Wee Bit Thursday? Yes!

*Playing along today for a forgotten Wee Bit Wednesday! Check out her blog, and play along, too!*

1. What is your biggest pet peeve? I'd have to say people that don't keep their word. Saying one thing and doing another is not cool. (Please note that there is a difference between this and canceling/rescheduling plans)

2. What is your favorite dessert? Copeland's Strawberry Cheesecake! It's so delicious!

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3. What is the first thing you notice about people? Their eyes and good hygiene. Does the hygiene part make sense?

4. Are you usually late, early or right on time? I try to always be at least 5-10 minutes early. Running/being late gives me major anxiety, which then leads to road rage.

5. Have you ever fired a gun? Yes. When I about 16 my Me-Maw took me shooting with her. It was scary at the time, but thinking back it was pretty awesome. I've been wanting to take a class to learn how to properly use a gun.

6. Are you right-handed or left-handed? I'm a righty.

7. Which do you prefer: coke or pepsi? Coke, but if I had to choose it'd be Dr. Pepper.

8. Do you dance crazy when no one is looking? Absolutely. I tend to do this in the kitchen while I make dinner, but Keith always seems to catch me. :o)

This type of dance party is the best.

9. What's your favorite movie snack? Beef jerky and sour gummy watermelon candies. This combo is ahhhhmazing.

10. Do you scream on roller coasters? Who me? YES! I love riding roller coasters, but I'm terrified of heights. Doesn't make much sense, but it works.

Wordless Wednesday

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You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.
C.S. Lewis

TGI Monday?

* This weekend was absolutely nuts. Saturday was a planned cleaning day, and Keith and I were very productive. We cleaned every inch of our bathroom, our bedroom, and did around 10 loads of laundry. (Let's just say it's been awhile...) Overall, Saturday was a good day. Then Sunday came. Keith woke up feeling really sick and was in bed for most of the day. After a very awful vomiting session he began running a high fever. I have never felt so helpless! I took care of him the best that I could, and his fever broke during the night. Thank the Lord! I never thought I'd say this, but I am so glad that it's Monday.

* Is anyone excited about Glee this week? I know I am! I can't wait to see an old school Britney themed episode! Yay!

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* Next week I have a paper due for my Criminology 220 class on a movie that features criminal behavior. I am really excited about this assignment and will be writing my paper on the movie Fracture. This is one of my favorites and I cannot wait to tackle this assignment. :o)

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* Oh Garret Hartley. Even though you missed a 29 yard field goal in overtime, I still think you are great. Yes, the Saints lost, but if you wouldn't have made the field goal with 4 seconds left in regular playing time, we wouldn't have made it to OT anyway. I'm still a fan. And I'm still rooting for my New Orleans Saints. WHO DAT!

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I hope you guys have a lovely Monday!

Be a Friend

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Last night I talked to a relative of mine whom I haven't seen in a few years. He is the kind of guy who can be sweet and gentle and loving -- when he is sober. He struggles with alcoholism and it seems he has burned almost every bridge with his friends and family members. This disease has completely taken over his life.

Last night, I missed his first phone call, and to be honest I really didn't want to call back. I never know what mood this person is going to be in, and I really didn't have the energy to deal with it. Keith told me "Look, he needs you more than you need him. Be his friend."

So that's what I did.

I called back and we had a wonderful conversation. He was sober, and it was great to talk to him. Even though he feels alone in this world and like he has nothing left, I encouraged him that there can always be a new beginning. God is the master of restoring people. I told him that even though things are bad, he should be thankful. He has a roof over his head, food in his belly, and clothes on his body. And he is loved.

I understand why most of his friends and family have turned their backs. I've done it multiple times in my life to him. This person can be violent, hateful, and very disturbing. BUT, does that mean we should just abandon him? Should we just say "Eh, sorry that you're messed up, have a good life!" No. We shouldn't. We should love on him and try our best to help. When that turns into abuse, take a step back. But when we see someone drowning we should try to save them, not just let them sink. Sometimes all it takes is simple kindness to give someone hope.

"For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me." (Matthew 25:35-36)

"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" (Matthew 25:40)

Dad, I know I haven't always been there for you, but that's going to change. I love you and Keith and I will always be here.

No matter what.

Wordless Wednesday

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I may be weak, but your Spirit's strong in me.
My flesh may fail, my God you never will.

