great quotes....good movie..."How do you Know"

We are all just one small adjustment away from making our lives work.

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When you're in something you got to give it everything you have or else what are you doing?

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Happiness in life is about... finding out what you want and learning how to ask for it.

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Never drink to feel better; drink to feel even better.

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But I don't know if I have what it takes for everybody's regular plans.

Gemini traits

Someone asked me traits of my sign and I didn't have an answer. So, after a quick google search, this is what I found and believe to be pretty darn accurate (or I would like to think so anyway!) Communicative and witty Adaptable and versatile Intellectual and eloquent Youthful and Lively

Moving Day

I'm headed to move all of my stuff from my little condo to my big new house, which I closed on it on Monday! yay! I was super anxious at the beginning of the week but that has quickly been replaced with excitedness! Wish me luck!

Changes

Yes, I have been MIA for awhile from the blogosphere. Don't worry- this doesn't mean I don't check in on all of you and your wonderful stories and great photos. It's one of the highlights of my mornings (don't tell my boss!) So, I have been super busy since, well, I guess since it became 2010! February I took an amazing trip to New Mexico and the Grand Canyon with my friend Rachel and 7 others. That's a whole other post, but it was a great experience (that has lasted quite sometime- my toenail fell off two days ago as a result of Canyon hiking! ok, maybe TMI, that's gross. Sorry! Anyway...so since January, I have been diligently hunting for a house. For me. To love. And make my home. And when I say I have been hunting, I mean as in looking at more than 50 properties. Going to these properties, not online viewing. It has been exhausting. The week before the Grand Canyon, I found a house I really liked. I mean really, really liked. So I made an offer. They countered, but I was leaving the next day and knew I wouldn't be around to counter and wouldn't have cell service. So, I said I would leave for the 8 days and see what happened when I got back to Charleston. Well, unfortunately when I returned there was a contract on this house. My house. I was truly sad and frustrated. So, I set back out on a hunt. I found a few places that were ok- didn't love and every property I compared back to Saint Clair, my first choice. I even had my sister and mom come over to help encourage me to like other properties. Finally I decided I guess I had to let Saint Clair go and I had found another place I "liked" so I made an offer. As I am waiting to hear back from the seller, my realtor gets a call. From the owner of Saint Clair. Their contract had fallen through and was I still interested??? WHAT??? Does fate get any better than that? Is there any more of a sign? I immediately withdrew my other offer and started bidding. All Easter weekend I was sick with nervousness, no sleep cause all I could think about was would it work out this time. Finally, Tuesday morning came last week and my realtor called to tell me we had a contract! woohoo! FINALLY!!! I was so relieved. So since then, I have been lining everything up. Met with my banker today. Inspection tomorrow (please let it go well). Call a closing attorney. Get homeowners insurance. Tell my current landlord I'm moving. As of now, my closing date is May 10th, if all goes well. May will either make or break me- closing on the 10th, board meeting on the 12th, concert on the 13th, 10 year birthday celebration for the Aquarium on the 14th, move out of current house by the 15th and the next week is my huge annual fundraiser, which has already sold out and invites don't go out til the end of this week. Did I mention Al Gore is speaking at it??? So, you can see there are lots of changes going on. Will I be broke? Oh yes. Will it be exciting and nervous. You better believe it. But I am so happy. truly happy to be doing something. For me. All me. All on my own. Wish me luck!

Spring

"If spring came but once a century instead of once a year, or burst forth with the sound of an earthquake and not in silence, what wonder and expectation there would be in all hearts to behold the miraculous change." -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, American poet (1807-1882)

Gym

So, I can't say it was my New Year's Resolution (which was drinking more water daily, which I have done pretty well with). However, I might say it was my March resolution. Whatever you want to call it, for the past two weeks I have been somewhat addicted to the gym. Now, I have to say it probably has a lot to do with that I have joined a new gym (Bluefish, which is unbelievable) and the newness of the experience. It's classy, it's clean, they call me by name every time I walk in (yes, every time and they have yet to call me by the wrong name- nope, no Mary Beth's or Mary Jo's!), and I have even worked out with Catherine Bell from Army Wives. So, needless to say, it makes you feel good. And, the locker rooms are nicer than my own bathrooms at home, so I shower afterwards and head to my next meeting or happy hour, it's great. There's just one slight drawback. So I have worked out Monday-Thursday the past 2-3 weeks, and haven't lost any weight. No, I'm not saying that's why I'm doing all this working out (maybe just a little). It's mainly cause I need to kick my sister's butt in the Bridge Run in two weeks. But, I mean, can't a girl catch a break for trying to be good??? Don't worry, I won't let it discourage me. I'll keep telling myself I'm building muscle- yeah, right. :)

