Less than 3 weeks

Less than 3 weeks until Christmas... and I'm still not feeling the Christmas spirit. In fact, I've been a little on the depressed side. Jonathan did put up the Christmas tree and I decorated it.  I even had an ornament personalized to commemorate our 1st Christmas together as a married couple.  But as the day gets closer, I'm still not feeling the Christmas spirit.

Tickling the Ivories

On Saturday, the hubby and I went to the music shop and bought some music stuff.  I got a new music stand since mine was busted as well as some new sheet music. (Some piano and a Wizard of Oz  one for the clarinet that comes with a CD for you to play along with)  But anyways, we went mostly because I wanted to get a new piano book.  I go through phases of playing the piano.  I have always wanted to be able to just effortlessly play.  The only issue is my left hand.  I can play the right just fine but add the left at the same time along with thinking in the bass clef, forget it.  Not that simple.  All of the music I have had to read has been treble clef.  So reading the treble clef notes along with figuring out the the bass clef notes while playing with my left hand which is not my dominant hand takes a LOT of effort.  But with practice I will improve and it will become easier.  At least that is what I keep telling myself.

But I guess it could be worse, my poor husband has a difficult time reading any sheet music.  He used to play saxophone when he was a kid but quit.  So, while he is teaching himself guitar it is an even bigger process for him.  I should probably cut him some more slack.  I'll make sure to tell that to the cat too who cries every time he plays.

When I consistently play, I can play some songs just fine.   I have quite a few books from my musical favorites like:  Wicked, Wizard of Oz, West Side Story, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and a few others.  Its been a while since I played (practiced) so I'm a bit rusty.  But I find as I'm playing, I don't think about anything else but the music.  Its a good way to clear my mind and soothe my thoughts.  As well as continue to learn something and enjoy doing it.  That's the hard thing as you grow up.  Even when you love doing something, when its required you sometimes get a chip on your shoulder about it.  Now as an adult, I don't have to practice if I don't want to.  I choose to because I can and I'm doing it for myself.  I have always loved music---- singing and playing my clarinet (tenor sax, too-even though I only played the tenor for one year).

I did pick up a Christmas book that has my favorite non-secular Christmas song in it:  "Somewhere in my Memory".  (The song from Home Alone)  It is such a beautiful song and I hope to be able to play it with "ease" by Christmastime.  Here is a beautiful video of it:

Well, I'm going to go do another lifelong love of mine: reading. I'm currently reading and enjoying: Betty White: Here We Go Again.  It is pretty good so far.  She's a funny lady and I just love the her intelligence.

BSB

**WARNING before you read: Yes, I know I'm a nerd.  I have come to terms with it and I embrace it.**

Oprah has been having some teenage heartthrobs on her show.  Today The Backstreet Boys were on and they brought back Kevin to complete the 5 members we grew up with.  Dana and I were texting while they were on about the show which very much reminded me of our adolescence when we would talk on the phone or watch them together.  Still, after all the time, I still really enjoy listening to their music.  I still find Nick so cute.  I still can identify with the music.

The first concert I went to was 10 years ago (age 16) at the Pepsi Arena in Albany (which is now the Times Union Center)The last concert that I went to was 5 years ago (yes, at age 21) at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. It was so funny to see the younger girls singing and dancing at the concert.  But it was also nice that a group I grew up listening to still is acquiring new following.

My husband still teases me because I record them when they're on.  A few months ago a concert was on one of the higher channels and I sat pretzel legged on the floor just like I did as a teenager, watching them on the television, and gushing over them like a young girl.

I gave a speech at Dana's wedding and even quoted some Backstreet Boys because it was a huge part of our growing up and teenage years.  It makes me sad to see some of the role models the kids have today.  Granted, the role models of 10-20 years ago had their issues and the increase of technology and other advancements just makes it more prevalent.  I worry for my students who are on the cusp of their teenage adolescence.  What "celebrity" models are they listening to?  What is the quality of the lyrics in their songs?  I mean, BSB was risque with some of their song lyrics but nothing as suggestive as some of the songs today.  And while there has always been suggestive songs and inappropriate lyrics that kids are listening to, I think that being an adult opens up ones eyes to the exposure to children.  I don't really know where I'm going with this so I'm just going to end this rant here because I just don't know.

But it was good to see the Backstreet Boys on the show today.  I think I may even look into getting tickets to see them on tour.  I mean- it is about time.  It seems I go every 5 years and its been 5 years.  So, Dana- lets get some tickets and see a show!

Here's a video of one (of many) of my favorite songs of theirs:


Backstreet Boys - Shape of my heart
Uploaded by Stella78. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.

Beautiful Day for a Walk

Day 4 of walking, I'm so happy that I've been keeping it up.  Met up with Dana and her little furbaby, Luna, for the walk today and the walk yesterday.  I was inspired by her blog to include photographs, so I brought mine along today.  Here are a few shots I got:

I love the reflection of the clouds in the water.

