Saturday, June 30, 2012

Ring, Wedding, and Maybe A Baby

So last night was a major step for me. A whole month of going steady with a guy. One my dad approves of to be in my life. That's a major thing for me. We had our first nothing extremely special dates, though I did send him on a scavenger hunt across North Alabama to where he found a new iPad cover.

We made our Disney reservations and let me just say I plan on living at Disney's Hollywood Studios..... Vintage, vintage, vintage!!!! We are eating at every sit down restaurant in that park! He doesn't mind and neither do I. We are eating Liberty Tree, Tony's, Rain Forest Cafe, Tusker's House, Cinderella's Castle, and several other because we have the premium dining plan. Two sit-down meals, 1 counter service, and 2 snacks and of course the refillable mug... I have a feeling we will be stocking up on some food to take home with us from counter services at the hotels but that's fine and dandy I can bring Disney home with me!

So we got the reservations finished (including all of them we are celebrating Chris's birthday) and we are all set for Disney. That is what we accomplished to at the beginning of our date. The next part was where we got serious.

My heart has been aching for God to give me someone like him that doesn't push me into things that doesn't conform  my beliefs. One thing held me back from really getting to know him. How strong is his beliefs? We were sitting in the park, camped out on a quilt, and I finally asked, "Where do you stand on your faith for God?" My voice shook, but I held eye contact. His response made me cry. "I am a sinner, but I believe. Thought, I am just beginning I want it to be like yours." That was all I needed. We sat there while I wrote out the morals and virtues that we both agreed we wanted to keep. We prayed together.

I have people badgering (sorry but its true) to give them details on last night. I still won't. No we did not conform to society's beliefs. We had a relationship night. Things were said that you could tell were raw and had barely been spoken about. I keep praying to God to give me a sign if he isn't the right one, let me know now. Now that sign hasn't come, but that also doesn't mean God doesn't want me to learn from getting hurt by him. I know, 'Gracious! Such negativity!' but its how I view things. "Pray for the best but prepare for the worst."

After we talked for a long time about our faith and our past and what had shaken our faith. I simply told him that I wanted our relationship to grow. No take it to the next level. No jump the gun. Grow. Therefor we created a bucket list to do together. I may or may not add this to my Bucket List Page. These are things we want to do before/if we get married.


  • Go to the book store and find books for each other.
  • Make a printed copy of our relationship web with God in the center
  • Give each other pedicures (hilarious).
  • Talk about our baggage, sort it out, and give it to God together
  • Spend a lot of time with our family and friends, together
  • Sit outside at a park and sketch each other.
  • Have a picnic in the dark (this can be done in the backyard).
  • Build a Lego house.
  • Put a 1,000 piece puzzle together.
  • Draw our dream house together.
  • Go to a Karaoke club.
  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen.
  • Visit Venice, Italy
  • Stay up all night talking
  • Kiss on Top of a Ferris Wheel
  • Write love letters
  • Cook Dinner together
  • Dance to Christmas music.
  • Spend a day at the Children's Hospital.
  • Visit the Holy Lands
  • Take a cruise 
  • Act out scenes from Shapespeare's plays and not Romeo and Juliet
  • Take wardrobe inventory together
  • Talk about cleaning the house
  • Discuss what we hope will happen when we get older
  • Share odd living habits
  • Go to a table etiquitte lesson
  • Get church counseling for couples
  • Go on a houseboat trip
  • Take a train some where
  • Go scuba diving
  • Run a marathon together
  • See Christmas in New York
  • Skydive together
  • Travel Route 66
  • Make more budget lists and personal ones as well
We probably would have had more, but we got on other serious topics again. I personally just have a lot to think about at this point. So much to pray about and to ease my tension. I want to talk to a few friends about what happened tonight. Just make sure that this is what I am suppose to be seeing.

Friday, June 29, 2012

Teaching with The Manual

I was interviewed by my pastor a week or so ago. I was called into his office before church that Wednesday night. Part of the meeting was to discuss Vacation Bible school. I'll be teaching arts and crafts at church too now or for that week I will be. He gave me instructions on how to ask for supplies and things like that. We prayed about my teachings with in the arts and crafts rotation. 

Then he said he wanted to talk to me about something very important. He said he had heard my views on subjects in the class I participate in on Wednesday night and he wanted to know would I be willing to teach Sunday school in the fall to the age groups of 10-12. I wouldn't be alone. He said he had heard my views on relationships and how well I backed up what I preached. I was slightly taken back I didn't realize that people listened to what I had to say that closely.

I asked him why did my relationship views matter to children that age. I am naive about somethings going on in the world. He brought out fact sheets and several articles. I had only heard of one girl at the age of 11 being pregnant and having a baby, but its actually not completely uncommon now. It breaks my heart. He said that if they were planted a small seed at that age there would be hope. He told me to take the material home and think about it.

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness" - 2 Timothy 3:16 
Its been almost three weeks now. I read through many of the stories, researched, and prayed. I'm sure God has put this in my life to test me. I've already read 3 books that have really stood out to me and I think will help me. People say big deal you are talking to a bunch of kids that's heard it all before, but I'm telling you plant that seed and it sticks with the child. Will they always do the right thing? No. But it gives them a small voice and reminder that when they do stray from the path God is in-front of them saying "Come on, I haven't forgotten about you."

"The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned." - 1 Corinthians 2:14

So I took the leap the Wednesday before I to go abroud and told him I accepted under 3 conditions. I wanted 3 Sunday School meetings before the summer was over, I wanted bulletin announcements about Sunday School lessons, and I wanted community outreach. He looked at me quite shocked and finally broke out into a grin and said this was the reason he wanted me on board.

Kids hold a special place in my heart. I love seeing the sparkle and the furrow brows when trying to understand something. People forget even Jesus wanted the little ones around him.

Jesus however said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them; for it is to those who are childlike that the Kingdom of the Heavens belongs." — Matthew 19:14

People for get that middle school age kids aren't little adults. With technology today, it may seem that way but let them stay kids. Kids get excited about things that are creative, and take imagination.

My main goal is to keep the kids interested and wanting them to come back to Sunday School to learn. You know those sneaky games that are fun but help you learn at the same time? That's exactly what I want to come from my lessons. Plus I want the kids to realize that this is where they belong with others that believe.

"Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds.25 You should not stay away from the church meetings, as some are doing, but you should meet together and encourage each other. Do this even more as you see the day coming." - Hebrews 10:24-25

 I reiterate in almost every religious post that I do that I am not perfect. I never claim that am. Do I ever have a perfect day where I don't think of something at least lusty, negative, mean? Never. I make mistakes. Though, unlike human man My Heaven Father forgives me for what I do during the day because I believe that he sent his son to die for us on the cross. 


