Katie's Life...

I'm MARRIED!!

2010-08-23T09:02:00.000-05:00

We are officially... "The Bloemsmas"!! Time to switch the blog over to a joint name... click here to follow our recent happenings in Florida!!

To Blessed to be Stessed...

2010-07-14T09:19:00.003-05:00

Thanks to everyone who voted for Lola in the buffalo naming contest. It was one of the winning names and my sister is now the proud adoptive mother of the little (ok... big) cutie!

Well, I am in full swing with showers, luncheons, and wedding details. This is such an exciting time and I am enjoying every moment! I am so thankful for the help of sweet friends and my support system during this special transition time.

Today is my last day of work and is the first area of my weekly "routine" that is officially coming to an end. My dearest work companion, John David Sebastian III (beta fish), moved home with me a few weeks ago. However, in the process of cleaning up my area yesterday, I finished packing up all of his belongings along with other personal items that have taken residence in my desk. I have to admit, there is a part of me that is sad to leave the place I have worked for over two years, but I am really looking forward to having extra time to spend with family and friends before the big move to Florida. In 24 short days... I am going to be Mrs. Aaron Bloemsma!!

E-mail Mishaps

2010-07-12T09:51:00.001-05:00

For those of you who are unaware, our caterer decided to back out at the last minute! As I read the e-mail last week, I began to panic as I realized our wedding was a month away and we now have a reception without food. I called Aaron's mom and told her the situation. She sweetly told me that she would call caterers that were available in our price range. She gave me several numbers and we found one that had a better menu than before for the right price! We got the official quote in an e-mail today.... I called my mom and told her... and hit "reply" and wrote an e-mail to my dad telling him suggestions of what we could cut to make it a little cheaper. Well, notice I said "reply" and not "forward".... after I clicked send I almost immediately realized what I had done. I quickly goggled how to un-send an e-mail and the only option was to write an apology message. Since I had no other choice, I wrote the caterer an e-mail saying that I was sorry and that it was not intended for him. He wrote me back with the changes I suggested to my dad and a cheaper quote. A little awkward... but what do you do?? Has a similar situation ever happened to you?? I really hope I am not the only one!

Vote for Lola!

2010-07-07T14:57:00.001-05:00

My sister entered a buffalo naming contest for Shelby Farms and made it to the top list of names! That means that she will have the chance to make it into the final ten names that will be given to a buffalo! Click here to vote for Lola! You may submit your vote online until this Friday at noon.

The 10 winners will be announced this Saturday, July 10th, at the second annual Buffalo Party held in the Kite Flying Field adjacent to the Buffalo Range. They will announce the winners of the contest at the party around 1pm. There will be free Buffalo Wild Wings and fun and games for all. If Amy's name wins, she will receive a free buffalo adoption with an adoption certificate!

This is a picture of my sister with her dog Lola that is about the size of a baby buffalo!

Happy Voting,

"I'm bitter-sweet"

2010-06-30T17:17:00.000-05:00

This past year, I have taught a second grade SS class at my church. It it truly something that I look forward to each week! I love their sweet prayers, unforgettable hugs, and very entertaining comments! One of the kids in my class, has been very disappointed that I am moving and even told Aaron that there is a house on his street that is for sale and we could move into it. Last week, one of my friends asked the little guy if he was sad that I was leaving, his response, "I'm sad, but happy for her... my mom said I'm bitter sweet." In 38 days, I get the privilege of marrying the love of my life and I can not wait to be his wife! With all of the many exciting things that come with that, there are chapters in my life that are coming to a close. This week, I have put in my official notice at work, told the church my last Sunday that I will be able to teach, and packed up my room at my parents house that I have lived in almost all of my life. I could not be happier to be getting married.. yet sad to see chapters in my life come to an end... I'm bitter sweet!

Busy Week!!

2010-06-14T13:38:00.000-05:00

Aaron and I had a great week and of course I was very sad to see him leave. Thankfully, we don't have too much longer of having to be apart!