Laurel Grove Cemetery- path along the river

Laurel Grove Cemetery- path along other river

a dock

The weather was chilly but the sunshine and the day was beautiful.  We did our loop around St. Mary's and then walked to Laurel Grove and did a figure 8 kinda loop there.  It was nice to just walk and talk about anything and everything.  It also helped that Luna was so cute.  So much energy for such a little thing.





But I am very happy that I've actually gone for walks 4 days in a row.  I feel very accomplished and I've been sleeping better.  I love that I think about where I'm going to go and map out a path in my head.  I don't want to get bored by doing the same one every day.  I'm also happy that I'm up to 5.5 miles.  I know it will vary, especially once I incorporate some jogging.   But its nice to go for the walk and then come home and still have time to do the things I enjoy:  such as reading.

beautiful sunshine on the water... you'd never know it was cold

I loved the stone wall lining the path.

I just finished a book the other day, the third book in a week.  I just received books from Amazon today.  I'm really excited to start a new one tomorrow.  I thought I was going to start tonight but this blog took me longer than I thought.  I'm either going to start book 2 of the "Slightly" series I've been reading.  Its a "chick lit" series and the next one is called "Slightly Settled."  I to read books that I can escape in and do not have to think much.  But Dana really recommended that I read "The Noticer" which will make me think A LOT.  So we shall see what wins over.

21 Days

It takes 21 days to form a habit. Today was my 2nd day going for a walk after work. My friend Katrina has been going running and she gave me some good advice. When you get home from work, change, and then go right on back the door. I know that my biggest problem is once I'm home, I'm done. So yesterday and today, I came home, changed, and went out the door. I've been listening to Backstreet Boy radio on Pandora (yes, channeling my inner teenager, lol) and walking. The good thing about Pandora is you create a station based on something you like and the station plays that music as well as music like it. So, I was listening to those songs of my teenage years by BSB, N*SYNC, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, All 4 One, etc etc.... Its working because I'll get to a song I like and go the extra distance so that I know I'll hear the end of the song. I walked 1.5 miles yesterday and 2.0 miles today. I'm starting out walking because I'm not ready to do full out running.

I've been using a runkeeper application on my cell phone that has a GPS built in that tracks my route. This lets me know the mileage as well as the elevation, pace per min/mile, etc.. Its actually a pretty useful application. There are some other cool things about it like the calories I burnt based on the aver. min/mile. It then emails your information and provides a link to its site so that you can see the intervals of your pacing and statistics.

I just have to keep reminding myself: it takes 21 days to form a habit.

I hope its not like most of my attempts at getting healthier and in shape. I have to take it one day at a time.

Lets just hope tomorrow when I come home from work I don't fall into the temptation of "Nap Time Thursday" right after work and that I continue like today and yesterday.

Here's to tomorrow's success...

Quadrants?

So today's lesson was about scheduling your life, planning your days, and organizing yourself to be most effective. There are four quadrants and I find I spend most time in quadrant 4. This is the least productive quadrant titled "Waste and Excess." I'm sure we all find ourselves at one time or another fulfilling our days in this quadrant. For example, I know of only 2 people who subscribe to this blog so if you are reading it and aren't those two people, you read this because you saw it on Facebook. Facebook is a prime example of quadrant 4. How many times do you play Farmville, Bejeweled, varieties of Solitaire, etc etc etc?

Quadrant 4 are the activities that you spend to "unwind" "escape" if you will. Now don't get me wrong, I am by no means implying that we shouldn't engage in Quadrant 4. I would have no room to talk! My husband and I both LOOOOVE quadrant 4. I love getting lost in a book or watching my television shows. But I do wish that I spent more time in what was labeled "Quadrant 2." This was the effectiveness quadrant. This is the quadrant that you plan, build relationships, and do your most effective living. So, my goal for this week is to make my quadrant 4 activities into quadrant 2 activities.

In my defense, I believe that Jonathan and I watching a television show together and discussing the events as well as making predictions of what is going to happen next IS relationship building. It is bringing us together. It is encouraging us to discuss and have conversations.

So I guess my point is.... what is wrong with being in Quadrant 4? At least at this point in my life where I have no children. Shouldn't I use this time to its full advantage of relaxation? I know as a teacher, if I didn't recharge, I'd just burst! With all the responsibilities at work aren't we all entitled to escape for a little while? Even if its just to swap some jewels or plant some crops? I should think so.

Trying to Shift

My school district is offering a training course called "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People." What a great thing. You're probably thinking, what does that have to do with being a teacher. It has everything to do with being a teacher. The way you manage yourself as a person directly influences the way you are as a teacher. For instance, today's training focused a lot on the effects of being "proactive" vs being "reactive." I know in many situations I am more reactive than I am proactive. I don't always hesitate, reflect, and then respond. Especially with my husband. My poor husband gets the rough end of the deal since most of my patience is used from 8:20-3:20 @ school. So at home, when he asks me a simple question or wants me to help him do something small, I flip out like woah. I need to start taking a breath, even if that means counting down from 10-1, and then responding. I think some of his hesitations and reservations are direct responses to what I'm giving him. It was a very eye opening presentation today. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next 3 classes..

