Well, its finally here! I woke up this morning in a hotel room over looking Pennsylvania Avenue!! I can see the Jefferson Memorial, Post Office, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument. It is FABULOUS! We have a fun few days plan of catching up with old friends, doing tourist things we never did when we lived her, obviously hitting up H&M (hopefully I will have better luck than I did in Vancouver this summer...and as you can guess, Greg is thrilled!), stopping by the old office, and eating at our favorite restaurants.
We had a funny (I guess thats what you can call it??) experience last night on our flight. DISCLAIMER...WEAK STOMACHS STOP READING NOW. The woman behind us loudly asks the flight attendent (before take off I mind you) "Can I have a bigger barf bag because I throw up ALOT. I want one of those big plastic bags." MMMM, the look on the flight attendents face and Gregs was PRICELESS. Fortunately we were able to the last row because girlfriend barfed ALOT. Sick. Talk about top 10 things you don't want to hear before take off....
Hope you all have a blessed Turkey Day. I will try to be updating with our Washington Adventures, but we know how that normally goes....
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
I'm BAAAAAACK!!
After a month long hiatus I am back for the meanwhile. Work is a zoo so my blogging time is CERTAINLY less than it was back during those SLOOOOOOW summer days.
Heres whats been going on with me---
- I went to Baton Rouge for the LSU Florida game (realized that Bogies is actually just one large fire hazard and was sad to watch the Tigers lose)
- Spent several weekends at work events
- I lost my grandfather, Pop. Pop was 92 and had an absolutely amazing life, but it was still very sad. My sisters and I were lucky enough to get to speak about Pop at his funeral-- which was tough but also very rewarding.
- We spent Halloween handing out candy with Lizzie, Charlie, and Meg at Lizzie and Charlie's house. Best costume definently was the little kid dressed up as laundry.
- We celebrated Mom's 50th birthday last week and surprised her with a trip to Punta Mita, Mexico. It was amazing!!!
Work is busy but THANKFULLY Thanksgiving is around the corner. Greg and I are thrilled to be spending the week in Washington, DC...neither of us has been since we left and we are SO excited!!! We are also headed to Oxford to watch the Tigers play. After that, it will be Christmas decorations time-- YAHOO!!
I promise I will attempt to write more....
Heres whats been going on with me---
- I went to Baton Rouge for the LSU Florida game (realized that Bogies is actually just one large fire hazard and was sad to watch the Tigers lose)
- Spent several weekends at work events
- I lost my grandfather, Pop. Pop was 92 and had an absolutely amazing life, but it was still very sad. My sisters and I were lucky enough to get to speak about Pop at his funeral-- which was tough but also very rewarding.
- We spent Halloween handing out candy with Lizzie, Charlie, and Meg at Lizzie and Charlie's house. Best costume definently was the little kid dressed up as laundry.
- We celebrated Mom's 50th birthday last week and surprised her with a trip to Punta Mita, Mexico. It was amazing!!!
Work is busy but THANKFULLY Thanksgiving is around the corner. Greg and I are thrilled to be spending the week in Washington, DC...neither of us has been since we left and we are SO excited!!! We are also headed to Oxford to watch the Tigers play. After that, it will be Christmas decorations time-- YAHOO!!
I promise I will attempt to write more....
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Tory Burch and Tiger Football
Tory Burch's REVA flats changed my life a few years ago. They are comfortable, cute, and versatile. And for my size 9.5 Narrow foot, they are heaven. I have decided that even if they go out of style I will continue to wear them as they are just so darn comfy!
I have a few pairs...black patent, black and gold, purple and gold (logically I call them my "LS-Shoes"), silver metallic, and gold metallic. Now, I'm in a bit of a pickle because my black and gold, silver metallic, and gold metallic are all reallllly whipped out. I'm talking bad (the black pair has a massive hole under my big toe, not a good look...) SO, that being said, I need to replace them. But to replace ALL of them at once is a fairly large expense, one that is not recession worthy. So, here my shallow shoe dilemma lies. Black, silver, or gold?
In other news, Athens was amazing. We beat the Dawgs in the last minute of the game. It was the perfect gameday! Gorgeous weather, good friends, and a serious football game. We are heading to BR this weekend to take on #1 Florida. GEAUX TIGERS!
I have a few pairs...black patent, black and gold, purple and gold (logically I call them my "LS-Shoes"), silver metallic, and gold metallic. Now, I'm in a bit of a pickle because my black and gold, silver metallic, and gold metallic are all reallllly whipped out. I'm talking bad (the black pair has a massive hole under my big toe, not a good look...) SO, that being said, I need to replace them. But to replace ALL of them at once is a fairly large expense, one that is not recession worthy. So, here my shallow shoe dilemma lies. Black, silver, or gold?
In other news, Athens was amazing. We beat the Dawgs in the last minute of the game. It was the perfect gameday! Gorgeous weather, good friends, and a serious football game. We are heading to BR this weekend to take on #1 Florida. GEAUX TIGERS!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Georgia Bound
Its finally here- my first LSU game of the season! Greg and I are headed to Athens, GA tomorrow to cheer on the Tigers and visit a great friend. Super excited for the fun weekend ahead...AND my first time in Athens, GA. I'm hoping to get a tiny taste of fall because God knows we aren't getting that in Houston.
Now, LSU hasn't beat Georgia at home since 1988. Do I smell a challenge?
Now, LSU hasn't beat Georgia at home since 1988. Do I smell a challenge?
Friday, September 18, 2009
Round Top Bound...
I am heading with Mom, Leanne, and my honorary aunt Mrs. Mary to the Roundtop Antique Show (Marburger Farms to be specific...)on Tuesday, September 29th. I am so excited to get some inspirtation (and furniture and knick knacks) for the house that Greg and I do not own yet...or for our wonderful little rental apt (it would be MORE wonderful if the upstairs AC and washing machine would quit acting up...)