While he was here:

-My friends had an engagement party for us! It was really fun and sweet for them to do that for us! I was excited that Aaron was able to meet many of my good friends that he has not met on previous trips!

-We registered... that was fun. It's hard figuring it out everything you think you will need. After we finished, my sister reminded me of several basic things that we forgot so I went back to add them (so if you see anything that is missing... let me know).

-We selected the groomsmen suits! We decided to go with gray suits... we felt that the look of suits fit the style of our wedding better than tuxedos. Another advantage, the guys get to keep them after the wedding! We were excited to find the perfect suit complete with a vest.... and the day we went to order they were having a great sale!!

-We had engagement pictures! Rainey Ray did a wonderful job and we were very excited with how they all turned out!!

-We went to the lake with my parents and some family friends! It was nice being able to relax, swim, tube, jet ski, etc.

-On Sat. we hung out with my sister and brother in law and went to a friends wedding.

So needless to say.. it was a busy but very fun week!!! I can't wait to marry the man of my dreams in 54 days!!!!!

Wedding Details...

2010-06-02T16:47:00.007-05:00

Wedding plans are well underway... and thankfully it has not been stressful! I have been super busy.. but in a very good way!

So far:
-Dress has been bought and is currently with the alterations lady
-Bridemaids have been fitted for their dresses
-Invitations have been bought and addressed! I designed them on the computer and will take them to the print shop by the end of the week... after they are printed...just stuff and seal!
-Reception details underway...
-Ceremony details underway...
-Photographer has been selected and booked

-Programs started

Aaron is coming in town in a few days for an entire week and our goal is to get the below accomplished:
-engagement party
-register
-select groomsmen attire
-engagement pictures
-wedding bands
-go to the lake!!!!!! (nothing to do with the wedding... just spend time together with my family)

Those of you who have done this before... am I in a relatively good place (one month down, two to go)?

I am in the process of collecting glass jars (mason, pickle, jam,jelly... anything where the label can be ripped off and is clear)... all sizes and shapes welcome!! If you have some... please let me know!!

I am looking forward to the wedding but I am looking forward to being married to my best friend even more! I feel so blessed to have Aaron in my life and can't wait for him to be my HUSBAND!!!

For more wedding details.. see our website!!

I'm ENGAGED!!!

2010-05-18T13:35:00.001-05:00

On May 8, 2010, my best friend, Aaron Bloemsma, asked me to be his wife!! He proposed on top of a beautiful mountain in North Carolina and it was perfect! Check back soon for the complete story and wedding plans!!

Events

2010-04-24T13:57:00.004-05:00

The next couple of weeks are going to be busy and exciting... Here are some of the things on the calendar!

1. My friend, Jennifer Ekedal is coming home this Tuesday after serving in Cambodia for 3 months!

2. Next weekend... some friends from church and I are going camping. I hope the weather will be better than it was this weekend!

3. Also next weekend, celebrating Rachel's birthday!!

4. The weekend after that.... going to North Carolina to see my wonderful boyfriend and his family!

The next couple of weekends are going to be busy... but I can't wait for each of the events planned!!

Do you long to live a life of:

2010-03-24T17:09:00.004-05:00

Thanksgiving? Intercession? Intimacy with Christ? My answer to all of these questions is.. yes! This is theme for my weekend which is about to start! My mom and I are packing our bags and heading to Chattanooga tomorrow morning!

I am looking forward to spending quality time with my mom in the beautiful mountain side of Tennessee and I am also looking forward to going to the True Woman Conference. About a month ago, my mom suggested that we go to the conference and I am so glad that she mentioned it!

Below are just some of the speakers and topics:

Kay Arthur- Becoming A Woman of Greater Faith
Nancy Leigh DeMoss- Daily Devotions: Duty or Delight?
Mary Kassian- Girls Gone Wise
Carolyn McCulley- Women’s Global Issues: Challenges for Women in Developing Nations
Fern Nichols- Prayer, A Lasting Legacy
Jennifer Rothschild- Your Thought Closet Make-Over: Becoming a Woman Wardrobed in Truth
Devi Titus- The Table Experience: Creating Deeper Relationships Through Hospitality

I will give a review when I return... have a great weekend!!