Change of Plans

My night went a little different than I had planned. I thought I'd workout, then watch Chuck and Monday Night Football, while spending time with the hubs and getting a little homework done. You know, a nice, low key evening. Well, this is what actually happened.

Right after work my friend Allison came over and we did Pilates. It was very relaxing and a great workout. (We're still having a bit of trouble with the "seal" workout, but we'll get it soon! Hehe)

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Every Monday Keith has been playing tennis with a few of his friends, so last night was no different. Instead of watching Chuck without him, I decided to wait until tonight to watch it. (Mucho wife points earned) So what's a girl to do? Watch Dancing With the Stars! I've never been a huge fan, but I think that's about to change. I really loved the show last night! Kurt Warren did a surprisingly awesome job and I was thoroughly entertained! Guess that's just one more show I'll be hooked to this Fall!

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And then the Saints game happened. Holy freaking guacamole. That game nearly killed me! The top incidents that will contribute to my gray hair were:

• 3 turnovers from the 49ers (thank you much!)
  
• Reggie getting hurt
• Getting a 29 yard penalty for pass interference (against the Saints), only to intercept the ball. WOW!
  
• A 49er 2 point conversion being no good -- oh wait, it was good...grrrr..
  
• Hartley's very low, but very good winning field goal

AH! It was nuts and I was freaking out. At midnight. I've been a Saints fan for the majority of my life, so I'm used to this, but seriously guys???

We won 25 - 22. Whew!

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Needless to say, it wasn't a "relaxing" night, but it was a great night indeed. WHO DAT! :o)

It's a Good Life

* Tonight is the season 4 premiere of Chuck and Monday Night Football - Saints vs. the 49ers! It's going to be a GREAT night! :o)

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Not to mention that Glee is back on Tuesday!!!! Wooo hooo!

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* Did anyone see or hear about Derek Jeter's "hit-by-pitch" fiasco?

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How do you guys feel about it? I've spoken to a few people about it, and I'm getting mixed reactions. Some say "Ehhh that's baseball", while others think it's wrong. Here's my take on it - UNACCEPTABLE! Derek Jeter, you are the captain of the New York (freaking) Yankees and you should be ashamed of yourself! From the mouth of Mr. Captain himself:

"It's really a big deal being made out of nothing," Jeter said in the New York Yankee clubhouse before Friday night's game against the Baltimore Orioles. "I had nothing to do with the call. The umpire called it from the get-go. I didn't do it. I didn't tell myself to go to first base. I didn't make the call. He didn't ask me did it hit you and I said, 'Yeah, it hit me please let me go to first base.' It's comical to me that this is really getting this much attention." via

Are you freaking kidding me?!?!? We know that you didn't tell yourself to go to first base, but your acting convinced the ump to make that call! You are a player that has always been classy and respected...a player who is a role model to so many children and adults! Everyone makes mistakes, and it's not the end of the world, but you have certainly disappointed this Yankee fan!! Grrrr..... **Sorry to freak out, but this really ticked me off.**

* Friday night Keith and I finally watched Letters to Juliet, and we both loved it! Two thumbs waaay up! :o) Keith said that it was one of the best chick flick that he's ever seen. Yay! I'll definitely be purchasing this DVD soon.

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* I'd like to extend my deepest congratulations to LawSchoolDreamer who received her first acceptance letter to law school, and also a FULL RIDE scholarship!!!! I am so very happy for her and so inspired!

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Hope you all have a fantastic Monday!

Friday = Smiles

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Don't you just love how wonderful Friday makes you feel! :o) This weekend Keith and I will be going on a date (yay!), doing homework, running a few errands, having the bro/sis-in-law over for dinner, going to church, and just seriously trying to enjoy ourselves! The weekends can sometimes be extremely busy, but I'm determined to relax amongst all the craziness! What are your plans? Whatever you do, I hope you enjoy yourself! Have a wonderful day lovelies!

Bits and Pieces

There are a few things that I've been meaning to share on my little blog, but instead of turning each topic into a separate post, I wanted to just unload everything today. :o)

* I have booked a photographer to shoot my Trash the Dress session! Back in July I asked you guys whether or not I should keep my wedding dress, or trash it. I got a great mixed response and ultimately decided to trash it. While I think it's beautiful and would like to keep it, I am more of a picture person and feel like this is the best way to "keep" my dress. The session is at the end of October and will be held at the beach. Yay! Does anyone have recommendations for waterproof make-up?? The pictures below are what I have in mind.