Things on my wish list:
- Cool old prints that I can frame
- Cool old baskets that I can put under the fabulous antique table I have on "loan" from mi madre
- Any cool master bedroom furniture, again, for the master bedroom that doesn't exist
- Buffet and dining room table inspirations...perhaps I can buy in the spring?
- 1 piece that I have a vision for. Not sure what thats going to be yet. But its going to involve Greg and I painting and making pretty.
- Something with ikat fabric. I think it would be a great tie-in with our other furniture.
Next thought to consider...where to keep all of this wonderful stuff I want until my imaginary house actually exists....
Things on my wish list:
- Cool old prints that I can frame
- Cool old baskets that I can put under the fabulous antique table I have on "loan" from mi madre
- Any cool master bedroom furniture, again, for the master bedroom that doesn't exist
- Buffet and dining room table inspirations...perhaps I can buy in the spring?
- 1 piece that I have a vision for. Not sure what thats going to be yet. But its going to involve Greg and I painting and making pretty.
- Something with ikat fabric. I think it would be a great tie-in with our other furniture.
Next thought to consider...where to keep all of this wonderful stuff I want until my imaginary house actually exists....
Thursday, September 17, 2009
GEAUX
All I have been able to think about this evening is my days at LSU. Maybe its the cool breeze in the air reminding me its football season. Maybe its that I am quickly trying to pick out a purple dress for a gameday party next week. Maybe its that I had dinner with my oldest friends, and one that I spent much of my childhood and college days tailgating with. Whatever it is, it makes me miss my days in the DDD House, nights spent at Bogies, and afternoons spent tailgating. While I can't claim to be the worlds biggest football fan, I really do love LSU. The history, tradition, and culture is second to none. I love the color purple...and I love the way the band sounds when they first walk on the field. You know....DUHHHH DUHHH DUHHHH NUH! (Any Tiger fan knows what I am talking about) For those of you who don't know, click on the link to experience the ultimate in LSU awesomeness. Gives me chills everytime... GEAUX TIGERS!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1QP0u0lVZA
A few pics from Football Season my Junior Year (Fall 2004, wow, that makes me feel old...)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1QP0u0lVZA
A few pics from Football Season my Junior Year (Fall 2004, wow, that makes me feel old...)
Friday, September 11, 2009
I promise this will be my last serious post for awhile, but I need to share my thoughts today. Waking up, it seemed like another Friday morning. I was running my habitual 10 minutes late. I ate my raisin bran per usual. I got in my car, talked to Mom and Lizzie and then turned on the radio. Alan Jackson's "Where were you when the world stopped turning"was on and I got chills...I remembered that it was September 11th. I thought of how I felt 8 years ago at the moment-- how America had felt. Lost, scared, and sad. I was a senior in high school and its one of the days from those 4 years that I remember most vividly. I remember clinging close to my family and friends and thanking God for what I had, and for the opportunity to live in such a fine place. I remember making a CD with "American Hits" to jam too while at Anahuac Gator Fest (You know I LOVE me some good American hits). Ironically, tomorrow I will be heading back to Gatorfest with the same friends for the first time since 2001. (Side note: my friend Jennifer threw the CD out of the window. Seems as though she wasn't cool enough for Lee Greenwood....or America....)
I remember the September 11ths that followed. I remember being in college the first year after and watching all of the coverage in the living room of the Tridelt House (of course I wasn't in class as I was supposed to be...). I remember standing in the Courtyard of the Ronald Reagan building in Washington D.C. on the 5 year anniversary to remember the brave souls America had lost. I remember the following year standing on my balcony in Arlington, VA looking at the Pentagon thinking of the horrible sight I would have seen had I been standing there 6 years earlier. I remember last year, a hurricane blowing into Houston and taking my bridal portraits, thinking about the day that forever changed my country.
Today, I think about those lost. I think about the children whose mothers and fathers never came home. I think about the ultimate sacrifice those people made for the land they loved. I think of a baby who was born today and is now 8 years old. Unbelievable how time passes. Today I will thank God for my family, friends, and country, and those who fight to protect it. God bless America.
(And I promise next week I will focus on things that aren't so sad...stay tuned for my opinion on the best thing in the world...aka NETFLIX)
I remember the September 11ths that followed. I remember being in college the first year after and watching all of the coverage in the living room of the Tridelt House (of course I wasn't in class as I was supposed to be...). I remember standing in the Courtyard of the Ronald Reagan building in Washington D.C. on the 5 year anniversary to remember the brave souls America had lost. I remember the following year standing on my balcony in Arlington, VA looking at the Pentagon thinking of the horrible sight I would have seen had I been standing there 6 years earlier. I remember last year, a hurricane blowing into Houston and taking my bridal portraits, thinking about the day that forever changed my country.
Today, I think about those lost. I think about the children whose mothers and fathers never came home. I think about the ultimate sacrifice those people made for the land they loved. I think of a baby who was born today and is now 8 years old. Unbelievable how time passes. Today I will thank God for my family, friends, and country, and those who fight to protect it. God bless America.
(And I promise next week I will focus on things that aren't so sad...stay tuned for my opinion on the best thing in the world...aka NETFLIX)
Monday, August 31, 2009
The District of Columbia
As September begins tomorrow, I cannot help but long for Fall in Washington. Below is a little collage that I put together using Picasa with some of my favorite pictures from my time in our nation's capital. (Side note, Picasa is awesome!)
Happy September!
Happy September!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Hurricane Katrina
On August 29, 2005, the City of New Orleans and Mississippi Gulf Coast were forever changed. Hurricane Katrina came upon land the lives of those who called these places home. I have never lived in New Orleans but several of my very best friends grew up there and shared their love for the culturally energized city with me during our days at LSU.
As I look back on that terrible time in the lives of so many of those that I loved, I remember watching closely as my dear friend Meg's world was turned upside down. Her home was destroyed, her sisters winter wedding was postponed because her church had flooded, her family whom had always lived in the same neighborhood in New Orleans were relocating to new cities. Inspite all of those horrible things, there was a strong bond of strength from Meg and her family. They WOULD get through it together, they would get through it with prayer, and in the words of John Lennon, "they would get by with a little help from their friends." Watching them reminded me of the importance families and friends, and taught me how little important material possessions really were.
