Oops! I Swallowed My Inner-Child

Long Road

2011-08-07T16:33:00.002-04:00

The recovery process for a broken leg is not a pleasant one. It's similar to the grieving process- Denial (it's not broken, it's just dislocated), Anger (HOW THE F COULD THIS HAPPEN TO ME?! THIS IS ALL _________'S FAULT! I HATE EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE!), Bargaining (I've done everything the physical therapist said so getting back into roller derby should be a breeze.), Depression (Around week 6 I lost it- I thought my life was over, I thought that the road that I was on, the one I had JUST discovered was gone from me forever. Still I look at other people's ankles and burst into tears.), Acceptance (I BROKE my leg in 3 place and dislocated my foot - THAT IS A BIG DEAL! That is going to take hard work, dedication, and perseverance to recover from. If I want to get back into the roller derby life style I am going to have to fight for it!)
Its been almost 8 months since I broke my leg. I have a plate and 9 screws on the left side of my left leg and 2 long support screws on the right side. I did major damage to my body. The nerves are still fighting to come alive, there are still days when I wake up in the morning and feel useless. But... I keep working towards goals.
Goal 1: Keep wiggling the toes.
Goal 2: Bend foot straight up in the air.
Goal 3: Walking.
Goal 4: Ankle rotation.
Goal 5: Turning ankle within 2 degrees of the right legs mobility.
Goal 6: SKATE!
Goal 7: Don't be afraid to fall.
Goal 8: SPEAK UP!
Goal 9: Pass WFTDA!!
Goal 10: Be in a bout! <---- October 1st is our last bout of the season and hopefully our first double-header; I WANT IN! I want it so bad I can taste it!
Roller derby HURTS! Roller derby is the most difficult thing I have ever done in my life. Roller derby is the most wonderful thing I have ever done in my life. Roller derby has provided me with the most confidence I have ever felt for myself PERIOD! When I can't sleep at night I think about the things that I need to master to be a better rollergirl. When I go to bed at night I fantasize about my roller derby "career".
The recovery process is a long, hard, scary road. However, breaking my leg has allowed me to appreciate what roller derby is, what it means to me, and my teammates. I <3 roller derby! I <3 ROCK! I<3 my scars!

The Wall

2011-01-31T23:03:00.003-05:00

So the recovery process for this injury sucks. I broke my leg 3 weeks ago, have had surgery to insert a plate and 9 screws on one side and 2 longer screws on the other side, spent 2 nights in the hospital, fought aspiration pneumonia, begged my doctor to let me go back to work a week early, had 30 staples removed, and then hit the wall.
What's "the wall" Jes? It's where you believe that you're invincible and then suddenly hit rock bottom- you believe the world as you know it has ended. I attended a roller derby practice because I missed my girls, I missed the game, I missed the smell of the rink, but as I'm sitting there watching people practice the game that I love I felt myself becoming jealous, becoming upset, and not having a good reason for it. I burst into tears at home one night because I don't know the process of my recovery.
The one thing I know is that I'm not baring weight for 4 weeks and I'm now using a thera-band to work on stretching some of the muscles in my ankle. This is what has proven to me that this is not a "little injury", that I won't be back in the rink any time soon, and that being injured isn't cool. Even when I start to bare weight it'll be minute and with crutches. GAH! Crutches! I'm so sick of them - you can't go anywhere, you don't feel free.

Having a day (like today) where I don't do anything but my home PT (leg lifts, the thera-band, crunches, and utilizing hand weights), watch movies, and tool around on the internet makes me feel so much better. I need to relax because I don't. I need to get over this hump because being miserable doesn't help the healing process. I need to be pushed, I need to laugh, I need the support of the people that care about me (not that I don't have that - I have an amazing family and friends that have put up with a lot while dealing with this).
Getting through the wall is not something a person can do on their own the first time. Its stressful, difficult, and lonely. It's essentially a state of depression. Not something to be trifled with. Not something to joke about. Something to test your endurance. Right now... I'm failing.

Mad Skills

2011-01-10T22:07:00.003-05:00

I love roller derby. I love the rush you get when you prevent someone from getting past you and when you take someone out. I do NOT, however, love my broken leg.

Last night at practice we ran a drill and it went exactly the way it was supposed to... until 3 of us were in a pile up and I realized my foot was on backwards. I banged on the floor, screamed, and then succumbed to what had happened to me. Throwing a fit wasn't going to fix my ankle - I have health insurance (not great health insurance, but it's better than nothing) and I can muster up a good attitude to go along side it; so that's what I did.

When the paramedics showed up the girls voiced my plea not to cut off my skate - I JUST got them, last thing I wanted was to have to go through the process of getting skates all over again. Thankfully the paramedics obliged and once the skate came off my ankle popped back in place.