Happy Birthday Taylor!!

2010-03-22T16:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to my wonderful friend, Taylor!

I met Taylor several summers ago in New Hampshire on a Campus Crusade for Christ summer project. Although we live far apart, we have been able to see each other about once a year since that time. This May, she will graduate from OU with a graphic design degree and has already been offered a great job! She is super talented and has a great eye for design... check out her blog here... you will be glad you did!

Friend Feature - Jennifer Ekedal

2010-03-18T16:56:00.001-05:00

Throughout my life, I have truly been blessed with incredible friends... not just one but many! I would like to dedicate this post to a dear friend, co-worker, travel buddy, running partner, and many more... Jennifer Marie Ekedal! When we are together, our maturity level tends to plummet but without fail we always have a great time! She is one that I can literally laugh until I cry and cry until I laugh!

Above all of these things, she radiates the love of Christ! Over the past few years, I have seen her grow in the Lord and develop a strong heart for missions! Last May, we both graduated with an interior design degree and she quickly began seeking out design jobs in big cites. Realizing that was not what God wanted for her life, she surrendered her dreams (or so she thought) and began pursuing missions. Little did she know, that she would be given an opportunity where she could do BOTH! She is currently serving in Cambodia and working with girls that have been victims of sex slavery. She is designing a shop where the girls can sell items that they have made and start making money with a new way of life. You can read more about what she is doing in Cambodia here.

To say that I am proud to call her my friend is an understatement.... I love her dearly and treasure the times that we are able to share together!

Birth Announcement!

2010-03-17T14:07:00.008-05:00

I would like to announce the birth of my new nephew....

Thompson Smith
Born: February 1, 2010

Proud Parents:

Proud Aunt and Big Sister, Lola:

Recent Happenings

2010-03-17T13:31:00.000-05:00

After many telling me that I am a horrible blogger, I decided to update the blog with recent happenings of my life. In short, some highlights since my last post:

-got a new addition to the family.

-went to Brazil on a mission trip.

-went to Florida twice.

-Aaron came to Memphis.

-went to Lubbock, TX for Smith/Lytle wedding.

Take these events and mix them with work and life... its been a busy 3 months! I am going to try to be much better at blogging... so check back soon!

13.1

2009-12-07T11:23:00.003-06:00

A few short months ago, a friend suggested that we run in the St. Jude Half Marathon. I have always enjoyed running and even joined a summer running club. However, the most I had ever run at that point was about three miles... so a half-marathon was quite a challenge! We looked at the calendar, printed off a running plan, and gladly signed up to be St. Jude heroes! It was official and there was no turning back. I didn't have a trainer, I didn't subscribe to a running magazine... I simply had drive and an awesome running partner (makes all the difference... could not have done it alone)!

Before I knew it, it was the night before the race and time to load up on carbs. I proudly ran for sweet Josiah (you can read his story here) and was able to meet others that were running on his team. I could not think of a better group of people to have a the pre-race dinner.

Race day was here... my goal was to finish! After all it was my first half... so I didn't want to set the expectations too high. As I waited in line (in the freezing cold), I looked around to what seemed like a million people all excited and ready to run. Many were stretching, eating nutrition bars, and doing runner-type things... many were wearing shirts that had a child's name proudly displayed on the back... all walks of life were represented and I could not have picked a better race to be my first half! My favorite part of the race was running though the St. Jude campus. To see the patients, parents, friends, and the like all cheering us on.. brought tears to my eyes. I am so thankful to have such a truly amazing hospital in my home town!

Finally the finish was in site.. I could hear the cheers from the people in the stadium get louder as I approached the finish... finishing in 2:17... i did it!!

Thank you Jennifer for encouraging me and making my first half-marathon a great one! Thank you sweet Josiah.. Although I do not know you that well.. your sweet sprit overflows through every ounce of your body! I proudly wore green for you... GoJGo!!!!