And a new school year begins

A new school year has begun. It is so hard getting back into a routine. After work, all I want to do is go home and take a long snooze. But the only day I allow myself to indulge in that is on Thursday- hence "Nap Time Thursdays." For some reason, Thursday is usually my roughest day of the week and its days like that that I really need a nap.

I am getting pretty close to finishing Jonathan's blanket. Thank goodness. I am so tired of looking at the various shades of blue and gray. I have a few other projects to work on soooo I want to get this one done. Hopefully by his birthday on October 4th.

I have been having a serious case of baby fever lately. Between all the people having them as well as ones that already are around, I can't help but be sucked just a little....

testing

I downloaded an app on my phone. Wanted to see if it works. if so- more posting.

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WT...

I don't know what the hell my problem is but I cannot sleep. Everynight the same thing- toss and turn. I don't know if its that I'm thinking too much or what but I just cannot seem to get to sleep. This could be a major issue especially with school starting in about 3 weeks. I try to sleep but I don't want to toss and turn so much that I wake the hubby. So I get up out of bed and go watch television in the living room or sit behind my computer in the office. During these times I should be constructive and do some house stuff since it much cooler at night but I don't. I play computer games or read. Then once I feel sleepy I go lay back down only to toss and turn some more.

WTF..... seriously.

I have been pretty irritable lately too. Just certain things have been getting to me lately........

Finally a Mrs.

Jonathan and I finally got married on July 17, 2010. After 10 years of friendship, 5 1/2 years of being engaged... we finally tied the knot. The wedding was beautiful. The weather was gorgeous, despite a bit on the hot side, but nonetheless lovely.

My wedding weekend was like a whirlwind. Family and friends started to come in on Wednesday and before I knew it, it was Friday. I spent the day with friends/family getting nails done and rehearsing one of the biggest moments of my life. Everything was wonderful at the rehearsal/rehearsal dinner and it was great to be surrounded by the ones I love.



The wedding day came so fast. I woke up and got my makeup done by Megan. (Who did a FABULOUS job) My sister, Mandy, did my hair (also FABULOUS). Before I knew it, it was 11 and my photographer Mary Kelly was there, taking pictures. Then the flowers came, my girls came, and it was time to be dressed. In the blink of an eye, I was dressed in my gown, tiara and veil in place, ruby slippers on, and getting ready to see my Jonathan.








Waiting in the back, I was pretty calm. When the music started, I was calm. When it was my turn to go down the aisle, I was calm. When I saw Jonathan, the tears just came. I was so happy that I was finally going to his wife. The ceremony was great, even the homily had a baseball theme to it. And just like that we were: "Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Taub."





We took pictures outside and did some baseball themed pictures to go with our baseball themed wedding. We entered our reception to "Enter Sandman." We had baseball vase centerpieces, lineup cards for table seating, parts of a ballpark for table names, a seventh inning stretch, and a baseball themed wedding cake. I even was able to tie in my Wizard of Oz aspects since there is the line "There's no place like home." Our sweetheart table bore the sign along with the Lenox piece that I bought of Dorothy and the Scarecrow since Jonathan is my scarecrow.

Click here to view these pictures larger

We danced, we laughed, we ate, we drank, we cut the cake, danced some more....And just like that, the wedding and reception was over. We did go to karaoke after and hang out for a while, but the big day came to a close. And it was everything I hoped for and dreamed. <3

Four Days

There are only 4 days left until the wedding day. I cannot believe how quickly it has come. I must say, I'm surprisingly calm. Don't get me wrong, I'm excited and anxious, but mostly calm. I have mostly everything done and most of what is left to do is out of my control. I'm really looking forward to marrying my best friend of about 10 years <3

27 days to go

So there are 27 days left until the wedding day. Wow. That's all I can say.

Hello 26

Today is my 26th birthday. Time has surely flown and from what I understand it just continues to zip on by from here. Today was a very nice day and I'm truly blessed. My students threw me a surprise part @ school today and even had my favorite-- ice cream cone cupcakes. It was so thoughtful and sweet.

I have been trying to get into more meditative practices and purchased, "The Daily Book of Positive Quotations" by Linda Picone. Each day has a quote with a little musing. I felt that today's musing was very relevant to it being my birthday.

June 10- Corny but true
"There's an element of truth in every idea that lasts long enough to be corny." Irving Berlin

Basically, the musing goes on to discuss how depending on the generation you live in often determines what you find as relevant and what is irrelevant. It determines the corny from the nostalgic. The first paragraph was very fitting to how I felt today:
"The younger we are, the more likely we are to dismiss the past as being old-fashioned and irrelevant. The older we are, the more likely we are to see wisdom and virtue in 'the good old days.'" (Picone, 176, 2008)

I just felt that it was a very relevant topic when thinking about my birthday. It left you with ideas to do a musing of your own:

"Which ideas from my youth are still good today? And which should I let go of?"

