younger than Elena, the notes are all she has as the link between the two. I have definitely shortened the story, so to check out the article in full detail click here. The parents have combined all the notes into a book they will be selling with proceeds benefiting the charity the family started in memorial of Elena, The Cure Starts Now.
Not only did this story make me think about what an amazing person God had created in Elena, but it had me thinking deeper. If tomorrow came, and I was told I had 135 days to live, who would I write notes to? Will I have successfully assured my loved ones that I am going to be ok and I love them? It’s amazing that a 6-year-old had the ability to do so, and here I am as a 25-year-old unsure if I have prepared the same comfort for those close to me.
   I would like to personally say, “thank you” to Elena. Because of her story, I am going to make more of an effort to show all people my gratitude and love. Why should I wait until I am gone? Reality is we all aren’t told our expiration date on earth, we’re not all allowed the preparation like Elena to write notes, so live each day with appreciation and start writing your notes today. Tomorrow could be too late…

Some of Elena's notes left behind:

Top Ten Tuesday-A Day Late

Since I have been sick the past few days, I didn’t get to do Top Ten Tuesday yesterday. So, I will do it today. I know it’s not politically correct, put I make my blog rules.

By the way, I am starting to feel better. No more fever for now, which is good. I had forgotten how weird fever makes you feel. I have an appointment to with an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist to discuss my constant ear problems and the hearing loss associated with the numerous ear infections. Hopefully there will be some sort of relief in that area.

Since I was home yesterday sick, I was able to catch up on some old shows and check out some new ones. That is why this week I present:

Top Ten Shows to Watch When Home Sick

10. 18 Kids and Counting on TLC – I think its 19 kids now, but I lose count. The amazing part of this show is the fact that this family lives debt free. It’s interesting to watch all the family interactions and to see how they operate. Interesting…


9. Parking Wars on A&E – This show documents the lives of Parking Enforcement Officers in cities like Pittsburg. It’s amazing to watch how upset some people get over a parking ticket.


8. Top Chef on Bravo- The only problem with this, is when you are sick to your stomach watching food may not be the best thing.


7. E! True Hollywood Story on E! – Doesn’t matter the celebrity they are covering, this show sucks you in and makes you their biggest fan. Courtney Cox-Arquette is now one of my favorite celebrities!


6.CSI: Miami on A&E – If David Caruso doesn’t make you feel a little better, than who will?


5. Food Network Challenge on The Food Network – I love, love this show. I love the competition and seeing the amazing things the chefs do with food. My favorite ones are the cake challenges.


4. My Fair Wedding with David Tutera on WE – This man is amazing! He helps out couples at the last minute transform their wedding plans into magical, celebrity scale weddings. He is my hero!


3. Sex and the City on TBS – Nothing like good ol’ reruns with Carrie and the girls to make you feel better on the inside, and in turn makes you feel better on the outside. Or at least you hope it works that way.


2. Real Housewives of Atlanta, Orange County or New Jersey on Bravo – Nothing like some wig pulling action to entertain you while you’re in the dumps.


1. The Back of Eyelids on YOU - The best thing to do is turn the TV off, climb into bed and get some rest! All these shows will be on again, and again so don’t stress! Better yet, do like I do and set the DVR.

Now a majority of these shows do require cable, but you can also buy some on itunes or view on their website.

Weekend Recap in One Minute

It happened. The sick bug took over! I have fever and feel horrible. Therefore, weekend recap will be extremely short! Had a great time catching up with everyone! Sorry about the concert to those of you there. It had been building up, and I'm sorry it went down like that. ANYWAYS, here are some of my favorite photos from this weekend:

A few of my favorite things...

Like I mentioned in a previous post, I have made some big life changes recently. I have started eating better(Weight Watchers), working out, attending church services regularly, attending not one but two bible studies, joined a Pkeno circle and started my dance class. Just to name a few....

-One of my favorite things right now is this book. It’s called Crazy Love by Francis Chan. It is opening up my eyes to so much and makes me really want to be a better person. Even though I grew up going to church and God has always been an important factor in my life, I don’t feel I truly understood why that is important. This book has made me see things I need to improve on as well as, how to make the things I already do better. I even downloaded the audio book for my road trip.

