Miles Ahead!

Santa!!!

2011-12-15T17:01:00.001-10:00

Of course Cole didn't smile at Santa but I will say that he was very intrigued by him. He didn't understnand why I was putting him on this random guys lap. As I am pulling up to Bass Pro Shop (Santa's workshop) and getting Cole out of the car...I realize that he has on one shoe! It is so typical of me to get all the way to the parking lot realizing my poor child just has on one shoe! Oh well...it gives our pictures character and helps us remember our Santa trip!

Cole's first haircut!

2011-12-14T16:59:00.000-10:00

Okay, so my child has been having some seriously ragged bangs for a while but I couldn't bear the fact to have someone cut off his curls. I'm scared to death they won't come back...so we got a trim. It was an expensive trim but I got pictures!

It cracks me up that this baby is in a poker cape (whatever they are called)...it's hard to tell in the pictures but you can actually tell that he doesn't have the aweful split ends. You can see that Cole just sits while he gets his haircut, I don't think he is all that impressed at the end!

Cole's first birthday!

2011-12-04T19:12:00.000-10:00

I can't believe his first birthday was November 8th! These are pictures from his birthday party! We had a sock monkey theme. We had his birthday party at Overton Park. It couldn't not have been a more perfect day to have a party!
Cole went to town on his "smash" cake! We all had so much fun!!!

Lassiter and Cole are best friends!

It's crazy that my sweet little baby is a little toddler now!

6 month pictures posting

2011-07-18T03:45:00.000-11:00

Here are the sweet pictures from Cole's six month sitting. He is 8 months now but doesn't look too different.

Park time!

2011-06-28T07:03:00.000-11:00

Raughley and Cole at the park!

Words of the Wise: Letter Factory

This is a really good post that my friend Rebecca did with her son, Raughley and Cole at the park a couple of weeks ago! She takes the best pictures!!!

Cole cruisin'

2011-06-27T06:43:00.000-11:00

So we were at Buy Buy Baby a couple of weeks ago, and Nick has been wanting to get Cole a walker. He thinks he remembers how much fun it was when he was baby (which is funny b/c he doesn't have ANY memories as a child...I mean ANY before the age of five...always thought that was odd...besides the point). Nick ran over to the ONLY BLACK walker b/c it was shaped like a old car. It had no lights, noise or anything...thank goodness Nick walked away when I told him Cole needs something a little more "stimulating".
As we were going down the main aisle, Nick finds THIS walker and we pull it down from the shelf...plop Cole in...and he starts walking down the aisle!!! What sold Nick too is that you can actually hook up your

i-pod to it!!! How crazy is that???? So we were sold...this is a video of Cole cruisin' in our den:

Look at my chompers!!! I have two more about to come in!!!

2011-06-27T06:35:00.000-11:00

Best Buds!

2011-06-25T16:52:00.000-11:00

This little cousins DO NOT HAVE a chance except to be best buds! Lassiter is nine weeks older than Cole. Ever since Cole has been born...these two have been inseparable since. They really treat each other like brothers. Cole is the high strung, stressed one (got a little from his mom...) while Lassiter is the easiest baby in the whole wide world. He is the third child, so he is used to getting the run around with his two older brothers. Cole and Lassiter spend more time with each other than either Laura or myself spend with our own children. They are with each other everyday in the same nursery at daycare and most days after work or on the weekends, we are usually out hanging out with the boys, Laura and Mead. I can't wait to see the two of them grow up together. Here are a couple of pictures of the past couple of months of them together.

Cole's six month pictures

2011-06-07T04:18:00.000-11:00

Cole's six month pictures!
Hannah did a great job! If you need to get into the link with a password, just type cole6

6 months and FOUR teeth!

2011-05-11T06:42:00.005-11:00

I am absolutely amazed that Cole has four teeth cutting in at the same time! He just turned six months on Sunday! All I've been wanting is to take some sweet six month "gummy" pictures. I had a feeling that he was not going to make it a week, his poor little gums are so swollen and inflamed. Oh well, I guess we will always remember his pictures with his teeth and gums petruding out! We are going to Botanical Gardens tomorrow to meet the photographer. One thing I have been debating for pictures was to get Cole's bubble monogrammed or not. His full name is Nicholas Daniel Miles, jr...but we nicknamed him Cole from Nicholas. This is something I am going to have to explain his entire life...why is there no "C" in my initial, Mommy? Well I bit the bullet and decided to go ahead and monogram. I figured that I was just going to have to get used to the fact when we have monogram items for him, there will be no "C."

Nashville

2011-05-08T10:30:00.000-11:00

We were so proud of Nick for running the 2011 Country Music 1/2 Marathon this year with one of my best friends, Chrissy. We got to visit them and while Cole was watching all the runner's go by...he kept on keeping out his hand (like giving the runners "hand fives!") It was the funniest thing that I ever saw, and I was so bummed that I didn't get a picture of Cole. Jordan (Chrissy's husband) and I were cracking up as people were going out of there way to fun and give Cole a high five! He is a pretty awesome dude! Afterwards, we go to hang out at this house and have a cookout! It was so much fun! A couple of bottles of wine...baby crying throughout night...equals one nice hangover in the morning. Well, we made it home...almost in one piece.

People have been asking out about the damage in Cahaba Heights. We were very fortunate that our house and street did not get hit by the tornado. However, two streets over looks like a completely different place. We were not able to drive on the roads for a while but all I can say is that I started crying when I saw all of the damage. Words can't describe seeing so much damage to the places you drive by millions times a year.

Spring, Easter, Mother's Day (6 month)

2011-05-08T10:17:00.000-11:00

I love this picture of the three of us! This picture was taken on Easter. Cole had the Easter bunny come visit and we then went to Dan and Carol's house for Easter lunch. I can't believe how big Cole is getting. I will be adding more pictures of him, but one thing that I hope is not going to change is Cole's blue eyes!

Another Xmas

2011-04-26T05:43:00.000-11:00

I like to take pictures in his glider so we can see how big he is getting!

Christmas 2010

2011-04-26T05:34:00.002-11:00

Here is one of the many outfits our sweet boy wore for Christmas. Santa was very good to him!

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-04-25T17:26:00.004-11:00

Cole's very first holiday, Thanksgiving 2010. Here are some pictures that I took while we were at the Miles' house for the holiday.

It's scary how much Cole's eye shape matches Nick and his great-grandad! 4 generations is pretty cool:
Daniel Green Miles "Grandad"
Daniel Greene Miles, jr. "Grandaddy"
Nicholas Daniel Miles "Daddy"
Nicholas Daniel Miles, jr. "Cole"
It is just a crazy coincidence that Green is Nick's father and grandfather's middle name. Too bad it isn't spelled like my maiden name, Greene!

First month

2011-04-25T17:05:00.006-11:00

As I said earlier...I am going to fly through Cole's first months so I can start getting up to date! I love the picture to my left of my two favorite boys! Cole loved to be swaddled and Nick was so helpful while I was recovering from my C-sec.

One of many pics of Laura, Lassiter, Cole and me!
Lassiter and Cole are bound to be best friends. That is my nephew who is only 9 weeks older than Cole. I remember when I took that picture and I couldn't get ever how much bigger Lassiter looked. Well when I was with them this past weekend (Easter), Cole weighs 16.5 lbs. and Lassiter weighs 16 lbs! They are so sweet together!!!

WAR EAGLE!!!

Our first Auburn game to watch as a whole family!!!! Cole was decked out in the sweetest Auburn gown. We played Georgia. Nick hated to sell his tickets, but he knew what was more important :)

Our first family pics

2011-04-19T06:35:00.003-11:00

I am going to try to work on major catch up with my blog. Family and friends have been on to me for not updating my blog. Let me start from November 8, 2010 when my sweet boy Cole was born. He was born via emergency c-section. Poor little fella had his cord wrapped around his neck. Here are some of the first pictures of him on the 11/8/10. You can see that he came out with a major conehead. I was in labor from 8:00 pm until he was born at 12:08pm the following day. He was fighting to come out! I will be updating pictures and stories until we get up to date.

Italy 2010

2011-03-14T13:23:00.001-10:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

28 weeks preggers!

2010-08-22T15:50:00.003-11:00

So I'm officially in my third trimester! I can't believe that I only have 12 more weeks until we have our baby boy come into our lives!
I will be so ready for fall time! This summer has been extremely hot and being preggers is just not helping! I just can not cool off!

27 weeks preggers!

2010-08-15T16:08:00.002-11:00

I can't believe that I am almost finished with my second trimester! I will technically start my third trimester this upcoming Wednesday.

We have been working hard to get Cole's room ready. As I mentioned earlier I do have the bedding and I promise to post pics of all the furniture. If you have ever seen my house on the inside you would find a lot of paintings that I snagged from my extremely talented sister-in-law, Allison. She is on her last year of architecture school in Auburn and I happen to be the fortunate one of getting some of her paintings. Nick and I can not afford to buy artwork so we like to say that we have "Allison's Art Gallery" in our home. Well she has offered to paint some paintings for Cole's room and I can not be more thrilled. Since I don't really have a theme for his room and I think I might be the MOST INDECISIVE PERSON EVER (I know I could make a decision before I got preggers) right now we had to come up with some ideas of what she should paint. At first I was going for some cute animals like monkey, giraffe, elephant, etc. But Nick and I got some ideas at the baby boutiques around and we are going now for the train, plane, trucks, etc. I debated on which one I would prefer the most but I thought if we did those we would be able to use them as he grew up in a big boy room. I am just so lucky to have a talented sister-in-law because I can barely draw a stick figure! I also have Nick's mom sewing me a pillow for my amazing glider that will match the bedding!

As Nick told me earlier, we are way ahead of the game but I have this overwhelming anxiety to get things done! I guess I need to start doing a little thing called "chillaxing!"
Now don't get me wrong, I am more than happy to have Cole stay in my belly as long as possible (might be eating those words later) because I am not anywhere close to have him come!
Only a couple more days til third trimester...it's starting to go a little too fast for me...SLOW DOWN!!!

