Tuesday, March 23, 2010
My Girls...
I am on cloud nine. I got a kitchen pass from hubs for a little vacation in April. After Easter, I'm going to get on the road and drive back to NoLA. I've got some friends I'd love to see in Houston and Baton Rouge, not to mention New Orleans. And on Wednesday the real fun begins- Heather Huth and I are flying down to Fort Lauderdale to spend the weekend with Amy Armstrong and Megan Lipe. These girls are some of my besties- we grew up with each other. There is no judging, just accepting. We know who each other is, we know what makes each other tick. There are no secrets, no need to say anything. Heather brings laughter into our lives. I'm the sentimental one. Amy has always been the glue that keeps us together. Megan is a new addition. She's been dating Amy's brother Brian for over a year now, and we're looking forward to quality girl's time with her without Brian. There is something about these friendships that is hard to explain. But when I'm with my girls, my soul is rejuvenated. Somehow, just by being together, I'm reminded of who I am and where I come from. I'm reminded of my strengths, and what makes me me. And I walk away feeling confident, comfortable in my own skin. I don't need to go to the spa for a makeover... I just need my girls. And I can't wait. Only fifteen days and they're mine.
Monday, March 22, 2010
And We're Showing...
That's right, our house is on the market and today was our very first showing. Layne and I have decided to work with our realtors who helped us buy the house, Richard and Karen Smiley with Virginia Cook. They are great at their job, and we trust our equity in their hands. We had twenty something other realtors from Virginia Cook at the house today, and I'm excited to see what the future brings. Hopefully, everything will go well and the process will fly by.
The only downfall to this experience is the cleaning. Who am I kidding? Making my bed didn't matter when I was ten and it still doesn't matter to me now. The only reason things get done around here is because I know Layne cares. Now I have more incentive though. Things could get interesting around here. I'm secretly wishing the situation will bring about some new lifestyle changes. I'll keep you posted.
And no... sorry to get your hopes up. We aren't moving back to Louisiana at this time in our life. I'm a housewife, and soon to be full time student. We haven't committed to living anywhere next, but the hubs is eyeing up downtown. TBD...
The only downfall to this experience is the cleaning. Who am I kidding? Making my bed didn't matter when I was ten and it still doesn't matter to me now. The only reason things get done around here is because I know Layne cares. Now I have more incentive though. Things could get interesting around here. I'm secretly wishing the situation will bring about some new lifestyle changes. I'll keep you posted.
And no... sorry to get your hopes up. We aren't moving back to Louisiana at this time in our life. I'm a housewife, and soon to be full time student. We haven't committed to living anywhere next, but the hubs is eyeing up downtown. TBD...
Spring Break 2010
Last week was Spring Break for Reece and Addison, and since I'm not working right now, I was able to help Christine and Chad out so they didn't have to take more time off of work. Layne was in San Antonio for work for a few days, so I went and stayed in Prosper for a few nights... and had a blast. Our week started off at the Wal-Mart so we could buy our copy of The Princess and The Frog. The girls got their copy, and so did Layne and I. We loved the musical. It does a great job of depicting the culture I grew up in, and the character Tiana is even based on the grandmother of a girl I went to high school with. Layne and I took the girls to see the movie over Christmas break, and it's fun to continue a tradition with them.
What would a girls week be if we didn't get our shopping in? So we headed to Ulta, where the girls were able to pick out nail polish and lip gloss. After that, we went back home and did manicures, and watched our new movie for a second time.
The girls even had a special lunch appointment this week with their Uncle Layne. They brought him lunch, and they were able to meet his boss, Mr. Bill.
Reecce (turns 6 in May) on Left, Addison (3.5 in May) on Right
And last but not least, I was finally able to take the girls to The American Girl store. Both of the girls were given Bitty Baby dolls for Christmas from Layne and I, and although we didn't make any major purchases, I was able to do some re-con for Reece's birthday gift. We did walk out of the store with earrings for the babies though. This Aunt is one big pushover.
Back at the House watching... you guessed it!
What would a girls week be if we didn't get our shopping in? So we headed to Ulta, where the girls were able to pick out nail polish and lip gloss. After that, we went back home and did manicures, and watched our new movie for a second time.
The girls even had a special lunch appointment this week with their Uncle Layne. They brought him lunch, and they were able to meet his boss, Mr. Bill.
Reecce (turns 6 in May) on Left, Addison (3.5 in May) on Right
And last but not least, I was finally able to take the girls to The American Girl store. Both of the girls were given Bitty Baby dolls for Christmas from Layne and I, and although we didn't make any major purchases, I was able to do some re-con for Reece's birthday gift. We did walk out of the store with earrings for the babies though. This Aunt is one big pushover.
Back at the House watching... you guessed it!