But the damage was done. I have a broken fibula and ankle. I'll have surgery in a couple of days to have a plate and screws inserted.

I will do EVERYTHING that the doctors tell me so that I can get back on the track ASAP.

A little injury isn't keeping me away from derby - I love it way too much!

The Most Beautiful Gift

2010-08-24T06:56:00.003-04:00

I just celebrated my 25th birthday and must say it has to have been the best birthday ever. I got together with friends and partied the night away in a unique fashion, I spent quality time with family, and I re-connected with my husband -- it was wonderful. Everyone likes to receive gifts; some prefer the material, others like when their gifts have meaning- I am the later and I was given the most beautiful gift!

Recently I shared a portion of my testimony at my church (Catalyst Christian Church) discussing how my wedding didn't go according to plan because my family is "alternative" and how I had to let go of the hurt that left on my heart. Well, I must tell you, I go to an AMAZING church, with AMAZING people, with an AMAZING spirit, that serve an AMAZING God! One of the members there approached my minister and requested that we have a "re-wedding" where the things that didn't go the right way DO go the right way! Some how these people and my family have managed to sit on this for close to 2 months, planning and processing and scheming. Naturally I cried.

I am so blessed. I am so honored. I am so amazed. I am so grateful. I am so hopeful. I am so shocked....

THANK YOU! Thank you! Thank You!

You will never understand what this truly means to me and to my family! THANK YOU!

A Lot Has Gone On

2010-07-26T17:35:00.002-04:00

It's been a really long time since I've blogged and a healthy combination between a lot and a little has gone on.
First, Max is healthy! He no longer has glaucoma and came away from his ailment with only mild retina scars. None of his vets know what triggered his condition, but all say he is very lucky to have come out of this situation with his sight. He is as happy as ever and continues to smile and play as though nothing ever happened.
Brier, our mix puppy we adopted in December, is getting really big. She's 10 months old and taller than Max. She's super intelligent and loves to be outside. The only thing we're still trying to break her of is her infatuation with chewing. It's one thing when she chews her toys (that's cool, chew your toys), but it's another thing all together when it's our hands - we like our hands and prefer when our fingers remain on them rather than in her belly. We're hoping it's just a "puppy thing" and that she'll grow out of it soon.
Scott is a vegetarian now. He's been on this diet for almost 8 months now and is loving it! He says he feels great and that he's not really missing anything (except for bacon, occasionally). I am on a 70/30 vegetarian diet. Who knows, maybe by the end of the year I'll be a vegetarian too.
Scott also has dreadlocks. I locked his hair during our vacation in April, it took 16 hours! I still think he owes me stuff for that labor of love! When I completed the locking process my hands and arms went completely numb! I don't know how the professional dreadlockers of South Carolina do it.
As a couple we've gotten involved in a lot of missions and feel compelled to serve in other countries. Scott will be going to Santiago, Chile, South America in December and is still trying to finish raising funds. We're both praying that an opportunity will open up so that we can go to Africa in the next year or so. And word on the street is our church will be going to Jamaica next year. These trips will be a lot of things and we hope that we're open to the experience - ready just isn't the right word.
Well that's enough informing for now.
Until next time. :)

Rough Spot

2010-02-22T18:23:00.003-05:00

This is Max. He holds a very large part of my heart and is embedded on my soul. He's a gordon-setter/flat-coat retriever and he's almost 5 years old. I adopted him almost 4 years ago from The Woodford Co. Humane Society and he has changed my life. Max brightens my day, he calms my spirit, and he's full of unique wisdom.

Last week we found out that our baby is sick. What we do know is that he has secondary glaucoma, but at this point that's almost the under-current. Max has been in and out of vet's offices, he was taken to Louisville to see a specialist, and he's on 5 different medications. What we don't know is what caused the glaucoma. He tested negative for the infectious disease (praise God!). There are still a slew of blood tests, x-rays, and urine tests that can be done in order to determine what could be wrong.

The good news is Max is still in good spirits, he's still loving on everyone, and he's just as frisky as ever. The bad news is he's on a lot of meds that go in his eye which is annoying, I'm sure that he's in some kind of pain, and he's not really into playing with Brier because they normally play rough.

To top it off all of this has been pretty expensive and we are not wealthy people. Which is an added stress in the midst of this whole situation. We'd do anything for Max. I'd give him my eyes if I could. But all this takes money and it just doesn't grow on trees. I have a very supportive family and am so thankful for all their kind words and help!

Pray for our Max. Pray for us.

Happy Birthday Kaelyn!

2010-02-12T12:32:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to a very pretty, pretty princess! I love you my darling niece!