Happy New Year

Here's to a new year- new chances, new ideas, new possibilities, new love and a new outlook. Each year is an opportunity for everyone to wipe the slate clean, start anew. One of my best friends got engaged last night here in Charleston and I was so fortunate to be the first person to see their glowing faces. They are so excited about a new life together. It was a joyous opportunity to absorb some of their excitement and optimism. Heather and Mike will have many wonderful years ahead of them and I look forward to being with them in everyone. Happy New Year, blogger world. Hug your loved ones tight, raise of a glass of bubbly to a new year and a new year! Here's to 2010! PS- and with that, I am dipping out of work early today to go celebrate with Heather over a glass of wine and delicious mussels at Rue de Jean!

Merry Christmas

So, I know I have been slack the past few weeks. And, I have no excuse but laziness. Yes, I could say the hustle and bustle of the season, running around from one holiday party to another, work is kicking my butt with year end gifts, etc. etc. etc. Like I said, at the end of the day no excuse. I have been reading all of my lovely friends' blogs and have enjoyed remembering my own Christmas pasts, traditions and memories. There are so many and I am so thankful. The past four Christmases have been pretty rough on my family. There has almost been a hold your breath and wait for something bad to happen moment each one. Not to sound like a downer, but divorce, cancer, heart attack, Grandmother's death...literally one year after another. However, through it all, my family continues to grow closer and closer. No matter the circumstance, we always gather together to thank God for our blessings and to enjoy the wonderful spirit of Christmas. Christmas Eve candlelight service. Christmas breakfast at Grandma's. Christmas dinner at mom and dad's. Holding hands to give thanks. I do feel like the Grinch, Christmas after Christmas, not because of my grinchiness, but because I feel like my heart grows three sizes each year. Full of cheer and happiness and love. May you and your loved ones give thanks for every blessing you have this year. Hug your families tight and open your eyes to the tiny wonders around you. Merry Christmas to all of my friends- thank you for being a blessing in my life.

Success

Success is such an awesome feeling. Like, when you work hard and late hours, but it really pays off and you know you did it right. The kind of success where you don't need a boss to say good job or to get a bonus. The kind of success where you know your hard work paid off and just knowing it is a reward. Doesn't have to be anything big- mine isn't, just the fact that you got it right. 'The secret of success if constancy of purpose." - Benjamin Disraeli

Thanksgiving 2009

Ok, so I'm a bit behind. I blame it on being out of town. I headed to Conyers last Monday after work. Many of my friends questioned my sanity, how would I be able to stand my family for almost a full week?!? To me, it wasn't a question. Here's a little secret: I love being around my family. I am the third of three girls and the only one who lives more than 15 miles from my parents' house. Therefore, I take advantage of as much time as possible at home, catching up on family and town gossip, sleeping in my old bed, being treated to dinners and pedicures, the works. Now, this does not mean that after three or four days some tempers flare and brief arguments arise. But, we get past them and I remind myself to be thankful for the wonderful time with my family.

So, I spent Monday night and Tuesday at home in Conyers, running around town. Mom, dad and I saw "The Blind Side" on Tuesday night, which I encourage you all to see-- you will quickly become a Baltimore Ravens fan! Wednesday, we headed down to the lake for some R & R and in preparation for Thanksgiving. Me, mom, dad, Jennifer and my aunt, uncle and cousins came down to spend the night (and Ginger, my cat of course!) The next day, Julie and Brandon came down to eat before heading to the airport to fly to Michigan to see Brandon's family. We had a feast, more than a feast. We ate early, then played cards, drank some wine, watched football and enjoyed the fellowship with each other. I truly am blessed with a wonderful family.

We headed back to Conyers on Friday and participated in some Black Friday shopping. Saturday took us to the Atlanta Farmers Market to get a Christmas tree- one of the biggest my parents have ever had! That night we cheered and cheered for our GT yellow jackets, but that fell short. That's ok- I have faith that they will bounce back before the match-up with Clemson this Saturday!

All in all, I had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I was so thankful to have enough time saved up to take the week off. I already looking forward to Christmas so I can see more friends and do more relaxing! My post for the last ten days could say many things I am thankful for, but friends, family and health are the three most important, and what I go to bed every night thanking God for. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Grateful for...

Grateful for: live football games on a beautiful fall afternoon (will be in Clemson tomorrow!) young children to remind me I am still a child at heart Insurance papers and bills to remind me I am an adult in reality :) Christmas tree sale stands ready and set up for the people to come and truly begin their Christmas season

Ok, I have a lot of catching up to do, but I'm doing my best!