26 weeks and Sea Island

2010-08-12T12:27:00.003-11:00

This pic was taken inside the Cloister's lodge. Absolutely breathtaking!

The beaches in Sea Island were not anything comparable to the ones in the Gulf. The sand did not look the same but what was so amazing to me was the tide came up about 50-75 feet everyday so when you came out onto the beach it was so flat!

One thing that I also loved about Sea Island was that you were surrounded by nature! When some of the girls and I went on a walk down the beach we would find the most interesting little creatures! I picked up a live sand dollar! I am the fist to admit that I have never seen one alive! We also saw some fish and really really huge crabs! This would be a fantastic place to take a family!

Nick and I had the most fabulous time last weekend celebrating our friend's wedding at the Cloisters in Sea Island, Georgia. We left last week and took a quick stop for a late lunch in Savannah and ate at the famous Paula Dean's Lady and Son's restaurant. I was so hungry that I had filled my plate so high (not ever a good thing to do...going to a all you can eat buffet hungry and PREGNANT). I ate my first plate so fast I told Nick I was going for seconds...meanwhile, I look down at his plate and realize he hasn't even eaten HALF of it. I come back with my plate pretty full again and he looks at me and says, "Seriously?"
After moaning around Savannah trying to "walk it off" I decided it was too hot and we need to get back in the AC and meet our friends in Sea Island.

Tim and Nick were roommates our Junior year at Auburn (the year that we met). Nick and I actually lived in the same apartment complex and just lived across the pool from each other. Who knew that 7 years later we would be married with a baby boy on the way! These are just some pictures from the wedding reception!!! Jordan and Tim had one of the most beautiful weddings that I had ever been too. Granted it was in Sea Island (we felt like modern day Kennedy's) every detail was PERFECT! The first day we got there, Jordan was so sweet and ordered a cabana (with AC and BATHROOM) next to the pool. Nick and I felt that this was our last big adventure to take without Cole!

Wedding day picture with my favorite groomsmen!

I actually had this picture taken at the rehearsal dinner. It is one of my favorites! My baby bump is growing by the day and it is just soooo fascinating to me that I have an actual human being growing up inside me!

25 weeks preggers

2010-07-28T15:15:00.001-11:00

I'm getting bigger and bigger by the day! I have to admit that it is a HOT SUMMER! I really don't have anything to gripe about because I have been blessed with an AMAZING and EASY pregnancy. My skin is starting to clear up, hormones are somewhat under control...now if it can stay this easy during the third trimester. I've read that women always feel like their first pregnancies always seem the longest b/c by the time they are one their second, third, etc. they have all of their children keeping them so occupied. I do feel like this has been VERY long but the past few weeks have started to go by faster.
Last night when I was at my mom's house, my nephews both happened to be there. Parker is very intrigued with my pregnancy but everytime he sees me he runs up to my belly and kisses it and says "I love you Cole!" My sister and I want to cry everytime. It is the sweetest thing!
Cole kicks and "dances" all the time in my tummy. At first I could just feel him when I am laying down, but now it seems that I feel it a majority part of the day doing something. It is the craziest feeling to realize that you actually have a baby growing inside you. I still feel like I am in shock!

24 weeks preggers

2010-07-28T15:06:00.002-11:00

So this week I turned 28! I am very excited to say that Nick gave me the most amazing birthday gift EVER! My sweet husband surprised me and gave me a BEAUTIFUL chocolate glider and ottoman! To say the very least I was in total shock! My mom had all of the furniture painted and finished last week so Nick and I worked on cleaning out the nursery and thankfully we did not have to end up painting. Since I am behind on my blog, I will post pics on the next blog or two of all of our furniture. I am so lucky and blessed to have such a wonderful family and baby Cole's room will be ready in no time. Nick's mom gave us our bedding, so I am waiting on getting it made and once that is in, the nursery will be close to being finished! YAY!

Name Revealing!

2010-07-14T06:41:00.005-11:00

23 weeks preggers today~

So Nick and I have come up with a name and we've had it for a couple of weeks. I have been able to tell friends and family so now I can finally tell the blog world! Let's just back up a few steps...I am a VERY TRADITIONAL PERSON when it comes to names. I really wanted to name him after Nick, the only problem was that Nick didn't want a Nick Jr...Big Nick/Little Nick...or anything like that. So then I asked if we could call him Nicholas, again I got shot down by my husband because it was too long and it would eventually get shortened to Nick anyway. So Nick's full name is Nicholas Daniel Miles. I really didn't want to call him Daniel, Dan, or Danny...so we were in a little bit of a predicament. My sister's friend had suggested the name "Cole" for Nicholas. I immediately fell in love with it but had to see what Nick thought. After he thought about it a couple of days he called me at work and said..."I really like Cole." So I am getting the traditional part, Nicholas Daniel Miles, jr...with a little twist.
So our son will go by Cole Miles!!! I'm really excited that we both love the name and that he is getting his son named after him! Naming a child is a BIG DEAL!!! But Cole is perfect for us!

22 weeks preggers

2010-07-08T15:39:00.004-11:00

So I took this tonight...I know this is a really bad picture but I was getting onto Nick about taking it. I am getting really bad about posting all of my pictures. I went to the doctor today and I've decided that I get depressed every time I leave! I was told that I gained 6 POUNDS in 4 Weeks! Seriously??? I really am getting tired of seeing the scale go up and up...but I do understand that I have baby in belly!
Tonight was my second time to do prenatal yoga and I have to say, I'm REALLY enjoying it! Its just so relaxing but I feel like I'm burning calories at the same time! It's really starting to be "fun" being pregnant because I am able to feel him move ALL THE TIME. It is just such an amazing feeling!!! I love feeling him kick and jump around. Being a first mommy I just had no idea how much I would already feel connected to my little fella inside my belly!
Stay tuned to my next post where I will be announcing his name!

21 weeks preggers

2010-07-08T15:39:00.000-11:00

Nick and I took this picture in the middle of Wally World on our way to the lake before 4th of July weekend. I was showing that baby Miles is approximately the length of a carrot! Baby bump is definitely starting to show!

20 weeks preggers- Bump at the beach!

2010-06-27T09:49:00.003-11:00

20 weeks- HALF WAY THROUGH!!!

Well it's safe to say that I officially got my bump on! I took these two pics while I was down enjoying some R&R at the beach. I think my tummy seriously poked out overnight! I actually am excited to say that I am really starting to look pregnant (now I might be slashing my wrists later for voicing that) but for now...at least I just don't look like I've been drinking extra booze!
We were down in the Gulf and it's sad because we were not able to go in the water at all because of the oil spill. I did enjoy lots and I mean lots of Vitamin D for baby boy Miles laying at the pool!

I am really starting to feel him a lot more everyday. Sometimes it's that fluttering feeling like you hear and sometimes it just feels like a bubble popped in my tummy.

Nick and I have decided on a name but that will have to wait until we tell friends. We did tell the family and they all love the name! Who knew a name could be so difficult to do. I remember before we picked up Cody from the breeder we got in lots of fights on over what we were going to name him. I mean that's just a DOG!!! Now imagine that on a much bigger scale!!!!!!!!!!!! We surprised each other and did not get in any bickering fights over this and both came up with something that we loved.

Shaved dog...

2010-06-21T16:12:00.003-11:00

So I was going absolutely crazy with Cody's hair being all over my house. I mean I was taking the dry mop to the house MULTIPLE times a day. We had been at the lake this past weekend with the whole family for father's day, and that is when I decided I was going to have my dog shaved the minute I got home. Well Nick took him to the vet today. It turns out that his hair was so long we didn't even notice that poor Cody was suffering hot spots all around his neck. Our vet called while he was supposed to be getting groomed and told us that she would need to shave off all of his hair around his neck (so not to freak out at the groomer when it didn't look "normal"). Let's just say I came in to pick him up after work and I had the feeling of getting a REALLY BAD HAIR CUT! Not only did I not recognize my dog's short haircut but he looked liked he got mauled around the neck! I was pretty much in tears on the way home because I felt like such a bad mommy for not knowing he was infected around his whole neck. I got home so upset and Nick tried to cheer me up telling me Cody looked cute with the short hair and that he loved the short cut because of the heat...but I just wanted my dog with all the matted hair back! He was in so much pain and I feel that he is mad at me for letting him get this ridiculous hair cut. I know many are saying "he's just a dog" but he's my doggy and I want him to look pretty and neat...I went to the vet expecting to pay $70 for grooming treatment and left paying $207 for grooming, shot, and meds! Poor Cody and poor hormonal mommy!

19 weeks preggers!

2010-06-16T17:28:00.000-11:00

I can't believe I'm almost halfway through my pregnancy! I really do feel like it has already lasted FOREVER, but from what I hear it will start to fly before I know it! Ever since I have found out it was a boy, everyone has been asking me what the name is going to be. We honestly don't know yet! I mean we had a hard enough time coming up with Cody's name, and he is just our dog! Imagine naming a human!!!
In certain things I am starting to show more, but when I hold my tummy like in this picture you can definately see I got something there. The Baby Center website said today the baby was the size of a large tomatoe. When I went to the doctor last week, the baby was 7 inches long and weighed half a pound!
I have already started to think of what to do for the nursury! I know since all of the furniture is going to be an off-white, we are probably going to use blue and chocolate with the furniture. I think it will all nicely tie in together but I have to decide on what to do for the bedding. I have found a gorgeous fabric but I am still looking around. I'll let everyone in on my designing ideas once I decide on what to do.
So for now, I'm getting bigger by the day!

18 weeks preggers- Pink or Blue Party

2010-06-11T11:44:00.002-11:00

So this is such a cute idea my friends had come up with to have a revealing for the sex of the baby. I had never heard of a pink or blue party, but it really was such a fun way to tell friends (family already knew...but they were there).

