Olive My Life!

GIVEAWAY - coming soon!

2011-09-11T23:10:00.002-04:00

I will be hosting a giveaway on my NEW BLOG soon!

Have you clicked over and started following??

You don't want to miss out on the giveaway do you??

xoxo,
E

Happy Labor Day!!

2011-09-05T10:34:00.004-04:00

Happy Labor Day :)

I am going to spend my day relaxing and getting a massage - oh la la.

One thing before I go... Have you clicked over and joined "Live, Laugh & Lunch in Louboutins"?

If not, come on over! Just click the image below :)

Enjoy this day of fun, fireworks and celebrating freedom!

xoxo, E

Blog Launch Day!!

2011-09-03T09:28:00.003-04:00

Today is a big day for 2 reasons!!

1. It's my one year anniversary with the love of my life - and we are celebrating us and the start of college football today!! GO OSU!!

2. It's LAUNCH DAY for my new blog! Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to my new love, "Live, Laugh & Lunch in Louboutins" - my journey to live a glamorous life after college!

The fabulous Ashley Brooke did my new header, and I am BEYOND obsessed. Won't you click over and follow the new blogventure?

As an added bonus, there will be a giveaway in the next couple of weeks - woo hoo!

Happy Labor Day weekend to you all!

xoxo, E

Moving moving moving

2011-08-31T23:34:00.004-04:00

I'm moving along and getting ready for the big move to the new blog!!

I am so excited to launch the new and share my life with you all!

Another tid bit of info for the new blog:

It's going to chronicle "my journey to live a glamorous life after college."

Won't you come along??

xoxo, E

COMING SOON!!

2011-08-29T14:08:00.002-04:00

I'm back - and I'm starting a new blog!

The launch is coming soon. Will you join me as a loyal reader?

Here's a hint of what you can expect.

I hope you're excited - I sure am!

xoxo, E

I bid you adieu

2011-02-03T22:22:00.002-05:00

Dear Readers,

Thank you for your sweet comments on this blog, for entertaining me with your own blogs, and for your friendship.

It is no secret that I've been a bit lax in updating lately. The time has come for me to take a break...

While it's true that I still "Olive My Life!" - my life has pulled my attention in many areas and something's gotta give.

My hope is to return to you soon, refreshed and revitalized. But for now, I bid you adieu!

xoxo,
E

I'm failing at blogging...

2011-01-31T20:45:00.003-05:00

xoxo, E

2011-01-25T15:38:00.001-05:00

xoxo, E

TGIAF

2011-01-20T20:16:00.001-05:00

Thank God It's ALMOST Friday!

xoxo, E

Well that could have been embarassing...

2011-01-18T21:11:00.002-05:00

I have a schoolgirl crush on the interim business school dean... let's call him "Steve"...

and I almost made a HUGE faux pas today.

Whew, thank goodness I proofread my emails!!

xoxo, E

Or perhaps I should say:

Sincerely, Elizabeth
Inauguration Manager

2011-01-17T23:10:00.002-05:00

It's been an eventful weekend - to say the least - as you will see below

Apologies!
Back to work tomorrow!
xoxo, E

- poor, poor quality of text - bummer - click on the picture and you should be able to read it -

TGIF!

2011-01-14T07:55:00.001-05:00

The three day weekend is almost here!!!
So excited for it!
Here's this week's update!
xoxo, E

Morning Person vs. Night Owl

2011-01-11T09:05:00.002-05:00

I have always, ALWAYS been a night owl. It would not have been surprising during the summer months or breaks from school for me to be heading to bed as Mommacita was getting up (you also need to understand that she wakes up anywhere between 2:30am and 5am consistently).

While in college, I've been forced to become more of a morning person. If I take a shower in the morning, I try to get up at least 2 hours before I need to head out the door. Yes, I realize that's a ridiculous amount of time, but it allows me to take my time getting ready and relax while eating my breakfast, etc.

I don't do that anymore. I took a shower last night, got out of bed this morning at 7:10 and was out the door at 7:45.

35 minutes - not bad if I do say so myself.

I never thought working 8-5 would be so exhausting... but I can barely function when I get off work. I feel like such a boring person, but I soak up my weekends for all they are worth -- and this upcoming one is a 3 day weekend!! Hooray!!

I've had a hard time adjusting to this big girl world - a harder time than I have told most people - the only ones that really know are the ones that have seen me break down in tears. Well, I guess you know now too.

I've decided that today is going to be different - I'm going to be positive, smile more, drink more ddp (if it helps me stay perkier), and enjoy the night out with the boy for the Carol Hefner for State Senate watch party! GO CAROL!!

My role model for this new attitude on life is my sweet BLC who always makes me smile (and a bit envious) with her tweets about her jam-packed social calendar and all the love in her life!

I'm a very blessed girl and it's time I start acting like it!

Here we go! xoxo, E

Lunch break update

2011-01-10T15:14:00.002-05:00

I hate a post without pictures - so here's my lunch break update!

failed promised

2011-01-10T07:57:00.004-05:00

Well, I failed on my promise to blog this weekend -- I soaked up every second of the free time this weekend. I promise to try and do better!

This is going to be a super short post since I hit snooze for an HOUR this morning, but I have to toot my own horn because I stayed $40 under my budget for last week! Toot toot! =)

Happy Monday to you!

xoxo, E

TGIF!

2011-01-07T06:52:00.003-05:00

It's the last day of the work week! I never thought I'd be so tired - so needless to say, I'm grateful for the weekend! I'm hoping to do some actual blogging this weekend, rather than just posting my project 365 pictures!

Enjoy days 20 & 21!

xoxo, E

Big Girl Day 2

2011-01-04T19:07:00.000-05:00

Who knew this job stuff was so tiring?! I literally only have the energy to post the following pic. xoxo, E

Survived the 1st day!

2011-01-03T22:37:00.001-05:00

I survived the first day quite splendidly but I'm exhausted now! Goodnight world!
xoxo, E

My last day of Unemployment

2011-01-02T22:26:00.000-05:00

We pulled into OKC around 1pm and got straight to moving all my stuff -- of which I am now certain I have WAY too much.

I digress.

M and B were the mules that carried my things from one apartment to another... we couldn't have done it without them. After I stopped wigging out (clutter stresses me out), I was finally able to get everything in order and feeling a bit more like home. Now I just need to put my pictures up on the wall.

After, we went to The Wedge with B and M as a thank you dinner. Yummmm!!

Enjoyed my last day of unemployment! Big girl job starts tomorrow at 8am!

xoxo, E

End of 2010 wrap up

2011-01-01T20:17:00.005-05:00

Whew - we've been zipping around like crazy ever since the boy arrived in Charlotte on the 27th. I've been incredibly absent from the bloggy world and have missed you all!

Here are Days 11-16 =)

December 27, 2010

December 28, 2010

December 29, 2010

December 30, 2010

December 31, 2010

January 1, 2011 (that's the first time I've written it!)

So soon!!!

2010-12-26T21:45:00.001-05:00

It's been a wonderful day of "day after Christmas" shopping with Mommacita!

We woke up to this:

The boy will be here in about 12 hours!!! I'm so excited I can barely stand it!

xoxo, E

Happy birthday Jesus!!

2010-12-25T10:58:00.001-05:00

Merry, Merry Christmas!!

What a wonderful morning of yummy food and opening presents!! Just in case you were worried (like I was) Mommacita and Papas loved their gifts! And I even surprised them too!! =) Yaya!!

Off to enjoy more family time!
xoxo, E

Santa is still watching!!

2010-12-24T20:49:00.001-05:00

I've been extra good all day long -- Santa is still watching! Currently, he is headed towards the Falkland Islands!! I need to be fast asleep for him to make his stop down our chimney so I'm off to bed soon!

I actually think I'm more excited for my parents to open their gifts from me than I am to open my own -- although, I can't wait to wear the new clothes that are waiting for me under the tree!!

Merry Christmas to you and yours!!

xoxo, E

Merry Christmas Eve eve!

2010-12-23T19:52:00.003-05:00

What a wonderful day of playing Santa for friends! We even saw Santa and Mrs. Clause riding around Myers Park on a vespa! It's true!!

It's almost Christmas Eve!!

xoxo, E

Almost made it a week!

2010-12-22T23:50:00.000-05:00

I've almost made it a week of project 365!

(only 51 more to go, lol)

Had a lot of fun today with Momma running errands and doing our pre-shop for the Crate and Barrel day after Christmas sale! (The loot we get will have to be a post separate from project 365 because it'll take more than 2-3 pictures =) lol)
It's one of my favorite traditions with Mommacita!

In addition to Mr. Santa above, I also got this guy:

Thanks to the OIA crew for the Visa giftcard that made it all possible!!

I love sitting here blog surfing while looking at my beautifully whimsical tree in my room... ok, back to it! g'night!
xoxo, E

Day 5

2010-12-21T21:30:00.007-05:00

It was a lazy but productive day!