-Thanks to Weight Watchers, I have started to try things I thought I disliked. For example, diet sodas. Well to my surprise, I love Diet Dr. Pepper with Cherry(it is suprisingly smooth) and Diet Mt. Dew (taste better than the original!). To me they are a treat to go with my meals. This website helps out as well!

-Dance class at Katy Kress Dance Revolution, of course, is still a favorite. I am excited because I am starting to feel a little less awkward and it’s starting to make a little more sense. Don’t get me wrong I still have a long, long, long way to go, but I am so enjoying the journey. There is also the possibility, if we can get enough participation from our group, we will be competing in a dance competition in February. I am excited! Last night we learned a Bollywood dance, and it has been my favorite so far! I was shaking it like Shakira! (Ok maybe not that good, but close)

-Finally, my favorite, favorite new thing is my new church family! Check out Water’s Edge website. You can also listen to podcasts of previous lessons if you’re interested. Every Sunday when I leave, I feel loved, uplifted, positive and excited about my life. I have had many “break-throughs” from words that Pastor Tony has delivered. He is awesome at his job, and even has great taste in clothes, which he gives credit to his wife, Rachel for. I love singing some great songs, and listening to an empowering message from a pastor wearing converse while surrounded by people who don’t care what you’re wearing, instead, they are just happy that you came! How people worship is personal preference I know, but for me Water’s Edge is what I had been looking for.
-Speaking of Tony and Rachel, she gave birth to their first child yesterday. It was a little boy named Jagger and he’s adorable. After years of being unsuccessfully naturally, they were selected as recipients of the “Gift of Hope.” The program granted them the opportunity to conceive with a free IVF cycle (Read more here). It worked and they were given the answer to a long unanswered prayer! I doubt if they will ever read this, but I just want to tell them congratulations, and God just needed a little extra time to prepare the “perfect” baby for you to parent on earth.
Now, road trip time, Lubbock or bust!

Top Ten Tuesday

With my trip to Lubbock coming up this weekend, I can’t help but have visions of prairie dogs dance in my head. For those of you that don’t know, Lubbock and I have a history that dates back way before I even attended my first class at Tech. Many of you know that my mother lives there, but actually there is more. See, my grandfather that raised me, grew up in Petersburg, a small town right outside of Lubbock. I grew up listening to stories about “out West” and even made the trip for the annual “Petersburg’s Days.” So, Lubbock has a special place in my heart for more than just obvious reasons. The main reason I chose Texas Tech was because to my paternal grandfather and great-grandmother, Texas Tech was better than Harvard and Lubbock was their idea of desert paradise.


Lubbock is hard to explain to people who have never experienced it. Yes, it may not be close to much, and it’s a bit flat, but once you experience the true L-B-K, the appreciation you gain is overwhelming.


This week I dedicate my top ten to Lubbock and some of the many memories it’s given me. A lot of firsts in my life happened because of Lubbock, so this week enjoy

Top Ten Firsts Thanks to Lubbock…

10. First solo flight- The first time I ever flew on an airplane by myself was to visit my mom in Lubbock. I was 13, I think, and I made the long (45 minute) flight from Dallas Love Field to the Lubbock International Airport. I will never forget looking down and thinking the ground looked like a patch work quilt.
9. First Minor League Sporting Event- That same trip to visit my mom, I went to a Lubbock Crickets baseball game. The Crickets are no longer a baseball club, and I have hated crickets since thanks to the mascot.
8. First Major Concert- My mom took me to see Aerosmith at the United Spirit Arena in college. Sadly, that was my first concert that didn’t take place in a rodeo arena.
7. First Heartbreak- Oh the misery or at least I thought it was. Junior year in college, I had my heart truly broken for the first time. I learned so much from that experience. I learned there are two people and not just myself, in a relationship. I learned you have to compromise and not be a b**** (I’m just using the same verbiage as him). I also learned, you can bounce back ten times better.
6. First Charging of the Field- Texas Tech surprisingly defeated the Oklahoma Sooners in 2007. Thanks to the victory, I was able to participate in a celebration I had only witnessed on TV. Yeah, I might of hesitated a bit, but that doesn't matter!
5. First Drivers License-Yep, I got my driver’s license on my 16th birthday at the Department of Transportation office in Lubbock. I didn’t have my car yet, so my first memories of driving on my own were in my mom’s old Mercury that was about the same length of a football field. It was so pimp!
4. First Visit to a Nightclub(one of many firsts rolled into one)- When a college classmate invited me out one night, I was excited. I had never been to a nightclub and was excited to get to dance on an actual dance floor. Well, we go to a club called Luxor, which also made the event my first trip to a Gay Nightclub. Turned out we had a blast just dancing and not worrying about a thing, until the night also turned into the first time I was hit on someone of the same sex. Oh boy, that was night of many firsts, not all appreciated.
3. First Car Accident- It had to happen at some point.
2. First Job-My first job was actually at a Baskin Robbins ice cream shop in Lubbock. It only lasted about 3 weeks, and I hated going home with stick fingers and sore forearms, but it’s where I learned the true meaning of work. I had my first real boss and I quickly learned, they don’t really care if you don’t like working on Saturday’s or not.
1. First Real Pet Owner Experience-Even though we had family dogs, I had never had a dog of my own until I moved to Lubbock. A wiener dog had been left at my mom’s house by my uncle when he moved to Houston. It was love at first sight for me, and Doc has never left my side since!