Italy 2010

2010-06-07T06:00:00.000-11:00

17 weeks preggers

2010-06-04T03:56:00.004-11:00

This is me posing in front of Ponte Vecchio

Ok...so I am at this awkward stage of pregnancy that I always hear about. I am not "really" showing but all my clothes are starting to get a little too tight for me! I am wearing as many loose fitting clothes as possible...AKA, DRESSES!
While I was gone on my extravagant trip to Italy...I ate, and ate, and ate...oh did I mentioned that I ate?!?!? I would eat a whole pizza to myself just for an afternoon snack! Oh, and don't get me started on the gelato! I can't even count how many times that I tried different flavors!!! But to me, it was TOTALLY worth it!
Italy was an amazing country! Rome was everything and then some of what I expected. Every step I took I would just look around and see these buildings that were so breathtaking! Florence was beautiful too. It was a lot lower key than Rome, not as much hustle and bustle! We then took a take trip to Venice for a day. Venice is one of those places that I can say "I've been there, done that! Check" It was really nice but the whole city was filled with tourists. That city is just one big maze! The whole fam took a gondola ride through the "streets" of Venice. It was so much fun!
Nick and I went and were in true awe over the monstrosity of Michelangelo's David! He stood 17 feet tall and you couldn't help but be in awe. Don't even get me started on one of my favorite parts of the trip, visiting The Vatican! It is something I will never forget!

One of my favorite parts of the trip is when we had rented a car and drove through the Tuscan region from Florence to Rome.

Anyway, I will post some pics later of Italy and of my pregger self later!

15 weeks preggo

2010-05-19T17:57:00.002-11:00

Surprise, surprise...the baby is the size of an apple! As you can clearly see that I am definitely starting to get a "pooch." I went to the doctor today and got to hear my new favorite sound, my baby's heartbeat. It makes me so happy everytime I get to hear it. I also was expecting to have gained weight since my 11th week appointment (I hadn't gained any weight at the past couple of appointments), and the scale said I gained FIVE pounds. I mean 5 pounds in 4 weeks!!! That just seems crazy to me! I'm at this weird stage where it doesn't look that I am showing (unless you know me) but I'm too small for maternity clothes. I just look like I am constantly full and looking like I've been downing some beers!!!
I will not be posting next week, because I am going to ITALY tomorrow!!! Nick's sister, Allison, has been studying abroad all semester (so jealous...I know). The whole Miles' family is taking a trip. Granted I had no idea I would be pregnant before I had left for Italy...which means NO WINE (EXCEPT FOR A FEW SIPS)!!!! This whole drinking thing has surprisingly been very easy for me, but this is going to be a little more difficult especially since WINE IS MY FAVORITE ALCOHOLIC DRINK EVER!!!!! I am planning on gaining a few more pounds from all the good food.
In only 3 short weeks from today, we will find out if we are having a boy or a girl! I can't believe we will find out so fast! Before you ask, people ask me all the time what do I want. I want a HEALTHY, HAPPY BABY!!!
Ciao!!!!!

I'm back and pregnant!!!

2010-05-13T08:03:00.007-11:00

Okay, I've been out of touch with my blogging world but things seemed to be pretty busy around my neck of the woods! Basically since the last time that I blogged I've got a lot changing with me!

Well, it's official- Nick and I are expecting our first child November 10, 2010!!!

I've seen on other blogs and have had friends tell me to post the size of the baby, so that is my new thing I will be doing with my blog. This week I am obviously the size of a lemon, with the baby weighing only 1 1/2 ounces. I am still just so excited and to be straight up honest, NERVOUS!!!

I had the doctor tell me that I needed to take a pregnancy test, and I really thought that I would be having to go in for lab work. MUCH TO MY SURPRISE, the test came out screaming with two vivid blue lines. I ended up going to the doctor later that day and did some blood work. My HCG levels were showing that I was 5-7 weeks pregnant! WHAT?!?!?!?!

Looking back at it now, I should have seen a couple signs but blew them off thinking I was just having REALLY BAD PMS!

The next week, Nick and I had to go in for an ultrasound so they could determine my due date and how far along I really was. When we went in for the ultrasound we were lucky enough to already have a heartbeat! They told us that the baby was size of a grain of rice...I mean a grain of rice with a HEARTBEAT! I've kept it under wraps with friends and family until I felt comfortable enough to get through the first trimester. I am now 14 weeks and feeling great. I do have to say that my waist is definitely feeling "thicker."

I have still tried and will still continue to run. I am obviously not running long distances but I figured I'll run as long as I can.
I was VERY LUCKY to have such an easy first trimester. Now even though I was blessed not to get sick during my first trimester, I had crazy emotional hormones! I was either crying or yelling or doing both at the same time. I also felt like I was a teenager experiencing the worst acne! I never had skin problems so when I start getting acne at 27 can be a little traumatic!
Hopefully now that I'm in the second trimester my emotional roller coaster will start to be a little less!
This is my journey...

Last day to help donate for Isabelle!

2010-02-22T09:26:00.002-11:00

I know I have officially become one of the worst bloggers out there. I have been meaning to post pictures from the race and tell everyone how it was. Nick and I did great! I am so proud of us! I came in at 2 hours 12 minutes and he came in less than 4 minutes behind me! We trained extremely hard for this and it is just a nice feeling when you accomplish a goal. This took months and months to train for and I do have a feeling that it will not be my last!

This is Isabelle over at our house last night asking everyone to help us donate. This is the last day to help us reach our goal, if you haven't donated please do so!

I'll post more pictures from the race!

Pictures I've been meaning to post

2010-02-11T11:38:00.004-11:00

First off, these are the beautiful flowers that Whitney and Michelle made for Chrissy's shower the other week. I'm quite impressed with their flower arranging skills!!! I had lots of glass containers filled with lemons and limes so there was lots of bright colors for the party.

This is a perfect example of how Marty and I are every time we see each other. We are singing along to some Britney Spears at Whit's house...how I miss Marty!!! Happy Birthday girl...I love you!!!

She's been telling me that all of her Richmond girls are taking her to brunch tomorrow morning where there is a Drag Queen show too!!! She'll be sending me pics all during brunch, what a way to celebrate your birthday weekend!!!

Look how big Cody has gotten!!! I still can't believe that he is almost 60 pounds. This is a typical day with him jumping in my car before I get into...when I feel guilty about not giving him a walk that day...we go for a car ride...it's his favorite thing to do besides eating!!!

Is it just me or do husbands really have that small of a brain to remember stuff?

2010-02-10T12:02:00.003-11:00

Ok, since I haven't been posting anything fun lately (if you don't know by now...computer won't work)...I have to use my husbands. Again, I am a newly (kind of) married woman who is still learning her husband. All I ask is "Baby, please take the meat out of the freezer so it will be thawed by the time we get home from work." He says he will. Now this isn't the first time I have asked him to take it out while he's on his lunch break nor is it the first time he has forgotten. So he calls me at 5:00 beating around the bush to go play a game of darts with his best friend, Will. I don't care if he plays darts with Will, just say "I'm going to play a game of darts with Will." It's that easy not to beat around the bush and then he goes on to say..."oh by the way, I forgot to take the meat out of the freezer, what do you want to do for dinner?" I guess this is just something I am going to have to get used to but it drives me crazy! I asked him two things today: 1. get meat out of freezer AND 2. figure out what to do for dinner...I don't feel like thinking of something. Well his bright idea is...lets just make sandwiches (except for the fact we don't have bread or sandwich meat...I know...seriously need to go to the grocery...BUT I am trying to be the good wife and use what we have in the cabinets before we go to the store). I hate to bitch but please let me know I am not the only one that gets frustrated!!! I guess I got so frustrated b/c in the same conversation he said, "so & so really wants us to go hang out with them tomorrow night." Really? We have plans to go eat a dinner with my sister and brother-in-law that we have been planning for weeks (he forgot about the first one, then sis had stomach bug, so needless to say this is way over due). At that moment I was for sure I knew the reason why wives had to nag their husbands! If I had to "remind" him about the freezer or dinner a million times he would just get mad at me and say not to remind him because he's "got it." But, when it seems like when I let it go...HE FORGETS! The joy of marriage!!!!
By the way- I am absolutely insanely in love with him...he is an amazing husband- cleans, grills, does laundry, clean up doggy poop...so he knows I am giving him a hard time!
We are so close to the race I am starting to get NERVOUS...not only is it supposed to snow on Friday (really...b/c we live in Alabama and this will make it like the 3rd time THIS YEAR)...we still need's yalls help and donate. For something creative...check out Isabelles mom's blog

Sunday...here we come baby!

2010-02-08T15:37:00.003-11:00

I can't believe we only have a couple of days! This is it! We have trained for months and months and the time has come. I can honestly say that I am ready for it...I can only pep myself up for this weekend. I am just so proud to say that we have raised over $3,600 for The Bell Center. That is over $1,000 goal they have given us! You still have time to help us raise money.

Truthful Tuesdays- Groundhog Day

2010-02-02T05:49:00.005-11:00

"If you could do-over one scene from your life...what would it be and why?"

I have just found Elizabeth's blog, so I am going to start participating in Truthful Tuesdays. She has picked this question today because of the great movie...Groundhog Day! If any of you know me, there are unfortunately way too many scenes I wish I could do-over in life...for example, the stupid ways that I act when I've had a little too much to drink. You girls reading know exactly what I am talking about. Sometimes I feel that I am just queen of the world and end up saying things that I totally regret.

That makes me thinking...what are some of the things that you wish you could redo?

So...the race is only 2 weeks away!

2010-02-01T16:58:00.002-11:00

Hey everyone...I have turned into the worst blogger since my computer crashed. I had such an amazing weekend with all of my girlfriends as I threw such an amazing shower for my best friend, Chrissy!!! Needless to say, Chrissy and her sis, Cindy...had a very interesting trip from Nashville to B'ham for the party. What turned from a 2 1/2 hour drive turned into a 28 hour trip trying to get here!!! Who knew a blizzard would be hitting Tennessee and Alabama...really what are the odds? We had friends and family flying from all over so the party was going to have to happen no matter what. I will be posting pics from the amazing party!!!
Well...it's officially less than two weeks away to our race. Since we had friends staying in every inch of our house we were not able to run the PRACTICE HALF RUN Saturday, which of course makes me completely stressed out. I had to break it to my coach and tell him that I haven't run since last Wednesday but he made me feel great and said that I would be great!