Four years later, the city is still rebuilding, but memories of Katrina will always remain. It was a storm that forever changed a way of life, but the people of the Gulf Coast have been resilient. As I reflect upon Katrina, it makes me so thankful for my own family and friends and proud, yet again, for the strength, courage, laughter, and grace my friends from New Orleans showed during those darkest days.
As I look back on that terrible time in the lives of so many of those that I loved, I remember watching closely as my dear friend Meg's world was turned upside down. Her home was destroyed, her sisters winter wedding was postponed because her church had flooded, her family whom had always lived in the same neighborhood in New Orleans were relocating to new cities. Inspite all of those horrible things, there was a strong bond of strength from Meg and her family. They WOULD get through it together, they would get through it with prayer, and in the words of John Lennon, "they would get by with a little help from their friends." Watching them reminded me of the importance families and friends, and taught me how little important material possessions really were.
Four years later, the city is still rebuilding, but memories of Katrina will always remain. It was a storm that forever changed a way of life, but the people of the Gulf Coast have been resilient. As I reflect upon Katrina, it makes me so thankful for my own family and friends and proud, yet again, for the strength, courage, laughter, and grace my friends from New Orleans showed during those darkest days.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Ted Kennedy
I know that all in Washington are saddened at the passing of Ted Kennedy. I decided when I started this blog that I would leave my political beliefs out of it, so I will hold true to that, but I do have to say that like many, many Americans I find the Kennedy's fascinating and intriguing (I also find the Bush family fascinating and intriguing, as to keep my blog "bipartisan".)
Greg and I saw Ted Kennedy at the Centennial Gala of the National Cathedral in 2007, and I must admit, I was politico-struck (DC's version of starstruck). I found it very cool to say I had seen one of THE Kennedy's. He was also married to a South Louisiana girl, who happened to be first cousins with my childhood pediatrician. Small world.
My sympathies go out to the Kennedy family as they mourn the loss of their father, husband, and uncle.
Greg and I saw Ted Kennedy at the Centennial Gala of the National Cathedral in 2007, and I must admit, I was politico-struck (DC's version of starstruck). I found it very cool to say I had seen one of THE Kennedy's. He was also married to a South Louisiana girl, who happened to be first cousins with my childhood pediatrician. Small world.
My sympathies go out to the Kennedy family as they mourn the loss of their father, husband, and uncle.
Friday, August 21, 2009
TGIF
It's Friday afternoon. Hallelujah! It's been SUCH a busy week!
Lets just talk for a minute about a blast from Friday's past. TGIF. As in Friday nights on ABC. I'm talking about Full House, Family Matters, The Dinosaurs. Aka, TV's finest. (Side note: do you guys remember the baby on Dinosaurs "I'm the baby got to love me." Yep, that was my sister KK in dinosaur form.) And who can forget Boy Meets World (aka, BMW) or Step by Step. Followed by 20/20. (Side note 2: I have a weakness for 20/20. Like I love it. Greg finds this funny as most times that we watch it I have fallen asleep on the couch by 9:20.)
Anyways, I am in strong support of ABC bringing TGIF back. Can you imagine? Michelle Tanner is 22. Steve Urkel is 40. DJ Tanner has 3 kids. Comet Tanner is...well, dead, unfortunately. (Shed a tear, I loved that dog...) Cory and Tapanga are married. Who is with me? A relaxing Friday night at home with the company of the Tanners and the Winslows. A girl can dream...
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Thursday, August 13, 2009
Roller Shoes
I hate them. You know which ones I am talking about...the shoes that kids can morph from a "walker" to a "skater" with a little click of the heel. It drives me crazy when kids are skating on their heels throughout the grocery store. Come on parents, there is a time and a place. And in my day, it was at The Skate Zone in Lafayette while I jammed to hits by "New Kids on the Block" or when Leanne and I "bladed" around the old hood. How does Central Market compare to these places? It doesn't...trust me, I love Central Market, but it is HARDLY The Skate Zone.
So long story short, I think these shoes should be banned. Kids look as they they are about to crack their head open as they zip through grocery shopping with their Mom. And they just irk me to no end. Maybe I am jealous that these kids get to mvoe faster down the aisle than I can. Maybe it makes me long for 1991 and my awesome Barbie Skates. Whatever the reason, I hate these things.
But thats just my opinion....
So long story short, I think these shoes should be banned. Kids look as they they are about to crack their head open as they zip through grocery shopping with their Mom. And they just irk me to no end. Maybe I am jealous that these kids get to mvoe faster down the aisle than I can. Maybe it makes me long for 1991 and my awesome Barbie Skates. Whatever the reason, I hate these things.
But thats just my opinion....
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
One Fine Day
On my drive to work "One Fine Day" by the Chiffons came on my favorite Sirius station...60s on 6. (Yes, I am 25 and love the 60s station. Some of the best music EVER came from those years!)
There is something about this song that makes me feel HAPPY!! Great melody, cute lyrics...I adore it. It was a great way to start my morning.
Hope you all have an EXCELLENT day. Almost half way through the week, so keep on truckin'.....
There is something about this song that makes me feel HAPPY!! Great melody, cute lyrics...I adore it. It was a great way to start my morning.
Hope you all have an EXCELLENT day. Almost half way through the week, so keep on truckin'.....
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Coffee please
My favorite coffee of the moment...Starbucks Caffe Verona. Its stronger than the Community Coffee we normally drink and tastes so yummy. You can buy it at Kroger and most grocery stores.
Its funny how a basic cup of coffee can be so indivualized. I like skim milk and 2 splendas. My mom says that the thought of having 2 splendas in her coffee makes her jaw want to lock. I think its perfect!!! How do you take YOUR coffee??