I try to glorify him as much I can. Do I succeed at that? Not hardly. I'm real. I'm upfront about me. I had someone ask me who I plan to vote for honestly I have no idea. The Lord will guide me when it times to think about that. I do not agree with a lot of the ways Christians handle things. They want to point the blame on the other person. We have to take responsibility ourselves.


I had a friend tell me that she (and I hope she doesn't mind me telling this!) was sitting in church while the pastor made fun of a rape victim. Saying how she probably deserved it. I'm sorry but let that have been one of his family members that had been raped and it would have a different story. Same way with people who look down on people trying to come back from porn addictions and doing porn themselves. 


I have a VERY close friend who speaks for The Pink Cross Foundation. Some say she hasn't changed, she's just saying that. Like I said we all stumble. We have the devil tempting us with the things we want, not the things we need. Learning your armor of God takes time and determination. I'll speak on that subject later.


This is why I decided that I needed to teach the kids the real ways of the life and not sugarcoat what God has for them and what the devil will tempt them with to lead them astray. This is what I was meant to do. I know there will be times when the devil will creep up behind and me say you can't do this. But you know what? I'm prepared with my response: "You're right I can't...alone. But I got God on my side."



Thursday, June 28, 2012

It's Not Bieber Fever It's Baby Fever and Couple Fun



Or at least around my family and friends it is. Its not "baby baby baby oooooh" it is more of "baby baby baby n-yess." There are so many in my family and friends that its hard to keep up with who is how many weeks and things; who wants what kind of birth and this and that. Though, I will admit reading this stuff for everyone has peaked my interest in knowing about babies which helps me in the future for when I decide it's time to start a family.
It has really opened my eyes to things that I never thought about having a baby. So many things factor into having a baby and providing for it. What kind of products to buy, what the mother can do to protect her baby even more in the womb, and what kind of medical attention should it receive, etc. Though, one this is for certain about me; that I'm waiting until two rings on my left hand.

And, on that subject, things are even more amazing since I wrote about Chris the last time. Yep, in two days it has gotten even more amazing....
Couples' Bucket List
If you click on World Travel list I have now accomplish number 1 on that side!!! Yes it came true on Tuesday night and also in front of it too. Which makes Chris even more amazing to me. Which after reading this article.....Only one thing was running through my head.... Couple Bucket List..... Sigh. Okay minus the sex side but that can come after I have those two rings. 
I learned something this weekend. I'm no longer a girl. I'm actually a woman at this point. Therefor, I demanding more respect. That's why when someone got up in my face about how Chris couldn't be the way he was it was where I was just naive I slammed it back at them. He might not be perfect, but besides the man that walked across the water during the storm tell me who has been. The best thing is that Chris believes that man walked on the water as well!
With that being said tomorrow will be a month with Chris and like I have said this relationship has already brought so much to my life. I'm hoping to deepen what we have been making a Relationship Bucket List of things we both want to do together. All times of the year so this might be a long list when we are finished.
I am looking forward to seeing where he wants to take the relationship and how to make it grow. I think it will set a standard for us. Standards are set so people can rise above them. 

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Totally Awesome Tortellini Alfredo

I've only made this once before and it was delicious. I am making it for Chris and mine's one month anniversary that is Friday, however, we are celebrating it on Saturday when he gets off from work.
I don't have pictures for this so I'm going to write it out the best I can. This recipe takes about 25 miniutes and makes 4 to 5 servings. Though Chris can eat half of it.

Utensils that I use are:

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Large saucepan
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Rubber scrapper (spatula for the southern folks)
  • Wire whisk
Ingredients
  • 1 8-oz cooked boneless ham slice (or get already cubed ham)
  • 1 9-oz packaged refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
  • 1 1/2 cups packaged broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon bottled minced garlic
  • 1 8-ounce tub cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Dash black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make It
  1. On a cutting board use the sharp knife to cut the ham into small pieces. If you have the prepackage already cubed ham just save unitl step 3.
  2. Cook tortellini in the large saucepan following the package directions, adding the broccoli with the the pasta so they can cook at the same time. Turn off the burner. Remove saucepan from burner. Place colander in your sink. Carefully pour tortellini mixture into the colander to drain.
  3. Add butter to the empty saucepan. Put the saucepan on a burner. Turn burner to medium-low heat. Cook about 20 seconds or until butter is melted. Carefully add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds,  stirring with wooden spoon. Use the rubber scraper to remove  half of the cream cheese from the tube and carefully add to the saucepan. Save remaining cream cheese for another use. Add milk to the saucepan. Use the wire whisk to stir until mixture is smooth. Stir in the ham and pepper. Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. Turn off buner. Remove saucepan from burner.
  4. Add the tortellini mixture to the ham mixture in the saucepan, Using the wooden spoon, gently stir until combined. Pass Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the tortellini.
Serve with... breadsticks, sherbet for dessert, and milk.

Nutrition Facts per serving: 465 cal., 25 g total fat (14 g sat. fat), 109 mg chol., 1, 238 mg sodium, 36 g carbo., 3 g fiber, 26 g pro,


 The original recipe that I made this from can be found in Better Homes and Gardens: New Junior Cookbook

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

My Mom, Love, and Travel!

Bonjour! Hello again from Paris!
I am still having a fabulous time this weekend/week!

Most of you know that we seen Westlife in concert on Saturday! Then Sunday we went to London! I have been to London before but this time I'm an adult and it was wonderful. We went to Kings Cross. And I got to see Platform 9 3/4 which was exhilarating for me. We enjoyed a few other things and then we departed for Paris the same day! Home for me!

We haven't taken many pictures. I'm the type of a girl to just enjoy something instead of being glued behind my camera. Life is better that way. We had a very interesting time on the plane over here. We watched PS I Love You. Chris also got us each a glass of wine and assorted fruits and cheeses which it was nice because it reminded me of our first date. Afterwards we both fell asleep. I woke up to him leaning over on me. I have to say it was a lot nicer flight to Dublin than to Vancouver. Though that might just be because I hate having to swap planes.

The hotel the first night was cozy. We stayed at the only hotel that wasn't booked up and no I am divulging how much that cost us on here. We stayed at The Gresham Hotel if you really want to be nosy and look. We have a one bed standard room. When I say cozy I mean it. It beautiful and you could tell it was a 4 star hotel. We went to jewelry shops where I bought a few pieces of Celtic jewelry. We had an amazing time buying sweaters. I found amazing fabrics that I'm sure you cannot find in the US! He brought an extra hard case suitcase just for souvenirs that we buy which I think was an amazing idea.