I must say I am not completely sure. I think I'm going to need to contemplate this more before I can answer. I don't necessarily know whether it is ideas that I should let go of or certain items. For example, my collection of stuffed animals. I don't really look at them but I have such an emotional attachment to most of them. I just can't seem to part with them. I hold onto so many things that are not important, but make them important. I keep saying, "If I have children it would be nice to pass them down to them." When, in fact, I know that my child doesn't want my hand me downs.

But its more than just "things."Ideas. Emotions. Hang ups. I wish that I could let go of the things that clutter my judgment. I think about the different ideas I had as a child about relationships, friendships, and other aspects of life. As a teacher, I am now watching students go through the same challenges/obstacles that we did as children. The wisdom I've gained and am passing down from my "good old days" that are being cast aside as "you don't understand." Its just interesting to see the lessons learned from the past and how relevant that are in this future.


I would be remiss if I did not mention that today is also the birthday of the one and only- Judy Garland.

Today was a Wonderful Wonderful Day

I am so overwhelmed with feelings today. The wonderful people at work threw me a bridal shower this morning. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends and coworkers. The kindness and generosity has truly touched my heart. I will always remember this. My cake was DELICIOUS and absolutely beautiful:

School itself was great today. The kids were awesome. We read about tournaments and heraldry as well as began a mini project creating customized Coats of Arms. The kids are creating some really great things. And it was such a great day we went out for recess (more thanks to Jen. I'll give credit where its due, lol)

After school, I visited with MoH for a while. We exchanged birthday presents. Hers was on May 23rd and mine is June 10th. I'm actually quite surprised because we're never on time with gifts, lol. Usually we exchange a few months down the road. She got me a beautiful old fashioned emerald green bathing suit from our new addiction modcloth.com.


I absolutely LOVE it and its beautiful. We chatted for a bit about the new book she's reading which I can't wait to read when she's done. I also did some cuddling with her little puppy Luna who is adorable beyond words.


I quickly went home before going to my mother's installation as the recording secretary of the Catholic Daughters. After that, I went to Cruizin' Port w/ the hubby to be. We met up with Trisha and her parents. It was a beautiful evening and addition to my already wonderful day. When we came home, we watched the season finale of Glee. Now, I'm very very particular about my all time favorite song "Over the Rainbow." I do not like many of the covers made of the song but I do like the ukuele version. Well, to end the season finale of the show, Matthew Morrison (whose voice I loooove) sang this version with Mark Salling. It was so beautiful and made me cry like such a baby. Search the video on youtube, its definitely worth it. I know I've been listening to it for the last half hour, lol.

Today overall was such a wonderful, beautiful day. I have so many things to be thankful and grateful for. I have a wonderful family and friends. 39 days to go before I become a Mrs.

Lets hope that tomorrow is another great day...........

Rosalie

My niece Rosalie was born today @ 4:21 am. She is 21 inches long and weights 6lbs 8 oz. She is so beautiful and tiny.

53... tick tock tick tock

53 days to go.....

It seems like many but feels like few....

Pre Cana went well..... I went for my dress fitting yesterday and we're going to put in a laceup panel in the back. I really need to find myself some motivation and self control. Its like, "Self-you have 53 days... get with it already!" I don't know if its that I'm comfortable being the size I am, if I'm just lacking will power, or what.... I'm hoping now that my after school committments are no longer, that I will resume Curves and going for walks. Over the summer, along with eating right, I made progress- noticeable- in my appearance/weight. Even if I can't maintain a habit of this, at least I should be able to do it for 53 days, right?

On another note, I've been addicted to Modcloth.com lately. I found a PERFECT dress today! I was pretty bummed about a similar one that was out of stock. So when I came home today and saw this one I was thrilled:




Seriously, the dress is called: Dorothy's Date Night

56 and counting

Fifty six days and counting until the wedding day..... where did the time go??

So we had our first session of Pre Cana today and it was really nice. The couple that ran it were such nice people and made the experience very real and not a dictation of what you should and shouldn't do. It was nice to hear first hand experience as well as not be lectured about the "rules of the Catholic Church in regards to marriage."

After Pre Cana, Jonathan and I decided it was time to get our rings. We went to every store in the mall and I ended up getting my first choice, from the first store we went to, Zales. I looooooove my ring and no other store had it. While they had similar rings, this one was just perfect. It was exactly what I wanted and looks fabulous with my ring. My engagement ring is uniquely shaped so it was difficult to find a ring that fits. This ring just dips enough that it looks great with my ring as well as alone. I applied for a store card, was approved, and 15 minutes later we walked out with my ring (since I'm the standard size) and Jonathan (who is not standard sized, not even close) is on order.......

I'm so glad that I got my official engagement ring in January. While my other one is meaningful and I know Jon was on a tight budget... this one just fits.
Tomorrow is session 2 of Pre Cana.