My new temp job...

2010-01-14T10:26:00.002-11:00

Ok...when I said times were tough, I meant it! This is me taking a picture of myself while I've become a temporary Receptionists.

I do not do 8-5 nor do I think I can ever do 8-5; everyday is sooooo long! I...like so many people around the country...need the extra money, so I've buckled down to work 8-5 for 3-5 weeks while doing Real Estate on the side.

The thing is my only job is to answer phones and they come far and between so I get to sit here looking pretty every day telling everyone I am not the new girl, just the temp!

Well to catch up with everyone, we have met over our Bell Center goal!!! We have gotten over $2,600 but that still doesn't mean that we stop there...I want $5,000...I knew it would be hard to reach but we have just trained to dang hard not to get at least another $1,000 within ONE month. Can you believe it is only one month away?

Nick and I ran the Red Nose Run last weekend (10 miles with a 1 mile warm up) and let me just say it was coooooooooooooooooooooold! I was so proud of Nick, he finished 20 seconds before me! Here's my results:

1:38:33 9:52 (I was just so happy that I was running at an average pace under 10 min miles)

Wow...its been forever...I know!

2010-01-06T16:31:00.003-11:00

Okay...before anyone thinks I've dropped off the face of the earth...give me a little break. MY COMPUTER CRASHED!!! So yes, i know...I've been a little absent from the blogging world so let me start from where I stopped off:

Isabelle got her halo off before Xmas! Nick and I went over to see her and her mom before Xmas eve to give her another Elmo (I'm sure her mom might want to kill us with the singing Elmo). When we went to visit her, she looked great! We were told by her that we are not allowed to sing...I'm really starting to get used to being bossed by people under the age of 3 1/2 (aka Parker)

Xmas- AMAZING! I got a new hot pink camera (this has become a tradition for the past couple of years...whether its Birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas's...I just tend to lose cameras...well, actually I tend to lose everything...it gets quite bothersome but thankfully I have a husband that somehow remembers everything (with the exception of cameras)... Thanks Nick! I also got tons of clothes, shoes, pictures, toys, etc...I think the best part of it all was that I got to have 5 days in row off and enjoy Christmas and then get to clean up after Christmas!!! I guess it shows that you're getting old when you get excited to do spring cleaning for two days straight...I mean baseboards and everything! I know...its sad, but wow was my house clean for all about a week...now its back to normal with the exception of clean baseboards!
New Years- I had a nice relaxing weekend at the lake with the fam and friends! Kicked off the New Year with fireworks and saying GOODBYE 2009...HELLO 2010! Praying that the black eyed peas that we ate will give us good luck!!!

I now get to play "mommy" until Saturday watching Parker and Charlie while my sister and brother-in-law head to Pasadena to watch Alabama play for the National Championship tomorrow night!

Did I mention that I get to run a 10 mile race in single digit weather? I mean...seriously, when did the state of Alabama get so cold? I really don't remember it ever being this cold growing up...global warming my ass! Now, if it could actually snow that would start my year off right!

My little puppy is not so little anymore...just shy under 50 pounds...no more Charmin puppy running around which makes me sad but he is getting to be such a beautiful dog!!!

Now...if I can make it with the two boys, my husband, Cody, and their two dogs for the next couple of days...I'd say I'm doing good!!! I will download new pics of Isabelle (on my sis's computer...the only way I am able to blog right now...so sad)

We have already raised over $2,500 for the Bell Center! Please help us...we only have one more month to raise money for such an amazing organization!!!

Isabelle's halo is off!

2009-12-22T05:45:00.002-11:00

Christmas came early for Miss Isabelle. Yesterday afternoon I found out that she was great during surgury, and they were able to take off her halo! Christmas came early in the Smith household! I am so excited for her and Amanda! Nick and I are eating dinner for his dad's birthday tonight at Ocean...super excited to try it out! Then we have Christmas eve with his grandad at the farm in Alex City...eat, play dirty Santa, shoot guns, and be exhausted out of our mind by the time we make it back home! I can't wait for Christmas...it is honestly MY FAVORITE holiday! I love presents...hum, I wonder what Santa is going to bring me this year???

What an AMAZING Saturday...starting off running 9 miles!!!

2009-12-20T08:08:00.003-11:00

If I had to name my favorite Saturdays of the year...I would have to name yesterday on the top!!!

Ran 9 miles!!! I'm so proud of myself, Nick, and Misty!!! Also, I'm so impressed that my friend, Christie, ran her first half marathon in 2:12!!! She kicks ass...actually we all do...it's seriously becoming a running "cult" ;)
Ate at my FAVORITE restaurant (with Nick) ...if any of you know me that would be LA PAZ!!!! We ate an entire bowl of cheese dip...seriously, if you haven't had it...you need to try it...AMAZING!!!
Came home and lounged around
Wrapped some presents (could possibly be the fastest gift wrapper...SERIOUSLY)
Took Cody for walk
Lounged around some more
Finally got around to taking shower
Watched Keeping up with Kardashians (I hate to watch that show...but I can't help myself) in robe and heating pad
Nick cooked amazing steaks for dinner
I made him watch Enchanted with me (VERY CORNY BUT CUTE!)
Went to Blockbuster to rent Public Enemies in Bed

SERIOUSLY, it was the most relaxing fun day I got to spend with Nick in a really long time. I'm always working on Saturdays, so it is very rare that we get to spend that much time together! Oh...and I made the BEST X-MAS PLAYLIST EVER that went on for an hour and a half!!! I was running all through downtown singing!!! I cherish these days that I get to spend with my family and NOT have an agenda on what or where we are supposed to be next!

I am really getting excited about the Mercedes Marathon!!!

I know...I know...it's been forever since I've blogged...much to catch up on!

2009-12-15T03:09:00.003-11:00

First off...a couple of weeks ago I went and visited the Dempseys!!! How prescious is Gates, he's getting so big! (Don't you love Aunt Ellen's new socks!!!!)
We had fun shopping out in the outlet! Just a quick trip to ATL and back!

I don't know...what do y'all think of my new way to just hang up a bunch of pictures. Got them at the Jr. League Market for cheap...I think it's cool...because it's the first thing you see when you walk in my bedroom...any comments?

***Isabelle update***
We are still under $2,000 and our goal is $5,000!!! We need y'alls help! This is a picture that I took of Amanda (Isabelle's mom) and Isabelle at The Bell Center's holiday party! Remember this place is totally NON-PROFIT and needs OUR help because everyday, children like Isabelle get turned away because of there lack of money!!! Please help Nick and myself sponsor Isabelle by visiting:
www.firstgiving.com/ellenmiles

This is my good friend Casey, running for Emma Grace! How cute is she!!! Casey started running "couch to 5K" and look how far she has gotten! I run with her and she is doing awesome!!!

This is Rusty, one of the rehabilitation dogs! Isabelle tends to call Cody Rusty!!!

LOOK HOW BIG MY BABY HAS GOTTEN! HE IS SUCH AN AMAZING DOG!
After my five mile run this morning, I took Cody on a walk and threw the ball in the neighborhood park...he got seriously muddy and I had to carry him into the house and give him a bath! Now he's such a fluffy thing!

I WANT THIS!!!

2009-12-02T10:55:00.003-11:00

Pretty Please Santa??? It's only over $450...it's not like we are in a downward spiral of a recession or anything...I've been a really good girl...We've already decorated our house and Christmas tree...Pretty please with sugar on top???

So, I have to get on the ball with taking our X-mas card picture this year...before I know it, X-mas will be over!!! I absolutely love this time of year...I'll post more pics of my house with decorations!!!

What a crazy past couple of days!!! I'm ready for rest!

2009-11-29T08:19:00.004-11:00

There are so many things that I have done since my last blog, I don't even know where to start! First of all, Wednesday night we had Thanksgiving dinner with my family...Thursday morning...ran 10K Montclair run. I was hurting but finished in 1:01 and Nick was right behind me at 1:04!!! After waiting for our friends, Lauren and Phillip (they walked...and came in AFTER the kid's FUN RUN!)...we rushed home made homemade mac and cheese and this amazing dip I got from Michelle! It was a cream cheese cranberry dip...VERY GOOD and EASY!

I had to take this picture of Cody hanging out of Nick's backseat of his '67 Mustang...it's classic Cody!!!

After Round 2 of meals, we hung out with the family for a bit...run home to take nap...then meat them and see The Blind Side. IT WAS AMAZING!!! I'm telling anyone who wants to see a truly happy story...GO SEE IT! I had no idea what to expect, and I thought we were just watching a football movie...but it is SO MUCH MORE!
Friday- we all woke up bright and early to take Cody to my parents house...run to PetSmart to get him food and stocking stuffers...then meet the Miles' family at 7:30! Auburn played their heart out, and it was definately a great game!!! We came back home that night.
Yesterday, I went to work...then went back to the Miles' household to celebrate his sister's 23rd Birthday!!! Came home...slept...dreaded to wake up and run 7 miles in morning...
Sunday-woke up and met Misty and Christie for our run...can I just say that I am a little exhausted!!!

Don't forget to visit our fundraising website: www.firstgiving.com/ellenmiles

ahhhh...another Rest day after 7 miles!!!

2009-11-22T09:31:00.006-11:00

I am really beginning to love my rest days again! We ran 7.2 miles yesterday morning! It was an awesome run! I tried to keep up with Misty and Christie...but wow am I tired! After work yesterday, I went to my sister's to eat dinner with them and my two nephews!!! I had soooo much fun seeing Parker and Charlie...I picked up Charlie last night and said "Oh my gosh" and he says "Oh my gosh!!!" It was the funniest thing I heard...and of course we left something Cody's bowl...so that just means that I got EXTRA time to play with them again this morning. This is one of the pictures that I took:

After that, Cody and I went on a walk...he is getting sooooo big! Whenever there is humidity, he ears crimp up like we used an '80s crimper!!!