The Princess and The Frog
Sunday, March 21, 2010
St. Patty's Day
After the parade, we progressed to the block party on Greenville. We grabbed lunch at Cafe Brazil, and then decided to head home. After a quick shopping trip (for the husband to get new sunglasses... and a tie, and pants, and new kicks) we headed home for a late afternoon nap.
It was one of those wonderful days in Dallas when I couldn't be happier...quality time with my husband who just happens to be my best friend too. Life is good.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
It's Official- I'm In!
When I was in 8th grade, I had to choose where I wanted to go to high school. I thought a lot about my options and considered going to Dominican, Ursuline, Cabrini. When it came time, I had to submit my application card. Then there was a testing day, and I had to go in for an interview... and then came the letter. If I remember right, my Mom brought the mail and Nan showed up with balloons. I got in to my first choice! Mount Carmel Academy, here I come! And before I knew it, 1997-2001 had flown by. I had four magical years as a Ragdoll filled with Spirit Days, Gym Day, dances, and friends. We started as 275 kids, and graduated as 240 young women. Going to an all-girls high school in New Orleans was one of life's greatest treats, and I will always be indebted to my parents for the sacrifices they made to make it happen. Going to high school with 1000 women everyday was an experience that has forever shaped who I am.
As soon as I left for LSU, I started to feel that void in my life. I missed being with so many women, working together for the good of our community or school projects. It didn't take me long to figure out what I wanted. So when Zeta Tau Alpha opened its doors and offered me membership, I jumped at it. When I called my mom and Abby to tell about my decision, they hung up on me. But the sorority and the Greek system again exceeded expectations. From 2001-2006, I was surrounded by women again who had common ground, a purpose, and organization. It was another stage in life, another family of women who had touched who I was and had shaped who I am. Yes we were a social organization, but we believed in service. And our efforts to raise money for breast cancer research, awareness, and education kept us busy throughout the year.
But then college ended and the "real world" started. I felt the same void in my life, even though a I had just met an amazing man (Layne). I worked with almost all men, so the majority of my friends and acquaintances were guys. Layne has introduced me to some amazing people who have become my friends and family here in Dallas, but I still struggle with that void. I want to get together with women like me who have the time and desire to meet new people and get involved with the Dallas community. I want to know how my city is growing, what challenges it faces, and what I can do to make a difference. And now, that desire has finally come true. Today I officially got accepted to the Dallas Junior League! Opening my letter today brought me back to that moment in 8th grade when Nan gave me my balloons, and I was thrilled by the realization of the good things to come.
My first meeting is on May 4th... What a way to start off my 27th year!
As soon as I left for LSU, I started to feel that void in my life. I missed being with so many women, working together for the good of our community or school projects. It didn't take me long to figure out what I wanted. So when Zeta Tau Alpha opened its doors and offered me membership, I jumped at it. When I called my mom and Abby to tell about my decision, they hung up on me. But the sorority and the Greek system again exceeded expectations. From 2001-2006, I was surrounded by women again who had common ground, a purpose, and organization. It was another stage in life, another family of women who had touched who I was and had shaped who I am. Yes we were a social organization, but we believed in service. And our efforts to raise money for breast cancer research, awareness, and education kept us busy throughout the year.
But then college ended and the "real world" started. I felt the same void in my life, even though a I had just met an amazing man (Layne). I worked with almost all men, so the majority of my friends and acquaintances were guys. Layne has introduced me to some amazing people who have become my friends and family here in Dallas, but I still struggle with that void. I want to get together with women like me who have the time and desire to meet new people and get involved with the Dallas community. I want to know how my city is growing, what challenges it faces, and what I can do to make a difference. And now, that desire has finally come true. Today I officially got accepted to the Dallas Junior League! Opening my letter today brought me back to that moment in 8th grade when Nan gave me my balloons, and I was thrilled by the realization of the good things to come.
My first meeting is on May 4th... What a way to start off my 27th year!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
My Guilty Pleasure
I love to read... ever since I was a little girl. It started with me making up stories and "reading" them to my Sesame Street stuffed animals. The best part of summer was the library's summer reading program. As I grew, so did my passion for books. The reason I love to travel stems from my passion for reading. I want to see the places I've imagined in my head, and experience the cultures I've read about. My guilty pleasure in life is to get in the tub with bubble bath and a book and read it cover to cover.... and I've done this hundreds of times. That's why we have a 6' long jacuzzi tub here at the house.
As a kid I loved Beverly Cleary's Ramona books, and the Nancy Drew series. My first adult author I got hooked on was John Grisham. I love chick lit, especially in the summer. There is more than enough work published by Nora Roberts, Barbara Delinsky, and Fern Michaels to keep me occupied while I'm catching rays over the summers. Nelson Demille, Dan Brown, Nicholas Sparks, James Patterson... the list is never ending. And everyday I can find something new and exciting to read- on my bookcase, actually. I have dozens of books still left to read.