Two Months To Go

Holy wow... there are two months to go before the big day. I cannot believe how fast it has come. All the pieces are finally coming together. We've figured out the flowers, centerpieces, favors, and all the pieces of the puzzle. It is now crunch time to actually put those pieces together into the whole. I cannot wait to marry Jonathan. I've been doing a lot of thinking about how far he and I have come to get to this point. From the first time we met, 11th grade United States History and Government class- 7th period, to now. Its been a long road but definitely worthwhile. I would never have imagined back then that Jonathan and I would get married. I can still remember the day that it just clicked. I look forward to spending forever with him.

Here are some pictures of Jonathan and I dancing/together at various weddings throughout our relationship:


Stephanie and Taylor's wedding: June 2005


Emily and James's wedding: October 2007

Joe and April's wedding: October 2007



Dana and Adam's wedding: September 2009


Trish and Kevin's wedding: February 2010

5 Generations

I've been feeling very nostalgic lately since I've been seeing many old family photos. This photo is of 5 generations of mothers/daughters. I understand that this is indeed quite a rare thing. The woman in red is my great great grandmother, Josephine Ligarzewski. Her daughter is in the white shirt to her right, which is my great grandmother Hedwig (Hattie) Martin. Her daughter is to the left of my great great grandmother, and that is my grandma, Patricia Ritchie (hmmm intersting right, yeah, I'm named after her), to her left is my mommy, Debbie DiToto, and the baby in the picture is me, Patricia Ritchie.

I think that it is amazing to have something like this. Such a strong tradition of mothers to daughters. While I have no memories of my great great grandmother, I do have some of my great grandma Martin. I remember she had loose, soft flabby skin on the underside of her arms. I used to stroke it with my hand because it was soft and hit it softly. I remember making meatballs at the round table upstairs in the dining room. (My bedroom growing up used to be a dining room before it became my bedroom) I remember drawing houses on paper with her on the couch. She was a fantastic scenic artist. We have some of her art hanging up in the house. I have glimpses of other memories about her but can't put the words together to describe the picture. I know that might sound weird, but it just is. One of my most vivid memories of her is from her viewing after she died. I think the memory is slightly tainted by recollections my mom had but I remember seeing her at the viewing and talking to her. I thought she was sleeping. I was four and it was October.

Memories are wonderful. I've been truly blessed to have amazing maternal bonds in my life. My grandmother watched me during the day while my mom was at work. She used to watch my cousins too but I was lucky enough to be with her full time. My mother and I lived with my grandparents until I was 14 years old. (that's when my mom married my popadoodle and we moved in to our house) But I remember songs my grandma used to sing to me to go to sleep, I remember sitting in the recliner with her, I remember eating Social Tea cookies, and much more. Even in my adulthood the memories keep growing. We now swap books together since we are both bookworms. In one respect I am a mini Patsy.

In another respect, I am my mother. My mother is my best friend and my toughest critic. She has always demanded excellence from me and never lets me settle for second best. She pushes me to achieve my dreams and she gave up so much in order to guide me down that route. I am the woman I am today because of my mother. I have many memories of my mother and continue to make more into my adulthood. My mother wrote me a song she used to sing to me at nighttime:
"You're the light at the end of the tunnel,
The rainbow after the storm,
When those nights are long and cold,
You're there to keep me warm"
She was there for me for every heartache, heartbreak, failure, success, happiness, dissappointment, achievement, and every life moment I've had. She's been in my corner no matter what and no matter what time, place, or circumstance. I know that I can always count on my mom and that when I'm a mom I want to be just like her. She truly has made me the woman I am today.

Each day is a step closer

Today I went with my mom to the florist to pick out flowers. I love my bouquet and the flowers that I chose. For centerpieces, they had baseballs! It soooo goes with the theme. I got my first official wedding butterflies today.

Finally a Saturday

So I ended up falling asleep last night around 9pm and did not wake up until 9 am this morning. Guess I must've been tired. My schedule has been so busy and filled with softball practice, play rehearsal/performances, teaching, wedding planning, etc etc etc..... so I finally have a Saturday where there was no alarm clock, no morning obligation besides the one to myself: sleep in. Granted I didn't really sleep in much, but I did get a solid 12 hours of sleep which transfers to half a day.

So when I woke this morning I did some dishes that have piled up from lack of being home (Jon started a new job) and I rearranged some things in the living room. I rearranged furniture last Sunday but had to finish and just haven't had the time. So I'm in my recliner now, relaxing and drinking my coffee. I'm hoping to get in touch with my MoH so that we can go for a long overdue walk. It is a beautiful day outside.

100

DAYS TO GO TILL THE WEDDING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

wedding progress

So Jonathan and I have made some wedding progress. We have registered and BB&B, we have odds and ends, we have an idea for our wedding bands, and have made solidified plans for aspects of the reception.


The big question is centerpieces and favors. We don't have a lot to spend, at all.

Spending the rest of today reading by the balcony door. Its GORGEOUS outside.

