Milestones

I have some very exciting, and important milestones to share!

1.  Last week was my one year blog birthday!  I laugh as I think back to when I first started this blog- it was such a whim!  Now, it is such therapy!  And, I walk through life, seeing things, experiencing things and think "ooooh, I could blog about that!!" :) It is so great.  And, I just love all the people I've "met" through blogging.

2.  Today is Lash and I's 4 1/2 year of dating celebration!!  (Lash hates the word anniversary, unless referred to marriage so we've gotten a great kick over the years of coming up with other terms).  Anyways I'm so thankful to have someone as wonderful as him in my life!  I just love every single day we spend together and can't wait for many more!

3.  In other "Lash news," he is on the wait list for medical school at MUSC!!  Hooray!!  This is a tremendous encouragement for Lash to be so close to his dream, and I pray that the Lord will just show us the path that he has determined for him to take!  We are so close!  Your thoughts and prays are greatly appreciated as many of you have shared this journey with us over the last several years.

4.  Lastly, I can DYING to get my nose deep in this book, "I Will Carry You" by Angie Smith.  (I just tried to upload an image of the cover and could not--- did blogger change its settings?!?) If you are a old reader to the blog, you know that I am just in love with Angie's blog, "Bring The Rain."  I started reading Audrey Caroline's story a little late into her journey, so over the course of several Sunday evenings, I sat and read close to every single one of Angie's entries.  A little bit stalkerish, I know, but Angie and Audrey Caroline's story draw you in and will totally captivate you.  She is honest, tender, and a woman after the Lord's heart.  Its so neat how God can use even blogs to minister to people and I am completely in awe of Angie's faith and perseverance and just inspired by her story.  As soon as I found out in November that she was publishing a book, I pre-ordered it and have been eagerly waiting ever since.  It just came in the mail yesterday, and I can't wait to dive in.  I'm only 20 pages deep so far and I can already tell you it is going to be a top- notch read.  Spread the word or click here to order your own copy!!  You won't be disappointed!

Sunday Monday

I love Sundays.

I love going to church and worshipping our Lord and Savior.  I feel so refreshed and rejuvenated after church, and being reminded of the things that are most important in life.  It definitely gets my mind right for the week ahead.

Also, I love Sundays because I get to spend the whole afternoon getting organized for the week ahead (though staying organized is a different story).  I like to plan my week, go to the grocery store, work out after eating terrible all weekend, and just relax!  Sundays just charge my battery!  Does anyone else feel the same??

Ok, and let me be honest, I'm probably a freak because I love Mondays.

On Monday mornings, my boss and I come in an hour early and meet from 8:00- 9:00 am to go over insurance fundamentals together.  What a blessing this "crash course" in insurance is!!  Though I am technically licensed by the State of SC to sell insurance policies, these insurance 101 meetings are an amazing way to apply the text book knowledge in a real world setting!  Not to mention that it is also a great way to start off the week- being totally focused on work, and learning new concepts that I will use throughout my career.

For some reason, I find myself more motivated on Mondays, too.  Maybe its because those things on Friday I put off to the back burner are more pressing and more imminent OR because I've had the weekend to get a deep breath and had a nice break from the office . . . I don't know, maybe I'm not making any sense. . . I'm one of those people that if I have more on my plate, more will get accomplished.  The not- quite- so- busy, idle time slows me down as I can pace out my tasks accordingly and leisurely.  Time management is not the problem. . . Being busy somehow motivates me to get everything done with the greatest efficiency. Its a Catch 22, I know.  Am I crazy??

Speaking of crazy, this week is going to be nuts.  My mom is coming to visit me tomorrow night (hooray!), Tuesday night Lash has a graduation party, and Wednesday I'm heading to Hilton Head to work for the remainder of the week!  So basically, I'm going to bed by 9:30 tonight to gear up for the chaos, but nevertheless I'm thrilled for a fun week ahead!  I hope everyone's weeks gets off to a great start tomorrow!

Weekend in Pictures

Please excuse the chaos of my blog lately. I feel like it is about as all over the place as I am.

Friday, as I mentioned, Lash and I went to dinner at High Cotton.  Thankfully, I was able to make it to our 9:15 reservations without gnawing a limb off or raiding the fridge dry!  Our meal was delicious, and it was such a nice, relaxing way to spend the evening.  I love date nights!