Thank you Lubbock for many firsts, memories and what’s yet to come!
 Can’t wait to see all my family and friends in Lubbock soon!

Weekend Recap

My weekend was really uneventful and I liked that. No drama + great weather = a good weekend in the Dianne Book.
Friday-
The highlight of my Friday evening was caught in these photos. Zac is a huge LSU fan and since Izie was born in Louisiana, I purchased my first LSU merchandise ever, a LSU jersey for her. (I will be buying her a Texas Tech one soon!!!!) Izie loves it, and Zac loves her in it! Twice I came home to find her sporting it. Funny how the same guy that makes fun of me for buying dog clothes, is the same guy who keeps dressing her!

It’s so funny,  Doc HATES cameras. In fact, the only time I can get a picture of him face-on is when he’s using the bathroom. Not Izie, she will look straight at the camera and smile big! In the second photo, she kept looking out the window and I couldn’t help but smile. It was so cute how she would prop herself up and stare out waiting for the least little bit of action.

Saturday-

Saturday started out with my weekly weigh-in at Weight Watchers. This was my 6th week and I only needed to lose 2 lbs to reach 15 total lbs lost. I was pleasantly surprised to not only lose 2 lbs but more! -3.2 lbs brought my total weight loss 16.2 so far. I still have around 52 lbs  to go until my ultimate goal, but I am so proud of my progress thus far. I really have made some big life changes and I am confident they will pay off! I don’t think I have been this determined about something in a really long time.

After WW, we took Izie to Dog-o-ween. She, in her pretty-pretty princess costume, had her picture made with pumpkins, and was scheduled to be in the costume contest, but my hunger got in the way(it was like 12:45p and I hadn’t eaten a thing yet). The rest of Saturday we hung out with Melissa* and Chris and I was so excited to finally get to spend some time with my bestie, including my first dinner party at the new house! Not only was I excited but, it got my mind off of the disappointing loss of Texas Tech to Texas A&M. Like I told the guys at work giving me a hard time and emailed me some smack talk, "Congrats Aggies, for your first victory in 16 years against us. Don’t get to comfortable though, it will not be repeated next year. Cheers to tradition! "

Sunday-
The day started with a drive to Ragley to attend church services at the church of Melissa’s parents. Melissa’s dad took the amazing step of dedicating his life to Christ by going through the ceremony of baptism and I wanted to be there to show my support. I got there a little early to help Chris and Mel with some photos they are taking for the church’s directory. After an interesting church service, and a little more appreciation for Water’s Edge(my church family I absolutely love, a separate blog to follow). Zac and I headed home. I did some reading outside(Crazy Love by Francis Chan, if you want to work on a relationship with God, this is the book for you) with Doc and Izie and enjoyed the gorgeous day God had made.


Don’t worry Lola (Zac’s lab) is still loved, she is just in heat and unfortunately can’t spend too much time out of her kennel these days.


Like I said, my weekend was uneventful, but I loved every minute of it. I’m sure after my trip my much anticpated trip to Lubbock this weekend, my round-up next week will be much more enjoyable!