I Crave Pangaea

2010-02-12T12:20:00.001-05:00

The world was whole:
She had a name
There was harmony, unity

The world was whole:
A beauty standing tall and proud
A force to be reckoned with

The world was whole:
Giving and graceful
Plentiful and hopeful

The world was whole once-
We broke her apart
Tore her in many different directions

The world was whole once-
We kicked her and she fell down
Broke apart, defenseless, unbound

The world was whole once-
We stole it away
We poisoned her, raped her

We are a people with no direction
We are a people with no desire
We are a people with death in our eyes

Today I woke with a craving
A craving for things I'd never seen or known
A craving for change, a passion

A place where we live in harmony, unity
A place where we are all beautiful and proud
A place where together we are a force to be reckoned with
A place where we give and have grace for one another
A place that is plentiful and hopeful

Together we can knit ourselves back together
Back to One Love
Back to One People

I Crave Pangaea!

~~~Jessica Birdwhistell 1/28/2010~~~

My Photography

2010-01-07T23:48:00.006-05:00

Dan and Alison's Wedding:

Christmas Decorations:
I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas:

Justin:
Scott:
I kinda like this photography thing. :)

Meet Brier

2009-12-14T18:22:00.003-05:00

She's a boxer mix and the newest addition to our family! Ain't she cute?!

Family Vacation

2009-11-12T23:31:00.003-05:00

Here are some photos from our trip to Tennessee:

Scott was really good at skipping rocks; he could get them all the way across the creek and up the bank.

The Happy Couple

Is she pushing him or trying to save him? We're taking votes.

The ancient with his wacky cane. ;)

DANG! That's a lot of candles!

Can you see all the smoke coming off that cake?!

True Blue Tongues!

Ponytail with GloSticks

Hallowversary #2

2009-11-01T14:48:00.007-05:00

Here are some photos from our Halloween/Anniversary party:

Bird on a Branch Pumpkin

The Mummy Pumpkin

It looks like we haven't dusted in 30 years!

The Hallowversary Banner we created.

Unfortunately Scott and I could not go as what we originally planned (I was going to go as Wednesday Addams from "The Addams Family" and he was going to go as Mother from "Psycho") because we had wig issues.

Pretty Girl Pearl

Sam Merlotte (TrueBlood)

My adorable little brother went as Edward Cullen (from "Twilight"), complete with sparkles (which you cannot see in this photo, unfortunately).

Doesn't Max look cute in his "Happy Halloween" bandanna?

We had a lot of fun playing Rock Band (it was my first time!).

Beginning Decorating

2009-10-10T22:45:00.003-04:00

I bought a black Christmas tree and decorated for Halloween with some help from Rodney; here's the finished product:

Jack Skellington is our tree topper.

There's a crow in our tree!

These are the ornaments Bev made from our rehearsal dinner tree.

Coming Back from the Dead

2009-10-07T18:30:00.003-04:00

You know what I love? When people come to work sick! That's a joke.

I've been down for the count the last 5 days. I had a cold, a really bad cold, and a fever. I think I died at some point on Friday- that might have been the fever. I don't do well when I get over-heated. On Saturday I didn't leave the bed, I couldn't. I slept pretty much the whole day. When I revived I downloaded a game on my iPhone called "Yard Sale" for $0.99 and kicked it's butt in under 24 hours - it was pretty freakin' sweet. Then on Sunday I recalled this blog my sister-in-law frequents called "Cake Wrecks", I will share with you the picture that had me laughing so hard I coughed till I wheezed, then ran to the bathroom because I was about to pee myself:

On Monday I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection and an ear infection and told not to go to work for at least one more day. So Monday I watched a lot of really bad TV. I did not know there was so much bad TV out there- like the Tyra Banks show... I like Tyra Banks, but not her show... it was BAD! (But for some reason I couldn't turn it off!)

I feel a lot better now- I have some semblance of energy and I am making it through the day without 4 hour naps (I miss those naps though), but I have a terrible cough and a funny voice, both will go away eventually.

Just thought I should share that I am in fact alive. :)

Home Again

2009-09-15T20:18:00.002-04:00

On Friday I arrived at the Louisville airport to find out that I was faced with a delay - a 4 hour delay! Which meant I missed the Yankee game- the one where Jeter beat Gehrig's record. There was rain on Saturday, but we were in and out of buildings - so it wasn't bad. "Wicked" was one of the BEST shows I have ever seen! It was funny, heart-wrenching, and highly entertaining. I would see it again in a minute! I also rode my first subway! Those things are FAST! I didn't realize when my step-dad said to "hold on" he meant with both hands and my legs. It was an experience. Sunday we went outlet shopping which was grand- got some great stuff in preparation for cooler weather (looking forward to the Gatlinburg trip in November). Then Monday I tooled around with Mom before my flight back home which went smoothly.

Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures this time because the weather was so poor.

Deja Vu

2009-09-11T09:29:00.003-04:00

I leave today for trip number 2 to NYC to visit my Mama. I'll be gone for 3.5 days this time and boy has my Mom managed to fill them up!