Spring Vacation

First day of spring vacation and I spent it so far at softball practice. Then I came home and dyed the grays. I have it up in a turby twist thing. I think its going to be way too dark. But oh well, at least it won't be gray. I am a bit peeved with my genetics in that area. I'm 25 (soon to be 26, omg) and I should not have to be this concerned about gray hair! Its like having a mid life crisis before I'm even really midlife ( I hope at least).

Right now little Malibu monster is cuddling in my lap and purring. I love that sound. So soothing. I really need to get off my butt and fold some clothes so that I can keep the laundry cycle going. I also need to work on my shower list for the wedding. I need to do some cleaning around here. It is so cluttered. Maybe my goal for this spring break is to de-clutter my house? I won't make a concrete goal so that when procrastination/laziness kicks in, I won't disappoint. Tomorrow Jonathan and I are supposed to go to Middletown to register. We finally will have time together. I feel like the past few weeks we have had no time. Literally, I'll come home, shower, and kiss him goodnight. The other night we were going to relax and watch television together but he ended up falling asleep on the couch and I fell asleep in the recliner. I'm definitely looking forward to having this week off so that I can catch up on sleep, my reading list, my housework, and time with my little family of Jon, Calypso, and Malibu. I took a cute picture of my girls a little ago. They were looooooving the sunshine.
Well, I'm going to get myself moving. We are supposed to go out for dinner tonight. Of course, I have the beginnings of a cold. Why would I think any differently, it is vacation. I get sick EVERY vacation.

wedding dress

I fell in love with my wedding dress all over again........ the fitting went well despite 6 inches needing to be taken off the bottom. I still have to tone up top but there is hope! I didn't gain any since October :-) so it was a successful fitting..... we also purchased my veil and tiara today...... very surreal

Yuck

I am exhausted and my stomach has been killing me all day :(...... I'm in the recliner now just relaxing... I'm about to make some Plantation Mint tea to hopefully settle my stomach. All I want to do is sleep but I know if I take a nap now, I won't sleep tonight. I had a terrible night's sleep last night. I think that a big part of it was the impromptu nap I had yesterday (which sucked anyway). Oh well.

ahhh

Actually sitting down in my house for more than just to say goodnight to Jon. Its been a CRAZY busy week. Between work, play rehearsal, and softball I have been on the go go go!!!! So I'm looking forward to a definite lazy lazy Sunday.

Today some of my new spring athletic wear came in and I'm super excited to get to wear them. This Thursday and Friday it is supposed to be 60's! Hopefully, I will get a chance to take advantage of the weather!! We should probably get outside for practice this week.

I am currently reading a book that one of my friends lent me called "Elsewhere." Its about a teenager who dies from a tragic accident. She was hit by a cab while crossing the street. The book opens up with the dog, Lucy, who was close with the girl, Lizzy, describing the way she was handling the death of her human. It was SO incredibly heartbreaking. I was crying before the book even started. The prologue alone was sad. I never really put into perspective the confusion and hurt that animals could be feeling when losing a loved one. I know how devastated I am when losing a pet. Oscar was the hardest and then Sparky. I never really thought how an animal must feel. Calypso is very attached to me and it makes me consider how it is she would feel if I went before her. That is giving me tears to just think about. Its amazing how valued pets are. I consider them my children. I mean, seriously, we talk to our pets and fulfill their needs as you would a child.

Anyways, the book takes the girl Lizzie and sends her to "Elsewhere" which is where people who die go. Apparently in "Elsewhere," you go back in age till you are back to a baby. When you reach the infant stage, you are sent back to Earth. Its an interesting premise. So Lizzie meets her grandmother who died of breast cancer when Lizzie's mom, Olivia, was pregnant with her. I stopped at the part where Lizzie finds out that she will never reach sixteen because she will now go backwards in time so essentially it will be 31 years before she reaches 15. Definitely an interesting concept........

Well, I really want to see what happens so I'm going to get going and do some reading...... I'm looking forward to a lazy Sunday tomorrow (not the part where I turn the clocks forward though!)

Oh Boy

And so softball season begins tomorrow and my life gets super busy with most days this week filled with extracurricular activities...... Monday and Friday I have a little break but Tuesday-Thursday its go go go from the time I wake straight through 8pm..... though I bowl on Wednesday so that will be a 10pm one. Hopefully by being on the go I will lose some weight since I won't be doing any boredom snacking.

I just have to remember to get rest and spend time with Jonathan. I also have to make a conscious effort to do wedding planning so we don't fall too far behind. We made some good headway this weekend and got some things decided but we have a lot more to do. We did register for Pre Cana classes and created a customized, unique entrance song sequence for the reception.

Well I'm going to call it a night since I have to go pack my bag for tomorrow and lay out clothes so I can get as much sleep as possible since I won't be home till the evening tomorrow.....

Snow Days

I love snow days. Right now, I'm on the couch with my girls watching The Golden Girls as the snow falls. It looks so beautiful. It is one of the main reasons I love living in New York. I love the fact that we have 4 seasons. I love the snow in winter, I love the new beginnings of life in spring, I love the hot sunshine of summer, and I love the changing leaves of fall. Even the smells that come with each season I love. When Jon talks about moving to Florida, besides the fact I do not want to uproot and leave my family and friends, I don't want to give up my seasons for consistent sunshine. I would miss days like this where it is snowing so hard, with the snow so thick and beautiful covering the ground/trees/and everything.