Its funny how a basic cup of coffee can be so indivualized. I like skim milk and 2 splendas. My mom says that the thought of having 2 splendas in her coffee makes her jaw want to lock. I think its perfect!!! How do you take YOUR coffee??
Sunday, August 9, 2009
My beauty essentials (aka, I'm high maintenance and I know it)
I was reading my sister's Lucky Magazine this weekend and several editors had put together their beauty product must-have list. These are my essentials (and I literally mean essentials, for those who know me well, you know I travel with pretty much my whole apartment, so everything ALWAYS comes with me.)
1. Dove soap. It's what my 87 year old grandmother Meme has used forever. And you should see her skin....she has no wrinkles! From face soap to body soap you cannot go wrong.
2. Bobbi Brown Moisturizer. My glutonness beauty pleasure. I swear its going to prevent my aging. And it smells lovely. Greg just hates the price...
3. Vera Wang Perfume. I've been wearing it for 4 years, and while I sometimes think about switching to a new scent, I just can't get away from it. It smells so fresh and pretty.
4. Johnson and Johnson Moisturizing Body Wash. It smells so sweet and makes your skin so soft.
5. Big Girl Lash Mascara. While this mascara isn't cheap, it takes your lashes to new lengths!
6. Facade Eyeliner. Local Houston make-up hot spot, Facade, has their own line of makeup, and I highly recommend their WATERPROOF (even resitant to Houston summer humidity!) eyeliner pencil. They also have a great spray on foundation that I wore for the day of my wedding...it stayed on for hours!
7. Smashbox Photofinish Foundation Primer and Eyeshadows. This foundation primer is perfect for making your makeup stay put, and I love the Sienna and Cinnamon Toast eyeshadows. Browns and neutrals work best for me, but they have lots of great colors.
8. Clinique Gel Bronzer. I cannot even begin to talk about how sad I am that this product has been discontinued. I would mix a little bit with my foundation for a more natural glow. My sister, KK, has suggested that Bobbi Brown has a similar product. We'll see....for now, I just need to make my last little bit last for a while!
9. Bobbi Brown Foundation and Lipsticks. Their oil free foundation is pricey, but perfect for my skin type all-year long. My all time favorite lipstick is Rasberry Shimmer, but I also mix it up sometimes with their pretty light pink color, Ruffle.
10. Nars "Orgasm" Blush. (I am glad I typed that, because I get so embarrassed saying it when I buy it!) My friend Gina recommended this blush to me. Its a great color and last forever! It just needs a new name...
11. Lubriderm or Curel Lotion. I come from a family of dry skin, so these are essentials!
12. L'occitaine Handcream. Butter for your hands. This stuff rocks.
13. ISO Bouncy Creme. I have used this hair product since 8th grade, so its tried and true on this crazy mane. Its my most favorite product ever! Its light, and controls frizz. I also use it when I wear my hair curly. Hard to find, but WELL worth it!
14. My shampoo and conditioner collections. Constantly evolving, I really should have gone to beauty school. I know shampoo like the back of my hand.
15. My roundbrush. 'Nuff said....
The list could go on, but I'll stop while I am ahead. Some might say I'm high maintenance..and I cannot disagree:)
1. Dove soap. It's what my 87 year old grandmother Meme has used forever. And you should see her skin....she has no wrinkles! From face soap to body soap you cannot go wrong.
2. Bobbi Brown Moisturizer. My glutonness beauty pleasure. I swear its going to prevent my aging. And it smells lovely. Greg just hates the price...
3. Vera Wang Perfume. I've been wearing it for 4 years, and while I sometimes think about switching to a new scent, I just can't get away from it. It smells so fresh and pretty.
4. Johnson and Johnson Moisturizing Body Wash. It smells so sweet and makes your skin so soft.
5. Big Girl Lash Mascara. While this mascara isn't cheap, it takes your lashes to new lengths!
6. Facade Eyeliner. Local Houston make-up hot spot, Facade, has their own line of makeup, and I highly recommend their WATERPROOF (even resitant to Houston summer humidity!) eyeliner pencil. They also have a great spray on foundation that I wore for the day of my wedding...it stayed on for hours!
7. Smashbox Photofinish Foundation Primer and Eyeshadows. This foundation primer is perfect for making your makeup stay put, and I love the Sienna and Cinnamon Toast eyeshadows. Browns and neutrals work best for me, but they have lots of great colors.
8. Clinique Gel Bronzer. I cannot even begin to talk about how sad I am that this product has been discontinued. I would mix a little bit with my foundation for a more natural glow. My sister, KK, has suggested that Bobbi Brown has a similar product. We'll see....for now, I just need to make my last little bit last for a while!
9. Bobbi Brown Foundation and Lipsticks. Their oil free foundation is pricey, but perfect for my skin type all-year long. My all time favorite lipstick is Rasberry Shimmer, but I also mix it up sometimes with their pretty light pink color, Ruffle.
10. Nars "Orgasm" Blush. (I am glad I typed that, because I get so embarrassed saying it when I buy it!) My friend Gina recommended this blush to me. Its a great color and last forever! It just needs a new name...
11. Lubriderm or Curel Lotion. I come from a family of dry skin, so these are essentials!
12. L'occitaine Handcream. Butter for your hands. This stuff rocks.
13. ISO Bouncy Creme. I have used this hair product since 8th grade, so its tried and true on this crazy mane. Its my most favorite product ever! Its light, and controls frizz. I also use it when I wear my hair curly. Hard to find, but WELL worth it!
14. My shampoo and conditioner collections. Constantly evolving, I really should have gone to beauty school. I know shampoo like the back of my hand.
15. My roundbrush. 'Nuff said....
The list could go on, but I'll stop while I am ahead. Some might say I'm high maintenance..and I cannot disagree:)
Friday, August 7, 2009
I'm in a Courtney state of mind
From no posts in weeks to 2 posts in 1 day. Go me.