My flight leaves out of Louisville at 5pm and arrives in Newark at 7:30pm (yes, it's direct!). The instant my flight touches down I have to grab my bag, turn on my phone, and call my Mom to tell her what door I'm at (apparently they're numbered there), because I'm going to a Yankees game. This will be my first major league baseball game! I've seen our home minor league team a few times and I've always had fun watching them.
Note to my Father-in-Law: Please don't dis-own me. :)

On Saturday we're going to see "Wicked" which everyone that's seen it keeps telling me I'm going to love, so I'm very excited! I believe I'm going to be meeting my step-sister, Michelle that day at the Carnegie Deli after the show. And that evening we're going to Little Italy for a festival!

Sunday is outlet shopping!

Monday I have until 8pm when my flight leaves and arrives in Louisville at 10:30pm. Then it's the drive back to Lexington, to fall into bed, and start back into the regular routine of work the next day.

Have a great weekend everyone! Love you!

Beauty in Obsurity

2009-09-03T19:48:00.001-04:00

Mulitiple Encounter

2009-08-22T09:37:00.002-04:00

My birthday started off with a laugh last night when Scott took me to see Mike Birbiglia at Comedy Off Broadway last night. We picked up our tickets an hour before the show and practically ran into Mike as he was on his way in for sound check; since we were wearing our Birbig's T-shirts he stopped to say hi to us. Since Scott got our tickets like the second they went on sale our table was practically on the stage! (Thanks hubs- you're amazing!) We headed inside about 20 minutes before they were going to start seating and we saw Mike again and he chatted with us a little more.

The show was amazing! He was absolutely hilarious! He opened by requesting people to turn off their cell phones, but in a funny way. He talked about how his brother told him he should get an iPhone, but he's more of the no nonsense kind of guy (meaning he wants a phone that is a phone and nothing more). After the show ended we got a photo with Mike (taken from Scott's iPhone) and I figured if he's going to tell jokes about the company I work for he could sign my iPhone.

I highly recommend Mike's comedy! He's a great guy, very funny. He even recognized us from the show he did 2 years ago at the Lexington Opera House!!!

Fascination

2009-08-19T20:33:00.002-04:00

I have a fascination with my birthday and with it coming up on Sunday I feel I should explain why I am always so vocal and so excited every year when it comes around.

My family has always done a great job of making my birthday memorable, special, a highlight. I have been repeatedly told that on the day I turned one I became jealous of all the other children that were walking, so I walked. For several years my birthday would fall on the first week of school; my Nana would make cupcakes for my entire class and bring them in- chocolate with vanilla icing, vanilla with chocolate icing, and sprinkles!

Then came high school when friends made birthdays even more fun. Again, my birthday would fall along the first week of school, so I'd walk around with balloons, cards, gifts- it always feels good to be recognized, loved on, and cared for. One birthday I remember very well occurred the year I turned sixteen. Scott came over early (my birthday landed on a Saturday) with my surprise gift. I got a ring shaped like a butterfly and was quickly ushered into his car. We began driving and I had no idea where we were going. I kept trying to guess. As we neared the location, but before I started seeing signs I finally guessed it --- The Cincinnati Zoo!

College: More friends, more independence, birthdays my way. When I turned twenty-one I was able to get my family, Scott's family, and friends together for 1 big party. That was a good time.

This year I turn twenty-four. I'm excited to turn twenty-four. I'm pretty sure I'll be excited to turn thirty, forty, etc. I don't need big fancy parties. I enjoy getting together with my family and just having a good time. However, part of my birthday this year involves extending it through to September and going to New York to visit my Mom (who couldn't be a part of my birthday last year).

I love birthdays and not just my own!

Now for a fun fact:::::
Celebrities who also share my birthday:
Kobe Bryant, Nicole Bobek, Shelley Long, Rick Springfield, Barbara Eden, Vera Miles, and Gene Kelly

Death in the Family

2009-08-15T10:13:00.002-04:00

I woke up this morning to find my fish, Sushi, floating upside-down.

I was never planning to get a fish, but a friend of mine got us the bowl as a housewarming present. Lets be honest, a fish bowl with no fish, while poetic, is just weird, and we're weird enough without gimmicks. So, at midnight one night while at Meijer we bought the fish. Or attempted to buy the fish. I ended up arguing with the check-out lady over how much he cost and rather than ringing him up as pets or pet supplies, she rang him up as seafood. Thus the name: Sushi. The last week or so I noticed that his fins had gotten kind of ragged and I just figured with the tree in there he'd gotten tangled up. As it turns out there's some kind of betta fish disease where that occurs called tail rot. I noticed he wasn't eating as much the last couple days, yesterday he stayed toward the bottom of the bowl, and today... well, he's in fish Heaven.

I'm sad that my fish died. I feel bad for not noticing the warning signs.