*For those who don’t know, Melissa is my best friend from Reno who moved back to the Lake Charles area in June. Due to her career in retail and her family obligations, we have been unable to hang out as much as I would like. Anytime with her is fun in my book!

Should I dare admit to this?

I’ll be the first to admit, I am some what “addicted” to Celebrity News. Why, I haven’t a clue. Something about how celebrities moments of unraveling dispair displayed in the public eye not only amuses me, but brings me laughter and makes me feel my life may not be that screwed up in comparison. My day is not complete without an update of what’s going on in the lives of The Kardashians, Gosslins or Nicole Richie and Joel Madden (just to name a few). I know this behavior may cause some to question my judgement, or even my intelligence, but at least this “addiction” does not affect my health or well being so, get over it (just kidding)! The day my harmless fun turns into obsession like, cutting my hair to mimic Kate Gosselin or not going to work because I am so devastated Jennifer Aniston and John Mayer broke-up yet again, then you have permission to talk to me about a 12 step program.

However, there are some things that annoy me about entertainment news…
First of all, if you feel the need to explain who the person is before the “announcement” then it probably isn’t truly worthy celebrity news. For example, this week I saw where Meryl Streep’s daughter got engaged. Good for her! But when the announcement headlines state “Mamie Gummer, Meryl Streep’s Daughter, Gets Engaged” its really not classifed as "true" celebrity news in my book. Why? Because you have to explain who she even is and why I should care. By the way, why should I care? Anyways, I think the story was really to focus more on the fact that A) Meryl Streep chose a really strange name for her daughter and B) we can be expecting a sequel with the headline of “Meryl Streep to be a Grandmother” to follow.
Another thing that annoys me is when they become obsessed over the stupid things and report them everyday! For example, I have been was a Jon and Kate Plus Eight fan pre-scandal for many years. Although I used to be Team Jon (if you watched old episodes you would know why), and it has now been proven he is a few crayons short, why do we need to know about this man’s every move? Seriously, so what if now he thinks he’s Jewish, or if he leased a Mercedes for his 22 year old girlfriend instead of investing that money into his EIGHT children, you (celebrity news reporters) have made a valid stand against Jon Gosselin and all the crap is he doing on a day-to-day basis. I have three words: Quarter Life Crisis. Let him be and tell me more about the news worthy things I want to hear about like Reece Witherspoon’s admittance to having a bit of self doubt just like the rest of us.
There is more, but I will shorten my randomness today. I hope you are all able to see the bit of scarcastic undertone included. If anything, celebrity news gives me a little insight to a life unknown to me. And of course, a couple more names to add to my prayer list at night.
It’s Wednesday, and you know what that means-DANCE CLASS!

Top Ten Tuesday

It’s that time of the week! Time for the 2nd Edition of Top Ten Tuesday. This week I am going to give you ten songs(minus the obvious selections like the Star Spangled Banner) that bring me happiness and the reason. When I hear the opening note of all the following songs, I immediately begin to smile and so this week i would like to present...

Top Ten Songs That Make Me Smile (plus a runner-up)
in no praticular order...