We were walking and this is a picture of a new neighborhood (right behind our house) of their common area! How nice is this...the fire pit, pond, chimney...seriously!

What an AMAZING REST DAY!

2009-11-20T14:42:00.002-11:00

Ok...so I got a little more than what I bargained for...I went shopping, got new shoes, shirts, iPhone (YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY), pink iPhone cover (yay x2), stole Nick's massage (legitimately, it "technically" could still be mine since I gave it to him in JANUARY!!!)...THIS HAD TO BE THE BEST REST/OFF WORK DAY IN AT LEAST A YEAR!!! I really don't know what is up with me, but I felt like having a "me" day...oh...almost forgot to say that I even got new eyeshadow!!! (double wamm)...now that I have my new iphone...I am soooo stoked...I mean that I can actually add video! I will have to update phone soon so you can see video of Parker and Charlie in their new Santa hats! sooooooooooooooooooooooo cute!!!

Tomorrow is rest day!

2009-11-19T15:56:00.005-11:00

Today was a jammed pack day for my off day! Cody and I started by going to the bank (one of his favorite things). This morning I got ready and went to meet Isabelle and Amanda at Homewood Park today...we strolled around with Isabelle telling "Co-deee come here!"...After that, we all strolled and got some food, then I got a rigged up iPhone and went to the Junior League Market! I got tons of X-mas presents for the family!!! After that, Nick and I met up with Danny (our coach) to do our group run! It was only four miles, but there was a BIG hill at the end! Can't wait for my walk with Rebecca and Raughley tomorrow! Nick and I are watching the new Star Trek (yay!!!) right now with iced up knees!

3 miles...ready for my rest day on Friday!

2009-11-18T15:39:00.004-11:00

I stole this from Isabelle's blog...its just too cute! Nick and I ran tonight and it is starting to get chilly!!! We ran our three and have our group run tomorrow night, but I'm telling you...I am ready for my rest day! Tomorrow I have a big day...meet Isabelle and Amanda with Cody at park, go to The Market, see my sis and nephews, group run, etc...this daylight savings is killing me! I hate it getting dark so early!

Don't you want to just eat him up!!!

2009-11-18T08:34:00.003-11:00

I meant to add this onto my blog this past weekend, but I am having some iPhone technical problems...like, it did not help that I dropped it in a cosmopolitan and it's been in repair since Halloween weekend. Well, I did have my prescious iPhone for a total of ONE day last week...and I was able to snap a couple pics of Michelle's baby, Gates! I mean how cute is he!!! By the way, he is the best baby. He is welcome to stay at my house anytime :)
As for running, I was too lazy to get up this morning, but Nick and I have 3 miles to run after work. 3 miles actually doesn't sound bad after doing 5 and 6. I can't believe we are jumping up to 7 on Saturday!!! I am so honored to say that we have already received $639.30 on our fundraising website (w/in the past 12 hours!) I have even made it easier for all of you, and you can just click to the right and donate right on my blog! I know baby Gates will be cheering us on all the way from ATL!!!

For the record, I am not a morning person!

2009-11-17T16:24:00.003-11:00

You might be asking why would I make my title this...well that is where training for the Mercedes comes in! Since Nick and I are running for Isabelle, that means we have group runs 3 days a week!!! Tuesday mornings just happened to be our SUNRISE run (at 5:30 AM!!!)...anyone who knows me, knows NOT to talk to me for the first hour of me waking up...at least until I get some Diet Coke in my system. Well, I am working on turning over a new leaf! We ran 5 miles this morning, but I am not going to lie...as soon as I got home...I went BACK TO SLEEP! Today was a very exciting day for me because I was able to set up our fundraising website for The Bell Center. As many of you might know by now, we are running in honor of our little friend, Isabelle! She is my inspiration on why I run at 5:30!!! Our target goal from The Bell Center was $2,620 but I stepped it up a notch...and made our goal $5,000! All of the money goes directly to this wonderful nonprofit organization. I will be keeping you updates as we progress with training and of course just keep you updated with my crazy life. Please visit http://firstgiving.org/ellenmiles to donate and learn more about The Bell Center. Also, if you want to keep updated with Miss Isabelle, feel free to visit her mom's blog
I look forward to keeping you updated...on a side note...as I am still a relatively new wife and I just had to show you a picture of my very first homemade chicken potpie picture...it came out wonderful...very easy recipe if you are interested, let me know!

What a great weekend!

2009-11-15T17:12:00.002-11:00

Wow...I couldn't have wished for a better weekend for my vacation days! It was beautiful weather, had Michelle, baby Gates, and Chrissy come in town!!! Friday night, let's just say we all (plus Whit) went and ate A LOT of cheese dip...but who can really resist cheese dip from La Paz??? Yesterday was our first group run!!! Chrissy even got up and decided to hit the roads of B'ham with Nick and myself...wow, was I EXCITED to see Nick finish 6 miles!!! This was his VERY FIRST time to run SIX MILES!!!! It was a fulfilled day, with having celebratory drinks at On Tap with the group, and then went to Momma G's to get some sandwiches and ENJOY A SATURDAY OFF!!!! I'm not going to lie, I was exhausted all day yesterday so I was just lazy for the rest of the afternoon and evening. This morning, when I woke up...I told Nick we had to go to The Original Pancake House for breakfast. I'm not going to lie, this was probably my first Sunday off...I can't even remember when the last time was! Anyway, we had a busy day ahead of us. Today was going to be our first day to meet Isabelle with her mom and grandmom!!! In case you missed it, Nick and I are running in honor of Isabelle for The Bell Center in the Mercedes Marathon on Valentine's Day. I will keep you posted once I get our website up and going to learn more!!! I bought a couple of Elmo books yesterday, because I did know that Elmo is one of her favorites!!! Isabelle is 2 years old with Larsen's Syndrome. She is wearing a halo around her head (we're hoping to get it off next month). She had such an amazing spirit and was all about seeing what Cody was up to! Cody loved giving Isabelle lots of kisses! We can't wait to raise money for The Bell Center...just look at her...how can you resist her precious face!!!

I love my walks with Rebecca, Raughley, and Cody

2009-11-13T07:20:00.004-11:00

I have had this amazing friend, Rebecca...FOREVER! We used to run and walk all throughout highschool...times never changed with us...this is her adorable son, Raughley, trying to get out of the stroller to play with Cody! It's so nice to actually get to take a WALK every once in a while with all of the training! I feel like we are back in jr. high again everytime we get together!

Nick ran 5 miles with me today!

2009-11-11T06:04:00.000-11:00

This is huge! Nick leaped from 3.5 to 5 today (we did walk a little...not just because he needed it...but I did too!). Anyway, I feel much better about him running 6 miles on Saturday (and me too), but it will be our first time with the group together! We have decided to become Partners in Training (PIT), so that means we have to raise $100 per mile for each of us (total $200) so we can sponsor a child at The Bell Center!!!

This is how the Mercedes Marathon started...it is an amazing story!

A Marathon of Love

It’s really a love story. The Mercedes Marathon, a test of endurance and determination, a goal that drives ordinary people to train for months, is really just a love story.A Marathon For Love

It’s a love story between a boy named Matt and his daddy named Paul.

Matt was born with Down syndrome thirteen years ago. But not only did he have Down syndrome, he also had the heart defect that often accompanies the diagnosis. A sick little boy, Matt required open heart surgery, and the whole idea frightened his parents, Paul and Cinna Sotherland.

Cinna vividly remembers being at UAB with Matt and Paul just before Matt was to have his open heart surgery. The family was standing at one of the big windows at the end of the hallway that looked out over the streets of downtown. Runners, competing in the Vulcan Marathon, were racing by, and Paul – who ran a little, just for exercise – looked down at his tiny son and made one promise. “You pull through this, Matt, and next year, Daddy will run a marathon for you,” Paul pledged.

Tough little Matt kept his end of the bargain, and Daddy began training. Together they tackled the challenges ahead: Matt’s challenges that come as a part of the Down syndrome diagnosis, and Paul’s determination to run 26.2 miles in honor of the son he so loves. During his training, Paul looked for guidance and motivation, and even good running shoes, from Valerie McLean, the owner of a Homewood running equipment shop. Paul did run the Vulcan Marathon the next year, and then kept on running, completing nineteen marathons and half marathons too numerous to count. But it was really Valerie who took the inspiration from Paul and Matt.

She helped organize a half-marathon to benefit The Early Intervention Program (now The Bell Center), the place where Cinna and Paul brought Matt to receive critical therapies, and over the next five years, the Freeze Your Half Off Half Marathon grew into a first-class event. Valerie knew it was time to take the event to a greater level, and in 2002 transformed the Freeze Your Half Off into the Mercedes Marathon and Half Marathon. Proceeds from the event are given annually to just two charities that provide services to children, one of which is The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs.

In 2003, The Bell Center organized its first Partners in Training (PIT) group which provided experienced coaching for runners and walkers who agreed to raise funds for The Bell Center. In its first year, PIT included 45 runners and walkers who raised more than $80,000 for The Bell Center. In 2004 and then again in 2005, more than 120 participants raised more than $200,000 for the Center, important funding which has allowed the program to add more staff to serve more children who come to the Center in need of critical early intervention therapies.

All of that is important, but it really is just a love story. Just watch. Each year, Paul runs – for Matt – and each year, they’re together at the finish line.

Rain rain...go away!