Being Unremarkable is a Good Thing

2009-08-10T19:57:00.002-04:00

I got my MRI results back today and they are "unremarkable".

Translation: I'm normal.

I know, I was surprised too. :)

Thanks for all your prayers, positive thoughts, and well wishings. I really appreciate the support.

I got my new medication in today and I will start on it tomorrow. I hope it works.

My Brain Hurts

2009-07-30T09:19:00.000-04:00

I had my appointment with the headache clinic today and it went relatively well. They're changing my medications, which has the potential to be really expensive- which is scary, but it's better to be on something that is going to help and allow me to live my life rather than something that only makes it harder. They also scheduled me for an MRI with contrast (dye) to see if there are any other issues with my brain. That's next week. We'll see how it goes. I really like Dr. Tucker; she's nice and personable. I'm looking forward to not having so many headaches and she believes she can help. I'm enjoying all this positive thinking. The only stressor with all of this is work- getting off in order to get to my appointments. I'll talk with my boss today and hopefully we can figure something out. Fingers crossed.

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-07-23T08:37:00.002-04:00

My Daddy is a unique individual; he's full of passion, beliefs, convictions, concepts, and love. He has a creative mind and a compassionate heart. He feels things some people don't even consider. He helped raise my brother and I to stand on our own two feet, to fight for what we believe in, and to see the importance in everyday things. I have so many fond memories growing up with my Dad. I am proud to be his daughter.

Happy Birthday Dad! Enjoy King's Island- it's a fitting trip for a man as.... mature as you are. :)

One of Those Days

2009-07-13T07:44:00.002-04:00

I'm never really all that busy. I work my 40 hours a week, get my two days off, go to church on Sunday, and usually attend some kind of festivity with friends (like movie night). But sometimes I have a day where only 2 things can satisfy me: being alone and reading a book (or some other lonely activity) OR not seeing anyone but my husband for the full day.
I just had both- Saturday I spent the whole day with Scott and Sunday I had a few hours of alone time. I'm still not satisfied, however. I still feel like there's something I should have done or had the opportunity to do and I missed it. I have no clue what that is or why I feel so down because of it, but I do.
I'm not really looking forward to this week either. Every day that Scott works he closes. Every day that I work I open. So we keep missing each other there. By the time he gets home I have to get ready for bed. Tuesday he's off- I work, but we'll have the evening together- which is nice. Thursday we're both off and going to King's Island- should be fun, so long as my headaches don't get in the way. Maybe it won't be a total bust, but for today at least, I'm just not in the mood. Not in the mood for what? --- I don't know.

Final Exam

2009-06-24T22:38:00.004-04:00

Scott is a tattoo artist!
He completed the requirements for his tattoo artistry course and did his first tattoo on a person (me). I am super proud of him and I think he's going to really enjoy "slinging ink".
Here's a photo of Scott's first tattoo (he did the cross):
Scott- I am so proud of you! Congrats on finishing and I hope you are looking forward to completing tattoo number 2. :) I love you!

Happy (Belated) Father's Day

2009-06-22T08:10:00.001-04:00

To Daddy, Dad, Father-in-law, and Step-Dave:

Happy Father's Day!

You are all pretty awesome. :)

Back in the Bluegrass

2009-06-15T07:33:00.003-04:00

I had a great time in New York visiting my Mom and Step-Dave. We talked, enjoyed great food, traipsed down Canal Street, saw an amazing Broadway number, went into a chocoholic's mecca, and saw some pretty cool sights from the car. Here are some pictures from my trip:

And She's Off

2009-06-12T08:47:00.003-04:00

I leave today for New York (New Jersey) to visit my Mom and Step-Dave. I'm really looking forward to the trip and the time I get to spend with them. Its been 6 months since I've seen my Mom, so even though I don't get a lot of time, I know it will be memorable. While in New York they are taking me to the M&Ms Store, to see Mamma Mia! on Broadway, and to Canal Street where I will attempt to find the most illustrious knock-off Louis Vuitton bag ever! I'm excited! Nervous about flying alone for the first time. And I know I'm going to miss my husband terribly (this is our first time apart for any length of time since high school!). Keep my travels in your prayers and I look forward to sharing pictures when I get back.

Amazing

2009-05-28T15:32:00.003-04:00

If you like getting a massage as much as I do but hate the big price tag do I have a place for you!

I went to the Lexington Healing Arts Academy today for a 1 hour massage and I paid $25! It was amazing!
The lady that worked on me was fabulous! You could tell that she knew what she was doing and that she really valued what you were saying to her. When I was telling her that I lift a lot of boxes for my job and that I get headaches she had techniques for getting rid of both pains. When she found an adhesion she worked on it until it was gone, making sure I was leaving pain-free and satisfied.