Nike + ipod

2009-11-17T10:18:00.001-06:00

In just a few short weeks, I will be embarking on something new.... running in the St. Jude half marathon. Although I have always enjoyed running, I never thought that I would actually attempt this long distance task... but here I am signed up and ready to go!!

For my birthday, I got the ultimate running accessory... "nike + ipod". My running readers must invest in this small/relatively inexpensive contraption that calculates your distance, calories burned, time, and more. If you are not familiar with this device... you simply type your goal (distance, time, etc.) and it will keep track for you with a friendly voice being piped through your ipod (you can still listen to music). The first time I gave it a try... it was great and worked like a charm. I was not sure of the accuracy so I checked it by running distances in my neighborhood where I already knew the distance... and it was for the most part right! I was so motivated by the device that the three mile short run turned in to a eight mile long run. I was not thinking that my poor family would worry about the additional time that I was gone but when I walked in through the door I was greeted by my worried brother who informed me that my parents were out looking for me. I looked at my phone to call them and noticed many of my friends heard of my absence and also tried calling. I guess maybe next time, I should run by the house and inform the family if I decide to go significantly longer.

Thanks "Birthday Club" for the gift and fun night out... below is a picture from the night (its a little overdue)!

Cupcake Creations

2009-10-29T09:25:00.003-05:00

All of Rachel's hard work paid off and Christmas in the Valley was a huge success. I am excited about the items I purchased and getting a head start on my christmas shopping. If you missed it this year, I am sure it will be a regular event!

Last weekend, some friends from church and I got together to make frightfully good cupcakes!! We all had a lot of fun spending time together and see our creations unfold.

Some of my favorites were the "cupcake costumes" where we dressed the cupcakes up as other food. Chicken leg, peas/carrots, and mashed potatoes/gravy anyone? Next time... corn on the cob may be on the menu!

All of this is possible with Baker Master, Stephanie's cake decorating supplies!!

Christmas in the Valley

2009-10-15T17:28:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to remind you that Christmas in the Valley is THIS SATURDAY! There will be multiple vendors, special discounts, and free giveaways! Click on the "button" for more information and be sure to visit Rachel's blog for a sneak peak of the vendors... Hope to see you there!!

Birthday Festivities

2009-10-14T14:06:00.000-05:00

As of this past Saturday, I am another year older and officially in my mid-twenties... something that is hard for me to believe. I am not sure what this next year will hold... but I am ready to embark on the things it has to offer!

Here is a recap of the weekend activities...

Last Friday, I went shopping with some friends at the Collierville mall. Despite the rain, we had a good time and were all able to get some deals. About 4 o'clock... we heard that someone was graciously giving up tickets to the Beth Moore Conference. All of the tickets were general admission and by the time we made it to the forum the nose bleed was already filling up. After talking with a friendly hostess, we ended up with box seats! It was my first experience in a box and the extra room, nicer bathrooms, and drink supply was an added bonus! It was also my first experience to hear Beth Moore live and it hopefully will not be my last!

Saturday morning, I started off year 24 running in the Pumpkin Patch 5k with my sister and some friends. My goal was to finish it in under 30 minutes and it was accomplished.... finishing at 29:04.

That night, I planned on going to dinner with my family after getting my nails done (thanks Steph and Rach)! However, when we got back to the house, I was welcomed by friends and family all yelling "surprise"!! I was excited by the change of plans and shocked that everyone pulled it off without me having a clue! Thanks Amy for being the master mind behind the event... I really enjoyed it!!

On Sunday, precious Ella got dedicated! Afterwards, we had a nice celebration lunch... she slept through most of her party, but "Auntie Jen" and I still got to play with her before we had to leave.

It was a busy weekend... but a great one!

In the Kitchen...

2009-10-13T09:02:00.001-05:00

Due to some changes in my work schedule, I have been able to find myself in the kitchen twice this week... both as a baker and cook!