But I do love days like this. I love being home and relaxing. Granted, I am doing laundry but I don't even mind doing that. Not with the snow looking as beautiful as it does and with being so relaxed.

Oddly lately, Calypso has been very affectionate. She has resumed sleeping in our bed the past week while Malibu sleeps under the bed and in the middle of the night comes to the bed. It is such a struggle to get out of bed in the morning when Malibu is cozy/asleep on my legs while Calypso is sleeping above my head on her pillow with her head resting on my hand, purring. Right now Calypso is laying right up against me and Malibu is on the other side of me on the couch, fast asleep. It is such a happy place. I mean, Calypso who is such a grumpy cat keeps licking my arm. Whatever caused this change, I love!

Well, I'm going to get back to the GG and relaxing. Again.... I LOVE days like this.

Dusting

So I'm sitting in the recliner looking out the window while the apparent dusting is going on. We've easily had 7 inches or more so far. Crazy crazy crazy. Then we are supposedly getting a "paralyzing blizzard" on Thursday-Friday. Lovely. I'm just concerned because my mother's 50th birthday party is on Saturday. When we had Anthony's birthday party, we had an ice storm. My mom's? A blizzard. Go figure.

If I don't have school tomorrow I'm going to take it as a sign from God that I need to finish the laundry and clean the bathroom.

sdrawkcab

So I just want to say that Jon and I were a little backwards this weekend.... after going to Trisha's wedding all Jon wanted to talk about was wedding wedding wedding wedding.... not that I'm complaining but isn't that supposed to be MY territory?? lol He even went so far as to read aloud bible readings from the book Fr. George gave us (which gave me chills because I've never heard him say the words of my faith before).... anyways, it was nice.

But now comes the time for planning planning planning.... I have the big picture in place but the details are gonna be the death of me. I HATE PLANNING THINGS IN ADVANCE..... seriously, I do. I am a last minute planner and I know, believe me I know, that that type of planning WILL NOT work for a wedding.. I'm trying hard to not procrastinate so its a good thing I have "groomzilla" (he's not really a groomzilla but he's all about planning)......

I love weddings

I finally have some time to relax. I was just reading Dana's blog and it inspired me to write about love and the past few days have been crazy with wedding stuff. One my dearest and best friends, Trisha married her prince charming. Five months ago, I saw another dear best friend of mine, Dana, marry her prince charming. Both were very emotional and satisfying days. It was amazing to see two people that I love dearly marry their perfect match.

Dana and Adam:
Trisha and Kevin:


You can just see the love that radiates from both of these couples. I am so extremely happy for them both. I cannot wait for it to be my turn to marry my prince. I cannot imagine spending my life without Jonathan. The road to where we are has not always been easy but as they say, love endures all. I love Jon with all my heart. I cannot wait to say, "I do" in 154 days. I look so forward to spending the rest of my life with him. He truly is my other half.

Jonathan and I:



154 days... and our 6 year relationship will take the next step as husband and wife :)

Snow day

It was wonderful to have a snow day today. I didn't do a damn thing. The best news I got tonight is that I have a 2 hour delay tomorrow. Maybe, it'll turn into another day?? I hope so.

A New Week

First I must start and thank my MoH for the beautiful blog header :) I LOOOOVE IT!
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Its a new week and hopefully this week will be better than the last two have been. Work has been very stressful on the student front. Hopefully this week is not.
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I'm looking forward to starting my week off doing laundry (as usual), catching up on this week's newspapers, reading, and relaxing.... I also need to watch my dvred shows from the week before Jon gets home from Atlantic City. He doesn't like Fringe so I usually have to watch it when he's not here. Its too freaky for him.
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So tomorrow starts the first day of February. I cannot believe how fast this year is flying by. Pretty soon July will be here before we know it. Holy wow. I have my first dress fitting on March 20th, so I have a little under two months to lose 15 lbs or at least a few inches around my waist, back, and shoulders. That is where the problem area is on my dress. The back and shoulders. I'm very muscular there and it doesn't help that I'm carrying a few extra pounds thus making my bust a bit bigger than it probably should be. I'd better get my ass in gear!

Blah

So I've spent the entire day so far in bed, aside from periods of getting sick in the bathroom. I wonder if this is God's way of telling me to slow down and get some rest. For the past few weeks I've been what feels like nonstop on the go. Lately I've felt really tired and then last night it hit me. My MoH is feeling under the weather so we didn't go kickboxing last night. Its a good thing we didn't go because who knows? I might've thrown up there which just would have been disgusting. So I've been in bed, Jon is taking good care of me. He bought me ginger ale, ice pops (2 kinds), and some soup. He's a keeper. Malibu has been in bed with me all day which is nice to just snuggle. I'm lucky to have wonderful pets. Calypso sat with me in the bathroom all night and put her little head on my foot as I was being sick. Gross as that sounds, and I'm sure you don't want to read these details, it was a sweet gesture. I really feel that animals are attuned to how people feel. My girls always seem to know how I'm feeling and how to make me feel better......

well I think I'm going to try and eat something. I've been able to keep a glass of ginger ale and a minute maid icepop down.... now lets try some soup.