Got the Christmas cards labeled and ready to be mailed, sold 2 Belle of the Wall pieces, and watched "The Trial" with Mommacita while staring at the beautiful tree!!

xoxo, E

p.s. Don't forget to check out the Belle of the Wall SALE below!!

Belle of the Wall - SALE

2010-12-21T21:26:00.004-05:00

Belle of the Wall is having an "end of the decade" sale starting NOW!

All the following inventory pieces are $20 (normally $35-38) and shipping is FREE!!

Email to purchase: BelleOfTheWall(at)yahoo(dot)com !!
xoxo, E

Lexington BBQ with the girls!

2010-12-20T20:29:00.003-05:00

Mommacita and I drove to Lexington today to have NC BBQ with Nanny!

We had so much fun laughing and telling stories. I learned today that I get my sassy-ness from my Nanny! Just another thing that we have in common =)

-December 20, 2010-

Project 3-6-5

2010-12-19T21:53:00.004-05:00

In an attempt to remember my first year post-grad, I am going to take a picture - or like these first three days, create a collage of pictures - to share with you all ... and to keep a record for myself!

Enjoy!! xoxo, E

-December 19, 2010-

-December 18, 2010-

-December 17, 2010-

Off we go!

2010-12-18T07:36:00.003-05:00

We're getting on the road to head home to NC!

But before I go, I'll leave you with a couple pictures from yesterday (courtesy of my girl Kimmy)

Kimmy and Me

Charles/Charlay (ok, his real name is Charlie), Me, and Kimmy! The best work crew EVER! Well... we're missing one. KB!!!

I'll work on a graduation post as soon as I get the rest of my pics uploaded. Also, I started Project 365 yesterday and am DETERMINED to stick to it. If you don't know what that is, no worries, I'll inform you =)

xoxo, E

I made it!!!

2010-12-17T08:00:00.001-05:00

It's graduation day!
Momma and Papas are here, and I'll be walking across the stage at 4pm!
I am so, so, so excited for this day... and incredibly grateful for all the people that got me here!

xoxo, E

The Reindeer Spa

2010-12-15T09:51:00.004-05:00

Mommacita sent me these pictures the other night and I went absolutely wild! One of her students and her family are amazingly talented, as you will see.

I am OBSESSED with gingerbread houses, but I've been converted to Reindeer Spas!

Getting a mani while the friend in the background gets a massage!

(her dad melted jolly ranchers for the stained glass windows! seen above)

Lounging in the jacuzzi

And my absolute favorite... cucumbers on the eyes!

I've decided I'm ordering one every year for my home at Christmas time!
I'm. In. Love!

xoxo, E

rediscovering Etsy love

2010-12-10T01:05:00.004-05:00

It's no secret that I love etsy.

I've done plllllllllenty of posts of new shops that I've found (usually thanks to other bloggers!)

Well, here is my new love: Valentina Ramos

More specifically, these cards...

...and what a great deal!
Six for $6.50!

How great would they look on an inspiration board?! I'm obsessed with looking for things for my office, and I think one of these would be a WONDERFUL edition!

Ideas, ideas :)

xoxo, E

Delta Girl

2010-12-07T08:56:00.004-05:00

I am my mother's daughter :)

I love love love picture frames.
And thanks to Megan over at In This Wonderful Life, I am now a big fan of Delta Girl!
p.s. Megan is offering a giveaway here!

These two are my favorites!!

I have 4 more days of college classes left (including today!) Eek!!
xoxo, E

Twas the night before...

2010-12-06T19:46:00.005-05:00

I got a text from Mommacita this weekend with the following picture attached...

... her 60 hour work week. Her students have finals next week and it's crunch time for this tutor!

In honor of her crazy week, I re-wrote "Twas the Night Before Christmas!"
Enjoy! xoxo, E

"The Night Before Finals"

‘Twas the night before finals, and all through the house
the students were studying, as quiet as a mouse;

The calculators were placed by their math books with care,
knowing that Mrs. Newton soon would be there;

The pencils were sharpened with number two lead,
while visions of the quadratic formula danced in their heads;

Students in their sweatshirts, and Mrs. Newton in her cap,
there certainly was no time for a long winter’s nap,

When in from the garage there arose such a clatter,
Mrs. Newton sprang from the table to see what was the matter.

When what to her wondering eyes should appear,
but a car with the “CCS” sticker visible and clear.

More rapid than eagles, they unloaded and came,
and she whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;

“Now, Mitchell! now, Lauren! now, Polly and Claire!
On, Jenna! On, Julie! On, Becca and Blair!

I’ll prepare you with confidence to walk down the hall!
now dash away! dash away! dash away all!”

So up Brackenbury and down Sardis they flew,
with a mind full of formulas, they knew just what to do.

With a wink of her eye and a pat on their head,
Mrs. Newton told her students they had nothing to dread;

They finished their exam and gave a good whistle
and away they all flew to Christmas break like a missile;

And Mrs. Newton exclaimed, as she turned off the lights,
“happy finals to all, and to all a good-night.”

Love this bloggy world!

2010-12-04T10:27:00.002-05:00

Thanking the Lord for my sweet friend CB over at Polka Dots & Protein Bars and this awesome post!

xoxo, E

2010-12-03T11:15:00.003-05:00

I have been dating my best friend for 3 months today!

Tonight we're going to the Chickasha light festival. I've been promised there is a tree, bigger than I can even imagine, all lit up. We shall see =)

Happy Friday! xoxo, E

Happy December!!

2010-12-01T09:48:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe it is December 1st!!

I absolutely love Christmas -- the decor, the gifts, the sparkle, the cheer, the cold, it's wonderful!!

I really want to send out Christmas cards this year, but there are so many cute ones to choose from... here are options I'm considering... HELP!

Ashley Brooke Designs

Ashley Brooke Designs

Flapperdoodle

Love all of these and I just can't decide!
xoxo, E

Heading home... from home...

2010-11-28T00:00:00.001-05:00

Momma and I had a great girls day yesterday!

We drove to Gaffney and did some shopping at the outlets then hit up Peppermint Forest for some Christmas tree shopping.

After, we went to pinkberry for a yummy treat!

Check out this new addition to the Newton home!

I started working on the tree for my room!

pre-decorations...

I agonized over deciding which pieces to choose, but I LOVE the result!
Check out my new topper!

Finished product!

Momma made about 12 of these ornaments with different scenes, but the manger is my favorite!

I also did Papas' tree!

Heading back to OKC today! 2 weeks and 5 days until graduation! Eeeeek!!!

xoxo, E

I trotted and I feasted

2010-11-27T23:00:00.006-05:00

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday... I love to indulge in yummy food and family time!

Momma, Ali, and I got up early Thursday morning and ran 5 miles in the Turkey Trot.
I beat my time goal last year -- buuuuut I didn't exactly train this year so my goal was to run the entire thing -- no walking!

My shoe and number were ready -- I was not.

Momma WAS!! How cute is she?!

We were all smiles before the run!

Momma and Ali -- our Kenyan -- who I also call The Hare!

Ali and Me (is that incorrect, grammatically?)

We FINISHED!!! The Hare (Ali), The Beast (Momma), and the out-of-shape Tortoise (Me!)

The boys and Momma being silly!

Love this moment! Uncle Bill telling the story where Aunt Lynn forgot the Christmas tree was on top of the car and ran it through the carwash -- hahaha! pretty sure Halley was the only one at the table that hadn't heard it before -- it's his favorite story to tell!

How sweet is this?! Just about as sweet as that baby!

Funny moment of the weekend...
Momma's SUV beeps at you when you don't have your seatbelt on... well, turns out my computer and purse weigh just more than that of a small child... I was driving and decided it was easier to buckle the seat belt than move my stuff! Haha

More updates tomorrow!
xoxo, E

Fun with Photobooth

2010-11-22T22:36:00.004-05:00

I've always had a good time on my Mac with Photobooth.
And last night, M and I had some fun with it too.
We finally have more than one picture together (and that pic was from a year and a half ago)

Oh, the lovely "fake smile," which M has started calling the "ugly smile." hmmm, not sure how I feel about that one.

"I need a hero!" Uhhhh I think the roles are reversed here...

Ummm that face and the primping of the hair NEVER happen ::wink wink::

Semi-normal...

For us, this IS normal...

We look like we belong in a Tim Burton movie -- where's Johnny Depp??

Although I've got a sad face on, I love this.

Sometimes you've just got to take the evening off from homework, responsibilities, etc. and just have fun with Photobooth!
xoxo, E

Wedding Bells are Ringing!!!

2010-11-21T14:22:00.003-05:00

Kimmy is getting married today!!!!

I can't wait to see her walk down the aisle -- she is going to be BEAUTIFUL!!!