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* Speaking of trashing my dress...this means I'll have to fit in my dress again. Boy do I wish that I wouldn't have lost 10+ pounds right before my fitting. I'm pretty sure I gained that amount back on the honeymoon. (Okay, maybe not, but you get what I'm saying) I have a little over a month to get my lazy butt back in gear and I'm pretty excited about it. This is just what I need to stay committed and to jump start my plan to eat healthy and exercise regularly. **Pray for me.**

* Back in June I told you guys about my oldest sponsor child, Wilkemberg abruptly leaving the sponsorship program. My heart was broken and I felt like I could have done more. I could have written more often, donated more to his family, gone visit him....just more. Well, on Monday I received the most amazing phone call from Compassion! They told me that Wilkemberg has rejoined the program!!!! :o) I am beyond exited about this!! Wilkemberg will be going back to the project and begin to learn about Jesus again! When I found out this exciting news, I was overcome with emotion. I felt pure joy, love, and embarrassment. I felt God say "Did you think I couldn't handle this?" This was a very humbling experience, and I cried for a long time. Praise Him for this amazing little boy coming back!

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* Marathon training began a few weeks ago, and I have already hit a very large bump in the road. In 2008 I injured my IT band in my left leg after my first 10 mile run. While this is a pretty common runner's injury, it is very painful and makes it very hard to run. I have been taking it easy with running in general, but I'm worried if it doesn't get better soon that I won't be able to catch up on my training. I am hoping that this gets better soon so that I can rejoin my team! Check out this article that was written about Team SP's efforts to raise money for clean water projects. Yours truly interview for this! :o)

That's pretty much all of the tidbits that I wanted to share. I want you guys to know that I really do appreciate all of you. Your kindness, support, and honesty really makes my days so much better. You are all lovely and I hope that today is wonderful. <3>

Wordless Wednesday

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And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

Top Two Tuesday w/ a Twist

This week: Top two things you want to accomplish before the end of the year

Okay so I know this week was suppose to be top two things I want to accomplish before the end of the year, but I'm just going to drop off that last part. I'm mainly doing this because it's something I've been thinking about a lot lately.

1. Become a Mom.

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I don't want to just be a Mom, but I want to be a good Mom. I want my kid to know that their parents love them to the moon and back, and will protect them to no end. I want to teach my children about Jesus and His love. I want to introduce them to sports and music and art and everything...*sigh* I have always wanted to have children, and it's becoming more evident that this is just around the corner. Keith and I have been talking about it lately, and we're trying to figure out how in the world we're going to have a baby with me wanting to go to law school in 2012. I know that this whole thing is in God's hands, so I'm trying not to worry.

2. Become a lawyer.

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While I have not always wanted to be a lawyer, I do believe with all of my heart that this is the calling that God has placed on my life. I want to work in public interest law and criminal prosecution. (Not too sure if this is possible, but it's what I'd like) I want to help my community and the children in it, while also prosecuting those who commit crimes against them, especially for human trafficking. (Thank you Joanna for inspiring me.) Also, now that I know about Progeria, I want to be involved with this organization as well.

So, here's my question -- Can this work? Can I have both? I have spent a lot of time in prayer about this, and asking these questions in blog land seems kind of silly, but I'd really like to know what you guys think. I don't think that God would have placed these desires in my heart only to tell me that I can't do it. I have an amazing, supportive husband and I believe we can do this. Together. God, Keith, and me.

Misc. Monday Thoughts

1. I have come to the conclusion that a Dallas Cowgirls loss feels almost as good as a Saints victory. Last night I watched the Dallas Cowgirls lose to the Washington Redskins in a last second almost touchdown/holding penalty. It felt GREAT. Hehehe

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2. I finally saw Eat Pray Love and have to say that I am thoroughly disappointed. It seemed like the movie would never end, and quite honestly if it wasn't for the amazing Julia Roberts and Italy, I would have hated it completely. My favorite part of the movie was the previews beforehand, especially "Life As We Know It". No bueno.

3. I have an update on the Hawaii trip that was up for grabs! *Drum roll pleeeeease*

I didn't win.