Most of you know that I have never met my mother nor her family except the sister that raised me until she died as well. So I have gotten to know my mother's family here. We have talked about my mother and I have been given some of her belongings. Which is very interesting to see some of the items that she didn't carry with her to the States when she married my dad. They have given me everything I can take with me back home. Which is a pearl necklace. A brush set. A hand muff, which is a family heirloom. A couple pieces of her clothing (REAL PARISIAN VINTAGE!) A picture of her and her siblings.

I finally have pictures of her. Even one of her and my dad with my brothers. Though the only brother I share her with is Jared and he doesn't remember her either. I have been scribbling a letter to him telling him everything that I can remember that they tell me. I have loved some of the stories that they described of her. Though, her mom (my grandmother who I have never met until Sunday) guided me upstairs and handed me a box of books. All of them belonging to my mother. Some are her favorite novels. But there are 5 leather bound books that I have cried over and through....

Her diaries. Apparently my mom loved to write and share her life as much as I do. She left half a diary when she left Paris at 4 months pregnant with me. I now know that because its wrote in her diary. I know where my writing ability comes from now. Its so amazing to actually read something she wrote, to hear her expressed her emotions.

I have showed Chris the place where I grew up. My favorite places to go as a child. I showed him where Disneyland Paris is. He keeps asking me am I alright. I am in a way. I just cannot believe after all these years its him that brings me here and found my family. My dad approves of him and mom's family is amazed that he brought me here and helped find them for me. They thought for sure we were engaged.

Chris speaks volumes to me without ever saying a word. He never pushes anything. The farthest thing he ever speaks about in the future is next week, and sometimes Christmas but that's his favorite holiday and he goes all out for it. He has been the upmost gentleman that I could ever ask for. He learned enough French to be courteous to everyone we meet which totally too me by surprise. I can't help but feel something for him because he isn't over trying to get something trust me he has had plenty of opportunities to mention it or try if he did.

He can take anything plain and turn into something amazing. His creativity is a match for my own and it intrigues me. So yes I am going to admit on 3 days until our one month of going steady that I do like him a lot to admit I'm starting to fall for him. He makes me smile bigger than I normally do. I love his random facts and quotes of the day email. Plus, he doesn't mind letting everything be about me at times. Really and truly he encourages it. Though, we have days where its all about him. Which is fun and exciting for me.

He just amazes me with his intelligence and wit. I was literally bawling my eyes out after watching a video dedicated to Snape and Lily. I love their story so much! I was crying and trying to calm down and looked at Chris and said he was my Snape. He said I was his Lily and he came over and put his hands on my face and said, "Just don't ever find James." I was Niagra Falls after that. I guess that's what gets me with Chris. He is so intelligent even when he is being flirtatious and charming.

We are staying at an incredible hotel right now too. Its wonderful being back here. I will always cherish this trip no matter what happens in my future. I'm writing this in the park leaned up against Chris with the wind encircling us and cloudy overcast giving the us a perfect outside day. 

I will be back home in the states tomorrow. Tomorrow's post will be a bit tricky so I may not be posting on tomorrow since we will be up in the air most of the day. 

Monday, June 25, 2012

Boyfriend Make-Up Tag

Bonjour de Paris!
We arrived in Paris last night. I was really nervous about meeting my family from my mum's side but everything went quite well since they met us at the airport. It was really quite strange. I was exhausted, but the excitement of seeing them brought adrenaline rushes through me but more on that later. I am spending my day with them today and tomorrow is some time with them for a little bit then the rest of the day me and Chris time. I'm writing this sort of early. I'm already dressed and ready to go. By the time I publish this it will be 9ish in the morning here and about 2ish in the night for people back home.

I came across a video recommended by LisaFreemontStreet. I loved it. It made me laugh and smile the entire time! I think it is a wonderful idea. Something I would have never thought about even doing. Though, the video was so cute and amazing.

I believe that when we return to the state one of mine and Chris's future dates will be to let him put my make-up and see what happens. I know it will be fun. Lol I'm really hoping though that mine doesn't come out like hers but I still hope Chris will have fun and play around with it. Though this reminded me of the episode of Friends (click the link to watch the clip of:) when Rachel had broken her rib and couldn't put her make-up on. So I think we may watch Friends, drink coffee and let him do my make-up for a date. Oh well I am going to enjoy today with my mom's family.


Sunday, June 24, 2012

Review: Victoria's Secret Fashion Tape


I am not one for wearing scoop or V neck shirts. I really hate shirts that when I am wearing them they droop down and suddenly when I lean over you can see everything underneath my shirt. Especially my summer clothes are like that and I really hate that because I love flowing shirts just one problem they like to slide down. It helps with a tank top underneath but its not always flattering. I finally remembered I had some tape from my senior prom where I was wanting the dress to stay stuck with me. I was amazed at this tape! I've recently tried another brand but I must say I still love Victoria's Secret brand a lot more.

You get 36 for $10.
Easy to use:
  • Start with a clean, dry surface
  • Press one side of tape firmly onto skin or fabric
  • Remove backing on other side and press fabric firmly into desired position.


I recommend these to anyone. I love being able to go about my day not worrying if I'm showing to much or not. The tape works really well with all kind of fabric. I highly recommended it. Double-Sided Stylist-Tape

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Teaching A Lesson

So I have to finish everything on my Summer Bucket List by August 22. I will be attending UAHuntsville in the fall. I've decided to not continue my new college major at U of A. Everything about U of A was great, but I want to continue my education in a new direction. My job over the summer has made me realize that I can teach my passion and get even more out of doing something I love.

I could return to Tuscaloosa in the fall. However, I like where I live in Huntsville. It's really where I began to find myself and moving to Tuscaloosa, again, wouldn't feel right. I'll still visit a lot because I do love it down there. Huntsville, has been home to me for a while and I know a lot about it and here recently I've gotten more involved in the community.

It was not an easy decision. But I have prayed, and thought really hard about it. I finally visited the campus, walked around, grabbed those brochures that hardly anyone picks up, and talked to two people about the school. I made the decision and applied for admissions. I was accepted and my scholarship and credits have been transferred. I also have another scholarship since I have helped out with this summer program.

I am changing my major to education. Elementary education and P-12 Certification at that. I already have a major in art so the P-12 certification will not be that difficult to achieve. The reason I am changing is because the business world is not right for me. I believe that education will help me strengthen me and help me devote my time to what truly need attention in the world. Expression of young lives. I realize there will be set guidelines on what to teach, but I'm hoping that I can help someone else really achieve their dreams.