OMG I am so so so excited!!!

xoxo, E

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas...

2010-11-20T12:14:00.005-05:00

... thanks to the Edmond Women's Club

This weekend is the Holiday Home Tour, and M's parents' house is one of the eight on the tour. Last night we had the opportunity to take the tour before it officially started today.

xoxo, E

Leaves me unproductive...

2010-11-18T10:21:00.005-05:00

Thanks to The College Prepster for introducing me to Things We Forget.

This is such an amazing blog. I've already saved 23 of these inspirational stickies to my desktop and there are over 500!

I'm trying to

... but here are a few for you to enjoy!

xoxo, E

A little late...

2010-11-17T23:24:00.003-05:00

I'm a little late on this post... I promised you a reflective and "serious" post... well, it's changed a bit.

I'll make it short -- I'm in my last semester of college (4 weeks and 1 day until graduation) and I decided I didn't want to be involved in any leadership roles, etc. for the semester. A total contrast to who I actually am. Well, it took me until midterms to realize that I am not me without the creativity, the leadership, and let's face it, the stress of being crazy busy and involved.

I was also incredibly frustrated with the job search. I was getting some great feedback but most places needed to hire right away. It's been amazing to watch God work. He has opened an amazing door for me at the university -- and He keeps opening doors to make the choice undoubtedly clear. As I said before, I will be the inauguration manager for the ceremony and surrounding events for the new president Judge Robert Henry.

I am incredibly excited about this opportunity -- and the chance to have 4 more months with my friends in OKC. Don't worry, I've already started pulling pictures of offices and desks that I want to use for inspiration! (Although, I'd be perfectly happy with a chair and lap-board in Kimmy's office, hehe)

I realized how lonely I am today for my girlfriends -- I had lunch w/ Chels and talked to the other third of "the EB girls" (Jess) tonight on FB chat. Man, my girls are a gift from God!

I did some Christmas shopping (I made a vow to not shop until the end of the semester -- excluding Christmas shopping of course) today and had some great success! I can check almost everyone off my list! Hooray!!

I'll be posting pictures tomorrow of the apartment with the start of Christmas decorations! =)

xoxo, E

BIG JOB NEWS!!!

2010-11-16T00:00:00.002-05:00

Well folks, I've got a job starting January 3, 2011 through the end of April!

I will be staying in...

(Oklahoma)

Working for...

(Oklahoma City University)

Working on the...

(inauguration)

as the Inauguration Manager for the 5 days of events leading up to the inauguration of...

OCU's 17th president Judge Robert Henry!

I'm so excited for this opportunity!!

xoxo, E

weekend recap

2010-11-15T09:31:00.004-05:00

Well, it was a pretty great weekend!

Saturday was busy with errands - I ordered my graduation announcements (hooray!) and bought a few Christmas ornaments! I am so ready to start decorating! Wishing the rooms was here still so we could decorate our living room tree one last time!

Saturday night M and I grabbed dinner at the wedge and watched some of the OSU game. After, we went to Pinkitzel - a new cupcake and candy shop in Bricktown- for dessert.

Check out this sign!

I absolutely loved the shop - all black and pink - so girlie!!!

M got Mint Chocolate Chip

And I got Strawberry Shortcake

I had to work yesterday and then we went to a campaign kickoff for a candidate for a state senate seat. It was so much fun and Carol is quite a little firecracker!

While watching Harry Potter on ABC Family, we decided that our mini crab cake at the event was not a sufficient dinner so we jetted off to Little Caesars for a $5 hot and ready pizza.

I haven't had it in YEARS! And it used to be a Sunday night family tradition - we would get our pizzas and watch Superman (with Dean Cain and Terri Hatcher) - oh the memories!

Might not LOOK appetizing but boy was it tasty!!

Here's to the start of a new week!

xoxo, E

p.s. hoping to do the BIG NEWS job post tomorrow!!

10 days until...

2010-11-14T10:09:00.003-05:00

... I see this for myself!

Love all the fall pictures of home that Mommacita sends me. However, I can't wait to see it all for myself when I go home for Thanksgiving!

xoxo, E

p.s. we are running a 5 mile Turkey Trot on that Thursday. Eek! I better start running again!

5 weeks

2010-11-12T00:28:00.003-05:00

5 weeks from today I graduate!

Might have some exciting news here in a few days =)

xoxo, E

p.s. have you checked out my love list below??

the love list

2010-11-11T23:01:00.003-05:00

It's not a Christmas wish list per se... it's more of a love list!!

Hettle - an oldie on my favorites list!!

Beth Cyr Jewelry - A new discovery of mine!!

I love this solid silver band!!

Beautiful engraving on the inside of the simple band! A special, secret message hidden inside!

Love this tray from Modern Chic Home!

I'm obsessed with my Henri Bendel 2010 planner! Time for a new one! The one I really love isn't online but I saw it in Dallas a couple weeks ago!

LOVE these Russian dolls! How cute would they look on a bookshelf in an office?!

These would be so perfect for travel! They were graduation gifts for my friends last year but I'm loving the new fabrics for this year!!

Do you love my love list as much as I do?! xoxo, E

Wishing and hoping and thinking...

2010-11-10T09:06:00.004-05:00

In recent years I haven't made an official "Christmas List."

It usually goes something like this:
"Ohhhh I really love ______."
"Do you want it for Christmas?"
"YES!!"
"Okay, but you don't get it until Christmas."

I know some people love to have surprises under the tree -- and while surprises are great -- I love getting things that I really want, even if I know ahead of time that I'm getting it.

If I were to have a list for Christmas though, these would definitely be on it

I'm obsessed with stationery! And after surveying my designs last night, I realized that I only have one style that is personalized (and it's one that I got on UBER clearance at Michael's).

Thanks to The College Prepster for posting about Gadabout on her blog! I'm in love!
xoxo, E

The return of Belle of the Wall!

2010-11-10T08:51:00.002-05:00

Yes -- it's been very quiet in Belle of the Wall Land

However, the times they are a-changing! Three French Hens (the store in CLT that sells my pieces) sent me a check this week for a piece that was purchased! Hooray!

Also, if you are in the Charlotte area on November 19th, there is a must-attend trunk show featuring Hems & Hers/SuZeeBee/Wildtree Herbs/31/Belle of the Wall!!!!

Working on the "serious" post -- and it even involves some musings about Belle of the Wall =)

xoxo, E

Weekend Recap

2010-11-09T11:03:00.003-05:00

It's the weekend recap... even though it's Tuesday... more appropriate for a Monday post, but oh well.

The Cowboys beat Baylor on Saturday! Wahoo!
After the game, M and I went to the duck pond to visit our friends. It was such a beautiful day and was perfect to just sit down and relax after a hectic week.

We tried Saii on Saturday night for dinner. It might be our new favorite place for sushi -- although I will always be partial to Buddha Tao.

I worked on Sunday from 8:30-12:30 and then we went to Flatire for lunch. And get this -- I actually ordered and ate a hamburger! It was mighty tasty.

After, we went to M's parents' house and made cookies with Mint M&Ms... mmmm!!!

And the Gabbers kept us company...

It was a wonderful weekend! Working on a much more reflective and "serious" post. Been an great week of self discovery =) Those are always tough and emotional but it's a goodie!
xoxo, E

Bitter Sweet Saturday

2010-11-06T08:39:00.001-04:00

After the alumni brunch this morning, M and I are off to Stillwater for my last OSU game!

We will cheer on the Cowboys as they battle the Bears!

These games are the highlight of my semester -- sad it's the last one but thankful for the opportunity!

Happy Saturday to you and yours!

xoxo, E

"So Long, Farewell"

2010-11-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's a sad day for our office -- it's Charlie's last day!

Kimmy and I love having our pal around... and we LOVE freaking him out with talk about clothes, makeup, Kimmy's wedding plans, etc. I will miss hearing him say "I am a BOY!!"

I put together a "going away" bag for Charlie and gave him the following last week:

An Alvin and the Chipmunks coloring book -- with crayons

Strawberry Newton's

The button seen in this pic which readers "Hi, my name is 'Charles' or 'Charlay' and my heard belongs to Elizabeth & Kimberley" -- I loved that he wore it in the office after I gave it to him!

I also made him this tissue box -- we are the "Stars" here at OCU -- and the tissues are for all the tears he'll cry when he leaves us!

The final gift in the bag was a little princess figurine -- to remind him of me of course! The best part is that you put me (aka the princess) in water and I grow up to 600% my size!!

There I am!

Charlie sent me a picture of what I looked like after being in the water for 24 hours... EWWWW!!!! My response was "take me out! take me out!"

I'll miss you Charlay! But don't worry, your phone will continue to blow up with text messages from me!!

xoxo, E

Mmmmm

2010-11-04T10:27:00.002-04:00

Three weeks from today I will be enjoying Sweet Potato Casserole!!