Obviously, RE the above, my camera is a worthless p.o.s., and I hate it.  Some pics are blurry, some are crystal clear- with no rhyme or reason.  I've played with the settings (to no avail) and I'm about to chuck it in the Charleston harbor.  Also, please excuse my extreme paleness.  I plan to devote my entire day Saturday to this problem. :)

Saturday, the Blue Angels were flying in town so we headed to Mt. P to watch them from Lash's aunt's dock.  It was such an awesome way to spend the day- - - outside in the beautiful weather, overlooking the water, hanging out with great people, maybe drinking a cold beer or two.  Hello, summatime!!  By the way, the Blue Angels are always a treat to watch.  Definitely go see them if they are in your area!

Overlooking the Ravenel bridge

This is "Fat Albert."  He flies around before the Blue Angels get going to let everyone know to get ready because the show is about to start.

Ya know, the Blue Angels are pretty fast.  Its pretty difficult to capture them on camera! haha!

Just like Top Gun.  In person.

Saturday night, Lash and I went out for a little while which was very fun, especially now that it is getting warm!  I'm very fortunate that my apartment is also located within easy walking distance to King Street and East Bay Street so going out for a drink is a breeze-- no need for cabs, we can walk!

PS I also recognize that I just wore this dress in the pictures from last weekend in New Orleans.  Whoops.  Didn't realize that when I was putting it on.  Luckily, only the blog world can call me out as I didn't see anyone I was with in New Orleans last weekend this weekend.  Whateva.  I changed necklaces. . . that has to count for something, right?

Also, this weekend, I was also able to find my long searched for sandal.  I ended up going with the Steve Madden Sahara Sandal in Cognac (tan).  

I definitely did not expect the tan to take my breath away but I got it for a great price and think it will be a fun shoe to have.  I still am going to keep my eyes open for the elusive gold sandal, but until now, my feet (and VISA) are well satisfied.

Well, it is almost 9:00 on a Tuesday night, and you know what that means-- LOST!!!! :)  HOORAY!  Though we have only 4 new episodes left in the. entire. series. after tonight.  I am already concerned about how the hell my TV life is going to go on after the dreaded evening of May 25th.  Adios amigos, time to get LOST!

Ole Smoky

On the way back from our trip to New Orleans, my friends and I were driving down the road when all of a sudden we saw this:

Of course, we got a little nervous as our car approached the flaming situation. . . luckily, we had a very safe and cautious driver on hand who got us around the danger with no problem.  And, somehow, in the chaos, I was able to snag this picture from the back seat:

What a cool camera moment!

And yes, don't worry, I am able to say that because no one was harmed in the fire :)  The driver was out of the vehicle, unharmed, and on the phone (hopefully with his insurance company) when we darted pass.  Makes you thankful for the safe modes of transportation that you have and a responsive fire department, huh?!

Introducing Gadabout and Post!

Last fall, a good friend of mine and KD sorority sister, Hanna Nation, began her own stationary line, Gadabout.  For four years at Wofford, we all drooled over her wonderful talent in drawing.  So, to no one's surprise but her own, her stationary line has taken off like lightning.  Her customizable collection is classic, simple, and very chic.  You can choose from her designs on her website, or if you have something specific in mind, she will be happy to design something for you. . . for a very reasonable price as well! She's been featured in various blogs and magazine, and with her talent and entreprenuial skills, I know she will continue to succeed.  With mother's day and graduation right around the corner, I definitely recommend checking out her stuff.  It would be the perfect gift!

I'm also excited to announce that Hanna just launched her very first iTunes application called POST.  You need to go check it out here!  From Hanna's own words, POST allows users to "design and send custom invitations and notes right from your iPhone! Invitations can be sent through a text message or e-mail, making it perfect for any occasion, event, or party at anytime! Use the personalized note pad for helpful lists or quick messages to friends. With over 50 designs to choose from, POST will bring presence to your personal and social agenda!"

You can choose from numerous invitation categories such as GADABOUT, classic, birthday, holiday, and theme and monogram or personalize the note pad with your name or initials.  What a thoughtful and creative way to bring friends together with unique invites.  Here are some of the screen shots from her application.

I wish I had an iPhone!! :)

High Cotton

Lash and I are going on a date tonight to one of my favorite restaurants in town, High Cotton, and I am so excited!!  He received a gift certificate to the restaurant for coaching a little league football team this fall (adorable, I know), and we have been meaning to go use it up ever since!