BUT, I did win $500.00 big ones!!!!! I had no idea that my company was going to reward us for every new customer we brought in, and I brought in 20 during the month of August! Yay! I am so thankful for this unexpected blessing! As for Hawaii, it just wasn't my time...but I do believe $500.00 is enough for 2 plane tickets to NYC. ;o)

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4. Have you ever watched something on TV that completely changed your life? This happened to me once before, and it happened again on Friday. Keith and I stumbled across a 20/20 program called "7 Going on 70". We have never watched 20/20 before, but we were intrigued. The show was about three little girls that have Progeria. Progeria is a rare, rapid aging disorder that only 68 children worldwide have. The average lifespan for these children is 13 years.

Can you imagine? 13 years.

One would expect the kids with this disease to be very emotional and upset, but to our surprise they were fearless. These little girls (named Lindsay, Kaylee, and Haylee) were the bravest people I have ever seen.

Kaylee & Lindsay

They were positive, strong, and encouraging. These kids are everything I hope to be. The whole time I watched the episode, all I could think of was how beautiful they are. At one point, Kaylee was asked for advice for the children who share her disease. Do you know what she said?

"Be fabulous. Don't let one thing ruin your life."

When asked "What do you hope is going to happen?" her response was "I hope if I grow hair, that I grow curly hair."

My heart nearly stopped when I heard this little girl speak those words. With everything that is going on in her life, she is hoping for curly hair. When faced with a huge obstacle, she stays fabulous. Did I mention that she's only 6.5 years old???

I think we can all learn from these beautiful little girls. Life is too short to worry and be bothered over the little things. These little girls have changed my life, and are my heroes. God has let their light come into my world and I honestly don't think I'll ever be the same.

If you are interested in this story, you can watch here. To find out more information on Progeria and how you can help, please visit www.ProgeriaResearch.org.

Weekend Wrap Up

I know this is a bit late, but here's my weekend wrap up! I don't know about you guys, but I very much enjoyed this extended three day weekend! :o)

Friday during my lunch break I decided to take advantage of my Bi-Lo fuel perks and filled up my car. Please see the picture below and be amazed!


I FILLED UP MY CAR FOR $5.68!!! Now, I do drive a little Toyota Yaris and it was only 8.367 gallons, but still! The gas was $.68 per gallon...I saved $1.70 per gallon! If you don't have Bi-Lo Bonus Card then I highly recommend signing up! It's definitely worth it and really fun to see the gas price drop!

Friday night Keith and I went to a high school football game and had such a great time. To be honest I didn't really watch the game thanks to girl talk, but our team won 36 to nothing. :o)

Saturday was a hectic, but great day. I woke up pretty early (for a Saturday) and met my friends Rachel and Dana for a group run. We're all three running in the 2011 Georgia Marathon as members of Team Samaritan's Purse. We were suppose to run 3 miles, but since we got lost we ended up running a little more. This run was a serious wake-up call! I am so out of shape, and I had no idea it was going to be so hard to run again. Because I ended up causing the group to walk the majority of the time we're going to try 3 miles again this coming weekend.

After the run, I went home and got ready for a day date with my husband. It didn't go exactly how I imagined, but we still had a blast. We drove out to Sullivan's Island and planned to eat lunch and then tour Fort Moultrie. I pictured a nice, quaint little island where everyone is laid back and dressed like they belong in a J. Crew ad. Well, we arrived to a busy, beach community where everyone was in bathing suits and seemed to be in a rush. To add to my disappointment, the pub we went to was short staffed and we had to sit at a table outside...in the 100 degree weather. We left not too long after we got there, but I'd like to go back one day! The pub was cute and the food smelled good.

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We decided to leave and head on over to an awesome restaurant, California Dreaming. Check out our view...

Not too shabby, eh? We had a wonderful lunch and then headed home for a nap. Our day date was short, but ever so lovely. Keith and I spent Saturday night doing homework, but it was still a good time. Keith makes everything better. :o)

On Sunday we headed to church, relaxed, and did a bit more homework. Monday was spent editing for me, and Keith spent some time with a few guys from the small group he leads. I actually completed a wedding that I had been working on, so that was awesome. Here's a little taste of this gorgeous wedding that was held in Savannah, Georgia.

All in all it was a great weekend! I am so thankful for all of the blessings in my life...especially this guy.

Six Months

Happy Six Married Months to my amazing husband!!!