Baker master Stephanie and I finally got out the mixers and icing to make some cupcakes! A friend from church was having a surprise b-day party and we decided to bake for the occasion. We did think about making the "frightfully good cupcakes" but opted to make some others instead. Happy Birthday Becca!! Here are some pictures of our masterpieces...

Last week, I spent the evening with domestic diva and was able to share with her a favorite of mine... manicotti! It is a quick and basic yet incredibly delicious recipe! Another friend was able to come and between the three of us... we just about had a clean dish! Cooking with Jen is always a special treat... wonder what will be on the menu next!

Take note of the cute apron wearing in both cooking sessions! ;) Do you like to cook or bake... let me know your speciality and I will give it a try!

Go Tigers!

2009-09-30T10:16:00.001-05:00

With the 65 degree weather, fall is officially in full swing and I'm loving it!

A few weeks ago, my family, some friends, and I all went to the UofM football game. I must confess, I did not make it to many games as a student... but was excited to watch my first game as an official alumni. Unfortunately, Memphis did not win and we had to walk to the car in pouring rain... but we all had a great time!

I have not had a chance to make my cupcakes, but hopefully my baker master and I will be able to tackle the project soon (maybe this weekend)!

Frightfully Good Cupcakes!

2009-09-15T16:47:00.002-05:00

For recipie information... click here.

I found these cute cupcake ideas that I just might have to attempt some time soon... hopefully with Baker Master, Stephanie!!

Christmas in the Valley

2009-09-15T16:02:00.002-05:00

One of my friends and her family is hosting a christmas craft fair extravaganza.... Christmas in the Valley! There will be multiple venders, special discounts, and free giveaways! Click on the "button" or go to Rachel's blog for more information... Hope to see you there!!

Designer's Way

2009-09-14T13:52:00.003-05:00

Taylor and I posing with "Designer's Way" sign in NYC

Inspiration can come in all kinds of ways... seeing a great photo, hearing a great tip from a friend, or merely walking into a store. I was able to meet up with my friend Taylor a few weekends ago in Lubbock. She is about to finish her graphic design degree and many of our conversations involve creative topics, architecture, and design inspiration.

One idea that she shared with me that weekend was the "neat-o" folder on her computer. Any time she sees a unique image, advertisement, or idea... with a quick click of the button it is saved to the folder! She even has multiple folders by category. My friend Alysa does something similar... "The Happy Book". It has the same type of idea but with magazine images. She has a tabbed notebook with different rooms, holidays, or ideas. You will be surprised how much this will come in handy next time you want to do a project!

Here is an image that I have recently added to my "neat-o" folder:

There is something about the colors, crisp air, and cozy atmosphere that I just love about fall!

When the clock strikes twelve...

2009-09-10T15:39:00.005-05:00

I work at a local architect firm in Memphis... and although I really enjoy what I do, I am not sure if I could make it through a day with out the companionship of my great coworkers, Jennifer and Amelia. Our desks are located in the back area of the office and we have our own little section just off of everyone else. If you are not familiar with how design firms are set up... they are very open and only have a few closed offices. I like this because it is more suitable for collaborating but more importantly it makes the day go by faster by seeing friendly faces instead of four walls.

As I have mentioned before, regardless of how much I like what I do... it is still work. Therefore when the clock strikes twelve, its time to take a break! Today my friend Jennifer and I headed to Starbucks to work on our new found hobby... knitting. She went to visit her grandparents this past weekend and was given some rather large needles that look like jumbo pencils. We laughed about how silly they looked until we saw their potential. I have been working on my project for about 3 lunch breaks now and look at the progress she made in one day! Granted her loops are larger... I was still impressed! At the rate we are going... we will have them finished before winter (fingers crossed) and maybe have some to showcase at Rachel's craft show ;) (but that is a stretch).

End of summer... Start of fall!