Ok, let me think back to the weekend and the past few days.

beautiful sunsets, Rooftop dining, Publix holiday commercials, cards in the mail, a mom and two sisters who can walk me through cooking over the phone, other non-profit professionals who reinforce that you aren't alone when it comes to raising a lot of money by year end,

new friends, a cheap power bill cause there is no need for air or heat!, radio stations that are already playing Christmas music

Grateful for...

Free minutes with AT&T after 7 p.m. First amendment a ten year old car that keeps getting me where I need to go! Weekends! Never thought it would get here...one hell of a week. Goodwill stores (crock pot for $4- hello!) when people show up for events! TV on Thursday night! (I love ABC and Bravo)

wednesday nov 11

I am truly thankful for all of our Veterans today. Every single one of them. And am really thankful for all of those that are currently serving. Wherever you are and whoever you are, thank you for the many blessings that provide this country.

catch up on thankfulness

Ok, sorry I missed some posts, so time to catch up. I'm doing my best (which hasn't been too bad so far). And, as my excuse I have had a very strange work week so far with people refusing to show up as a demonstration of their rights, but that's an entirely different post. On Saturday, I was thankful for: homecooked meals 75 degree weather in November A mom who loves football as much as me Sunday: bloody mary's cell phones to connect me to family forgiveness Monday: leadership skills determination fresh produce at the grocery store belief in my coworkers "Castle" on tv- it really cracks me up for some reason Tuesday (today): rain that is much needed a safe return from travels for my friends Jason and Scott Burt's Bees chapstick RSVP's so I can plan ahead

Friday Nov, 6- Give thanks

Today, I am thankful for: Payday! The weekend! long-distance phonecalls to friends who have moved away smell of clean warm clothes out of the dryer This weekend: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets! (ok, I know, enough with the football) New friends Art exhibits at the beach Sweet Tea

Nov. 5 Thanks

Today, I am thankful for: America's Favorite Pastime, the World Series my iphone the radio, which always keeps you guessing Two friends of mine, who both celebrated Anniversaries yesterday. Congrats Cappi and Sarah!

Give Thanks

Ok, I am stealing from Carissa, who stole from Mandi, the idea to post things we are thankful for this month. Boy, do I have a lot of them, so I have no excuse not to have plenty to post! Let me make up for the four days of the month that I have already missed! November 1 - a warm Halloween in Charleston - College football on Saturdays - friends to watch football on Saturdays with me! -Brunch - An extra hour of sleep November 2 - cool mornings and warm days - my Little Foot I have had since childhood - honest friends November 3- - the new Glee soundtrack! -the Gym -Vickery's on Shem Creek for a lunch outdoors on the water Today (November 4) - leftover Halloween candy - Susan G. Komen Foundation and the wonderful people I have had the opportunity to meet - long hair I can put with a pencil for a last minute meeting

Halloween Fun

Thought I would share some good times from a great holiday! Had a wonderful time celebrating with several groups of people and dressing up in four, yes four, different costumes!

Whirlwind

OK, I'm back. I know I have been MIA for the past few weeks, and I apologize, but my life has been moving a mile a minute. So, let me back up and catch everyone up. The first weekend in October I spent in Charlotte with my lovely friend, Lauren, and our friends for her birthday. We had a great time celebrating at the Widespread Panic and AB concert. As many of you know, this isn't my usual music type, but nevertheless, had a great time dancing and singing and enjoying some Southern Comfort (which I will not be drinking for quite some time). Came back to Charleston on Sunday for some rest before another big week. The next week arrived with lots of meetings and after work "socials". I seriously need a new wardrobe- I know some of these people are sick of me wearing the same things! Last week was busy busy and ended with Leadership Charleston at the Food Bank, followed by Race for the Cure. I have been serving on the planning committee for the race since February and served as Teams chair this year, responsible for recruiting and organizing teams from schools, corporations and community organizations. Let's just say it was a lot of work. But, well worth it. Friday was spent in the wet and cold rain, setting up on Daniel Island. Then, my mom and sister, Jennifer, came to town to cheer and run. I was so excited they came to town and spent time with me, so important to my family. My mom is coming up on two years in remission from breast cancer and I couldn't be more proud of her. It was an emotional day for her, and all of us, but a huge success. We had over 8,300 participants, making it the second largest race in South Carolina (obviously behind the bridge run). We spent the rest of the day cheering on the Yellow Jackets to victory over Va Tech (woohoo- number 11 in BCS!!!) and just enjoying each other's company. This week, the work days have been full and I have something after work every night between now and the weekend- BUT Skinful Halloween is this Saturday- I am still looking for the perfect costume. The Farrah one is on the backburner, but not sure I have the guts to wear that red bathing suit...