But as for now, I'm in bed sick :( Happy Thursday!!

xoxo, E

UGH

2010-11-02T10:42:00.003-04:00

Yea... That's all I can come up with for a title at this moment.

A.) I'm sicker today than I was yesterday

B.) I have a presentation in an hour and the water is our in our building -- and I need to shower

C.) Apparently Gossip Girl was WAY good last night and I have to wait until the end of the week to watch it online.

Oh well! Happy Tuesday! xoxo, E

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-31T09:40:00.003-04:00

Happy Halloween!!

I love reading through everyone's posts today!

I'm not a big Halloween person, but I LOVE fall... unfortunately, I am experiencing a bad side of fall today -- a cold.

I posted these pictures of the pumpkin patch last week

Well, this was M's first time to actually carve the pumpkin himself... and naturally we didn't start small.

His job was to scrape down the sides and mine was to pull out the guts. I love doing that!

This is literally a third of the pile that came out of that pumpkin!

Look at that perfectionist go!

Final product -- our haunted mansion -- loving the start of this Halloween tradition together!

Off to FB-stalk to see pictures from all the Halloween parties last night! xoxo, E

Happy 21st M!

2010-10-29T11:37:00.004-04:00

It's the last day of M's birthday week and we are off to Dallas for an impromptu day-trip! Enjoy some pics from his surprise birthday dinner Thursday night!!

His best friend Kelsey (left) showed up towards the end of the meal and M's reaction was PRICELESS!!

Our wonderful waiter - who was shamelessly flirting with the roomie - cutting the cake

One of M's favorite cakes - a little bit of a girlie topper, but still! yummy!

Eyeing that cake!

Amanda, Roomie (Kell), and Steph

Steph and K-mort

Away we go! xoxo, E

OSU Homecoming - a weekend late

2010-10-29T10:23:00.005-04:00

Last weekend was OSU's homecoming -- unfortunately the game on Saturday didn't go as hoped -- Nebraska ran 80(ish) yards and scored a touchdown at one point. Yea... Get 'em next time Cowboys!

M and I drove to Stillwater on Friday night for "walk around"

I cannot get over the detail and extravagance of the house decorations! Have you heard of micro-pomping? Well, I'm not EXACTLY sure how it works, but it's essentially taking paper and poking it through chicken wire to create these scenes (if I'm wrong, please feel free to leave a comment and correct me! LOL)

Enjoy!

LOVED the Mrs. Potato Head!

You could ACTUALLY read the text

This is the winner of the house decoration competition -- rightfully so! This poster is comprised of individual "dots" of paper -- look at the detailing!!!

Loved the facebook page and the GIANT camera -- which was pomped as well!

I really loved the black and white Cowboy player!

Love this scene of the football players too!!

Okay, this tree was the COOLEST thing ever. They actually dug a hole in the ground and the tree GREW out of the ground, then went back down. I was AMAZED!!!

Can't wait to go back to Stillwater next weekend for one more game this season!!!

xoxo, E

p.s. I apologize for my absence -- planning on doing better! promise :)

happy fall break

2010-10-18T10:08:00.003-04:00

Well, it's be a wonderful last 5 days! Mommacita came to OKC late Wednesday night and stayed until Saturday. We had so much fun together - I can't remember the last time we laughed as much as we did - it was pretty great! There is nothing like "momma time." And I was desperately in need of it.

This has nothing to do with my "weekend" post but just thought I would share the torture of learning the Asia map for my world civ class...

On Saturday night, M and I decided to go to RePUBlic for dinner. It was mighty tasty. I am getting better - although I forgot to take a pic of the food, I did remember to take a pic of the menu! LOL

After a great morning at church yesterday we went to Iron Starr Urban BBQ for lunch. Check it out - pics of the food! Have you ever noticed that food doesn't photograph well - at all!!

Yummy banana pudding - but it doesn't even hold a candle to Momma's

Before I went in for an afternoon meeting at JCrew, we went to a pumpkin patch. Carving pumpkins is a big deal for the fam at home and we decided to embrace this wonderful Fall Break and create a masterpiece (the outcome has yet to be determined)

There is something so fall-ish about the perfect orange pumpkin!

Of course M decided to pick the biggest one there - he's got pretty high standards for the "perfect pumpkin" - my squatty round choices weren't quite right, lol.

It's Gigantic!

Finished off the night with pizza from Hideaway and "Here and Now" (Ellen DeGeneres' standup DVD) - if you've never seen it, it's a MUST! I've seen it 3 times, and I still die laughing!

Happy Fall Break! xoxo, E

(no subject)

2010-10-13T09:33:00.005-04:00

After a very interesting Tuesday evening (and I use the term "interesting" loosely),
only 6 hours of sleep (I usually need 8 - minimum),
waking up with incredibly puffy eyes and an overwhelming feeling of insecurity,
realizing I only have a banana in my apartment for breakfast,
plugging in my Chi hair straightener and finding it is completely dead (come onnnnn!!!!),
and wanting Mommacita to be here NOW (rather than being patient for 10pm)...

All I want to do is climb back in bed and skip all my classes,
pretend the world doesn't exist for just a few hours,
complain about anything and everything,
lash out at those I love (just being honest here folks),
and - clearly - be someone other than who I strive to be (aka - positive, pleasant, and kind).

BUT when I logged onto Twitter this morning, I saw something that gave me hope that I can rise above these feelings - even though it's going to be very, VERY difficult

"I will not let the way I feel today define the way I act"

Chin chin to having the strength to rise above! xoxo, E

Love Love Everywhere...

2010-10-11T13:37:00.001-04:00

24 roses for 24 years of marriage -

Well done Papas!!

Also, got the invite for Kimmy and Erick's wedding!

Don't worry, my RSVP card is already filled out, and I'm dying to hand it to Kim when I go to work in 20 minutes... but I will put it in the mail so it's not a waste of a stamp =)

What a weekend... It's already Monday?

2010-10-09T12:03:00.005-04:00

I had quite the weekend. It seems like Friday was so long ago.
My Fridays are usually pretty boring - one class and the rest of the day is free.
I decided to go to the mall and just walk around - and I did it successfully without spending any money!!
I fell in love with these shoes... and they'd both be under $200! Gosh, at times, I love Dillards.

I had to actually try on the coat I fell in love with last week - especially since it is now 30% off!

I got a call Saturday morning that the roomie locked her keys in her car while at 7/11. It was Elizabeth to the rescue - with the help of OCU PD!

Doesn't she look just thrilled?? hehe

Pulled out a giant clothes hanger looking thing

SUCCESS!!!!! Note to Kell: have dad bring the spare key when he comes this weekend! lol

I worked at the Regatta Saturday evening. The new Devon Boathouse is really pretty. OCU's rowing and canoe/kayak teams did a really great job! And the weather was perfect!

The night ended with a pretty awesome firework show

Momma sent me pics last night of the new window treatments for the kitchen!

Dont' you just love them?! I'm not going to recognize my house when I go home for Thanksgiving, lol.

M and I took an impromptu trip to Pops! after Church/lunch yesterday.

He was making fun of me on the drive because I called one of the dams at the river "that big dirt looking thing" and I FREAKED OUT when I saw longhorns in a pasture. I have never seen them in real life. It was pretty cool :)

Anyway, Pops! was fun

I got a Cheerwine (totally reminds me of home) and he got a Round Barn root beer... then we drove to see the historic round barn - did you know it's one of the only (or maybe THE only) round barns still in existence? hahaha - he's got all this useless knowledge and it's so funny to see his excitement of passing it along.

Mommacita will be here Wednesday night through Saturday! SO EXCITED TO SEE HER!!!

xoxo, E

p.s. happy 24th anniversary to Mommacita and Papas today!!

My week...

2010-10-08T16:16:00.006-04:00

I am a proud JCrew employee... my bank account is an ashamed and all-too-frequent casualty of this...

At work on Sunday, we were doing the morning routine before opening the store and I found this lovely crack in one of the fitting room mirrors... don't worry, I was instructed to fix it with packing tape... If this whole "finding a job" business doesn't work out, I think I've got a good future at The Glass Doctor ("call the glass doctor, we'll fix your panes.")

Kimmy and I had a lunch date at the mall and I fell IN LOVE with this BCBG coat at Dillards.

After sending a pic to Mommacita... then the price... and then a text about all the cute dresses in Dillards, she responded like so:

Side note... I wonder if the parentals would be more willing to buy me one of these coats from the Crew since my discount would make them SIGNIFICANTLY less expensive than the above BCBG number... hmmm... let's see what kind of comment they leave on this post! LOL

I must admit, Momma does indulge my habit... I got the BEST surprise in the mail this week! Check out my new Henri Bendel weekender bag!
I'm ready to go somewhere... anywhere!!! I love this bag!!

(as you can tell, I couldn't even wait to get home to open the box!)