I really recommend the student massage. They've also got graduates and professionals that do massage too, but the cost goes up.

Bev- fibromyalgia (spelling?) was on their list of pains that they can help ease. ;)

24 Days

2009-05-18T23:05:00.001-04:00

In 24 days I'm going to be flying to New Jersey to visit my Mom and her husband. I'll get in late the evening of June 12th and I'll be there until early evening June 14th. Its not a lot of time, but its just going to be us which will be nice. It will have been 6 months since I've seen my Mom and I'm really looking forward to the trip. She's purchased tickets for us to go and see "Mamma Mia" on Broadway and I'm super excited! Pray that the days tick off quickly, that the flights run smoothly, that our time together is precious, and that my return is a safe one. Thanks so much!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T22:49:00.003-04:00

To my Mom, my Nana, my mother-in-law, my grandmother-in-law, and my sister-in-law Happy Mother's Day! You are very important and special women in my lives and you're all fabulous Mom's. Have a great day just for you and know that you are held in high-esteem and greatly loved!

It's Here

2009-05-07T08:31:00.002-04:00

This is my new laptop. It's an HP dv6t and it is pretty freakin' sweet!
It has a webcam which I haven't figured out yet, but that will only make for more fun when I do. This laptop also has the side number keys, making it feel more like a regular keyboard.

My Newest Love

2009-05-03T20:49:00.003-04:00

I randomly got a phone call from my Mom saying that she wanted to buy me a Nintendo Wii and Wii Fit. I told her that if it was something she wanted to do, then go for it, not actually thinking she'd just buy these items for me "just because". But she did and I got them in the mail a few days ago and let me tell you they are awesome toys! The console comes pre-loaded with Wii Sport- baseball, bowling, golf, and tennis, I'm good at bowling and golf, while Scott's better at the other 2. Then there's the Fit which has yoga, strength training, aerobics, and balance exercises that are actually fun. Scott and I went out and bought a tournament game that has stuff like skeeball, darts, beanbags (cornhole), pop-shot, and more. The games are a workout in themselves- I have Wii shoulder so bad- and produce a good competitive spirit that's fun not enraging like some games can be. The Fit is a little mean in that it tells you your weight (which few people want blarring across their TV screens) and your age based on your balance (which is waaaaaay older than I am [but I blame it on all the knee surgeries]), but it's honest and helpful and kind of encouraging, which is more than I can say for any gym I've ever been in.

So, I want to give a shout-out to my Mom for the amazing gift! I love it! Thanks so much!

Good News

2009-05-01T08:30:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to update you:

I got my results back from the EEG; I did NOT have a seizure. YAY!
According to the PAC I fainted due to excess stress on my body due to migraine headache overload and the rejection of a medication I was taking. We've sorted out the medication and I already feel much better. I'm still having headaches and unfortunately feel that the cost of the medication I could take at the on-set of a migraine is too expensive. So, I'm stuck with Excedrine Migraine, which works well.
I have been referred to Dr. Tucker at UK, she works in the headache clinic, and will be seeing her in July. Until then I will be keeping a headache diary to attempt to track my headaches and their potential causes.

Tomorrow

2009-04-22T15:21:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow I go in for my EEG to check for seizures and then some. Hopefully they'll find something that they can fix. Otherwise its over to the headache clinic and I don't really know what to expect from them.

We are also going to the zoo with Kelly, Steve, and Kaelyn. YAY!

Doctor Appointment

2009-04-16T16:53:00.002-04:00

I went to see a doctor today because I've been having a lot of medical issues. I'd fainted at home a week ago and thought it was just that - fainting. As I went over my list of ailments I determined that I've been having more problems than I've been admitting to. Deciding that it was a mass of side-effects from my birth control I went in today thinking they'd change that and I'd be fine. I spoke with my Mom before the appointment and listed off my symptoms, she determined that it was possible that it could be worse than I thought. I went in and between my chronic migraines and the side-effects my doctor is wondering if I had a seizure. So, I had my medications switched and I go in next week for an EEG to determine if I have an additional issues. When I get the results back we'll know if it was a seizure and if I have more excitement to look forward to, if not I go to the headache clinic and go from there. So, I need prayer. I need some hope.

So I'm a Jerk

2009-04-04T08:11:00.013-04:00

I know I said I was going to get pictures of the house up like 5 days ago, but I got busy and then I got lazy.

Here are the pictures:

Frosted clock we bought on sale and put behind the front door.
When you first come into the house there are stairs that go up and stairs that go down, here's what you see when you look down the stairs- AKA the foyer area.The upstairs living room hosts a desk that I've had since I was 5; I painted it black and replaced the knobs- it looks totally different. Here you also see our family photos and our fish, Sushi.