In the past few years though, there are a couple of authors who have come out of the woodwork and left me spellbound. Oh yes, that was a cheesy reference to the magical world of Harry Potter than J.K. Rowling created (which will go down as my second favorite story ever written, second only to Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice). Then came Stephanie Meyer's Twilight series. I started on a Saturday morning, and was done by Tuesday night. Layne has learned that when I get in this mood, it's best to just let me be and get my reading on, because the fantasy world created by a series of novels will consume my thoughts until I get finished reading it. It's been awhile... but I've been suckered in again. And yes... it is another series of books that were originally written for children. I'm talking about Percy Jackson and the Olympians, a five book series written by Rick Riordan.
The first book was turned into a movie that was released this year. After I saw the trailer, I was intrigued, so I requested the book from the public library. The waiting list was longer than the list for Dan Brown's "The Lost Symbol." I finally caved and purchased the books when I saw them on sale at Wal-Mart... and man, am I glad I did. They haven't disappointed me. I've been whisked away into the world of the Titans, Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Hera, Apollo, Aphrodite, Athena... the list is never ending. I feel like I'm sitting in my freshman history class at Mount Carmel again, learning about the gods of Greek Mythology. I'm in my own personal heaven.
As a kid I loved Beverly Cleary's Ramona books, and the Nancy Drew series. My first adult author I got hooked on was John Grisham. I love chick lit, especially in the summer. There is more than enough work published by Nora Roberts, Barbara Delinsky, and Fern Michaels to keep me occupied while I'm catching rays over the summers. Nelson Demille, Dan Brown, Nicholas Sparks, James Patterson... the list is never ending. And everyday I can find something new and exciting to read- on my bookcase, actually. I have dozens of books still left to read.
In the past few years though, there are a couple of authors who have come out of the woodwork and left me spellbound. Oh yes, that was a cheesy reference to the magical world of Harry Potter than J.K. Rowling created (which will go down as my second favorite story ever written, second only to Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice). Then came Stephanie Meyer's Twilight series. I started on a Saturday morning, and was done by Tuesday night. Layne has learned that when I get in this mood, it's best to just let me be and get my reading on, because the fantasy world created by a series of novels will consume my thoughts until I get finished reading it. It's been awhile... but I've been suckered in again. And yes... it is another series of books that were originally written for children. I'm talking about Percy Jackson and the Olympians, a five book series written by Rick Riordan.
The first book was turned into a movie that was released this year. After I saw the trailer, I was intrigued, so I requested the book from the public library. The waiting list was longer than the list for Dan Brown's "The Lost Symbol." I finally caved and purchased the books when I saw them on sale at Wal-Mart... and man, am I glad I did. They haven't disappointed me. I've been whisked away into the world of the Titans, Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Hera, Apollo, Aphrodite, Athena... the list is never ending. I feel like I'm sitting in my freshman history class at Mount Carmel again, learning about the gods of Greek Mythology. I'm in my own personal heaven.
I've finished the fourth book of the series this morning, and am getting ready to start the 5th novel tonight (after the hubs falls asleep). I'm giddy with excitement, and can't wait to see how this New York Times#1 best-selling series ends! We'll see what follows after that...
Monday, March 1, 2010
My Addiction: Words with Friends
I have a new addiction in my life. It's an iPhone App called Words with Friends that is taking over my days. For those of you who aren't familiar with this, think Scrabble match played via cell phones. I love it, because I play with all kinds of people.
Jessica Newell
My cousin Cullen who runs Cross Country for LSU
My friend Corrie Keel from high school who just started her own business and got engaged
Jeff Crow, my best friend's husband
I've got 2 games going with my sister in law Christine
Nan and I got a game going this weekend
I play with my cousin's wife, Brandi too
My husband and I will sit in the living room and throw words back and forth
And every couple of days I hear back from Adam and Bethany Crisp
I've got a game with my cousin-in-law in Illinois
And D-West and I go back and forth too
I never turn a game down. My name is mitziocourt, and I'll play with you too. I'll get tired by the constant binging, but I love the challenge each game brings. I use the dictionary app a whole lot more now too, looking up a few words a day after they are played. I know some smart people who are leaving me behind in the dust!
Jessica Newell
My cousin Cullen who runs Cross Country for LSU
My friend Corrie Keel from high school who just started her own business and got engaged
Jeff Crow, my best friend's husband
I've got 2 games going with my sister in law Christine
Nan and I got a game going this weekend
I play with my cousin's wife, Brandi too
My husband and I will sit in the living room and throw words back and forth
And every couple of days I hear back from Adam and Bethany Crisp
I've got a game with my cousin-in-law in Illinois
And D-West and I go back and forth too
I never turn a game down. My name is mitziocourt, and I'll play with you too. I'll get tired by the constant binging, but I love the challenge each game brings. I use the dictionary app a whole lot more now too, looking up a few words a day after they are played. I know some smart people who are leaving me behind in the dust!
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