I'm SUCH a cool kid... it's a fact.
Ate my lunch in the library's media room on Tuesday watching a video for my World Civ class (although, I'm thrilled b/c our Monday class sessions are cancelled to give us time to watch the movies to discuss on Wednesdays! Holla for an extra hour and a half of sleep on Sunday nights!)

ANYWAY, the media room - is tiny first of all - and it has every kind of media player ever.
Observe...
2 tape players... and one is ANCIENT looking

A turntable...

And I don't have ANY idea what this is but had to take a pic anyway! LOL

Probably the BEST part of my week was applying for Graduation!

Check it out!

Funny: "How well do you think your undergraduate experience at OCU prepared you for your career?" ... I'm sorry, why is "not applicable" an option? I'm pretty sure it applies to all grads.

Not so funny: Having to check "no" to the question "Have you accepted a job offer prior to graduation?"
You better believe I'll march back in there and change that should that status change! And I'm praying it does!

I just needed my advisor's signature to be done!
And praise the Lord... she signed it!!

That's about all for now - Happy Weekend!!
xoxo, E

A post of substance to come...

2010-10-08T10:08:00.004-04:00

I promise a post of substance soon, but I just found these lovely little pieces from Stella & Dot

Necklace and Rings

I love to combine silver and gold jewelry and these do it for me!!

xoxo, E

Upper Crust, Check!

2010-10-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

Well, I started this post with the intention of talking about M's and my dinner date to Upper Crust (one of the restaurants on my list of places to try) and then I realized that I haven't shared the last few restaurants that I've tried! Shame.

I talked about Red Rock Canyon grill (went there with M and Papas) in a post, but ever so briefly... and of course, because of the nature of the evening, I totally forgot to take pictures of the food! Shame, twice.

M and I had lunch at Cafe 501 last week. I had a salad and M had a chicken caesar wrap. Again, forgot to take pics. I want to go back though so I promise to take pics... especially of the inside of the restaurant, such a cool atmosphere!

Okay, back to the purpose of this post.

It was absolutely delish! And the company wasn't bad either =) M got back from DC early Sunday morning and we had dinner together that evening to celebrate his return and one month of being more than "just friends." Naturally, I was enamored by our conversation and totally forgot to take pictures of the food, but I stole a couple from the internet. LOL.
We started with the

(photo: The Food Dude)

Next, we split both the

and the

It was absolutely OUTSTANDING!!! Much better than BJ's pazooki (if you've ever had it)

On their menu, UC promises:

And boy do they deliver. Everytime I blinked my drink was getting refilled. Everyone was so kind and thanked us as we left. And our waiter Matt was phenomenal. Although, M did say, "Don't you just love it when the waiter flirts with you and acts like I'm not even here?" I almost died laughing.

While still in the restaurant, I tweeted about our experience... and it go re-tweeted!

I can't wait to go back! xoxo, E

Wanna get away?

2010-10-04T18:13:00.003-04:00

Thanks to my pal Dan for sending me the link to this YouTube video... along with the suggestion that Papas needs to get the flight attendants on his plane to do this from now on... LOL.
Enjoy!
xoxo, E

2010-09-30T21:58:00.004-04:00

October is one of my favorite months... To me, it represents fall.
Well, at least it does on the East Coast.
The mornings are crisp.
The temperature is cool.
The leaves start changing.
It's perfect.

Luckily, OKC got the memo and the weather has been very cool. While flipping through this month's InStyle, I saw the following:

I'm so glad it's fall, and I'm ready to start wearing layers, sweater, and tights... oh my!

One "funny" to start your week off with. Before I went into class Thursday night, I made a pit stop in the bathroom and found this... I'm sorry, how does this even happen?!

xoxo, E

lucky, lucky girl

2010-09-29T18:15:00.006-04:00

I am such a lucky girl... for so many reasons.

I decided yesterday that although I didn't actually feel buyer's remorse for 3 purchases I made, my bank account said I should. I asked the bf to go with me to return the items as "moral support" and he agreed. As we walked into the mall to return the dress I bought last weekend...

He said that he wanted to see it. As he pulled it out of the bag, I noticed a subtle (or attempt at subtle) glance at the tag. Mental note: tell him not to go back and buy it for me later... yes it was a pride thing.

After the errands, I jetted off to my night class. While sitting in class, Momma texted me that she had accidentally confused the dates and couldn't visit me next weekend. I've been in need of Momma time and was disappointed, but she said that she could fly out to spend a few days with me leading up to fall break - I had made the choice to stay in OKC over the break and the boy made plans for us to hang out.

Well, after class I went home and found this laying on my bed...

There was a note from the boy laying on top, and I immediately knew what he had done.

The reaction I should have had: Excitement that the dress was going back in my closet and acknowledgment of the super-sweet and thoughtful gesture.
The reaction I actually had: I was a bit upset that he got the dress even though I asked him not to, and I felt about 2 inches tall.
Why couldn't I just be gracious and say "thank you"? Beats me.
Anyway, after a short discussion last night... and an apology from me... all was well again!
Although I had a stinky day, M made it so much better.
Conclusion: He is most definitely crazy for putting up with me.

Fast-forward 8 hours - I woke up with severe pain in my abdomen. It has come and gone all day. No bueno. It's one of those days when I actually wish I was back in high school (ewwwwww) and could just stay in bed all day and skip out on my responsibilities.

Well, Kimmy always has a way of making my day better.
Yesterday she sent me this:

And today she put on a little show while on the phone with a society lady. I snapped pics...

Just waiting for her to log on to Twitter/the Blog to see them and get "mad." LOL.

Anyway, Kimmy had a "short meeting" (they're never short) today, and I walked over to the Mass Comm department to chat with a former professor. I like to pop by every once in a while to chat and laugh a bit.
Well after a bit of laughter with last semester's Mass Media Law professor, I went into MH's office to chat. I definitely consider him a mentor. I told him that I was panicking about jobs and that I was just so overwhelmed. I always feel so much better after talking to MH. He always says the kindest things to me and encourages me so much. I teared up while talking to him today and almost had to put on my over-sized sunglasses and leave his office when he mentioned that he realized he won't be here for my graduation because he'll be in Singapore teaching.

Anyway, the point is, I feel so encouraged as I press forward in my job search.

I'm off to Biology now then turning in early tonight - have to take the boy to the airport crazy early tomorrow morning for his SGA trip to DC - Jealous!

xoxo, E

Oh... I need to update this quickly. Kimmy just texted me the following:

Love her!

Congratulations!!!!

2010-09-27T08:44:00.001-04:00

Megan is engaged!!!!!

She and her boyfriend... I mean fiance(!!!)... Tyler have been together 5 years and he popped the question Friday night.

SUCH a good story! You can read about it here!

Megs and I have been pals since freshman year of college, and I'm SO thrilled for her!!

Love you megs!!
xoxo, E

Weekend with Papas!

2010-09-25T23:25:00.008-04:00

I had a great weekend with Papas!

When he got here Friday, we went straight to McNellie's for lunch.

Next, we stopped by Red Coyote!
Papas bought me new running shoes... they are called Newton! How cool is that?! I'm running in shoes with my last name on them! lol. They are also supposed to help you running properly.

Red Coyote has this awesome process they take each client through to make sure the shoes you purchase fix any problems. Well, my Achilles experiences some stress when I run, so we got some inserts to help fix the problem.

I ran 3 miles this morning in 30:34 - not bad for not running in quite some time!

I love, Love, LOVE this shirt... Red Coyote has a breast cancer awareness section and this shirt reads: "Protect 2nd Base"

Friday night we went to Red Rock Canyon grill. It was a big night! Papas met M for the first time. It was a real Meet the Parents moment... but the bf did a much better job impressing Papas than Ben Stiller did!

I took Papas to my favorite breakfast spot Saturday morning - Jimmy's Egg. Finally, my three-week long craving for pancakes was satisfied!! There is NOTHING better than their sweet potato pancakes!!

After we ate, we went to IO Metro to peruse the furniture. Thanks to a special 25% off offer, I bought a bed for the post-grad place.
And with a special cash gift from Papas, it was the same price as the bed I was going to buy from Ikea.
I L-O-V-E it!!!
Brown, leather, queen sleigh bed

We went to the mall, did a little bit of shopping, and saw "Wall Street. Money never sleeps."

Papas was a little bit disappointed - Michael Douglas' role is smaller than he was hoping for. But I've never seen the original, so I enjoyed it more than dad did.

We went to Ted's for dinner. Yum!
And even though we were STUFFED after our entree, we enjoyed the famous and fabulous sopaipillas.

Living on a budget is hard... and I'm no good at it... but I convinced Papas to take me to Target to do some grocery shopping.
Is it sad that this could potentially have been the best part of my day? That Charmin bear is pretty expensive, and I SO appreciate his willingness to pay!