Runner-Up: Hot in Herrre by Nelly
This song was popular in 2002 right before some friends and I took a graduation trip to New Braunfels, Texas. We played this song over and over and sang along to every word! We had finally graduated high school and with that trip we gained a sense of freedom we had yet to experience. In fact, I even have a horrible tattoo to prove it.
10. Elvira by The Oak Ridge Boys
My grandparents loved, loved The Oak Ridge Boys; mostly because my grandmother served on Student Council in college with Duane. A couple of years ago when I was working at L’Auberge, The Oak Ridge Boys’ were scheduled to perform during their Christmas tour. I was able to pull some strings and surprise my grandmother with the awesome Christmas gift of tickets to the show and the VIP meet-and-greet. Duane even said he remembered her(I don’t know if he did or not) and I will never forget the happiness(and a few tears) on her face during the concert while she sang along to all the songs.
9. Settlin’ by Sugarland
I love this song because it reminds me never to settle and always strive for the best in everything. Also, the lines, “With some good red wine and my brand new shoes,Gonna dance a blue streak around my living room,” describe me perfectly!
8. What’s Your Fantasy by Ludicrous
I have so many memories of junior year in high school and driving around blaring this song with Liz, Jessica, Ashley and crew. We would play it in the drive through of Taco Delite(a Paris staple) and in the parking lot after pep rallies. For some reason we loved it! (I don’t think we actually got how dirty it really was)
7. Independent by Webbie and two Lil somethings
I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T do you know what I mean? Not only do I never smell like onion rings, but I work hard for what I have. I have done it on my own and I am so proud of that. Even though at times I am a little too independent, I am proud of not having to rely on someone (or a man) for everything. This song is the anthem for that!
6. Don’t Stop Believing by Journey
This is just a feel good song. Reminds me of the Summer of ’07, the best summer I’ve ever had to date! Road trips to Tahoe every weekend weren’t complete without this song.
5. Achy Breaky Heart by Billy Ray Cyrus
A product of Billy Ray Cyrus’ mullet days, this song warms my heart. It brings memories when I was a kid and my mom, Tamara, Jaclyn and I would listen to it over and over and dance and sing like fools. Mom would have us call the radio stations to request it and we would just stare at the radio waiting to hear it again. Good times!
4. Sitting on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
This song completely mellows me out. It makes me have this ridiculous grin on my face and immediately get in a better mood. My mom even has it set-up to play when I call her so sometimes I call my mom for a double pick me up, the song and my mom’s voice!
3.Any of the early hits by Elvis, Haggard or Jennings (I know this isn’t just one song but I’m the author, I can break the rules)
My granddad loved him some classic music like Elvis, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings Glen Campbell, and so on. He used to have a tape player and a box of tapes and he could sit in his chair, play a tape and usually end up napping. He LOVED to just sit alone and listen to music and I love the classics that remind me of that.
2. Hangin Tough by New Kids On the Block
Need I say more?
1. Dirty Diana by Michael Jackson
I was introduced to this song by Lee in college and it kind of turned into “my song.” Some friends still refer to me as “Dirty D” and now you know the orgin. I really can’t relate to the song one bit, but it reminds me of those good ol’ times with the crew at Tech. I still get excited when it comes on. It’s not one of MJ’s more popular tunes, but to me it’s my favorite from his collection. There have been a few times when the song has played and only my friends and I were on the dance floor.

One of those pet owners...

Ok, say what you want, but I have totally turned into one of those pet owners. You know the ones people make fun of because they treat their dogs like kids and buy them ridiculous outfits and such. I have always wanted to a smaller girl dog so I could do just that. I wanted a little “diva” that would be mine to spoil and cover in pink. Don’t get me wrong, I have spoiled Doc plenty, but he doesn’t really look good in pink, and hates it when I put him in clothes.

I treated myself on Father’s Day this year with a gift (hey, I’m a great father and mother to Doc) of a little Scottish Terrier. Melissa’s mom had two puppies left from a litter her Scotties had produced that she was trying to find homes for. This one puppy in particular had been placed, but then returned when they decided it was too much work to dedicate for their lifestyle. When I met her, I was in love and knew at the end of the night, she was going home with me. Zac however, wasn’t so convinced. After a night of crawfish, wine and allowing him to pick her name, I finally got him to say “yes” and Izabelle a.k.a. Izie, became the newest member to join my family. I’ll admit three dogs is a challenge at times, but Izie has added so much fun and love that it totally makes it worth it! I could write on and on about Izie and all the things I find absolutely adorable about her, but I will spare you…today at least.

Ok, so here it goes. This is Isabelle in her new dress! It’s pink with ruffles and looks fabulous on her. She looks like a real “diva” while she plays with her new pink toy. Say what you want, but I am proud to be one of those pet owners. Sorry it's blurry, I only had my cell phone to take the picture with.

Now for an update. We are 100% moved and 95% unpacked. The new house is great and I am enjoying it immensely so far. The dogs love their yard. Doc sunbathed on the deck for a while yesterday and Zac played fetched with Lola and she loved the room to run! Too bad she’s in heat and every dog in a 5 mile radius was barking and going crazy.

I didn’t make it to the GRE Saturday morning. I did not feel good at all Friday night or Saturday morning. I know, I know no one has to say anything; I will reschedule soon and be more prepared and well. Moving takes a lot out of you. Hopefully I won’t have to do it again for a while.