I'm not naive and thinking everything will go smoothly. I know there will be students that are in bad moods, have bad days, and will stop at nothing until they have ruined a class. I will be prepared for that. There is this little tug telling me this is what I need to do.

Many things for school to start back has a set date. For instance, I'm a transferring student and my orientation is July 18 4-8pm. After that there is a movie on the lawn which I think I might attend. Ms. Susan Gill and I have an appointment before and after orientation because I want to make certain I have a few things right before I go to orientation and I am sure I will have a few questions after orientation.

I already know there is a college group that meets. Someone of the ones in my church group on Wednesday attend there as well. So I will have a few familiar faces to help me around campus. Also, I started reading the Campus Crusade for Christ director's blog. I love her blog. She's really down to Earth and for that I'm really excited.

I have a feeling God knows that if I went back to Tuscaloosa, my priorities mine get jumbled again. He nor I want that. I want to remain living my life for him. He has brought me this far in life why not praise him? I'm excitably nervous. I'm looking forward to the challenges that lay ahead of me. I know with affirmed faith in the Lord I can overcome anything.

Via

Friday, June 22, 2012

Pain

I still have questions from the last religious post, To Charlolette and Many Others.. Ironically its the same subject that I was trying to convey in the last one. So this time I am going to make it a little clearer.

Do I still hurt? Yes. I have to deal with her death, my own mother giving birth to me, my uncle, and so much heartache over the years. Why do I still praise and worship a God that has put me through so much? Because he has always shown me that there is greater things through the pain. I never look at pain and suffering the same as way as other because I call on Him and ask him "What do you want me to learn from this?"

I am going to use this metaphor because I have so many friends and family in this situation; Pregnancy and labor. You body changes in way you didn't know it could and it seems like a dark dull cloud is upon. You are hurting, expanding, sick, and wild emotions are playing through your head. That's very similar to how your faith is tested. It hurts (grief), expanding (getting mad), sick (well sickness) and wild emotions (crazy choices). Then the giving birth (all of those things on top of one another) your body is just ready to shove everything out of you and then you see the little one that looks like you.
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18
Now many people can say wait there could be something wrong with the baby or the mother. Oh I'm getting there.  Something wrong with the baby? Salvation and being like Christ is never easy. The baby could have a syndrome or disease. Therefore, learn to be like Christ and   The mother having complications is people not wanting to give up their old lives the sin that they carried around.
"Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you." - 1 Peter 5:7
 "Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner." - 1 Peter 4:12-13
If you ever get the chance to take flowers to someone you know in the hospital or the nursing home while you are having a letdown experience. I guarantee you that you won't be thinking about your problem and you get to see the look of awe and love in their eyes. I learned that from a good friend of mine that I have talked about before on here.

Genevieve learned this technique a long time ago. Both of her parents were murdered at different times, and her husband was killed in Iraq only after being married to him for 6 month and she was pregnant with his child. Yet she is not on depression medicine nor does she hate anyone. Her faith is a lot stronger than mine. She speaks freely about her situations and how she handles things. She does not push sadness and grief away she learns why she is feeling like that and understands its normal. She takes those moments to remember God left her on this Earth to do what He wants her to do. She never questions it.
"'I will bring back your health and heal your injuries,' says the Lord..." - Jeremiah 30:17
"Without suffering there would be no compassion." Jamie Sullivan from A Walk To Remember. Everyone is so happy when the suffering isn't going on for them. Or so we think. Everyone suffers everyday. Its how you handle it that makes a different. I realize its just a movie but Landon Carter didn't realize Jamie was suffering as he retorted back, "Yeah, well tell that to those who suffer." You never know what someone is dealing with. I have to remind myself of that every time I deal with a huffy person during a sales. Remind myself that when a child is acting up in class. 


Pain of ourselves and others can be prayed upon and helped:

  1. Pay those in pain attention. Don't hover over them just keep them in your prayers. Tell them that you are there to listen whenever. People want space if they don't they will tell you.
    Same goes for the pain that you experience. Ignoring your own pain is stupid, its not going to go away by ignoring it. Ask God to help you come to peace with it. 
  2. Pray that God will take the pain away. This works for both your pain and others. 
  3. If extremely serious seek a counselor or medical professional help if the constantly stays. Though pain of some situations takes a little time to go away on its own. 
  4. Ask God for the lesson you or the person is suppose to learn from the pain. Pain healed helps you learn a lot about yourself. 
  5. Act on any lessons learned or help the person act on any lessons learned.
I've seen this happen. I've had it happen to me. 
My cousin once asked me, "What happens if all what you believe isn't real?" I just looked up at her and replied, "Better question, What happens if all of it is real and I don't believe it?" The most reprinted book and the best selling book of all time is my manual to Life. 

Thursday, June 21, 2012

My Day Life

Ok so many of my friends have asked what I do and things about my daily life so I'm going to lay out my daily life based on the past two days (Tuesday and Wednesday) and I'm going to give a brief description here and there. This way when you message me, email me, or want to know what I'm doing you'll have a general idea. Now this is a general setting. I have days like tonight is my coupon night. I clip coupons every Thursday night and organize them no matter how late I get in.

I wake up about up around 5:14-5:45 depending on if I have had a shower the night before and plan to work out that night or if I have to get up work-out and still shower.

I let my hair partly air dry, I usually roll the top to give it some lift, and I go make breakfast. I usually do a few yoga moves while waiting for my breakfast to finish cooking. I scroll through Al.com while eating breakfast.

I usually dress based on what day it is, how messy the project will be at work, and/or if I have a date. My hair is fixed accordingly the same way. The more I fix my hair in more advance way the quicker I have gotten achieved the results I want. I think wear basic make-up that is usually easy to take off or add to depending on if I have a date or somewhere to go after work.

I double check to make sure everything is unplugged, locked up, and the alarm is set and I'm usually out the door by 6:45. Roughly it takes about 15-20 minutes to get to my work. The extra 5 is because one of my coworkers or myself stop and get coffee every morning for all of us. I'm usually putting on my apron by the time my little clients arrive.

I am an art instructor for a daycare. I love it! Saying I didn't would be a lie. I love my nickname since many and most of them cannot pronounce either of my names (first or last), so I have been dubbed Ms. Who. Side note: The reason I am called this was because for the first week the kids would try to say my name and the other teachers would say "Miss Who?" And my room is decorated in owls so it sort of stuck and I love it.