Momma sent us some pics of the redecorating going on at home!
Beautiful brown walls for the dining room... I told Momma I'll do some scouting (maybe another trip to IO Metro) for a new lighting fixture for the room.

The window treatments for the guest bedroom

I can't get over how beautiful our upstairs is now... I think I might actually like this room better than my room now... but maybe I like the computer room best... No, no, it's definitely the grown-up sophistication of my room... gosh, tough decisions!! Mommacita - you're too good at this!!!

Here we go with another week! xoxo, E

Merry Christmas!!

2010-09-24T11:23:00.011-04:00

Yes, I know it's only the 24th of September, but I'm celebrating Christmas today!

After only 4.5 hours of sleep... didn't leave JCrew until 3:45am this morning... I woke up and kept hitting "refresh" on Ticketmaster's website so that I'd be ready when they went on sale at 10am!

First attempt: Section 117.

Not good enough.

Second attempt: Section 101.

No way, Jose!

Third attempt: Section 5... Floor seats.

SOLD!!!!

Get ready Michael... these crazy girls are coming for ya!

TGIF! xoxo, E

Another hodge podge post...

2010-09-23T21:04:00.004-04:00

The design diva (aka, mommacita) is at it again!

After completing all of the re-decorating of our upstairs, Momma has her sights set on our downstairs! I'm so excited for what she has planned!

She started with our dining room. After taking everything off the walls, moving the furniture, and covering our dining room table, Momma sent me a "before" pic of the walls...

During...

After!

I'm so, So, SO excited to see the room after all the fabrics are changed!!

More pics to come of the foyer and living room as they get underway!

I love working with Kimmy for oh-so-many reasons. Today we enjoyed a Chickfila lunch together, and I played a game of FloodIt to get back in the mental state of mind for work. Kimmy was like "you know you can change the colors of the squares right?"
"I'm sorry, what?!"

I call this the manly version!

I also discovered you can change the difficulty of the game! Hip, hip, hooray!!

I absolutely love to laugh, and have definitely been in the need for laughter in the last 36 hours. Well, the double mint came through for me today!

Christine also made me giggle today at work... We visited the site for tomorrow's style-show event for last minute diagram plans for setup and script adjustments based on wardrobe.

Well, there was some exercise equipment outside and Christine just hopped right on. I died laughing. People of 23rd street: check her out!

I'm off to work tonight... 9:30pm - 3:00am... no, that's not a typo. Easy money though... NO customers!! We're getting new touch-screen registers installed at JCrew. Wahoo!!

Papas will be here in just over 12 hours!!! Hooray!! xoxo, E

Ha. Ha. Ha. No, but really, gotta laugh.

2010-09-22T18:34:00.006-04:00

This is going to be such a random, hodge podge of a post... but I hope it'll remain in the parameters of what's appropriate, lol.

Well, to start with something uber-fun. Kell is working on her senior capstone piece - as a dance performance major that involves choreographing, casting, costuming, and putting together a 2 1/2 minute piece to be performed in the Senior Choreography show (the best of the year in my opinion)

Well, I've been moonlighting as her costumer... hemming the dresses and had the MOST fun the other night rhinestoning. Pretty sure I surprised her with my skill =) Especially since I was a total novice!

The super excited, little miss choreographer!!

Bragging moment - look how adorable my cousin is! I love, love, love baseball and wanted to take this opportunity to show off his mad skills!

On to the part of the post that could potentially be a downer and over-share. I had an appointment at the dermatologist today which always brings me a great deal of anxiety. After the doctor removed three questionable spots, I treated myself with a trip to Target.

While strolling the aisles, I discovered a Jane Austen movie I had never seen (for only $7) and because of my lovely friend, BLC, I learned that my FAVORITE author, Sophie Kinsella, had released her latest book.

Needless to say, I didn't adhere to my vow to stop shopping today. And yes, I recognize the irony that I splurged on a book called "Mini Shopaholic." LOL.

I have my ups and downs (too many blue moments) while waiting for the pathology reports from the doctor. Momma and Papas always encourage me that things will be okay and try not to stress, but sometimes I just can't help it. I told the doctor today about the way my stress manifests after these kinds of appointments and she said that I need to always prepare for the worst but hope for the best.

I always read too much into these situations. Last time I got the "cancer phone call" I was heading to Dallas to meet Momma for a girls weekend. It was a total blessing because I had her full attention all weekend while I tried to digest the news... Fast forward to today, I immediately started to panic today because Papas is coming to visit this weekend and my first thought was "maybe God is making sure I'll have that same support this weekend should I get another phone call like that." I. Think. I'm. Crazy. LOL

In one of my blue moments today, Papas called on his way to get his hair cut. We talked about my appointment a bit, and I told him that one of the spots is on my neck. I told him that I'm sure it's going to look like I'm trying to cover up a hickie... to which he replied, "ahhh. so that's why you're telling me about it now. that way I won't ask you about it this weekend when I come to visit." "Oh yea dad, you know. I figure if I blame it on the cancer then people will think 'oh, sensitive subject. shouldn't ask.'" Haha. It might be a bit extreme to joke about my cancer past and the potential for the future, but sometimes, you just gotta laugh.

Debbie Downer - party of one!

Hopefully my next post will be a bit cheerier! xoxo, E

First Day

2010-09-22T10:17:00.002-04:00

Happy First Day of Fall!!

This is what I'm looking forward to! Nothing prettier than a fall day in North Carolina!!
xoxo, E

What are you doing on December 8th?

2010-09-21T20:34:00.006-04:00

On December 8th, I sure hope I'll be serenaded by

Michael is coming to OKC!! I'll be glued to my computer on Friday to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale!!

The double mint and I had the following convo...

Fingers crossed we get good seats! xoxo, E

Anne's Art Cards Giveaway

2010-09-21T10:29:00.003-04:00

The College Prepster is hosting a giveaway of Anne's Art Cards on her blog.

Check it out here to enter!

I love this card and think it would be so cute as a graduation announcement... should I ever figure out where I'm going post-grad!!

Happy Tuesday. xoxo, E

Fall, hurry up!

2010-09-20T17:22:00.004-04:00

I'm so excited for Fall's arrival on Wednesday, and I'm hoping OKC checks its calendar and changes to more appropriate weather.

I'm looking forward to being a bit chilly when I walk outside... rather than instantly sweating.

I want my fall wardrobe to look something like this...

Tights, and skirts, and heels. Oh my!

Killer outerwear.

Cords and Sweaters. Yes Please.

so long bright colors, hello warm Fall tones!!
xoxo, E

Oh hey there Mrs. Reynolds!

2010-09-19T20:45:00.010-04:00

I posted here about Jake and Claire's wedding in Arkansas. I bumped into her in the business school on Friday and was like "Well, hey there Mrs. Reynolds!" It's funny, I have a hard time calling my friends that have gotten hitched by their new married names. I have to make a real effort. (My EB girl Jess is in my phone as "Jessica Maiden Name - Married Name" - She isn't hyphenating, but in my phone she is! hehe)

Anyway, back to Claire... Today her AH-mazing photographer Aaron Snow posted wedding pictures on his blog. I am absolutely stunned by his talent and wanted to share with you all!

Jake and Claire's pups - clearly we've got a photo diva on our hands!

These little ones were precious!!! I loved the flower girl's tutu and the sweet flowers in her hand.

This picture made me laugh-out-loud today. The expression on the horse's face is priceless!

Congrats to the happy couple!

Okay, these have nothing to do with Claire's wedding, but they are of Aaron's son. Is he too cute or what?!

Wait for it...

I almost died. LOL!!!

Okay, time to stop blogging and get back to schoolwork! xoxo, E

Saturday in Stillwater

2010-09-19T20:12:00.006-04:00

It was a hot, hot, HOT day in Stillwater yesterday. And the Cowboys were on fire as well!

I was decked out in my orange and black for the game. Yes, I am one of those people that take pictures of myself in a mirror to asses my outfit =)

I love the stadium. There was so much orange yesterday. It's a bit overwhelming!

I really love the marching band at half-time. M makes fun of me because of how excited I get. My high school didn't have a marching band, so I'm still amazed by the talent and precision it takes!

As I said, the Cowboys killed Tulsa. The final score was 65-28.

Every time OSU scores: a canon is fired (and yes, I jump every time)...

The male cheerleaders run the OSU flags on the field...

And Bullet comes out for a victory lap... definitely my favorite part. Poor Bullet though last night... He sure did get his workout!

What a wonderful Saturday in Stillwater!

xoxo, E

Go Pokes!!

2010-09-18T14:16:00.001-04:00

Off to Stillwater for the OSU football game!!

Happy Saturday! xoxo, E

quotes

2010-09-17T17:19:00.005-04:00

Jacob & Claire

2010-09-14T00:10:00.002-04:00

It was a beautiful weekend in Arkansas celebrating Claire and Jacob.