2009-09-09T16:58:00.000-05:00

Between the time everyone left work on Friday and came to work on Tuesday... summer had officially ended and fall has begun! Over the long weekend, many headed to the lake, had a final summer cookout, closed up their pool, and put away their white clothing. Part of me is sad to see it come to an end... especially since I worked full-time this summer and did not have as much time to enjoy all it had to offer. Looking on the bright side, fall is my favorite season... and I am looking forward to the change of leaves, cool crisp air, bon fires, corn maze, and everything that comes with it! Welcome fall... glad you are here!

Knitting... I'm hooked!!

2009-09-03T17:16:00.000-05:00

A few days ago, I went to the dollar store with a friend. Browsing the narrow isles that had every square inch of space covered with merchandise, we noticed a knitting book, yarn, and needles... yes all at 'Just a Buck'. We both thought it would be a fun evening activity so we decided to purchase the supplies. Unfortunately, the book was not as helpful as we thought but after a little bit of a rough start, we mastered the basics. I am not sure if my first attempt at a scarf will be as successful as I would like... but its all about learning something new. I have a new hobby and I am hooked!!

Now what?

2009-08-27T16:20:00.007-05:00

So you have graduated from college. Now what?

Like most graduates, this is the most common question I have been asked this summer. Although it is just another reminder of the undecided, I am grateful that people are truly interested. Graduating college was like crossing the finish line of a goal I had set for myself. Now that is completed, I am having a hard time preparing for life after college... partly because I am in a season of waiting. Throughout this summer as I have searched and prayed for a clear path as to what to pursue, I have experienced a wide range of emotions - from excitement and relief to uncertainty and fear—at the prospect of entering the real world (whatever that may be).

Currently, I am working at a local architect firm in Memphis. It is a great job and I am truly thankful for the incredible learning opportunity and paycheck... especially in this economy. However, working 40 hours a week has been an adjustment. My dad has worked at his job for nearly 30 years, and after a few months of full time at my job, I have no idea how he does it! Although I like my job, I always look forward to my hour long lunch break. Most of the time, I bring my own lunch which usually gives me enough time to add in a quick errand or Starbucks run.

Today I went to lunch with two of of my good friends from college. One of them has conquered some of life's biggest milestones in one short year... including but not limited to getting married, buying a house, having a baby, and graduating college... doing them all to the best of her ability and not missing a beat! I am truly amazed... she could easily teach a class on time management skills!

Here are some pictures of her little cutie, Ella:

As for me, I am enjoying this season of life and time of waiting. Back to work... Have a good day folks!

Project Pals

2009-08-26T10:08:00.001-05:00

Summer of 2006, I spent in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire with Campus Crusade for Christ. Other than what little bit I heard from my long-time friend Lori, I didn't really know much about what the next 10 weeks of my life would hold. Lori and I loaded my beloved Camry that has taken me on many trips, printed off some map quest directions, and started our long drive. It was great to be able to see the countryside, meet incredible people, and see some great cities. We spent over a week getting there and actually passed NH and went all the way up to Maine. We enjoyed all of our stops and made some great memories along the way!

Little did I know, I was in for an amazing journey on multiple levels! I grew in the Lord, met life long friends, and had a summer I will never forget. I am grateful for all of the people I got the privilege of getting to know and love when I get the opportunity to see or talk with them! Tomorrow, I am going to Texas to meet up with with two of the girls... Kelli and Taylor. I love our reunions and all opportunities that we can get together.

Since being home from project, we have traveled to Massachusetts, Indiana, New York, Maine, Oklahoma (multiple times), Memphis, and now we are off to Texas... we had died hair, gone to weddings, were clients in a questionable salon (that literally kicked us out and locked the door... oh Nardi!), seen some fascinating museums, toured cities, been on countless subways/buses (including the unforgettable Chinese bus system), missed exits, and more... we have laughed until we cried, had spontaneous dance parties, and shared deep things on our hearts...

Here are a few pictures:

Our first picture... Summer 2006
Taylor's Wedding... Girls Night Out...

Needless to say, I am looking forward to this weekend... check back for pictures and stories from Lubbock, Texas!!