Everybody has to be somewhere, and right now, this is my state of mind:
- Rearranging mode...from rearranging my space at work, to rearranging the furniture layout in my guest bedroom, I've made a few changes. For some reason, shifting furniture around makes me feel like I am in a new space, and I like that.
- Niven Morgan Gold Candles. I have bought one for pratically every room (okay, I know thats not many in our apartment, but still!) They are heavenly.
- Old family photos. Last weekend I spent a very special few days with my grandparents. I have the worlds GREATEST grandparents (who I call Baba and Gaga...aren't those names great?) It was just me, them, and my favorite little dachshund Charlie for 3 days of lots of cooking, catching up, and looking at great old pictures. We really did have the most wonderful time. I scanned TONS of photos and am going to put together a wall of old family photos in our apartment. See the bottom of this post for a few of my awesome finds.
- Cooking for my husband. I have actually learned that I LOVE to cook. WHO KNEW! It is so much fun. I love putting on my apron and some music and whipping up something for dinner. Greg is a big fan of my new obsession as well. It makes me smile knowing how much he enjoys dinner at home with just the 2 of us.
- Old Swing Music on comcast. After spending a few days at Baba and Gaga's house I have been loving listening to the swing music station on cable while cooking, doing, laundry, cleaning, you name it. It reminds me of them and makes me smile. It plays everything from Frank Sinatra to Michael Buble. I would highly recommend, something about that type of music just makes you feel GOOD!!!
- Vacuuming (sorry, thats a lame one, but its true, I am like a compulsive vacuumer)
- This puppy dog Mason, I really want him...how sweet is he!!! I am seriously contemplating convincing Greg to let us adopt him. He needs a home, and I think ours is just the one!! (And he HATES cats, just like me, I think its a match made in heaven!)http://www.dachshundrescueofhouston.org/viewdog.php?DogID=526
- Snicker doodle cookies....yummm. I made my Baba's recipe or Greg and some friends this week. They rock. Recipe to follow
- Counting weight watchers points, groan...after eating our weigh (no pun intended) through the Pacific Northwest, we are in Weight Watchers mode at Casa de Schilling. Doing it together though makes it a little more fun, and I forget how good I feel when I do it. I am a tried and true Weight Watchers veteran these days after 7 years of making their program fit my lifestyle.
http://www.weightwatchers.com/
- Container Store August-to-August calendars. YAY! I got to start my new calendar! Its the little things that make me happy.
- LSU Football Season....I'm ready for tailgates with Mrs. Smashley and Bogies Old School Night. Let the countdown begin!
- Halloween and Christmas decorations. I bought a precious Halloween frame and plate this week and I cannot wait to decorate our apartment for all of the upcoming Holidays. My boss gave me the greatest idea to start a photo album of all of our pictures from Christmases throughout the years to pull out during the holidays. Its my new project!
- Baby Billie Jean...I am so excited for January and my new little friend to come into the world. His mom is feeling great and we are all thankful for that. Now hurry up Billie Jean! I cannot wait to know if you are a boy or a girl!!!
Here are a few of the great old family pictures I talked about before...a few of them are from the 1800s! Baba is the stunning blonde and my mom is the PRECIOUS brunette little girl. Enjoy!
Everybody has to be somewhere, and right now, this is my state of mind:
- Rearranging mode...from rearranging my space at work, to rearranging the furniture layout in my guest bedroom, I've made a few changes. For some reason, shifting furniture around makes me feel like I am in a new space, and I like that.
- Niven Morgan Gold Candles. I have bought one for pratically every room (okay, I know thats not many in our apartment, but still!) They are heavenly.
- Old family photos. Last weekend I spent a very special few days with my grandparents. I have the worlds GREATEST grandparents (who I call Baba and Gaga...aren't those names great?) It was just me, them, and my favorite little dachshund Charlie for 3 days of lots of cooking, catching up, and looking at great old pictures. We really did have the most wonderful time. I scanned TONS of photos and am going to put together a wall of old family photos in our apartment. See the bottom of this post for a few of my awesome finds.
- Cooking for my husband. I have actually learned that I LOVE to cook. WHO KNEW! It is so much fun. I love putting on my apron and some music and whipping up something for dinner. Greg is a big fan of my new obsession as well. It makes me smile knowing how much he enjoys dinner at home with just the 2 of us.
- Old Swing Music on comcast. After spending a few days at Baba and Gaga's house I have been loving listening to the swing music station on cable while cooking, doing, laundry, cleaning, you name it. It reminds me of them and makes me smile. It plays everything from Frank Sinatra to Michael Buble. I would highly recommend, something about that type of music just makes you feel GOOD!!!
- Vacuuming (sorry, thats a lame one, but its true, I am like a compulsive vacuumer)
- This puppy dog Mason, I really want him...how sweet is he!!! I am seriously contemplating convincing Greg to let us adopt him. He needs a home, and I think ours is just the one!! (And he HATES cats, just like me, I think its a match made in heaven!)http://www.dachshundrescueofhouston.org/viewdog.php?DogID=526
- Snicker doodle cookies....yummm. I made my Baba's recipe or Greg and some friends this week. They rock. Recipe to follow
- Counting weight watchers points, groan...after eating our weigh (no pun intended) through the Pacific Northwest, we are in Weight Watchers mode at Casa de Schilling. Doing it together though makes it a little more fun, and I forget how good I feel when I do it. I am a tried and true Weight Watchers veteran these days after 7 years of making their program fit my lifestyle.
http://www.weightwatchers.com/
- Container Store August-to-August calendars. YAY! I got to start my new calendar! Its the little things that make me happy.
- LSU Football Season....I'm ready for tailgates with Mrs. Smashley and Bogies Old School Night. Let the countdown begin!
- Halloween and Christmas decorations. I bought a precious Halloween frame and plate this week and I cannot wait to decorate our apartment for all of the upcoming Holidays. My boss gave me the greatest idea to start a photo album of all of our pictures from Christmases throughout the years to pull out during the holidays. Its my new project!