M and I stopped in Henryetta for a restroom and Diet Dr Pepper stop. There was a quaint little bbq place and these guys were outside. I think they are absolutely adorable! Can't you just see them on the cover of Architectural Digest?! hehe

Following the outdoor wedding, we moved on to the reception. What a fun time with friends!

Jacob had a groom's cake in the shape of a Tabasco bottle.

This was my favorite. The large picture of Jake and Claire is made up of small versions of their engagement photos. Such a neat idea!!

Back to reality and school... Congrats to the couple! xoxo, E

Dearly beloved...

2010-09-11T09:41:00.003-04:00

It's wedding day for Claire and Jacob!!

M and I are off to Fort Smith to see this beautiful couple say "I Do."

Happy Saturday! xoxo, E

Thank you to all those who serve for our freedom and peace to those who have perished in its name!

I love blogger friends (in case I hadn't mentioned that)

2010-09-08T14:31:00.006-04:00

Thanks to Julie at Brown Eyed Belle for

award!

The rules are:
tell seven things about yourself & tag seven blogs

1. I drop the "L" bomb farrrrr too often. I always say, "Oh, I love him/her!" or "Love you!" to people that I pass on campus. This is something I'm working on... saying it when I mean it.

2. I love being from the south, but I'm dying to move to the northeast after I graduate in December!

3. If I had been a boy, my name was going to be Harrison Foard Newton. Pretty sure Papas was 110% sure I was going to be a girl... why else would he agree to that?! LOL. Momma justifies it by saying that Foard is a family name and the spelling is different (but we really know the truth - the woman has got it bad for Indiana Jones!)

4. I constantly talk about how much I hate Oklahoma and how stupid the weather is (which it is), but I have actually really grown to love it. Shhh, don't tell anyone though.

5. I am obsessed with shopping. I used to just think that I enjoyed it, but now I know that it is actually a problem. So much so that I almost bought "Confessions of a Shopaholic" movie because I wanted to see just how similar I was to Becky Bloomwood (love the books). Don't worry, I resisted the temptation.

6. I have always been incredibly studious, but I just can't seem to make myself truly care about school this semester. I much prefer hanging out with my friends.

7. I am a sucker for the "J Crew" boy. There's something so classic and all-American about the preppy style!

I tag the following lovely ladies:
1. The College Prepster
2. Miss Gina at Hiya Luv
3. My EB girl, Jess
4. Meg's at Megan's Pointe
5. Summer at Summer Harms
6. Melissa at The View from Five Foot Two
7. Gigi (my newest follower!) at Guilty Bliss

Weekend in Dallas

2010-09-07T14:12:00.000-04:00

Well, I had a wonderful weekend with Mommacita in Dallas. And a big THANK YOU to Papas for flying out with her for lunch on Saturday then turning around and flying straight home.

(quick explanation: we fly for free on US Airways and are put to the top of the standby list if flying with Papas (the employee). Saturday's flight from CLT to DFW was full and Momma wouldn't have gotten on by herself. So like a trooper, Papas gave up his Saturday to fly halfway across the country and back to simply have lunch with us, hehe)

After Papas left, Mommacita and I hit the outlets!

After doing some MAJOR damage at JCrew, we stopped by the rooms' (can she still be called that even though we no longer live together?) favorite fro-yo place in Dallas. Mmmmm it was yummy.

We were both exhausted and crashed early... and slept in on Sunday. We ran back by the J.Crew outlet to pick up a few more things then hit NorthPark = Heaven!

My credit card got a workout this weekend but I'm so excited for my purchases =)

And of course... I've got a new item for my wishlist:
Love these bags from Michael Kors! And pretty affordable too!

That night we went to my favorite Dallas mob hangout... I mean restaurant... Campisi's

The atmosphere is legit sketchy. The front door is a red leather, padded door with no window. You walk into the main dining room and it is so dark with a well-lit picture of a godfather-esque gentleman hanging on the wall. LOL. Loves it!

The pizza is oh-so-yummy!

p.s. the sign outside says:

It's a cover-up... I'm telling you.

Okay, so when's the next road trip to the Big D? I'm ready to go back now!

Yummy noises

2010-09-04T01:39:00.008-04:00

It's early Saturday morning and I'm climbing into bed, but before I drift off I wanted to share my wonderful day with you.

After my one Friday class, I drove downtown OKC to have lunch with some co-workers. Unfortunately, they were detained a bit, so I decided to drive around downtown. I was very pleased when after making a random left turn I saw the following:

... the OKC Bombing Memorial. I have always heard how beautiful the memorial is, but selfishly, I never wanted to go since this tragedy occurred on my birthday. However, I felt that today was the perfect time to explore.

There was a parking spot directly in front of the entrance... it was perfect.

The memorial was absolutely gorgeous. It was so serene. The weather outside was simply perfect as well.

After I walked around a bit, I drove over to Leo's BBQ (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives) to have lunch with Kimmy, Char-lay, and Ames (hehe, I love giving people nicknames)

I am totally a NC BBQ girl, but this brisket was mighty tasty... and everyone knows you go to Leo's for the cake. yum-oh!

After getting my hair cut/running errands, I came back to campus to do laundry and some major cleaning. I then went to dinner with M at Hefner Grill on the lake.

It was so wonderful to watch the sunset as we enjoyed our dinner.

M got a crab cake appetizer. He ate the crab cakes and I ate the crawfish that were a part of the sauce (my first time trying this particular seafood and I really enjoyed it!)

I ordered the blackened tilapia in a brown butter sauce with squash Rockefeller. So yummy!

What fun to check two restaurants off my list of OKC restaurants that I want to try before I graduate!!! Off to Dallas in 6 hours! Time to power sleep!

xoxo, E

What's at the end of the rainbow?

2010-09-03T10:16:00.005-04:00

Yesterday morning, I woke up to this picture... made me instantly hate that I was in OKC

The above view is from Papas' hotel window. Are you as green with envy as I am? He then sent a followup email saying that his hotel was connected to high-end shopping. My response was: So long OKC! Bonjour Paris!

I love, love, love Project Runway and I wish I had that kind of talent. Buuuuuut maybe I could be better than I am now that Momma purchased a new sewing machine. She sent me this pic and my immediate response was "TEACH ME!!!!!"

I'm also obsessed with pillows so I'm thinking I'll save some money on furniture post-grad and just make a million pillows for people to sit on. No?

As is tradition, we had crazy weather in OKC last night. Rain was followed by a green sky, followed by an orange sky and the most amazing rainbow I have ever seen...

... and it was a DOUBLE rainbow.

I've never in my life seen a full rainbow and it was the most magnificent thing I've ever seen. Unfortunately I wasn't able to get a picture of the full thing because I was so close to it, but I did capture the following. Enjoy!

Happy Labor Day Weekend!!! xoxo, E

do-over

2010-09-02T11:15:00.003-04:00

My momma is way cooler than I am. Papas makes sure we always have the latest technology, but Momma makes sure we have the latest games.

Her most recent suggestion is angry birds. It's quite a fun game and I've shared it with some friends as well. The point of the game is to fire off birds from a slingshot and try to blow up the little green pigs (shown below).

I'd be lying if I said I didn't become an angry bird myself at times. Certain levels are so crazy frustrating (I think I spent 30 minutes trying to get past one of them... embarrassing).

Whenever I can tell that the attempt at the level is futile, I pause and reload the level.

I got to thinking, wouldn't it be nice if life had a pause and restart button? Especially when you're in a situation and see that it's not playing out quite like you'd like. Although, sometimes the results of these "no bueno" moments can bring true joy and opportunities that might have been missed otherwise.

Yes, I did just come up with an "after-school special"-esque lesson because of an iPhone game.

3 classes stand between me and the best 3-day (might as well be 4-day - only 1 class tomorrow morning) weekend!!

xoxo, E

2010-08-29T14:54:00.004-04:00

I'm not superstitious... and I don't believe in fortunes...

However, I will most certainly make an exception for this one:

xoxo, E

Random, randomness

2010-08-25T18:20:00.004-04:00

Not only is school cramping my style here with friends, but it also made me miss out on this...

My sweet, sweet cousins had a blast tubing at the lake. Couldn't you just eat them up?

I have to brag quickly... I got my best Flood It score this week before hitting the pillow. SO exciting... I had to do a screen capture and send to Mommacita!

Speaking of Mommacita... I got a care package from her yesterday with an adorable soap dish and toothbrush holder from Caswell Massey, new contacts, and this...

... think she's trying to tell me something?
Yes ma'am! =)
Looks like the etiquette book is already working!

My hair is the longest now that it has been in a while, and surprisingly enough, I'm not at that point where I'm feeling the need to chop it all off... However, this 102 degree Oklahoma heat is making me mucho caliente! Time for a hair cut... but of course this is the one time I can't get into my stylist for another week and a half. I'm thinking of this cut. Hmmm.