Still in the upstairs living room- the TV, my books, and a lamp we created.The TV again, Scott's books, and the loveseat.
The couch, end table, loveseat, our snazzy lime green and hot pink pillows, and proof that we are only human- empty DDP cans.The kitchen: The main walls have been painted 2 times- the first time they turned out navy blue (yuck), so we repainted them the desired color- black, the "Joker's Lipstick" backsplash, and our appliances. To have a kitchen we can move in is amazing! Also in the kitchen is this pantry and shelving unit: we've got autographs and quotes on the cork board, my cookbooks, and our assorted clocks.
Our gorgeous IKEA dining room furniture, Scott's amazing photography, and the beautiful roses Scott bought me "just cause".Upstairs bathroom painted this awesome deep purple thanks to my fabulous mother-in-law, Bev. Our shower curtain which is my favorite pattern and I have far too much of.
Master bedroom- bedding purchased by my Mom as a Christmas present (thanks Mom), Scott side has the smaller nightstand and the Eiffel Tower lamp, my side has a pic of the hubs and a butterfly lamp, and waaaaaay more space because I'm a pack-rat.
Our cozy chair postitioned by the window so that when the lilies I planted bloom I can see them.Guest bedroom- this is the furniture I've had since I was 5; I touched up the paint, changed the knobs, and we trasformed the bed into a Queen (thanks Dad and Dad!!!). This room also features paintings done by Scott (the really colorful one) and myself (the two black and white ones).
The seashells we collected on our honeymoon and some scenic pictues from Sanibel Island, FL bring some additional color to the bedroom.Better look at the chrome knobs I picked out to modernize the furniture.
The downstairs living room hosts the comfy green couches we got from Bev and Dave that have been rough-housed on more times than I can count. They're in great condition and they make the "man cave" more manly.... maybe? I don't know. The super-cool Ikea coffee table with lots of storage space. And Max who really like to play down here because there's nothing breakable and there's loads of space.The TV and fireplace (no, we haven't used our fireplace yet).
Scott's office area is in the downstairs living room. Our collection of DVDs. He's also got a fridge down there so he can grab a drink without exhausting himself by coming up the stairs. ;)

We haven't done anything with the 3rd bedroom yet, the downstairs bathroom has been deep cleaned but we haven't made a firm decision about painting it or not, the mud room/gym is still holding a lot of boxes we haven't sorted through, and the utility room has a washer and dryer in it that make more noise than a rock concert but they get the job done and that's what's important.

We also traded in Scott's BMW and got a 2008 Scion:We love this SUV. It's comfortable, won't conk out on us in bad weather, and has all the features of a family car.

Long Time, No Blog

2009-04-01T09:19:00.002-04:00

When you have 2 people working full-time, hosting a weekly Bible study, and rarely getting to spend more than a few waking hours together the blog kinda takes a back seat.
I've also be enthralled in a new book series known as The Southern Vampire Series, or The Sookie Stackhouse novels, or the books that made HBO's "TrueBlood" a reality. They're good. Take "Twilight" and give it an adult edge and like 50x more dangerous. It's a more intense ride, I'm on the last book of the series before the newest book is released in May.
Yesterday, Scott and I did a photo shoot for The John Kelley Band's album. I can't post pictures at this time, but they're amazing! I came up with a lot of the concepts and Scott photographed them, then we discussed edits in the car and Scott made them happen REALLY late last night (he spent 4 hours on them before coming to bed so he could spend our day off together - I've got a great husband!).
The house is coming together more and more, so I promise to get photos up soon. Possibly even by the end of the day today. Scott and I plan to have the guest room guest ready by this afternoon. We'll see what happens.

Addict

2009-03-17T09:29:00.003-04:00

I am more than willing to admit that I am more than a little obsessed with the TWILIGHT saga. So naturally when I found out that a book from the film's director was coming out detailing the making of the movie from her perspective, I knew where I'd be the day it came out. At 8:30am just before heading into work I walked into Target, grabbed a copy, smiled when I noticed it was $4 cheaper that I was banking on, paid the cashier, and headed into work with it under my arm. I've barely had a chance to flip through the little hardback, but what I've seen is interesting. Handwritten, behind-the-scenes photos, and more. I can't wait to either go on break or go home at the end of the day so I can pour into this book and learn even more about my favorite love story.

Here is what the cover looks like:

WATCHMEN

2009-03-06T09:04:00.003-05:00

Do you like action? Drama? Bone-breaking fight sequences? Love stories?

If your answer is yes, then you need to go see "WATCHMEN".

Scott and I got together with a group of friends to attend the midnight showing of this film based on the epic graphic novel by the same title. Having read the book I was more excited for the film than I would of been had I gone in blind. Not that if you don't read the book you won't enjoy the movie- it flows almost the exact same way. This movie has it all; practically every genre of film rolled into one movie. The changes they made to the film are not only livable, but in some instances better.