2009-11-10T06:59:00.000-11:00

Have I mentioned that I hate it raining? I am just looking outside my window and I think to myself, is it ever going to stop? How on earth am I going to be able to train when it's raining in the mornings and dark by the time I get home from work? I don't have a gym membership so outside is the only way I can do it! Also, I am not a person who is able to run on the treadmill...so I only have one option! I've been thinking about this whole half marathon thing, and I am trying to decide what my time will be in the race. My Nashville half marathon was 2:20:51 which beat my goal of 2:25, but this time I need to step it up a notch...but the way my training is going, I'll be lucky to make it 2:25. Next week is my first official week to get into it...I'll be training with a group! The first time was completely by myself, so I think it will be fun running with a group. I don't know, if you're a runner tell me what you think...do you like running alone or with a group? I would love to get some feedback!

Well I'm officially back running

2009-11-06T10:35:00.000-11:00

After I had a couple of days feeling bad, I realized I really started to train more for the 1/2 marathon I've got coming up in a couple of months! Yesterday, I decided to do the 5.5 mile run like I did earlier on in the week. If any of you know Birmingham, it's the "Village Run" I like to call it...you run through English Village, Crestline, and then end up in Mountain Brook Village! Well...this time didn't go as planned. I was just starting off and I think I sprained my ankle! It is swollen and starting to bruise today! That stinks because I really wanted to run the Vulcan 10K this weekend!

I feel like crap...

2009-11-04T09:03:00.000-11:00

(Cody sleeping in back of Nick's truck on the way to Auburn)

Of course I had a VERY eventful day...woke up and ran 5.5 miles at 5:30, but y'all don't understand...I AM NOT A MORNING PERSON. It was actually soooo much fun! I ran into at least six people that I knew. Nick and I have decided to run the Mercedes Half Marathon!!! I can't believe it will be my second one to run! Just last week, I was cursing at myself for quitting running because it was like I had to start FROM SCRATCH!!! My secret confession is also that I was bought (THREE Designer Jeans that are two sizes too small last winter)...so I have major motivation. I knew I had to take the chance if Nick was even considering doing a half. I am so excited to finally get a little motivation back...that is until I started to feel like crap last night. I already got ourselves two z-packs. I can't afford to go back to work sick and knock me out of my routine.
I had to also post some adorable picks of my two nephews, the Bumble Bee and Pumpkin:

Internet...at last...I can get back to "work"

2009-10-27T15:32:00.000-11:00

Well...I can get back to blogging! After leaving work to meet a prospect...went to Jr. League...came home and ate tetrazini tonight with left over green beans. For some of you who don't know me...I have every intention on eating leftovers, but then they end up going bad...that is why I came up with this solution: FREEZE THE OTHER HALF...then it makes it easy when I really don't have time to cook and just pop on DEFROST! Well, I have to say was the first day I enjoyed running! I am glad that I decided to get back in the swing of things!

My first award!

2009-10-26T16:29:00.000-11:00

Thanks http://shortsouthernmomma.blogspot.com/
for giving me my first award! I have had a blast learning about blogs and blogging my crazy life, it's just such an honor to know that people look at my blog!
Thank you again Short Southern Momma!!!

I'm sorry I am soooo behind

2009-10-26T13:45:00.000-11:00

Ever since I have been moving models, I have had no phone or internet...and barely internet on my apple! Let me do a recap on my life in the past two weeks...

NICK HAS STARTED HIS NEW JOB...AND IS ALREADY DOING A GREAT JOB!
Cody is growing by the second
Had a BIG FAMILY b'day party for little bro at PF Changs...if you were there you would have seen the 2 foot deep amount of food that Charlie had under him!
Cody's "tumble weeds" drive me crazy and I am always cleaning floor
Work has been slow, but I do have closings coming up
Cleaned my house for about 8 hours last week on my day off
Had great playdates with Mason (Brad and Candace's golden), Liberty and Yeagar- had some incredible Santa Fe soup at Yeager's mom, Jean
Nick and I decided to do the Mercedes Half Marathon in Feb. 2010
Started training (if you want to know about my first one this year in nashville...check out http://chrissyandellenmarathontraining.blogspot.com
I might have died doing my first mile and set of crunches
Ran 2.2 miles today...pretty impressed after I almost DIED running two days ago after 0.9 MILES...wow, I'm out of shape!
Now that I have announced it in blogworld, you will hear about me talk more about some trainings and maybe even add pics of us! Go check out my old blog, it was my new years resolution to complete a half marathon.
We have worked out for the past two days and it is fun actually getting to run with someone else...I have to admit, I want to beat him but I am so proud of him actually participating in a half marathon!
Keep your fingers crossed, I should be getting hooked up on the internet in my new model/office TOMORROW...TOMORROW...I LOVE YOU...TOMORROW
Tom and I might kill each other without having any internet!
Planning one of my bestest girlfriends- CHRISSY'S shower at my house!!! Yes, I know that it isn't until Jan. 30th, but I figured we should get a head start with Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up...before we know it, it would be 2010!!!
Got to see a lot of highschool friends (b/c I had to pick up hubby passed out on chair)...he was that guy! It was great seeing all of them!
About to eat leftover tetrazinni (we freeze leftovers, b/c we won't eat them more than two days in a row...if lucky)
Excited to go to Auburn and see Ole Miss (nervous...) but of course, I will use it as a social scene

Well, theres my life in a nutshell...can't wait to add some pics of everyone! I have to catch up on all my blogs
Bye y'all

I'm Exhausted!

2009-10-13T15:35:00.000-11:00

I'm sorry that my blogging has been so horrible lately! It has been another crazy week. Being a provisional in Jr. League, I feel like I am always in meetings! My partner sold our model while on my day off last week, which means...yes I get to move models again! I'm starting to get used to the whole moving thing...but I am just tired! Meanwhile, Cody is getting bigger by the day!
I have to admit that my husband was soooo sweet and bought me flowers ("for being nice") and made breakfast in bed for me! I do have to remember that I am a lucky gal! I totally meant to CONGRAT my hubby for getting a new job! YAY!!! I'm so proud of him! Well I can't wait to get to go back down to Auburn for the Kentucky game! We better step it up! Has anyone else gotten to go see the new dorms? They are AMAZING! I wish I was still in EK and live there...the good ole days...living on the hall!

Where have I been?

2009-10-09T05:58:00.000-11:00

Wow, it has been a long time since I blogged! I am still recouperating from Whitney's BEAUTIFUL wedding. I still can't get over that Tiff made ALL OF THE FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS AND BOUQUETS!!! They were absolutely beautiful! I was over at Whit's house "observing and directing" her talent. Here is an example of what one of the bouquets looked like:

Tiff made every bouquet and all of the flower arrangements! Kudos to her!

Last weekend was just such a special weekend, not only was one of my best friends getting married, but it was one of the first time all the girls were at the same place (maybe since my wedding...back in March of 2008). I had never been to Mount Cheahaw, but God was looking down on Whit that day to keep it looking beautiful...not a cloud in the sky. My girlfriends flew from Richmond, drove from Tampa, Atlanta, Nashville, etc. to see Whitney and Shane get married! We are truly blessed to have this close knit group of friends!!! I'm still waiting on them to send some pics but I had to show you the picture of baby Gates. It was our first time to meet him, and let me say...Michelle and Chris are naturals! In this picture you will see Gates's crazy hair and his little mittens (so he won't scratch his face):

Every time I was holding him my mom would say "You look like a natural"...does that mean a hint?
This wedding was small with close friends and family, and Whitney looked absolutely beautiful!

So Much to catch up on!!!

2009-09-28T16:03:00.000-11:00

I have not had a chance to recap everything since last week. I met with an old high school bud, Rebecca with her precious son, Raughley. Cody has never gone on a walk with a stroller, so he was just chasing it around.

I babysat Parker and he took Cody to the Park. They were having so much fun. Too bad it started raining, and we had to get the hubby to pick us up!

I still am in shock that Michelle is a mommy! I didn't get to talk to her in person until THURSDAY! She is super hero- turns out she had NO PAINKILLERS AT ALL!!!

Whitney's wedding will be here this weekend. I've got a busy week! My hubby has been amazing organizing the garage and we have cleaned out soooooooooooo many closets. I don't know how we have already accumulated so much STUFF! All the girls will be in town so we know that this is going to be a party showdown. Realizing that I'm in the wedding, I decided TONIGHT would be a good time to start working out my arms. I'm sure they'll be Jennifer Annistonish by Saturday! I can't wait!!!

I am exhausted and about to hit the sack!

I won a giveaway!!!

2009-09-27T15:07:00.000-11:00

I actually won something! This is the first for me! I love it! Thanks so much Sweet Tea Diaries!!!
Go check out her website!'

EGM from From Green to Miles - please read post below and contact me with your choice of towel color and personalization!!

I really enjoyed working with Alison on my recent giveaway, and she was so happy to have gained some new followers! Here's the e-mail she sent me:

Charlotte's 50th B'day

2009-09-23T14:40:00.001-11:00

After I got Char her favorite sushi (Crunch Crunch)...Misty and I surprised her with a birthday cake! It was delicious!!! Yellow Cake and chocolate icing...my hubby's fovorite!!! We had a blast singing out "Happy Birthday"with no key whatsoever...if only you knew how bad I actually sing! I meant to post this yesterday but wanted to give Charlotte a shout out...she's funny, sexy, and sassy...all rolled up in one!

Baby Gates made it on time!

2009-09-22T07:05:00.001-11:00

Born on his actual due date: 9/21/09 around 11:30 p.m.

So I guess that the ATL urban myth still holds its truth! I am so proud of Michelle and Chris! Everything happened within TWO HOURS...starting from their house! By the time she got to the hospital it was too late for her to get an epidural!!! What a champ...when I saw the picture of the three of them, I actually cried! This is one of my best friends have the first baby of the bunch. My hubby and I send them our love!!! I can't wait to me Mr. Gates!!!

What a week!

2009-09-20T09:05:00.000-11:00

Week and weekend recap

Met Baby Emma for the first time this week
Drove to ATL on my off days to visit Michelle for the last time before Baby Gates arrives
Got a speeding ticket while driving like hell to make it to Auburn
Went to Supper Club
Drove to my sis's lake house to take shower to get ready for work
Drove straight to work (a lot slower)

Baby Gates is almost here!!!