I have 4 different age groups come through my room every day. I am certified to teach them on daycare basis, but for me I want to expand that but that's a subject of an upcoming blog.

Many of you have noticed that I'm online by normally 12. That's usually because by then my work is through. From then, I go to classrooms when needed. Though, I am dubbed also as the updater and response girl. I respond to emails from the teachers, I update port folios, and I help with annotating.

Around 2 is when recess/outside play takes place. Between the teachers we rotate on who goes outside. If its raining, extreme highs (we are talking it has to be 100 degrees), or extreme lows for them to be able to stay inside and just watch a movie. From there on parents start coming up and picking up the children. I'm usually on my way home by 4:30; on the rare occasion I will sometimes stay until 5.

Now on any day besides Wednesday, I go home and either put supper in the oven or get ready for a date, if I haven't already dressed for it at work. If that is case I get ready based on what he has told me, where we are going or what we are doing. So it takes me roughly about 15-30 minutes. We usually end our dates around 9 or 10 because one of us always has to go home. Then there are the rare days where I go to see my dad and have supper with my dad and his family.

Now if it is a Wednesday I go home refresh and grab my church bag. I am a Wednesday night snack helper but I also participate in a group study for singles my age. There is a group for people that are married and my age, but my relationship is no where near that stage. Now why my boyfriend drives completely out of the way to go to church with me is something I have asked him. And his answered floored me but once again that ties into another blog post in the future soon.

What happens after church, or eating by myself at home depends if I worked out that morning. Usually on Wednesday is no and so after church Chris and I go for a run and talk about what we discussed that night in further detail or plan certain about an upcoming trips. If its any other night, I usually work out in my living room doing pilates or running up and down the stairs from my door to my living room and then up the stairs to my bedroom.

Now I usually cool off from a date or working out by watching about 30 minutes of TiVo. After that I do what I need to do: cutting up coupons, making out a grocery list, planning upcoming blogs, setting up TiVo, reading a magazine article I saved, making a purchase online etc.

By 12 at night everyone I talk to for the most part is asleep or doing their own thing, so I grab a shower and set my hair a certain way if I need to. Here lately its been getting a wet set pin curl to it. And for the next 1 hour or so I blog, watch vintage videos, or sew. Just depends on my mood. Mostly I blog though.

So that's basically my day now there are days when things get upset by some situation or something but I mostly stick to that schedule in some way.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Sew Deep In My Dreams

I have always wanted to learn how to sew with a sewing machine. I inherited a real old vintage sewing machine but it is still currently at my dad's. I want to restore it some day. Though, my dad gave me a brand new high tech sewing machine/monogram for my birthday. I love it. I have already accomplished making some new items for my bathroom, throw pillows for my couches, an apron and Disney shirt.



In the future I hope to work on making vintage dresses, coats, and shrugs. I have found and received many patterns that are vintage, but many are vintage inspired. Magan helped me find places with really good patterns and I love how cheap some of the patterns were online. She loves to sew and many people have told me that she is really quite good at it. Actually Chris's brother, Frankie, loves her pillows and has several of them and a blanket made by her. I had a real shopping spree with the patterns because of how cheap they were.

Here is a list of the sewing projects I want to do in the future:

  • Silk Pajamas (Way later when I'm getting extremely good at sewing)
  • Snack sandwiches bags
  • Reversible hats
  • Woolen berets
  • Hanger sachets
  • Quiet books for my brothers and anyone else with kids
  • Homemade heating pad
  • Hair straightener and curling iron covers
  • Fleece hats for my younger brothers
  • Flowing skirt
  • Tshirt quilt
  • Pot holders
  • Plastic Bag organizer
  • Pettiskirt
  • Baby quilt for Claudette (her request)
  • Vintage day dresses
  • High waisted shorts
  • Diaper bag
  • Washcloth duckie for Jackjack
I have a few more ideas but I'm sure I'll write about them. There are many websites that I like to look at and get ideas, patterns, and inspiration from. 
  1. Pinterest - I can search for almost any kind of patterns or sewing ideas in general and I find a slew of projects and ideas I want to do.
  2. Martha Stewart - I TiVo her show as well as search her website. I have a found a number of easy sewing projects that I have succeeded at which in itself is amazing. 
  3. Thread Magazine - I don't actually have a subscription to the magazine but I have found some really great ideas and other websites.
  4. So Vintage Patters - Vintage Patterns and ideas

I am wanting a dress form but that will come later. I want to really get into sewing for its another form of art and I love art. I keep all of the artwork my students give me. I keep them in a files for now. I am hoping to become better at sewing so that I can provide clothing for my own family someday as well as putting the skill to use for gifts and people in need. 

Its on my table down stairs for when I use it. I am investing in a table for the extra room in my condo. 

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Vintage Tag


As many of you know I spend hours watching Vintage Tutorials on fashion, hair, make-up, recipes etc. So I was watching LisaFreemontStreet and I ran across this video (shown below) and I don't do vlogs but I figured I could answer the questions


1) Who's your style icon?
My style icon, hm. I simply adore Lucille Ball. Marilyn Monroe, some. Maureen O'Hara, love her. For more go to Inspirations.
2)Whats your favorite way to get inspired? ( i.e. mags, catalogs, photo's, YT, movies, books, the internet, etc)
All of the above. I love pictures mostly, Youtube, and movies.
3) What's your most used hair tool(s)?
Curl pins, curling iron, and hairspray
4)Whats your favorite hair tool/ gadget?
Rollers..... :)
5) Up-do, down, or half and half?
Half and half
6)Is vintage styling something you do daily, weekends only, or just special occasions?
A mixture. I do vintage things constantly even if I don't have vintage style going on that day.
7) Whats your favorite blush/ lipstick?
Spiced Coral by Estee Lauder Signature Color and Le Rouge, SPF15, Pur Colour Satiny Radiance by Yves Saint Laurent
8) Lets talk fashion: dress/ skirt or pants? heels or flats?
I looooove my high waisted shorts but I also love dresses. I love heels but I feel a little more comfortable in flats.
9) Homemade or off the rack?
I'm working on having more homemade things.
10) Do you swing dance?
Its on my Fall Bucket List to learn how
11) Small subtle touches incorporated into everyday wear ( flavor of vintage, if you will) or all out extreme?
There are very few days where I go all out with vintage. I use hints of it. Though Chris does have a bad habit of walking into my apartment on the weekends and screaming "Lucy I'm home!"
12)Favorite perfume/ skincare? ( as ladies back then were very studious about their faces)
Perfumes: Love Kills Slowly by Ed Hardy, Midnight Rose by Lancome, and Ma Cheri by Dior
Skincare: I use a ton of different brands at different prices Estee Lauder and Sephora are where I got the most.
13) What does the rest of the family think of your "style"?
My dad thinks its great. My cousins are mixed on it. Chris loves it since he is a huge Rat Pack fan.
14) Favorite accessory ( signature piece, hair accessory, bag, jewlery, gloves, stockings, shoes, pin, hat, belt, sweater, nail polish, lipstick, perfume, parisol, glasses, scarf... whew! did i forget anything)?
I don't think I have a favorite. I do love my petticoats, I love swishing. I love flower hairclips.
15)Do you find the vintage community warm and inviting, or cliquish and snooty? ( include your personal home state)
I haven't come across anyone who was snooty or cliquish, actually just the opposite.
16)What drew you to this style?
A date Chris and I had at the very beginning of getting to know each other and he seemed to be really big into the 40s with big band swing music.
17)Your favorite place(s) to shop vintage? Modcloth.com for clothes even if they are pricey but I do love their clothing. I really just filter through vintage blogs and vlogs to see what other people recommend and I try stuff. 