I pray everyone has a great week and come visit the new house soon!

Boy do I....

Boy do I have a busy four days ahead of me!!! Today has been insane at work! This is the first time I have actually been able to sit down at my desk for longer than 5 minutes. I am so busy this weekend, that I am going to need a weekend after my weekend!

Tonight-I am in the process of moving into a new house. Thanks to the lovely rain the Lord has blessed us with, I have been able to move anything that really matters like furniture. So, tonight Zac and I have to move my bed, dresser and night stand (which are extremely heavy) and all the living room furniture. Plus, everything else we can. Our electricity is turned off tomorrow so we need to be sleeping in the new house tonight.

Tomorrow-On top of loads of unpacking I must do, I also have to attend my Weight Watchers meeting due to scheduling conflicts on Saturday. Then signing the title over to the new owner of the jeep. Oh, I also have a much needed hair appointment and need to run some errands for various things. To top off tomorrow, I need to some how find some time to cram in some vocabulary words for the G.R.E.

Saturday-I start the day off with a trip to Beaumont to take the G.R.E. Hopefully I will have crammed a little bit so I feel prepared just a bit. Once the G.R.E is done, its back home to get ready for "Family" Christmas Photos. "Family" will be Me, Zac and my children Doc, the wiener dog, Lola the lab and Izie the scottie dog. Of course my Saturday wouldn't be complete without some Texas Tech football.

Sunday-I will attend services at Water's Edge Gathering (LOVE IT! www.watersedgegathering.com ) and work on some unpacking before I attend my first small group (or Tribe like Water's Edge calls it).

Hopefully between it all I will find some time to sleep and love on my dogs. Wish me luck!

Top Ten Tuesday

My friend Christina has an amazing blog.(check it outsometime http://christinalouvierre.com/blog ) One thing she does that I love is, TMI Tuesday. It’s her way of raving about things and sharing new products with all of us. I love the idea of having a special day to talk about one particular topic, so I have been inspired to start what I am calling Top Ten Tuesday. Each Tuesday I will share a list of ten things   like memories,favorites, etc. from my life. I would like to premiere my first Top Ten Tuesday with:

Top Ten Random tidbits you might not know about me!

10. I am overly obsessed with Chapstick…but it has to be the black tube! The blue and red tubes don’t cut it in my book. In fact, I should probably put some Chapstik on right now.


9. A lot of people think frogs are cute and adorable, I HATE THEM!!!! No matter how big or small they are.


8. “We doin' big pimpin, we spendin' cheese”…I know every word to Jay Z’s Big Pimpin’ and like to pretend I’m a rapper when I hear it and rap along to every word. I know it’s not the most positive of songs, but it totally reminds me of my sophomore year in high school!


7. When I am really into a movie or TV show (like the American Idol audition shows ) I can’t control my facial expressions. So, I make really weird and amusing faces with out even knowing it.


6. So what if I am 25 and I secretly like the Jonas Brothers. It’s not too weird…right?


5. I have a really hard time asking for help and sometimes that gets the best of me.


4. I absolutely can’t stand for my food to touch. I have been known to have multiple plates at a meal for that reason.


3. When I have a really bad day, or in a somber mood, I love to listen and sing along to Otis Redding’s Try a Little Tenderness


2. Scary movies and I don’t mix. I don’t care if it’s on the Disney Channel or it’s a classic like Texas Chainsaw Massacre, I will not watch them!


1. When I shop, especially grocery shop, I will not buy the item that is in the front. I have this fear that the front item has been used or damaged. I have no proof to back my crazy logic, just something I do.

Well I hope this Top Ten list gives you a little more insight about me. Let me know what you think about Top Ten Tuesday!

Why October 10 is significant to me...

I will never forget where I was on this day three years ago. That was the day when my world as I knew it was turned upside down. I was attending a training class at University of Nevada-Reno for work. I remember looking down at my phone and noticing a lot of missed calls but didn't want to be rude and answer during class. Finally when I could, I looked at the missed call list. When I saw that a majority were from my step-mom, I knew something wasn't right. Sure enough, she delivered the worse news imaginable to me.

Three years ago today, my beloved grandfather, and the man who raised me, went to be with the Lord. The next day I hopped on the first flight home to experience the worst pain I have experienced so far.