The only drawback was that we aren't going to be able to go until 9:15pm.  And, I am such an old maid, I'm all about the early bird special.  I eat dinner around 6:30- 7:00 every night. . . Waiting until 9:15 is going to be a stretch!  I've been trying to plan my day around a late dinner by eating breakfast and lunch later than usual and after work, I've tried to busy myself by going on a walk, painting my toe nails, doing laundry, vaccuuming etc (all typical Friday evening activities, right?). . . trying to keep out of the kitchen so I won't snack! hehe I'm kind of a loser :)

You may remember this post here when Lash and I went to High Cotton for his birthday.   Aside from their many, many delicious entrees, I am obsessed with HC's brussel sprouts.  Weird,  I know to be planning my meal around a veggie, more specifically brussel sprouts, but I can't wait.  I am going to harass the waiter until he gives me the recipe.  My attempts to duplicate them royally failed. . . and they are SO good.

Anyways, my hot date just arrived so we're off for our midnight snack dinner :)  Hope everyone has a great evening!!

In search of the perfect sandal

Calling all fashionistas!

I am in search a new sandal, and need some help!  What is your sandal of the season?  Any favorite brands, shops, or advice?  I am officially laying my Jack Rodgers to rest, and though I have loved them, I think it is time to move on to a new shoe.  I'm looking for a versatile shoe that can be dressed up, down, around, etc. . .  I thinking something along the lines of this one from J Crew. . . but I also really like the Gladiator/ Jesus sandal look too!  So much to choose from!

Help a sista out!

New Orleans Recap

Now that I have had time to catch up on sleep and recover from traveling, it's time to recap the weekend in NOLA!

Friday's travels were thankfully a breeze!  I met two girls in Columbia, and together we drove to Charlotte to catch our flights.  The bride met us there in the Charlotte airport, and it was SO fun to all be on the same flight together sitting next to each other. . . though I'm not sure how much the other passengers around us enjoyed our incessant laughter and jokes :)

The MOH picked us up from the airport, and we went straight to our gorgeous hotel (executive suite!!) to get ready.  Once the entire group was ready- by the way, 7 girls in one bathroom- we headed to Port O' Call for delicious hamburgers and even more delicious monsoons, their signature drink.  Here is a picture of us waiting for our table with our monsoons in hand.  Thankfully, we had fabulous weather and were able to sport our springy clothes!

After dinner, we were all eagerly anticipating a fun night in the French Quarter.  Per the bride's request, we headed to the Cat's Meow for some karaoke!  Don't let the below picture deceive you- I am a very stage shy and hate being the center of attention. . . but I tried to be a good sport!  So, I made it on stage for maybe 30 seconds, but the other girls love the spotlight and lasted the entire song.

This is my crazy friend Concetta who sure knows how to entertain a crowd.  She is hysterical!! :)

After we had sung our hearts out, it was time to go dancing!  We headed to NOLA girl's favorite club and recommendation for us, The Gold Mine.  And it was awesome!! My favorite favorite too!!

Thanks to our body guards (another post in itself!), we all made it back to the hotel in one piece. . . which with seven girls, a big city with a festival going on, and alcohol is no small feat in itself!

On Saturday, we took it easy in the morning and once everyone was up and at 'em, we set off to explore New Orleans and all that the French Quarter Festival had to offer.  It was so neat to walk around, look at all the vendors, eat po'boys, and listen to the live bands that randomly popped up on each block.

That night, we had a lovely evening at the MOH's house.  Our gracious host kicked off the evening an awesome cocktail that I cannot wait to get the recipe for- cucumber, mint, melon, vodka something something.  It was so freshing!  When I get the recipe, I will definitely post it because it will be perfect for those sweltering hot summer days ahead of us.  

Here are all the bridesmaids at the shower.  I discovered, to no surprise of anyone, that since I am the shortest, I will be walking down the aisle first at the wedding.  No pressure, right?  I hope I don't trip! haha

After our meal, we all gave Tippins' her lingerie (she got some beautiful, very classy pieces!), and then headed out for our limo ride around the city!  None of us were really down with going out that night as we had to be up early for our flights the next day, and we headed in around one.  

Sunday, it was hard to say goodbye, but after such a fabulous trip, we left with smiles on our faces and great memories.  Now I just can't wait to go back in June for the wedding. . . I love New Orleans!

New Orleans

We had the BEST weekend in New Orleans.