Monday, June 18, 2012

Looking Around You Think...

Sure! She's got everything!! Ok I've had some requests to see my beauty collection. Now I didn't get to take pictures of everything in my bathroom as well because I'm doing some work in my bathroom. So there are a few products that will not be shown in the pictures below. That will be a different post soon to come. I would also like to thank Mrs. Hannah for letting me borrow her camera to take the pictures of my bedroom beauty products. So without further ado:

My Go-Everywhere-With-Me Essentials and my roller clips



Toner, Brush, eye-shadows, straightener and make up mirror.

Please excuse my tissues on my basket, Lol
Make- Up drawers, rollers, eye shadow, finger nail polish, handheld fan,contacts holder and clip
Tweezers, measuring tap, NIKE Chip, nail clippers, eye linger, brushes, and sharpener

Clearasil, floss, eye roller, night creams, lip balms


 Many tubes of lipstick, lip gloss, lip liner, my contacts holder, and rollers


Make up removers, wisps, more toners, lotions, primers, and though packets are toilet seat covers


My brushes, combs, and clips, and make up sponges and cottonballs


Some of my collection of Nail polish


My entire collection beside my tivo remote. and an Arby bag in the background


Sunday, June 17, 2012

Treat For Dad

To the man that was the first man to put his arms around me and tell me that he loved,




Now I won't spending all day with my dad like I normally do. I am taking him out for supper. But today's review does go hand in hand with Father's Day. 

Everyone knows I follow free samples. Free things equals a happy me, especially when all I have to do is fill out my name and address and email. Even better when Chris lets me put his info into those form and I get double samples and coupons. I would do my dad's but my stepmom would steal most of it probably so I don't bother. 

Anyhow, I was doing my daily sample search and it was a free personalized Father's Day card from Treat. I remember thinking good grief its the day after Mother's Day. But I clicked on it anyhow. I used a few pictures I had of me, one of me and him on a ride at Disney World, and one of me and him when I was a baby. I love it, you picked out a template and easily let you do some styling to the photos. It was a very smooth process. I entered the code for the free card at the end of the checkout. You did have to create an account but I had no problem with that at all. 

The fact that the company was sponsored by other companies like Hallmark, etc. made me feel better about the whole make an account ordeal whereas other people were freaking out. I haven't had any unwanted email or mail from this company. When the card arrived just 4 days later, yes just four and it was completely printed on good durable matte paper I was impressed. They also gave me 30% off the next card I purchase, which was good because I needed to make a wedding card. They are really good about giving you discounts. I really appreciated the free card. I'm sure dad will love it tonight when I give it to him. Its a tradition since I'm older now. I give him a card and take him out to eat.  

I have been recommending using Treat for cards. I like that I can personalize and save cards and fix it where they will send it to them even I forget in 4 months that its Ridge's Birthday or I can set it where it sends out holiday cards. I love things like that. Plus, personalized means that I took time for that person. It shows that you care even more when it shows up in a real mailbox. 

Happy Father's Day to all the dads in the world, and my father in Heaven.


******Update @ 6/17/12 - 5:45pm***************
My dad loved the card. He made a joke but you could tell he loved the thought I had put into it. He actually put it in his jacket pocket which was a good sign because normally he puts things he doesn't intend to keep in his pants pocket. We had a wonderful time this afternoon just me and my daddy. I hope everyone had a wonderful Father's Day!

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Wonder...

Disney Wonder actually! I am adding going on an Disney Alaskan cruise during August of 2013! I really want to do Itinerary B. With Ports of Calls being:

Tracy Arm, Alaska
Skagway, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska
Ketchikan, Alaska
Victoria, Canada

I would love it though I would want someone to go with me. And they would only have to pay a 1/4 of it and I want a room with an oceanview. I am still deciding if I want want just a room with a view or a private veranda. I am also considering taking Jackjack. But those details will come into play when I actually book it which I'm considering doing as soon as it becomes available.

I've been on a cruise before and I am not one for humid or extremely tan people walking around snooty. So I think an Alaskan cruise will be up my alley! Snow, sweaters, and shopping = Odette dream! Plus if I want to get into a bathing suit and have a dip in the heating pool its available.


Day Port Guest Ashore Guest Onboard
1 Seattle, Washington 4:00 p.m.
2 At Sea
3 Tracy Arm, Alaska Cruising Cruising
4 Skagway, Alaska 7:15 a.m. 7:30 p.m.
5 Juneau, Alaska 6:30 a.m. 2:00 p.m.
6 Ketchikan, Alaska 7:15 a.m. 12:30 p.m.
7 Victoria, Canada 6:15 p.m. 10:30 p.m.
8 Seattle, Washington 09:00 a.m.

Would be what the schedule would look like and I swear that looks amazing to me. Plus, there a million things to do on the ship! Lounges, clubs, shopping, spas, dining, theaters galore, etc. I think this will be a great vacation for me. Chris and I have discussed going together but who knows a lot of things will change in a year's time. I know its going down as something I want to do.

Via


Friday, June 15, 2012

To Charolette and Many Others

This will be one of the hardest blogs I write. This subject holds close to my heart because so many are affected by this. Maybe no directly like some, but this subject changes how some people even approach people differently. The subject is very controversial, but I owe it to my sister and many other victims to share.