- Baby Billie Jean...I am so excited for January and my new little friend to come into the world. His mom is feeling great and we are all thankful for that. Now hurry up Billie Jean! I cannot wait to know if you are a boy or a girl!!!
Here are a few of the great old family pictures I talked about before...a few of them are from the 1800s! Baba is the stunning blonde and my mom is the PRECIOUS brunette little girl. Enjoy!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
I'm baaaaaaaack!
Howdy amigos! After Lizzie accused me of being the "worst blogger ever" I decided to FINALLY write a post...
So much for my online trip journal, eh? Thought that counts I guess. We had an AMAZING time on our trip...it was so nice just to be just the 2 of us for a few days (I even went without my cell phone for 4 days!! And didn't complain too much about it!!!)
I highly recommend Vancouver, it is a FABULOUS city. And I even more highly recommend Bin941...this trendy wine bar with a great wine list and an even better menu. We ate there 2 out of 3 nights in Vancouver!
Whistler was such a neat ski town and will be a great location for the Olympics. I actually did a little "sporty activity" during our day there....well, kind of...
We adored Victoria, its a precious town that looks like it is straight out of Europe. It was a quick night, with not a great meal, but great weather!
Seattle was HOT HOT HOT while we were there...102 degrees (hottest day on record in Seattle HISTORY...go freaking figure) Seattle was probably my least favorite out of all 3 cities, but I did get to go onboard Kennedy and Eisenhower's Air Force One which was SO cool.
Below are a few fun pics from our Northwest Adventure, enjoy!!! (And they are in NO particular order, which drives me crazy...so sorry!)
So much for my online trip journal, eh? Thought that counts I guess. We had an AMAZING time on our trip...it was so nice just to be just the 2 of us for a few days (I even went without my cell phone for 4 days!! And didn't complain too much about it!!!)
I highly recommend Vancouver, it is a FABULOUS city. And I even more highly recommend Bin941...this trendy wine bar with a great wine list and an even better menu. We ate there 2 out of 3 nights in Vancouver!
Whistler was such a neat ski town and will be a great location for the Olympics. I actually did a little "sporty activity" during our day there....well, kind of...
We adored Victoria, its a precious town that looks like it is straight out of Europe. It was a quick night, with not a great meal, but great weather!
Seattle was HOT HOT HOT while we were there...102 degrees (hottest day on record in Seattle HISTORY...go freaking figure) Seattle was probably my least favorite out of all 3 cities, but I did get to go onboard Kennedy and Eisenhower's Air Force One which was SO cool.
Below are a few fun pics from our Northwest Adventure, enjoy!!! (And they are in NO particular order, which drives me crazy...so sorry!)
Oh look! Its Michelle and Barack! I mean Courtney and Greg....Schilling 2036.
Greg in the Seattle Fish Market
Vancouver Fireworks
Hiiiii Canada!
Sunset on last night in Seattle
Yummy sushi in Vancouver
Greg at Butchart Gardens (Victoria, BC)
Empress Hotel in Victoria
Gorgeous Sunflowers at Butchart Gardens (okay, so I am still a 5th grade lover of sunflowers, sue me...)
Hanging with the Hydrangeas
Ferry ride to Victoria
Most gorgeous drive in the world: Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler
Whistler, Canada
Peak to Peak Gondola between the mountains in Whistler
Peace!
Greg at the top of Whistler Mountain
Granville Island, Vancouver
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Canada, Ay!
Hello from Vancouver. We are loving the cool weather and the gorgeous scenery. Right now I am drinking coffee and watching sea planes take off on the bay. Pretty fabulous. I'm going to try and keep an "online" trip journal on the blog while we are gone...we'll see how that works out?
Yesterday was LONG. Up at 5:30 a.m. Houston time to make a 7:40 a.m. flight to Seattle. Not a bad flight though thanks to paying $6 for direct TV in my seat. It was great. Old school Beverly Hills 90210 on Soap Net definently made the time pass faster.
We drove from Seattle to Vancouver-- very pretty drive with a stop at a precious town (Everett, WA) along the way for lunch at a fun, eclectic Hippies meet French House spot called "Sisters".
Made it into Canada and walked around Vancouver for a few hours and got a good feel of the city. Had an amazing dinner at Bin941...incredible food and wine. Then caught some fireworks and CRASHED. Pooped and a little drunk from the great wine.
Going to explore, more later!
Yesterday was LONG. Up at 5:30 a.m. Houston time to make a 7:40 a.m. flight to Seattle. Not a bad flight though thanks to paying $6 for direct TV in my seat. It was great. Old school Beverly Hills 90210 on Soap Net definently made the time pass faster.
We drove from Seattle to Vancouver-- very pretty drive with a stop at a precious town (Everett, WA) along the way for lunch at a fun, eclectic Hippies meet French House spot called "Sisters".
Made it into Canada and walked around Vancouver for a few hours and got a good feel of the city. Had an amazing dinner at Bin941...incredible food and wine. Then caught some fireworks and CRASHED. Pooped and a little drunk from the great wine.
Going to explore, more later!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The Phantom of the Opera needs Therapy
When I was in 5th grade, my mom surprised my sister Leanne and I with a "Big Girl Day" in New Orleans. We got to skip school, eat lunch at Houston's and drink Shirley Temples, and we went to see Phantom of the Opera at the Saenger Theatre. Last night, almost 15 years later, we had a "repeat" of this experience (except with better food at Nino's and wine instead of Shirley Temples...)
And we had to laugh, because our Mom (who wouldn't let us see PG-13 movies until last week) took us at a very young age to probably one of the darkest productions Broadway has ever known.
Last night we all decided that the Phantom of the Opera needs serious help. Come on, the dude kills people, lives on a lake below an Opera House, wears a mask everywhere he goes...I've watched All My Children WAY too long to not go ahead and call this guy for what he is...a basket case.
There were many points last night I had to giggle at what a 10 year old version of myself thought of all the dark mystery...and even more so what Leanne had thought at the ripe old age of 8 (lets keep in mind she was a rather spacey child...) Mom commented several times "I don't know WHAT I was thinking when I brought y'all to this before."