Between the wonderful friends, city, food, drinks, and wedding shower- it was a complete 10!  I do not have the energy to recap the weekend tonight (and need to wait for the photo's to hit FB so I can steal them for a post :) ), so be on the look out for a recap in the following days.

Hope everyone has a great start to their week tomorrow!

N'awlins Here I Come!!

Whew get me to Friday!!!  I have been looking forward to this coming up weekend for months as my best friends and I are headed to New Orleans for a bachelorette party for our wonderful friend Tippins.

Tippins hosted all of us last year for Mardi Gras, and we had such a blast!!  So basically, ever since Wilson put that beautiful diamond on Tippins' finger and she asked all of us in the below pictures to be in the wedding, we have been eagerly anticipating our return trip!!

We fly in Friday night around 6 and have such a fun weekend planned.  Once we get settled at the hotel, Friday night we are headed to a local favorite Port O'Call's for supposedly fabulous hamburgers and great drinks.

Saturday, the bride and maid of honor are busy with wedding details, dress fittings, etc so the other girls and I are on our own.  I'm excited about our day to explore the city again!  Luckily, NOLA girl has graciously offered her suggestions for things to do and also it is the French Quarter Fest so we will not be lacking in activities!

Saturday night we have a limo picking us up from our hotel and are headed uptown for a shower and dinner party. . . then out for a fun night in the French Quarter!  The MOH is hoping for the night to end at 6 am with beignets at Cafe Du Monde while watching the sun rise over the river, but Lord, I hope not because I will not make it on the plane home.  Regardless, I'm sure it will be a blast!

Also, listen to this- Tippins' parents have hired two body guards to supervise us while we stumble around Saturday night.  Can you believe that?!?  AND, these two body guards are not just every day body guards- apparently, they are the bouncers who look after Brad and Angelina when they are in town!  On one hand, I know we would be totally fine without them, BUT on the other hand, I am really excited (and somewhat relieved) that we will have guys watching out for us.

As you can imagine, email chain has ridiculous and hysterical this week leading up to the trip. . . making me even more and more excited.  Only 2 more days!!!!!

Let me tell you about my dinner tonight.

YUM!!

Part 1:  Risotto Cakes
I hate leftovers.  Yuck.  Why would I want to eat something again when I just had it yesterday!?!

What I don't mind, however, is if I can take leftovers and turn them into a new dish.  Enter Ina Garten's Risotto Cakes from her "Back to Basics" cookbook.

Risotto is one of my all-time favorites!  And the great thing is, you can make these with leftover risotto OR Ina's attached recipe is a way of making them from scratch (without having to make the risotto first).  I've made them both ways, and let me tell you, neither disappointed!

Essentially, you assemble it similar to a crab cake, cover in panko, and saute in olive oil.  The finished product- these heavenly cakes are crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside.  As Rachel Ray says, "Yummo!"

Look how beautiful these are!  They would be great to serve for a small dinner party. 

Part 2:  Salmon
I have finally found my long searched after salmon recipe.  On the cover of this month's Bon Appetite magazine, tonight I cooked Salmon with a Sweet Chili Glaze and it made me a believer in this fish.

First, I marinated the fish in a sauce of sweet thai chili sauce, soy sauce, and ginger for 30 mins while I was 30 day shredding it with Jillian.

By the way, if you are looking for an incredible thai chili sauce, please refer to my post here.  I put this stuff on everything.

Then, you broil it for 6-10 mins depending on the thickness of your salmon.

Be careful about burning the sauce that falls to the side!  That is one think Bon Appetite neglects to mention. I pulled it out halfway through cooking and put it on another sheet on foil.  When I make this again, I will definitely put the fish on a new piece of aluminum foil before it goes in the oven.

And finally, the finished product.  SO delicious and super, super easy for a Monday night!!

Wake Up Call

No need for coffee this morning, a burglary did the trick for me!

Today, I got to work and discovered my computer had been stolen last night from the office!

Yes, some fool broke into our office and stole my computer and docking station.  And, I've been on the telephone all morning with our corporate office, IT department, Charleston police department, and bosses.  WHEW.  I feel like it should at least by 5:00 right now, and it is before noon. Indeed, life is never boring around the office. . . that's for sure!!

So, I hope everyone's Good Friday is off to a little bit better start than mine!  And if the Easter Bunny delivers you a used Dell Lattitude E6400, let me know.