The first week of school is halfway through! Hip hip hooray! xoxo, E

Last & First Days....

2010-08-24T10:08:00.003-04:00

It's weird. My last summer vacation is over. Celebrated in a big way by taking a road trip with M to Dallas on Saturday. We hit the road at 7am and headed straight for Highland Park Village.
Gotta love Dallas traffic

No secret that I'm a cupcake lover... I follow Sprinkles (as well as Crumbs, Georgetown Cupcake, and Cuppies & Joe) on Twitter. We had 30 minutes to kill before Sushi Zushi opened for lunch, and after seeing the secret phrase had be tweeted by Sprinkles for a free Vanilla cupcake, we thought, "why not?!" I love free stuff... especially a cupcake! Thank you Sprinkles Dallas!

Check out this sushi menu... yea that's not intimidating. And that's just a list of the ROLLS!

My last first day of school went pretty well yesterday. Can't complain. The classes should be pretty manageable.

My MW Biology class is supposed to go from 6-9pm, but the professor told us last night that we will only stay late on Wednesday nights. Hooray for finishing at 7:15pm on Monday!!! =)

Also, I love being back in the office with Kimmy and Charlay. We had a lot of fun catching up yesterday. I have missed them terribly!

Charlay is the one that got me hooked on Dexter and One Tree Hill. He passed along season 7 of OTH for me to watch, so that'll be today's entertainment during lunch. Hooray!

I've bragged on Mommacita quite a bit with her recent re-decorating. Last night she sent me pictures of the new window treatments in my room at home. O-M-G have you ever seen anything cuter?! I'm so in love and wish I was actually home to enjoy them!! Way to go hottie!! =)

(p.s. I sent Momma a text full of pride that she installed the treatments herself, check out the drill at the bottom of the above picture!)

Off to the second day! Only 2 classes and 4.5 hours of work! xoxo, E

Woohoo Weekend!

2010-08-20T22:39:00.004-04:00

Well, I'm off to Dallas tomorrow with M for a day trip. The plan is to hit up Highland Park Village, Northpark, Sushi Zushi, and Sprinkles.

I love M... he goes, "Just so you know, I'm not planning on buying anything."
"Oh, me either."

It's our final summer hurrah!

A quickie update to the wishlist... the outerwear series:
Love this wool iconic trench

So in love with this white coat!

Desperately seeking a leather jacket... Love this one... hoping to find a more affordable option.

Thank you JCrew for constantly keeping me broke!

xoxo, E

My "teacher" fix

2010-08-19T22:44:00.001-04:00

When I was little I played "school" all the time.

Growing up, I wanted to be a math teacher.

Once I got to high school, I wanted to be a dance teacher.

I've since changed my plan, but I got my teacher fix by helping the double-mint with the posters in her classroom.

xoxo, E

p.s. I spy a Belle of the Wall piece hanging by the window

Whew, it's wednesday

2010-08-18T10:39:00.005-04:00

You know how the end of summer flies by?
Well, that hasn't exactly been happening since I've returned to OKC.
I quite like this pace. I feel that I'm getting to relax a bit while still fulfilling my obligations. Good balance!

I must report that the no processed/packaged foods is going swimmingly thus far. I haven't really missed those foods. The RAs got food from my favorite sandwich spot yesterday and while it was a bit bummed I didn't get my BBQ Baked Lays fix, I didn't really miss it. I just might be able to do this!

As for the budget, it's going pretty well. I keep laughing in certain situations because all I can think is "who am I?!"

For instance: I worked at the J.Crew on Monday and we unpacked a bajillion (yes, I'm exaggerating) boxes of new product. This is always my favorite time to work because I drool over the new products and start making my "to buy" list. Well, I fell in love with a sweater, vest, jacket, skirt, and tights. During my 15-minute break I tried on the jacket (which I actually blogged about here) and it was too big... also, the wool around the neck was itchy. Rather than grabbing another size I simply said, "It's too big. I don't want it anymore." Budget success!!!!

Another example: I was driving over to the mall yesterday to pick up something for Mommacita and I noticed how tragically chipped my manicure had become. I was going to M's apt straight from the mall and knew that I wouldn't be able to stop fixating on my nails. I thought I could stop by Walgreens and pick up remover but didn't want to waste my budget money on that since I have two bottles at my apt. Instead, I went to the Chanel counter, tried some polish on 2 of my nails, and then asked if she had remover. Don't even worry, I made that one cotton ball last all ten nails! Hahaha.

Only caveat to my above story... I am now in love with "Dragon" and "Paradoxal" by Chanel. lol

Working the RA desk from 11-12 today then hopefully watching season 4 of Dexter!! xoxo, E

TRULY trying this budget thing...

2010-08-15T00:45:00.004-04:00

Today is the day I start my week-long attempt to remove processed and packaged food from my diet. It's no secret that it can be expensive to buy "the good stuff: - and on a $100/week budget for living expenses (food, entertainment, recreation, etc.) - I am a bit worried.

I have to share this story... my EB girl and I spent a great deal of today hanging out and catching up. We had lunch, browsed a (sketchy) warehouse on 23rd that was jam packed full of furniture for good prices, and enjoyed some froyo. She is currently looking for a job, so we are both in the "I'm soooo poor" frame of mind. We went into a paper store and I fell in love with this adorable notepad. The girl on the pad had on a ruffle top, a Burberry quilted coat with the collar popped, and a chanel clutch. Hello?! That is SO me! Chels told me that I didn't need it. Putting it down and walking away was so difficult. But can I tell you what the deciding factor was for me? The girl on the pad was blonde... and I am not. Hahahaha. Chels said, "Whatever it takes." True story chickadee.

I had a blast texting her tonight while shopping at Target. I didn't let myself spend time on the lamp aisle lusting over the base that I want ($24.99), and I stayed clear of the DVD section (White Collar was finally on the shelf - $44.99)

Here's a recap of my purchase:

I used my reuseable bags and got $0.15 back from Target ($.05 per bag)

The fridge is looking miiiiiighty healthy

Broccoli/Cauliflower, carrots, squash, zucchini, and cucumber

Granny Smith apples, red grapes, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries

Greek yogurt - my only "packaged" food, but it's healthy!

Salt, pepper, and seasoning for my chicken breasts

Raw almonds

The following purchases were "one time" expenses, so that makes me feel better about my total at Tarjey today:

I "splurged" and spent $3 on this binder and notebook pack. I think the bike notebook is the perfect way for me to document what I eat and my half marathon training (which also starts today... oy vey.)

My posts this week will probably include a recap of my healthy eating endeavor... I hope you don't mind!

xoxo, E

Wishlist update...

2010-08-14T19:00:00.000-04:00

You might remember this post about my latest wishlist.

Papas sent me a text last week that said the following -

Yes, it's true... I splurged and got the Tory Burch messenger bag. No buyer's remorse here!

I'm adding one more thing to the wishlist.
My new roommate (who will affectionately be referred to as "Kell" on the blog) has this shower curtain, in yellow, hanging in her bathroom.

I really want to do a nautical-esque theme after graduation, but I think this will be really pretty... and I can always pair it with some navy accents. Plus, we know I love ruffles!

Wishing, hoping, thinking, and SAVING. xoxo, E

Belle of the Wall makes me a better friend

2010-08-13T00:22:00.000-04:00

Starting Belle of the Wall has made me a better friend.

It's true.

Double-mint got her first "big girl job" as an elementary music teacher in OKC.

D-M is quite the creative teacher.
She has 5 rules for her classroom, and the first letter of each rule spells "music."

We went to Hobby Lobby today to pick up some supplies for her classroom; She has done some great work already!

I received a text this evening that said:

Turns out I've become quite the scissor aficionado thanks to all my time creating Belle of the Wall pieces.

There's a reason double-mint and I are double-mint twins... we are both crazy organized... and can we talk about how much of a teacher she is?! She brought me the following:

A diagram of the specific colors for each letter...

The ROY G B (no IV) construction paper...

I used the pen she got me from Disney to create the cut-outs...

And the finished product is complete!!

Glad I'm able to leave my mark in her classroom... plus it's great to help out a pal!!

xoxo, E

My OK apt... for the last time...

2010-08-12T21:13:00.000-04:00

Well, my room is complete. And it will only be my room for the next four months. I've made a few changes from previous years...

I incorporated frames with my crosses

I used extra circles from a JCrew window display to create a collage of photos from my trip to Swaziland

Love my desk decor: two photos of fashionable professionals (from the JCrew), my memo board, and gifts from double-mint and M.

Got my TV in my room this semester, which has been a great idea so far, and have already used the DVD player Mommacita got me.

One bathroom wall

The crazy closet... finally figured a way to store my bags in the closet... as opposed to under my bed where I often forget about them.

Welcome to my home for the next 4 months and 5 days. xoxo, E