Charolette was 3 years younger than me. Our moms were sisters but we had the same dad.. We were sisters and we acted like sisters. We fought, cried, reminisced, laughed, and were punished together. We officially moved back to Alabama after Charolette's mom died and my dad had remarried. It was then that Charolette started gaining independence. She wanted attention. She didn't want to be book smart, she wanted to be famous for acting. Dad's rules still applied but she was more frequently trying to bend them as she started her first year of high school. He let a lot of them go. She was high spirited and loved crowds. Though one night things suddenly changed.

We shared a bedroom and we both hated it. She would stay up to 3 in morning on the phone while I was trying to sleep. One night, I think it was a Friday she came home and tried not to wake me but she did anyhow and I could tell she was crying. She told me it was just a fight with her boyfriend. The next morning was when I seen the bruises. I told her that it wasn't right and she snarled at me telling me I didn't even know what a boyfriend was much less what comes with it. Not even a month later she stumbled into our room crying harder than I have ever seen her cry before. She was tipsy and said she had gave into him. I told her to talk to dad but she got mad almost instantly.

That summer, I was making coffee at my job and trying not to get marshmallow in my hair from making rice krispy treats and Charolette bopped into the bookstore. She asked me if daddy still had his handgun in a box under his bed. I told her I had no idea and I doubt since Jonathan was little and James had just begun to crawl. She said she just wondered because she remember seeing. That should have been a red flag right there. Though being at work probably had something to do with it.

Two days later she went to the river her friends. She had called dad and said she was on her way home but it became 4 in the morning and she was home. Dad was furious and scared. He made us all get up and go look. He went for his gun and it wasn't there. My blood turned cold and my stomach knotted when he started ranting about his gun being gone. I just started silently praying she hadn't taken her own life. Now its a different story.
My stepmom called ever everyone of my sister's friends. They all more or less said the same thing. She went home after calling dad. Dad was furious because he was sure she had ran away from home and I finally told him about her asking about his gun. He was then furious at me and more scared than anything that she had taken her own life. But he found his gun in his truck the next day, but it made us that more concerned. I was told to stay at home and help my stepmom and take care of the farm.

Finally, my stepmom's sister came to stay with her and I took off after them one day. I knew where my sister was likely to go. I was going to go to both of them with my brothers spread out behind me going through the woods. I was on my way to her "Pooh Corner" as she called it when I saw her shoe. Those stupid, ugly Sperrys.
My brother Jared, says he remembers me screaming and just screaming. Jackson says all he remember was dad going "Oh Lord," and running. Jacques says he remembers me "No," until Jared grabbed me back and pulled me there. Job says that all he can remember is dad kneeling down to pray and how she looked.
I barely remember daddy praying I just remember the look of fury on his face when he got up. Though, like Joel. I will never forget how she looked. Her face was bruised. Her shirt covered in dirt and torn and pants not even pulled up covered in blood. Daddy didn't say much for the rest of the week. We had her funeral and he still didn't talk. He preached on Sunday after. Nobody said anything. We had people telling us they couldn't believe this happened and that she was such a sweet girl.

It was my dad, stepmom, Job, me, and my 3 baby brothers now. Dad wouldn't let me do anything by myself. Job had to take me everywhere. Job finally lost his patience when my stepmom cleaned out Charolette's room claiming she was giving one of her son's his own room. I was left alone with guilt, shame, and bitterness. There was accusations of it being one guy. But no one is really sure who did it and still are not sure of it.

I was very angry at my dad for how he was treating the situation. He came into my room and said that I was never to date anyone without him meeting them first. That I was to obey everything I said. He started making his wife do everything for me. It was crazy, she was so mad at him because she kept saying I wasn't a baby but I didn't say anything because for the first time in a long time it seemed like he cared. Two years and half years past with me living under my dad's watchful eye. I moved to Tuscaloosa after that.

I have made peace, for the most part, about feeling guilty for not picking up signals. Her friends said they knew she was being raped by her old boyfriend, but he wasn't the one that made her take her last breath. I've been back to that very spot where we found her. I buried those shoes she was wearing where we found her. It was hard to accept that she is gone, but I have good faith that she isn't hurting anymore. Every time I come to a challenge in my life I can almost hear her saying "Come on Odes you can do this."

People ask me how I can still have faith after something like that happens. Do I blame God? No. Was I angry that God let this happen? Oh yeah. You are allowed to be mad at God, just never doubt God. I did my own research into God's manual for Life. God did extraordinary things with my sister, and even in her death he taught our family something and possibly each one of us individually. I stand here today to say my faith doesn't waver because of this and I hope every victim of this that God justice for you.
"But if in the field the man finds the girl who is engaged, and the man forces her and lies with her, then only the man who lies with her shall die. 26"But you shall do nothing to the girl; there is no sin in the girl worthy of death, for just as a man rises against his neighbor and murders him, so is this case. 27"When he found her in the field, the engaged girl cried out, but there was no one to save her,"  Deuteronomy 22: 25-27
Victims of rape have a different views on it. I have had four friends and family members raped, out of those two only 2 involved authorities. I asked two of these four to talk about what they thought needed to be heard.

Rape is never about sex. Never. It's about power and submission. ANY rape is the use of another's body without his/her permission.
I will be the first person to say that rape can happen to both genders. Imagine if you will that you are a slave. Not the sexy slaves in the movies...a real slave. No power over where you can go, what you can do, who you can see. Your body belongs to your master. If they wants to beat you, they can. They can make you do anything at all and there is nothing you can do about it. Your body is not your own. It is all about power over another human being. If this master is stronger than you, they can and will hurt you just to do what he wants. It isn't sex, it's rape. The forcing of your most private individual places for his mastery. Not for pleasure, for domination. If you fight back, you may die. Knives and guns are part of the equation. Even if you don't fight back you still may die because he doesn't want a witness to the brutality of what he did. If you are lucky, they beats you and terrorizes you, rips the most tender parts of your body and leaves. You are left with the realization that you have no control over your own person...someone else does, they just proved it. You feel dirty, shamed, soiled, and forever different. You will always look over your shoulder to make sure your attacker isn't coming again. 
If they attacked you in your home, you know that they knows where you live. They can come back and do the same thing again. If it was in a park or alley way, you blame yourself because you didn't have to be there. Sometimes it is a crime of opportunity, but most often the attacker is also a stalker. They planned it, picked you, and knows all about you. No, it's not fun. No it's not sex. It's the most brutal and terrorizing act a man can perform on a woman. A person who has been raped knows that forever they can never be the same. They aren't the confident person they were...they have become a terror victim. It will always be there. — Ridge 
It’s not easy to explain rape to someone who has never been through it. Imagine having every single part of you, your pride, your strength, your will, your very soul, torn away and ripped to shreds in front of your very eyes, now multiply that feeling times millions and it still will never be close to what is experienced. One of the simplest words, “no”, should also be the strongest as it is supposed to protect people from what isn’t wanted.
We all think we’re safe, that nothing and no one can or will ever hurt us. What happens when someone you think you can trust does the unthinkable? It’s almost impossible for most to imagine that, for others it’s impossible to imagine life without it. This is how my life is now; filled with memories and reminders of what was done to me. The worst one was being held down in a pool of my own tears, hearing him laugh as begged for him to kill me, a request that was cruelly unfulfilled. 
The backlash of speaking out about being raped can be almost as bad as the rape itself. Some are branded liars, others attention seekers. Even if you are believed, the person could deny it all and get away with it. Women are faced with a dilemma: speak up and possibly be made into a liar or stay silent and let them get away with it? I chose to stay quiet because I know I would only be branded a liar. Don’t choose what I did. Speak up. Be loud. Make your story heard. — Maria  
Maria summed what every victim should know. Somewhere someone wants to hear your opinion. If the authorities don't believe you keep telling someone of higher respects to make sure that you tell this isn't right. What happened to your body is violation of a human. Someone else controlled your body.