The Perfect Snack

2009-08-25T16:54:00.000-05:00

I am always looking for the perfect snack to enjoy at work... one that I can leave in my desk drawer and enjoy whenever I desire. I have always been a big fan of salty snacks and would prefer them over cookies (other than Oreos) any day of the week! When it comes to chips, I prefer plain ones with white cheese dip or salsa. Other than Doritos, I have never been a fan of flavored chips until...

A few weeks ago, my coworker and I used our hour long lunch break at Target. Let me stop for a moment and give tribute to this store... where else can you shop for the perfect picture frame, bath towels, vitamins, movies, food, gifts, books, batteries, clothes, and more? You not only get variety but you also get quality (for the most part)! It's a pretty amazing collection of products!

Anyways... While strolling through the isles seeking out the perfect snack, she noticed that Target had their own brand of chips... Archer Farms. Looking through the multiple flavors, she selected Black Pepper and Sea Salt. When we got back to the office the first thing we noticed was the bag was designed much better than an ordinary chip bag. Instead of tearing them open at the seam, Archer Farms chips actually has a resealable zip-lock seal which is great! When I sampled a chip, I was amazed by the first bite, especially since I was not expecting myself to like them. They had crunch, flavor, and an addictive little little kick... perfect snack for anytime of the day!

My co-worker tried some of the other flavors but we both agree that Black Pepper and Sea Salt wins the prize!! Since that time, I have purchased bags for myself... and surprisingly they taste good with tea too... go figure!

Thanks Jen for discovering awesomeness in a bag!!

Tea Time!

2009-08-25T16:11:00.000-05:00

"Strange how a teapot can represent at the same time

the comforts of solitude and the pleasures of company."

"Tea is instant wisdom - just add water!"

"If you are cold, tea will warm you.

If you are too heated, it will cool you.

If you are depressed, it will cheer you.

If you are excited, it will calm you."

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love tea! My dad is from England so it is something that has always been a constant fixure in our home. I once told someone that as a child I drank it out of a bottle... and they believed me. My family (and many of my close friends) looks for all opportunites to enjoy this increadible liquid and if we can't think of one... we make it anyways! Whenever a family member is coming home or a friend is coming over... we ofter recieve a phone call... "On my way, start the kettle"! Its just plain comforting and the perfect way to be welcomed! My co-worker and I also share this special bond... it makes the day so much more enjoyable!! Whenever one of us is getting a little stressed or just for no reason... the simple words of, "you want a cup a tea" take all of life's troubles away! Other co-workers have noticed our love, but no one has yet to join in on the craze... I guess for fear they will be hooked!

Directions for the perfect cup!
-Boil water in a kettle
-Put tea bags in a tea pot and add water
-Add a little milk and sugar to cup
-Pour tea
-ENJOY!!!

What do you like to drink or eat... any comforts that never get old?!

Mr. & Mrs. Smith

2009-08-25T11:17:00.000-05:00

Well folks, my sister is married and I am proud to say that our family has added a new member.. Mr. Zack Smith!!

The weekend was wonderful and it was neat to see all of the planning come together. Everything was beautiful from the flowers, music, food, and the list continues. I know that our family is truly grateful for all of the many helpful hands that made her day special.

Here are a few pictures from the big day:

something borrowed... something BLUE...

At the end of the ceremony, as everyone was helping pack up all of the left over food and decorations, I thought how crazy it is to think that the months of planning, years of dreaming, and in just few hours the church barely looked like a wedding even took place. Although the actual ceremony is now over, there is a bright and exciting future ahead... Congrats Amy and Zack!

Let the festivities begin...

2009-08-21T00:22:00.000-05:00

I can not believe the wedding weekend is finally here... let me warn you in advance that my next few posts will more than likely be entertaining you with every step of the process.

Today was my first day off of work and it was so nice to not wake up to the buzzing sound of the alarm. Some how.. I managed to get up at the same time I normally do but it's better getting out of bed freely than frantically.