Chillaxin

Finally home in my recliner... I have a load of laundry in the dryer and another in the washer. I wish I could keep on top of the laundry... I always vow to keep up with it once I'm caught up but that never seems to work out. So for the rest of the night I'll be doing laundry and sitting here. I just got the Sims 2 (finally) and plan on playing that.

This week was pretty busy, I feel like I'm never home anymore. On Thursday I went with my moh to the a core workout class which I'm still feeling today. We're making plans to see a PT to get more individualized sessions. I really need to get into better shape so I can wear my dress. It is so beautiful and I owe it to myself to do it. But money as usual is an issue but I'm sure it'll work out.

I am so cozy right now. I'm in the recliner, wearing these really really soft slipper socks, comfy in my Snuggie, with Malibu purring like crazy on top of the recliner next to my ear. She goes to the vet on Wednesday to get fixed and declawed. I'm not looking forward to it. I know I'll be a mess.

Well anyways, I'm going to go set up the Sims and watch some football.

Re-Engagement

Jon gave me a re-engagement engagement ring. Since getting engaged 5 years ago he has always told me that he would upgrade it to a real diamond ring. So last night before bed he gave it to me. It is gorgeous. Here is a picture:

Right now I'm on the couch with my cats. Malibu is on my right and Calypso is on my left. Its nice to actually be home on the couch and not do a thing. I am looking forward to this three day weekend. Jon and I are going to go straighten up and clean the apartment. Its kind of been neglected because I haven't been home much and Jon has been pretty busy with other stuff. So hopefully I'll have some motivation to do it. Well I'm going to go read my book and relax with my kitties.

Celebrating

Down 2 lbs woohoo... hopefully didn't blow it at Trisha's bridal shower though I didn't have too much to eat. I made a delicious lowfat cucumber dip that turned out the best I have ever made :) The shower was beautiful and Trisha was on cloud nine. She cried just as much as Dana was crying at hers. It was a wonderful today and tonight will be fun as well. Tonight is the bachelorette party. We're going out to dinner and dancing so I will definitely burn some calories tonight so that I didn't destroy all the hard work/sacrificing that I did during the week!

Sitting home right now feels good though. I feel like I haven't been here in ages! I finally am running the dishwasher, threw in a load of laundry, and straightened up a little bit. Its like I spent all break here and the first week back I basically just slept here. Its been a crazy week. Thursday and Friday I didn't get home till after 8pm each night! Even tomorrow afternoon I have a family after Christmas Christmas party. My girls probably feel so neglected by me since I usually spend so much time with them. Even Jon has been busy with the broadcasting stuff he's doing with Kevin. But, I am thoroughly exhausted right now. I think I'm going to go lay down for about an hour and relax so I have energy for tonight. Maybe watch some television or read for a bit on the couch. Quite possibly take a snooze.......

Another day of the bugg

Today wasn't too bad with the bug:

Calories Burned
target: 2600 actual: 2136
Calories Consumed
target: 1600 actual: 1532
Physical Activity: (Moderate to Vigorous)
target: 1:20 actual: 1:33
Steps taken
target: 9000 actual: 9159
Sleep duration
target: 8 hrs actual: 6hrs 7minutes (83% sleep efficient)


Not too bad, yesterdays numbers were actually better when I updated before bed. So the numbers were higher. Its ok though, I'm at least being conscious of what I'm eating. I turned down one of my favorite sodas today as well as one of my favorite dinners. The calories weren't worth it. So, I'm going to go park my behind in the recliner, crochet for a little, and then call it a night.

Trying to get back with the bugg

So I'm trying to get back into habitual use of the bodybugg. I need to monitor my intake vs. burn. Today was my first day and I was actually quite pleased with myself. My stats:

Calories Burned
target: 2600 actual: 2796
Calories Consumed
target: 1600 actual: 1588
Physical Activity: (Moderate to Vigorous)
target: 1:20 actual: 2:42
Steps taken
target: 9000 actual: 10191
Sleep duration
target: 8 hrs actual: 5hrs 8min (81% Sleep efficient)


Not too bad. I had a good workout at Curves and was very careful about what I ate. I even drank water where I would normally drink something else.

It was the first day that I didn't feel like absolute crap on the way to work and for the better part of the morning. I actually woke up and had breakfast, took a shower, and made myself a nice lunch despite the struggle it was to get out of bed. Not only was it the first day back from vacation but it was also freaking cold.

Hopefully I can keep the going till tomorrow. Right now I'm just looking one day at a time.

Well I think its time to wind down and get myself to bed. Long day ahead tomorrow....