If you or someone you know is being raped, don't keep it a secret. Call 1.800.656.HOPE. When a caller dials 1.800.656.HOPE, a computer notes the area code and first three digits of the caller's phone number. The call is then instantaneously connected to the nearest RAINN member center. If all counselors at that center are busy, the call is sent to the next closest center. The caller's phone number is not retained, so the call is anonymous and confidential unless the caller chooses to share personally-identifying information.


RAINN does not have any record of a caller's phone number or name. Callers always have the choice of whether or not to share their real name or phone number with counselors; they are never obligated to reveal this information. In other words, we will know who you are only if you choose to tell us.

If a caller is under age 18 and chooses to share personally-identifying information with the counselor, most states require the counselor to notify authorities of the sexual assault of a minor. Only in this situation — when a minor calls and chooses to reveal identifying information — does the pledge of confidentiality not apply.

The Online Hotline provides live, secure, anonymous crisis support for victims of sexual violence, their friends, and families over RAINN's website. The Online Hotline is free of charge and is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week!


Using a secure and anonymous instant-messaging type format, the Online Hotline allows victims of sexual violence to communicate directly with trained crisis support volunteers.

All trained volunteers have successfully completed state-mandated training and have extensive training in providing online support. Online Hotline supervisors continually monitor sessions for quality control.



In addition, the Online Hotline website provides a library of information about recovery, medical issues, the criminal justice process, local resources, and support for family and friends of victims.

There is a reason why I wrote this, people don't realize how often this happens or what to do when it happens to them or someone they love. Please tell someone. That's all.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Avoiding the Money Trap

Before I ever left Tuscaloosa, I sat down with the person that understands me the best and the one that I trust the most, Genevieve. I knew she would help me work out a system that would work for me a budget. I had seen her budget before and I've seen what she saves by using coupons and such. I wasn't thrilled at the thought of using coupons then I realized it would help a ton if I just used the ones I needed when I had the money and things would be fine.

I live in a two story, two bedroom condo. I work two jobs. I work at Books-A-Million and I work at daycare. I will have another scholarship at the end of the summer for helping with the daycare, and I plan on going into teaching and childcare but that's for a different blog.

Genevieve and I sat down and talked about where I wanted to put money. How much and when. Now I am not going to put those details on my blog but I will show you how I have my money broken into sections.

I have mine put into a spreadsheet but at the moment I do not have a blank one. When I make a template I will load it and make a section for printables.

Available Income (AI)
Wages and Tips                                            
From Savings                                              
Financial Aid (loans, grants, & scholarships)    
Other                                                          
Total AI                                                        _________

Tithe & Taxes (T&T)

  • Tithe                                                             
  • Taxes (including taxes withheld)                     

Total T&T                                                     _________

Net Spendable Income (NSI)                      _________


Expenses:
Housing

  • Condo Payment                                              
  • Utilities                                                          
  • Telephone (Cellphone)                                     
  • Furniture & Appliances                                    
  • Other                                                             

Food

  • Meals Out                                                      
  • Groceries                                                        

Transportation

  • Car Payment  I don't have a car payment. My car is in my name, but my dad pays for it as my college graduation gift.
  • Car insurance                                                  
  • Gas & Oil                                                       
  • Car repairs                                                      
  • Other                                                             

Education

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Lab Fees
  • Other Fees
  • Books
Medical
  • Doctor
  • Dentist
  • Eye Doctor
  • Gyno
  • Prescriptions
  • Other
Other Living Expenses
  • Clothing
  • Laundry
  • Household supplies
  • Personal Care
  • Entertainment
  • Disney Trip
  • Gifts
  • Monthly Dues (Book club, Netflix)
  • Misc Expenses
Financial
  • Saving Deposits
  • Other Investments
  • Insurance (Other than car)
  • Debts & Loans Repayment (If any)
  • Credit Card Payment
  • Loans
  • Other
Total Expenses                                                   _________


That's pretty much it. Sometimes I go a little further into Personal Care and break it down further. But this is basically how I set things up. It works well for me.

For further interest in Budgeting and savings check out Money Saving Mom. I love their articles also.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Its an Elephant

Taken in my bedroom

This was one of the things that I really wanted to learn how to do on my Summer Bucket List.



I really wanted to learn how to do this because Disney Mousekeeping sometimes will create towel animals for you. That's how I became inspired to learn how to do one. At Disney the high of rank your resort is the bigger the animals are, just like everything else at Disney resorts. So I was on half day at work and I really wanted to get the first thing marked off my bucket list. So this is what I did.

Let me explain because I had a few people ask did I use starch in the trunk of the elephant. No I did not. I actually hang my towels, bath towels, hand towels, and wash cloths on my balcony on the second floor at the back. I live by myself I use the same towel two days in a row (except my work out towel, I wash it daily.) So I can hang most of my towels outside and it gives them a stiffness to them.

I will admit I had to do the trunk and face several times because I thought I was doing something wrong when in reality I was doing it right but I'm one of those Type A people sometimes. I looked up a tutorial on Youtube for a towel animal. There were a few options but being a former student and a huge fan of the University of Alabama, I went with the elephant. I actually am going to see in the future to make diaper cakes and shapes. My little brothers loved the elephants I made for them, HOWEVER, I bought sticker eyes for theirs instead of using tacts like the videos says to do. Also the one above is my first attempt and you cannot see his ears.

Below is the tutorial that I followed. I will say that you will need to pause it if you are trying to make a towel animal.