I started my day off with a run... half way through it started to rain and I mean pour! Of course I got drenched but it was better than typical summer temperatures. After about ten minutes, it cleared and turned out to be a great run and beautiful day!

The majority of the day was spent helping Amy make scrapbooks. At the start, there were neat stacks of paper (by color type), stacks of stickers, stacks of stencils and other supplies. Shortly into the challenge, the piles turned into pile! Everything was mixed together but somehow we managed (with the help of friends) to complete all of the books!

My favorite guest of the day was Allie Grace! She is my friend Rachel's baby and I gladly take the role of "honorary auntie". It was nice to see them both!!

The day ended with Webb kids dinner date! Unfortunately due to busy schedules this does not happen often, but we all enjoy it when it actually does work out. Amy and I could not think of a place so we let Drew pick... not to our surprise he picked O'Charley's which is his favorite.

The next few days will be busy so I am not sure if I will get a chance to post... hope everyone has a great weekend!

Oh, My!!!

2009-08-19T15:53:00.000-05:00

I am sure you have all seen illusion type images... but I thought these were interesting and worthy of sharing!

This is a ceiling mural in a smoker's lounge.

Imagine you are on the tenth floor of a hi-rise building... and then you have to visit the bathroom. You open the door... now, remember the floor is just a painted floor!

This is a picture of a public toilet in Houston.

Now that you've seen the outside view, take a look at the inside view...

It's made entirely of one-way glass! No one can see you from the outside, but when you are inside it's like sitting in a clear glass box! Now would you...COULD YOU...???

A Woman After God's Own Heart

2009-08-19T14:36:00.000-05:00

Last summer, my dad, sister, and I made a trip to England. All of my dad's side of the family lives there and I always enjoy going to catch up with family, seeing all of the attractions, and relaxing.

A few days before we left, I made my way to the christian book store to get some new reading material. Shortly after walking in, a pink book with a bright yellow $5 sticker caught my eye... "A Woman After God's Own Heart" by Elizabeth George. I knew I couldn't pass up the price or the topic so I made my purchase and headed out the door. Once I was onboard the long overnight flight, I gave my clearance book a shot. After reading the first few pages, I knew I had a keeper! It has been over a year since I have read the book and I still find myself thinking back on the principals of how to pursue God's priorities and to keep your faith strong in circumstances that can easily get you down. Each chapter is full of topics that you can apply to your life and lessons on how to become a woman of excellence in spiritual growth and prayer. Most of my friends have heard me talk about this book or have received a copy from me. If you have not read this little jewel... I encourage you too! Happy Reading!

What do you like to read? I would love suggestions of a good book of any genre!

Eventful Moments

2009-08-18T22:59:00.000-05:00

Throughout the course of life... it is inevitable that everyone will experience change. Sometimes you can go through an entire year with minimal change and other years can be quite the contrary. For the most part, I like it... its something new, something different. These past few months and especially this week have been and will be quite eventful. In May, I graduated college and after many late nights working on projects... I finally have my degree! Today, my little brother turned sixteen and will be getting his drivers license (which is crazy for me to think about). This Saturday.. my sister will be getting married and our family of five will be growing to a family of six! No doubt its been an eventful year and its not even over over... I wonder what the next few months will bring... mmm.

Officially entering blog world...

2009-08-18T10:59:00.000-05:00

Well, I finally caved and joined in on the writer side of the infamous blog world! I will be the first to admit that I am an active blog reader and have been for quite sometime now. With technology growing at such a rapid pace, people are willingly opening up their lives and allowing strangers to read, see pictures, and have a glimpse of their daily adventures, life struggles, etc. I never thought that I would become a blogger myself... but here I am writing my first post! I recently saw the movie Julie and Julia and although it inspired my friend to cook more... it partly inspired me to be a blogger. Currently, my life is uncertain... in a few months I could be in a far off land, another city, or still living in Memphis... with so many changes or lack of changes... it seems like the perfect time to start an online journal. So without further adieu... I would like to welcome you to the window of my life... my blog!