How cute is Michelle's baby bump!!! I was so excited to get to drive and see her one last time before she pops!!! I still can't believe her due date is tomorrow!!! So...apparantly...she went to some famous restaurant last night to eat there Eggplant Parmesan. Its an ATL urban myth...but its supposed to put you into labor...I haven't heard any calls yet!!! We made manicotti to freeze and got the last things off her registry at Babies 'R Us. She is determined to have this baby ASAP, because she is the Matron of Honor in Whit's wedding on October 3rd!!! I can't wait to meet Baby Gates!

How cute is Baby Gates nursery! First off, I have to hand it to her mom for making those amazing curtains...there a total of four!!! I love how she got the idea to get her doggies stenciled above the crib! It is simple but personal at the same time! I tried to take pictures of that amazing quilt Mrs. Southern Bride made for her! Georgia Tech and Auburn!!!

She did an incredible job on the whole room! We can't wait to Baby Gates!!!

War Eagle!!!

This is a picture that I took literally with 4 minutes left to go. It was one of the most amazing games that I have ever been in!!! It was raining so hard that we were running through RIVERS!!! My hubby and I thought we were being smart by "waiting out the rain" and running from tent to tent. By the time we thought the first quarter should have started we noticed that everyone was packed in the concession and ramps like sardines! Imagine 87,451 people in that!!! It totally made the game worth it! We had so much fun. The game didn't even start until 8:00 (it was supposed to start at 6:45). After it ended, we met up with Meg and Taylor at the Raine's tailgate. After that, I got the bright idea to go to the Supper Club...remember that is never a good idea. Well I have to say that my body aches all over...I can't do it like when I was 21! What a week!

Baby Emma!

2009-09-16T08:37:00.001-11:00

How cute is she! Baby Emma was born yesterday and I have to say she was just one cutie pie. I went to go visit the proud parents...this is just a glimpse of how crazy (some would say blonde) my life is...ok, got Cody to pee...yay...put him in crate...check...backing out of garage...check kind-of. I noticed that my car was taking a while to back out...then i realized I knocked over one of my husband's precious and hand-made "cornhole board"...i kept reversing and realized my tire was wound up with some electrical wire...i guess he was using for something...after about 15 mins of figuring out how to get my car unwound...i would be off to the hospital....so I thought... Okay, was going downtown and then looked at my text message and realized I was going to wrong hospital! Made a turnaround...and headed to the right one. In between this, I had forgot the special cigar my husband asked me to give proud daddy. Well, it was the least to do to turn around and get it...only because I have the most amazing husband in the world get me a "E" burpcloth. I actually sent him into a boutique and said "just get a "e" burpcloth..." (Keep in mind he has been around our two nephews since they were born...so he actually knows what a burpcloth is)...HE DID AND IT WAS EVEN WRAPPED SO NICELY! Back to trip to correct hospital...I parked in the wrong deck...couldn't find the baby section (can you tell that I don't have that many friends my age with babies) ran through a maze...and finally about 45 minutes later...I got to meet EMMA! It was all worth me getting to meet her and seeing her proud mommy and daddy! They told me that she was a drama queen just like her momma!
Now the ironic thing is that I'm visiting Michelle tomorrow who is due any day with Baby Gates.
She is very crafty so I can't wait to see her nursery. Sweet September Babies!

Taylor Swift is another southern belle

2009-09-15T08:40:00.000-11:00

After I'm sure that everyone heard about the KANYE incident, it just amazing me that Taylor Swift was able to put on that amazing live performance going through the subway FIVE minutes after he stole her thunder. This is a clip from The View...what did y'all think about that? HOW RUDE!

Our Sunday dinner

2009-09-13T16:17:00.000-11:00

This is what our Fish Taco Night looked liked tonight. I got all of these recipes from vintagevictuals.blogspot.com

Fish Taco before it's "dressed"

My husband and I love this cream cheese salsa

You can't make Fish tacos without good 'ole guacamole!
We had a great dinner and I wouldn't not been able to think of these recipes if I didn't give a shout out to:

Rural development....20 mins. outside from where I live

2009-09-13T09:50:00.000-11:00

Look how cute these little goats are...they're only about 2 blocks from where I sell homes. Yes, you can get a USDA Rural Development 100% financing loan! How exciting :)
Ready to go home and rent a movie
Is excited to see my PREGGER friend next week...posting pics of nursury!
Sad to missing Whit's shower b/c of work
Pumped about reading some Eleventh Victim when I go to bed!

"Southern Lady Celebration"

2009-09-12T07:06:00.000-11:00

What it means to grow up in the south...that is a question I got from http://etiquettewithmissjanice.blogspot.com/

I just love the people in the South. I have to admit I think some of the prettiest and refined women come from the South. Reese Witherspoon, Courtney Cox Arquette (went to my high school), Julia Roberts, Molly Sims...the list could go on and on.
We like a shaggier cut, we're not that into gel in men's hair
We couldn't even finish a sentence talking without saying the word, "y'all"
Speaking from just me...I LOVE to do plan parties and get togethers with my girlfriends, married friends, and family
I have to always make fun on my OUTGOING husband...I tell him that we can't get off the elevator without not knowing where and what they do, live, like, see my drift. When we went to NYC for a trip before we got married...the elevator convo didn't go over so well like it would down South.
I couldn't imagine not having Bar-b-que EVER...no matter what time of year.
Growing up going to football games
Always willing to help a friend no matter what inconvenience it has on you at the time.
My mom made me pick out my silver pattern, china, and crystal when I was 18.

I ended up changing my mind...and going with Old Maryland Engraved

Remembering September 11th...

2009-09-11T06:54:00.001-11:00

This day will always be for all the ones who lost their lives, families, sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends...we will always remember:

We shall never forget, and remember why we have brave troops overseas protecting us and risking their own lives.

I will never forget that vivid day of my freshmen year in college. My roommate and I were dead asleep and had our dorm phone ring...ring...ring.. then the answering machine finally picked up...it was a message from my dad:
my dad said: "Wake up there has been a catastrophe...we've been attacked!" I jumped to the phone and then that started my whole day of shock and disbelief that this was happening to our country. I was scared and confused.
What's crazy is that my mom had JUST left NYC days before. I just can't believe as it has been 8 years later.

We shall never forget
We shall keep this day,
We shall keep the events and the tears
In our minds, our memory and our hearts
and take them with us as we carry on.

What was your first memory of 9/11/01???
Send me your comments.

Hard day yesterday...which deserves a drink!

2009-09-11T05:34:00.000-11:00

This is what my mom's bestfriend calls "Condos" (otherwise known as Cosmos)...you have to know her to understand to her craziest to crack up.
After having a hellacious day of work (on my off day)...I met Tiff for Happy Hour after my closing finally happened.

Labor Day weekend...lake, Auburn, shopping!

2009-09-08T05:30:00.000-11:00

This weekend was so much fun! We first were able to go spend some time with the family at the Lake. I thought this picture was pretty cool because you can see that we are looking at this amazing sunset at Lake Martin!
This was pretty funny...giving Cody his first "Lake" bath...kind of reminds you of a rat until he gets all fluffed up and dried! Doesn't seem to look very happy at all to be in this situation, but he did get to swim in the lake for the first time!

We are very fortunate enough to have season tickets (again!) on the 50 yard line! This is just a picture that I took from my cell to give you the actual view from our seats! We always love going to Auburn games and tailgating! I don't think it will ever get old!!! After coming home there was much more shopping that had to be done...I couldn't miss out on some good Labor Day sales...which I racked up big time. I'll send another post later on to show you some of the great deals that I found...I am not a bargain shopper (absolutely hate to scrimmage through clothes, but I found some amazing deals at Macy's)...a girl always likes to find a good sale!

So glad it's THURSDAY!

2009-09-03T07:08:00.000-11:00

Ok, now that I am on my 9th day of work, I just have a couple more hours of work until Labor Day weekend. Going to spend tomorrow with my sister, brother-in-law, 2 nephews, and my hubby at Lake Martin tomorrow! yay!!!!!!!!! Then on Saturday...FIRST FOOTBALL GAME! I hope everyone has a safe a carefree weekend!

Is it only Tuesday?

2009-09-01T10:33:00.001-11:00

Granted, I have been working seven days in a row (only 2 more days for a long 4 day weekend...), but I can't believe it's only Tuesday! I swear this has been the Tuesday from hell! I had a nice weekend writing contracts and attending weddings, but it seems like everyone that is either a homeowner, a manager, or loan officer has a bone to pick with me today! If there is anything I can say is...one rule about real estate "IT NEVER GOES THE WAY IT IS SUPPOSED TO GO...EVEN IF YOU WRITE A MILLION CONTRACTS...EVERY SINGLE ONE IS DIFFERENT!" Maybe, I'm just tired and cranky. I still cant believe it's September already! I am looking forward to going to my Alma mater and seeing the first football game of the season...then it's Labor Day. Is it just me, or does anyone else feel like it should be the weekend?

I love weddings!

2009-08-30T09:39:00.000-11:00

Ok, so I have to say that this was a really fun wedding last night. My friend, "Pip" went to College of Charleston. She totally brought her Charleston theme to life with her seersucker bridesmaids dresses and men in the white coats! I have to say that I thought the flowers were absolutely beautiful. Having already gone through a wedding, I understand the hard work it takes putting the big day together. She did it with class, color, and of course, Southern style.

This is just showing that back of the club and ballroom where everyone danced...look at that gorgeous flower arrangement!

How cute are the high tops? I love the colors and natural centerpiece!

One of the cutest things I have ever seen was her bridesmaid's dresses. They were all seersucker, but each girl had a different color...here is a picture of all them dancing and singing!!!!

Ready for wedding tonight!