When I was going to school in Lubbock, the first thing I would do when I would go home to visit was go straight to my granddad’s room to say hi. We would chat about my trip and talk about which highways I took, (he loved to pull out an atlas and talk about which route to take) but on October 11, 2006 when I walked in the house he wasn't there and things have never been the same since.

There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him. Every time I go home to visit I somehow expect him to be there when I walk through the door, but he isn’t. He meant the world to me and I am forever grateful for him. He made me a stronger person, he never allowed me to give up, and though he didn't always verbally say he loved me, I never doubted it. You would think after three years, I would be able to handle grief better than I do, but when you lose someone so close, someone that significant in your life, I think it’s normal to feel as I do. My biggest thing was and sometimes still is I wasn’t there to tell him bye, and to express to him how thankful I was for all he had done.

One of the most interesting experiences I have ever experienced was during a trip to San Francisco with Melissa, Chris and the crew. We were walking along the piers and we came across this psychic who wanted to read our tarot cards. I was extremely hesitant and had no desire to spend $20 on that. She offered a no obligation palm reading free sample in hopes that what she said would make you want to buy the whole package. I gave her my palm and she looked at me and after a few moments of silence and blank looks she said, “Someone very close to you just passed, and he wants you to know he heard you say goodbye.” Either she has a really crazy imagination or someone really did send her a message from above, but either way when she spoke those words to me I immediately began to cry and I have been in the healing process ever since.

So, in honor of you today Paw Paw, I'm going to sit back and watch Texas Tech football and know that you are somewhere watching it too!

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!

If you read my previous blog (or scrolling down to read it now) you will know I was on a mission to find the home of a Beagle I picked up, out of traffic on a busy highway, on my lunch break. After knocking on some doors, in the rain, I FOUND HER HOME! The neighbor helped identify her and pointed me in the direction of her home sweet home.

I marched up and knocked on the door of this stranger's house so excited because I was about to return their precious dog back to them. Needless to say, I did not recieve the excitment I hoped for. In fact, the neighbor was more excited and acted more grateful. Her owner did say, "thank you" and said he had been searching for her. It was good to know at least they were concerned she was missing.

At least now I can sleep better knowing I did my part to reunite a family! I said as long as I had hope it would happen and it did! MISSION IMPOSSIBLE ACCOMPLISHED!

It's kind of nice to be a tad bit of a hero at times...or to at least feel like you're one.

Mission NOT Impossible - Your Assistance Needed!

Everyone knows I have a soft spot for dogs. I have three of my own and often refer to them as my children. Well today that got the best of me and I am now on a mission to reunite the dog below with her family.

 

I had to run an errand on my lunch break that required me to drive almost to Dequincy, a small town about 25 minutes north of Sulphur. It obviously had just finished raining because the roads were damp. I started to notice all the cars in front of me coming to a sudden stop or slowing down dramatically. Well, turns out there was a Beagle mix (or a older Beagle) in the middle of busy Highway 27. She was soaking wet and just standing in the middle of the highway. Well my soft spot started to ache, and I knew I had to pull over and help her, or at least check to see if she had tags so I could call her owner. I pulled over and called for her and she came straight to me with her tail wagging. She was wearing a collar but no tags. I pondered for a second on what I should do and decided I couldn’t leave her there (there weren’t any houses in the immediate vicinity) because she would probably meet Jesus sooner than later if I did. I opened my back seat and she jumped in. She rode with me to finish my errand and on the way back I stopped by the one house closest to the spot I had found her. The man had never seen her before. So, I stopped by my house to change clothes, she had gotten me all wet, and I put her in Doc’s kennel on my way back to work. She is very sweet and seems to be good health, obviously a pet to someone. Honestly, if it were Doc, Izie or Lola, I would want someone to do the same.

Now I am on a mission! I need to reunite this dog with her family because they have to be missing each other! Some would call it Mission Impossible, but I can’t give up hope. If you have any ideas, information or leads as to whom she belongs to, please let me know!!!!



With this being said, if you have a precious pet of your own, please take the time to either make sure they are wearing identification tags or equipped with a microchip. You never know what could happen and it would sure save soft-hearted people like me some trouble when we are trying to bring them home to you!