I love you so much and am so happy that I'm your wife. Time sure is flying by, but I couldn't be happier that I'm sharing my life with you. :o)

Getting to Know You Sunday #7

1. Do you like seafood? I used to love it, but recently my taste has changed and I only eat fried shrimp or crawfish. (Mmmm crawfish!) I really dislike fish, crab, shrimp that isn't fried...

2. Are mermaids hot? I think they're absolutely fascinating. Ariel's been my favorite since forever, and I think they're beautiful.

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3. Have you swam in the ocean? I've surfed in the Pacific and have gotten my feet wet in the Atlantic. I've also swam in the Gulf of Mexico more times than I can remember. I love the ocean.

4. If you got stung by a jellyfish, would you let a stranger pee on you? Um...to be honest I have no clue. Depending on the amount of pain I'd be in I don't think I'd care who did what as long as it made the sting feel better.

5. Have you ever pee'd in the ocean? Guilty. I did this a lot when I was kid, but when I hit about 13 I stopped doing it...it's just nasty!

6. Can you make a cute fish face? I can make a fish face. Is it cute? Not so much. (The kids below are adorable!)

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7. When you see the lobster tank at the grocery store do you just have this overwhelming urge to set them free or cook them up? Definitely to set them free!! I feel so bad for these little guys!

8. Are you afraid of sharks? Yes. When I was about 10 years old I would dive into the pool at my grandmother's house and for some reason I'd pretend that there were sharks in the deep end. If I didn't swim to the top fast enough then they'd eat me...crazy! Jaws totally ruined my liking to sharks.

Thursday 5

It's that time of the week where we look back and reflect on five things that have made us...

1. Excited - I am excited that there are only 113 days until Christmas! I am the girl who decorates in October and listens to "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" all year long. I absolutely love the Christmas season, and I think it'll be even better this year since my last name is Christmas. (Funny how things happen, eh?) :o)

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2. Exuberant - (I have to agree with with Jenna at Legally Brunette) I am exuberant that school has started! I am really enjoying my Criminal Justice classes, and I love that Keith is back in school as well. Only a few more semesters to go until I finally graduate!!

3. Ecstatic - I'm ecstatic about my 3 day weekend and my Saturday Day Date with Keith! Three day weekends are the best, and I can't wait to spend the day with my love on Saturday. Yay for sweet husbands!


4. Enthused - I'm enthused about raising $100.00 for Team Samaritan's Purse thanks to my hubs and Chloe! You guys rock and I am so very appreciative! My goal is to raise $1000.00, and while it is intimidating, I know that this goal is being guided by God and that He will provide.

5. Encouraged - I'm encouraged by last night's worship service at church. It was an hour filled with praise and worship to our Lord and it was just amazing! The band did an excellent job, and my spirits were lifted so high. I've been having a rough time and this was just what I needed to remind me that impossible does not exist, I am loved beyond belief, and what my purpose in this life is.

Homesick Much?

For the past few weeks I have been feeling a bit homesick...but it wasn't until recently that it fully kicked in. I'm pretty sure this has something to do with talking to a bunch of my Louisiana friends on Facebook recently. Not to mention that I missed my nephew's 1st birthday party. As much as I love that these people mean so much to me, I wish this feeling would go away.

I was born and raised in Louisiana and pretty much spent my entire childhood figuring out ways to escape. I briefly moved to California and Texas, but ended up back home -- like always. I moved to South Carolina in January of 2009 to be closer to Keith. At the time we were only dating, but I knew he was the one and couldn't stand being away from him. This move to SC was different. This move totally changed my life.

I married an amazing man and have started to come into my own here in Charleston. I've made friends, found a great doctor, am volunteering again, and have started to realize everything this place has to offer. And yet I've been here for almost 2 years and sometimes still feel like a visitor. Things just aren't the same.

Keith and I will be going to Louisiana for Thanksgiving and I think this will really help. I'll get to see the people and places that I love so dearly. For Christmas, we'll be staying in Charleston. I knew things were going to be like this, but I didn't think it would be this hard to be away from Louisiana. I love Keith and the new Christmas family that I belong to, but I just feel like I'm missing out on growing up with family.

So how does this work exactly? Are any of you living away from your family, but close to your husband's family? Does anyone only go home once or twice a year? Any coping techniques, advice, or tips? Any and all help is appreciate.