But besides the creepy sinister story line that I had somehow forgotten about, it really is some of the most incredible music you will ever experience and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves musicals as I do.
And we had to laugh, because our Mom (who wouldn't let us see PG-13 movies until last week) took us at a very young age to probably one of the darkest productions Broadway has ever known.
Last night we all decided that the Phantom of the Opera needs serious help. Come on, the dude kills people, lives on a lake below an Opera House, wears a mask everywhere he goes...I've watched All My Children WAY too long to not go ahead and call this guy for what he is...a basket case.
There were many points last night I had to giggle at what a 10 year old version of myself thought of all the dark mystery...and even more so what Leanne had thought at the ripe old age of 8 (lets keep in mind she was a rather spacey child...) Mom commented several times "I don't know WHAT I was thinking when I brought y'all to this before."
But besides the creepy sinister story line that I had somehow forgotten about, it really is some of the most incredible music you will ever experience and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves musicals as I do.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Suggestions for our Northwest Adventure needed....
Greg and I have booked a vacation to Seattle, Vancouver and Victoria next week. Any great restaurant/sightseeing recommendations??? We would appreciate any ideas!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
LSU vs. ULL (Please read in your best attempt at a Cajun accent)
This post was requested by my dear friend Sara after I had a brief "run-in" with a University of Louisiana at Lafayette bartender/DJ at the Red Eye in NOLA. Long story short, I asked him to play the LSU fight song and got a less than pleasant response. I marched outside and gave a 5 minute monologue to Sara and a few others in my best Cajun Accent (I have a strange talent at this accent!)on why this man made me mad. This is my follow up. Happy Birthday Woods!
Mais sha, how stoopid you tink it is dat dose ULL Ragin Cajuns tink dat dey are bettah dan duh LSU Tigahs. I mean PUH LEASE!!! Da best way I can describe how we LSU Tigahs feel about does stupid ULL people is dat if we were a catfish pond, we'd be like dah BIGGEST catfish in da pond and dey would be da smallest minnow. I mean seriously, dats how little we care about dem.
Now dey think they all high and mighty and like on our radar screen. Well news flash, you not. Like not even close. You haven't won a football game since you beat dem Texas A&M Aggies and carried the goal post around Lafayette all night long. And dat was in 1997...time to move on sha. Derefore, we don't care about you. Not to mention, we play you because we know we gonna kick ya ass. Its dat game we're like, oh dis is a joke, we just going to tailgate. Thats how much we know we gonna whip up on you. Basically, its a pity game. Sorry Cajuns, we just don't care.
So to Mistah Red Eye Bartender/DJ in New Awlins who told me "I'm not gonna play da LSU fight song, I went to ULL and I HATE LSU." Let me tell you something, dats stoopid. Thats like if you are Rhode Island saying you hate Texas. Newsflash, Rhode Island ain't even on Texas' mind. Dats because Texas could eat Rhode Island for a midmorning snack. And we can do dah same with you.
And don't even make me compare "Cajun Field" to dat big and beautiful Tiger Stadium. No comparison. Like comparing Paris Hilton to Ronald Reagan. You just can't even go dere. So next time you want to talk smack Mistah Bartender, you bettah think TWICE! GEAUX TIGERS and poo poo on you, you little Ragin Cajuns, get ova youself.
Mais sha, how stoopid you tink it is dat dose ULL Ragin Cajuns tink dat dey are bettah dan duh LSU Tigahs. I mean PUH LEASE!!! Da best way I can describe how we LSU Tigahs feel about does stupid ULL people is dat if we were a catfish pond, we'd be like dah BIGGEST catfish in da pond and dey would be da smallest minnow. I mean seriously, dats how little we care about dem.
Now dey think they all high and mighty and like on our radar screen. Well news flash, you not. Like not even close. You haven't won a football game since you beat dem Texas A&M Aggies and carried the goal post around Lafayette all night long. And dat was in 1997...time to move on sha. Derefore, we don't care about you. Not to mention, we play you because we know we gonna kick ya ass. Its dat game we're like, oh dis is a joke, we just going to tailgate. Thats how much we know we gonna whip up on you. Basically, its a pity game. Sorry Cajuns, we just don't care.
So to Mistah Red Eye Bartender/DJ in New Awlins who told me "I'm not gonna play da LSU fight song, I went to ULL and I HATE LSU." Let me tell you something, dats stoopid. Thats like if you are Rhode Island saying you hate Texas. Newsflash, Rhode Island ain't even on Texas' mind. Dats because Texas could eat Rhode Island for a midmorning snack. And we can do dah same with you.
And don't even make me compare "Cajun Field" to dat big and beautiful Tiger Stadium. No comparison. Like comparing Paris Hilton to Ronald Reagan. You just can't even go dere. So next time you want to talk smack Mistah Bartender, you bettah think TWICE! GEAUX TIGERS and poo poo on you, you little Ragin Cajuns, get ova youself.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Hell getting old....
In the words of my Dad "Its hell getting old, isn't it Court?" And he is right. It is. My LSU best friend and roommate, Jenna, emailed me last week and said "I might have a topic... As I realized I am getting old. Why when I come back from the lake am a falling apart like a 70 year old? I swear all i did was wakeboard for about 30 min. I was down in my back yesterday and could barely move my neck. All of us that went were complaining about how something hurt. I'm scared that this is only the beginning." But are we really getting old? Or are we just starting to realize that our body can't "handle" things like we used to be able to?
Take drinking for example. Back in our "college glory days" 2 drinks was a warm-up. Now a days, 2 drinks is all I can handle. (Pathetic, I know...does that make me old, or a lightweight?) And truth be told, more than 3 beers makes me feel like hell the next day. A few weeks ago, we spent a weekend in New Orleans, and I swear I didn't feel like myself until Thursday...definite sign of aging.