2009-08-29T11:42:00.000-11:00

I am an onsite Realtor...what that means is that I sell homes for a builder. It has been extremely busy, but it was all worth while since I am writing two contracts tomorrow...yay...money. I am leaving work right now and headed to one of my high school friend's wedding. I am really excited b/c I know I am going to run into everyone from high school. I love night weddings, so I got to get home and get ready for a truly Southern event. I have to admit...I'm a little stressed because I am not sure of what I'm going to wear!

Girl's night last night!

2009-08-29T10:01:00.000-11:00

Remember how I told y'all how I went in to a big Southern college...well I was also in a sorority. I have to say that I am SOOOOOO lucky for the girls that I met. There is a group of 13 of us that still constantly keep in contact. We have been doing the wedding thing (I am in 2 this year) and now I get to say I'm having one of my best girls having the "first baby" of the group. She's about to pop any day. Whether its shopping for my best girlfriend's wedding gown or running errands, I love hanging out with them. I'm also lucky that 3 of them live in my city!
Last night we met up for wine tasting and then went to Tiff's place for HOMEMADE pizza! Brooke and I just watched, while Whit and Tiff did the work. Then we thought it would be a good idea to make margaritas with it...well we didn't have tequila, so we made it with Triple Sec and Vodka...have to say, they were quite tasty (sweet and tart). Here is a picture of our pizza we made!!!!

Have a great weekend!

2009-08-28T10:49:00.000-11:00

I really like this new Lilly pattern and the model just seems so happy. A good pic for the weekend!

One of my favorite stores!!!

2009-08-28T08:28:00.000-11:00

So I was thinking about this earlier today...I have people ask me if it's okay to mix Vera Bradley collections together...I have to say that all of my luggage is in Java Blue, but since I got all those very lucky pieces one Christmas, I have gotten wallets, picture albums, lunchbag, luggage tags in different collections! I really have to give a heads up to that Marketing Department. They have the prettiest catalogues and their staff is always super friendly!
That makes me ask the question...which is your favorite Vera Bradley Collection?


Blue Rhapsody June 2009	Carnaby June 2009	Pirouette June 2009

Calypso April 2009	Bali Blue April 2009	Bali Gold April 2009

Hope Garden January 2009	Purple Punch January 2009	Cupcakes Green January 2009

Cupcakes Pink January 2009	Mediterranean Blue September 2008	Mediterranean White September 2008

Mosaic September 2008	Puccini June 2008	Frankly Scarlet June 2008

Caffe Latte June 2008	Night Owl June 2008	Pinwheel Pink January 2008

Daisy Daisy January 2008	Yellow Bird January 2008	Raspberry Fizz January 2008

Mod Floral Blue July 2007	Mod Floral Pink July 2007	Kensington July 2007

Cambridge July 2007	Peacock January 2007	Riviera Blue January 2008

Java Blue January 2006

My confession

2009-08-28T06:08:00.000-11:00

My husband cringes every night when I want to watch the Nancy Grace show. Well despite his hatred towards her (I think she's a saint!), he suprised me with her new book! He knew that I was getting back into reading. After finishing One Fifth Avenue (Fun, gossippy book...I borrowed from Tiff), I am starting The Eleventh Victim this weekend!

Poor poor Cody- don't eat Nerf balls!

2009-08-27T07:52:00.000-11:00

Ok, well I have to admit, I didn't plan on having THAT many entries on our little Cody. For the past two days, we have had one sick pup. The pencil poop was not the end of our troubles. Comes to find out that my husband hears a gag (this is a little gross...) and when he runs out he has thrown up my thong! In one piece! We ended up taking him to the vet yesterday and she let us know that he seemed fine, but if he vomited any more to let her know immediately.
Well, of course Cody had a spell of about 12ish vomits throughout last night and this morning. Being terribly concerned we rushed him to the vet at 7:00 am! It turn out that he was given an enema and the vet found some orangeish color foam in his poop. She then asked if he had been around a Nerf ball. I had to confess!!!! When we were at the park on Tuesday (after the thong incident) he grabbed this ball and before I knew it he had eaten some of this! I feel awful! I truly had that feeling of not knowing if your baby (or this case...puppy) is going to be okay. He will be there until tonight. :(
Update: I did just talk to the nurse and so far everything is looking good...please God NO SURGERIES.
This has been a tough week on our little guy, but we are learning some good parenting skills: have your eyes on him at ALL TIMES!

Gross...but totally funny!

2009-08-24T09:41:00.000-11:00

After just hearing the grossest but funniest story from my husband...I have to admit it's worth blogging about. So, as y'all are starting to learn about me, Cody is our new puppy. Apparantly he had not done enough of his "business" when he was with me. When my husband got home, he gladly took Cody out. Well what happened between now until the end of this story had me in tears. He told me that Cody couldn't get all of his poop out and was running around the front yard (still in the squatted position). The poop was just dangling and wouldn't go anywhere! After Cody tried to run in the house, my husband was chasing him outside trying to whack off the poop with a stick...after that didn't work, he picked up our pup and ran him into the bathroom over the toilet...now this gets gross, but if you know anything about my husband, you would find quite funny. At this point, they are both desparate to get the poop out of him...he had to do what any good daddy would do...get it out himself! He grabbed some toilet paper and pulled it out (he said it was a good "pencil length") and flushed down the toilet. Cody looked at him in such relief that this ordeal was over! I wish I could have been there to see it in person! Sorry, but that is a glipse of my real life.

What a Monday!

2009-08-24T08:59:00.000-11:00

I am trying to look forward to a weekly yoga night (tonight is the P90x DVD). I had my usual sales meeting like I do every Monday...I am having to say that Cody is getting in quite the routine. After my husband left, it was then me to take him to do his "business" before and after lunch. By the time I got to work, I realized I had to make a call to my insurance provider. After not feeling great this weekend, I decided to go to the Doc in the box. Well I found out that I was seen by a P.A. not a doctor and that my co-pay went up to $40! After being quite annoyed that I paid that much for a physicians assistant to stick out my tongue and look in my ears...I decided to make my call. I totally understand to be NICE to the person on the other line...after all, they didn't make up the rules. The lady simply told me that my Benefit Plan changed. And then I asked, well I don't remember changing it...she said no it was changed by the insurance company. So now I have a higher co-pay, higher monthly payment, and a higher deductible. This is not helping my Monday go so good...oh well, I guess I can still look forward to Yoga!

Heidi Elnora

2009-08-23T09:33:00.000-11:00

"Project Runway" Heidi Enoroa- Beautiful wedding gowns

So, it would be my luck that I am reading an article from Sunday's newspaper and I stumble upon this incredible news! If you missed "Project Runway" 2005, Heidi was one of the contestants. I urge you to look at her beautiful gowns on her website! Not only does she have a boutique opening in Birmingham, but less than a mile from my house!

I was young...but still snuck around and watched Melrose Place!

2009-08-23T09:10:00.000-11:00

Melrose Place is coming back to CW, will Heather Locklear come back and play the EVIL Amanda!!!

Looks like "Melrose Place's" biggest meanie may be back.

Heather Locklear, who played Amanda Woodward on "Melrose Place" during its original run in the '90s, is in talks to return to the new CW version, premiering this fall.

She would reprise her role as the backstabbing ad executive Woodward, People reports. Former castmates Laura Leighton, Thomas Calabro, Josie Bissett Daphne Zuniga have already signed on. and

The CW and a spokesperson for Locklear have yet to comment on the rumored negotiations, but there have been hints that the 47-year-old star would be welcomed back to her old address.

"We're huge fans of hers," executive producer Todd Slavkin said of Locklear earlier this summer. But she's not an automatic hire just because she's starred on the show in the past. Slavkin explained that "Melrose Place" alumni are being invited back on the basis of whether or not their characters would fit in, or feel contrived.

Meanwhile, "Melrose Place" is still a big part of Locklear's life, even if she doesn't join the new show. She's been dating Jack Wagner, who starred as her boyfriend on the show, Dr. Peter Burns.

Best Places For Business And Careers

2009-08-22T09:20:00.000-11:00

(My reception was on the top floors in one of the buildings!)

Can't forget about the shoes and earrings!

2009-08-21T09:22:00.000-11:00

May be this can give you a little sense of my style. I have to admit...these Lilly Pulitzer shoes were by far my biggest splurge. I have tried to wear them at every possible event. I feel really guilty on how much I spent, when I know not to be spending money...especially when I'm "commission only", new mommy to (Cody, of course), and trying to find a job for my husband! But I do have to say the earrings were just perfect with the shoes! They were not that expensive from Banana Republic. Oh...by the way...this recession sucks! But we will all be stronger people after this is all over!

Shopping for the PERFECT suit!

2009-08-21T08:26:00.000-11:00

We are a statistic. We receive unenployment. I told you this blog is real, but we had a great time shopping at Jos A. Bank!!!!! They have a wonderful suit sale, and I encourage you to bring your male friends there.

I guess Cody's a Diet Coke fan!

2009-08-19T09:31:00.000-11:00

Apparantly, our new little Cody has started a tradition when he rides in mommy's car! This is a picture I took of him today, while he was in my car. Being a first time puppy owner (at least one we have to take care of) I am learning quick and fast on what we can leave out and what we can't. I can't believe that he is going to be around 70 lbs. one day!

Our Golden puppy, Cody

2009-08-17T10:00:00.000-11:00

So like any newly married couple, before you have kids, you test a puppy...just like in Marley and me. It's supposed to be the next step. Anyway, that is how we get to Cody, our 10 week 11.7 lb. golden retriever puppy. I mean just look at him, and he'll make you want to curl up in a ball with him!

Well Cody and I had a busy Monday morning. After my run, decided to bring him into my builder's office (after all...I was dropping off a contract)! After that, Cody's "mommy and daddy" decided he can now go to Pet Smart since he's had two shots. Like any proud mom, I was happy to say we had NO accidents. Somehow, during the recession, I have learned to spend $30 (more) on toys. This girl cannot take a newly renovated house with new furniture to get destroyed. But seriously, $30?