Now, you know my feelings on "sporty" activities, so I cannot really give my opinion on how it feels after wakeboarding. I felt fine after tubing, but it wasn't too intense. But Jenna is a tough cookie...so I take her word on it.
And come on people, 25 is young! (Well, at 16 I would have told you differently, but now I know otherwise...) I think the reality of your mid-20s is you actually become aware of the aging process. Something that had always seemed so foreign in younger years. For example, in the past 3 years I have quit smoking, started to wear moisturizer, and realized that aging is inevitable.
I'm sure I will look back on this post one day and laugh...or perhaps be thankful that in my 20s I started to take better care of myself. I know for sure that if I kept on living like I was 18 forever, I'd look 80 by the time I turned 40.
And last but not least, let us not forget Botox. A friend to all.
As promised, I am including a few pictures from Galveston. I think the picture of my mom can just goes to show that age is an illusion, I mean she seriously looks younger than me! And lets be real, the Old Navy Flag Tshirt is flattering at ANY age! 10 cool points Mom!
This is my parents PRECIOUS puppy Lola...we are all obsessed with her. Shes so cute and so funny!
And last but not least, Gregory and I braving the Galveston bay. Who would ever thought?
Take drinking for example. Back in our "college glory days" 2 drinks was a warm-up. Now a days, 2 drinks is all I can handle. (Pathetic, I know...does that make me old, or a lightweight?) And truth be told, more than 3 beers makes me feel like hell the next day. A few weeks ago, we spent a weekend in New Orleans, and I swear I didn't feel like myself until Thursday...definite sign of aging.
Now, you know my feelings on "sporty" activities, so I cannot really give my opinion on how it feels after wakeboarding. I felt fine after tubing, but it wasn't too intense. But Jenna is a tough cookie...so I take her word on it.
And come on people, 25 is young! (Well, at 16 I would have told you differently, but now I know otherwise...) I think the reality of your mid-20s is you actually become aware of the aging process. Something that had always seemed so foreign in younger years. For example, in the past 3 years I have quit smoking, started to wear moisturizer, and realized that aging is inevitable.
I'm sure I will look back on this post one day and laugh...or perhaps be thankful that in my 20s I started to take better care of myself. I know for sure that if I kept on living like I was 18 forever, I'd look 80 by the time I turned 40.
And last but not least, let us not forget Botox. A friend to all.
As promised, I am including a few pictures from Galveston. I think the picture of my mom can just goes to show that age is an illusion, I mean she seriously looks younger than me! And lets be real, the Old Navy Flag Tshirt is flattering at ANY age! 10 cool points Mom!
This is my parents PRECIOUS puppy Lola...we are all obsessed with her. Shes so cute and so funny!
And last but not least, Gregory and I braving the Galveston bay. Who would ever thought?
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Back from a creative hiatus...
I have been lacking creative mind flow for the past few days, hence my lack of blog entries. I'm going to go ahead and blame it on a combination of being on "island time" down in Galveston and majorly annoying allergies. And today its raining, which makes me feel like I should still be in bed, so I am going to keep this simple.
Hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July. Ours was super relaxing and fun. My mom is the winner of 10 cool points as she proudly sported her 2002 Old Navy Flag T-shirt. Pictures to follow.
Big news: my best friend Lizzie and her husband Charlie are going to have a baby. I have named the baby Billie Jean until it (he OR she) is born. If I were Lizzie and Charlie, I would seriously consider keeping that name permanently. We are SO SO SO excited for Lizzie and Chuck and cannot wait for Baby Billie Jean to be born:)
In other news, I went tubing this weekend. Now some of you might think "whats the big deal with that." Well, I have this weird (and I will confess, completely irrational and unfounded) fear of what might be lurking in the water. Namely jelly fish and sharks. This weekend I overcame (well at least for the moment) my major fear and not only got in the water TWICE, but also went tubing. It was a huge step (or swim) for me and I actually enjoyed it.
I've got a lot of topics to share my pointless opinions with you this week, so be sure to come back.
Hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July. Ours was super relaxing and fun. My mom is the winner of 10 cool points as she proudly sported her 2002 Old Navy Flag T-shirt. Pictures to follow.
Big news: my best friend Lizzie and her husband Charlie are going to have a baby. I have named the baby Billie Jean until it (he OR she) is born. If I were Lizzie and Charlie, I would seriously consider keeping that name permanently. We are SO SO SO excited for Lizzie and Chuck and cannot wait for Baby Billie Jean to be born:)
In other news, I went tubing this weekend. Now some of you might think "whats the big deal with that." Well, I have this weird (and I will confess, completely irrational and unfounded) fear of what might be lurking in the water. Namely jelly fish and sharks. This weekend I overcame (well at least for the moment) my major fear and not only got in the water TWICE, but also went tubing. It was a huge step (or swim) for me and I actually enjoyed it.
I've got a lot of topics to share my pointless opinions with you this week, so be sure to come back.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Topic 7: Old Navy Flag T-shirts (Greg)
For those of you who know me well, you know that I SERIOUSLY love America. So this weekend is quite the celebration for me. Don't think I haven't already been blasting Lee Greenwood's classic "Proud to be an American" or the U.S. Navy Band's version of "Hail to the Chief" in my car this week. Because I have, and thats because I love America.
And my friends, real Americans love Old Navy Flag T-shirts. You heard me. Nothing says I love America like running by your closest Old Navy, picking up a $5 Flag T-shirt (or several, come on people, your friends love America too...) and sporting it for the entire 4th of July weekend. Talk about recession friendly!
I think I seriously wore these when I was a little kid. In fact I am sure I could pull out my Old Navy 1997 Flag T-shirt from some box in my parent's attic. (Okay, I wasn't really a kid then, but it was the 90s, give me a break.)
I've already got my outfit ready for the 4th of july- a blue dress, red sunglasses, and white flip flops. Just call me Miss America. But seriously, 10 cool points to anyone who rocks the Old Navy Flag T-shirt this year.
And thank you my husband for finally giving me an entertaining topic to write on!
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