I give this film 4.5 out of 5 stars!

FaceBook Update

2009-02-24T09:24:00.001-05:00

Well, he hasn't deleted it yet. I think I did good and I think he'll learn to enjoy it. YAY!

Facebook

2009-02-22T19:23:00.001-05:00

I created a FaceBook page for Scott....

He's not very happy with me right now, but he also hasn't seen his page yet. I have high hopes that he'll stick with it once he sees it.

Fingers crossed.

Birthday Photos

2009-02-16T08:06:00.004-05:00

The Birthday Girl

Uncle Scott and Kaelyn have a tickle fight

Aunt Jes and Kaelyn play airplane
Gran, Grackie, Aunt Jes, and Kaelyn plant a seed- just like Peep!

Kaelyn decided the boys needed maniucures

Kaelyn LOVES Cat in the Hat

We had a really good time celebrating with family and friends. Kaelyn got a lot of fun stuff to play with and some cute new clothes.

Happy Birthday sweetie!! We love you lots!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAELYN!!!

2009-02-12T08:44:00.002-05:00

My gorgeous, amazing, wonderful niece is now 3 years old!

WOW!

I LOVE YOU KAELYN!!!

We'll be celebrating as a family on Valentine's day and I'll be sure to post pictures from that event.

Stage Diving 101

2009-02-10T17:01:00.002-05:00

Lesson 1 of stage diving:
Know your surroundings. If the crowd looks uninterested in your performance, then the risk of either looking stupid or attendees fanning out and not catching is high and you should not perform this rocker action.

Lesson 2:
If the people you invited are female and weigh under 100 pounds do NOT jump to them, they may try to catch you, but will fail and again you will look lame.

Lesson 3:
If you don't intend to commit to the dive and actually launch yourself into the crowd you will be dropped by the people expecting you to go over them- those in the front row are not anticipating the responsibilities of your actions.

Lesson 4:
If you kick unsuspecting or unwilling "fans" in the face your rep is screwed because they know people and they will inform them you suck.

Overview:
Know your surroundings, draw attention to your actions, make good judgment calls, and commit to your actions. If you follow these instructions you will successfully pull off a stage dive.

9 Years

2009-02-03T09:39:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Scott and I celebrated 9 years as a couple. Crazy, I know. It's amazing how after 9 years there are still things that I learn about him and still things that make me go weak in the knees. How did we celebrate? By watching a movie of course! We watched "Hellraiser 3" (naturally, a horror flick). So, here's to my best friend- my world- I love you!

*Random fun fact about us: Scott's legs are only 1 inch longer than mine. It's our torsos that make up the difference in our height.

I Really HATE Ice!!!

2009-01-28T14:29:00.002-05:00

Fayette County Schools - Closed
Eastern KY University - Closed FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK!!
UK - Closed (historic!)

Where am I?! AT&f'nT!!!

If you step foot in this store "just cuz it was open" I may kill you. No, I'm not joking. I have access to box cutters and I will use them!

I should be at home, by the fire, with my family, watching lighthearted crap on TV like the rest of the people who have power. Or I could be doing a good deed, like bringing in a family that don't have power.

THIS SUCKS! I REALLY, REALLY HATE ICE! I don't even like it in my drinks!

Just Like My Sis-in-Law

2009-01-24T17:25:00.003-05:00

While on Facebook I was asked to state 25 Random Things about myself; so, I did. After re-reading the list and checking out my sister-in-law's blog I too thought about all those other people that may want to know these facts. Now I share with more people... enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1. I act like I don't care what people think about me, but I do care... a lot.

2. I sometimes think I was born in the wrong era; I love Shakespeare and the concept of chivalry.

3. Hands down the worst day of my life was the day my 1st dog, Beau, died.

4. I have to fix things. I have to make things easier for other people. If you have an issue and you come to me with it I will work really hard to make it better.

5. When I had to have a cortio-steroid shot in my knee it took 2 doctors and my Dad to hold me down in order for it to be administered (that's how much I hate needles).

6. It is impossible for me to turn off my brain when there are things that bug me.

7. I LOVE movies! I could watch at least 2 movies everyday and not get bored with the action.

8. I only have 2 goals for my life: To be the best wife for my husband (completed up to this point) and the best mom for my kid(s) (still waiting to be ready).

9. My greatest heroes are my husband, Scott, and my brother, Justin. As long as they are proud of me, then I am proud of me.

10. At the age of 12 I wanted Brad Pitt to turn me into a vampire; that is where the obsession began.

11. Getting my facial piercing is still a double-edged sword for me. I think it's beautiful so I refuse to take it out, but it was not something I ever really wanted (the way that I wanted my tattoos)- just something I joked about doing.

12. I am the wrong person to play pranks on- I get really, really mad and sometimes I stay mad for awhile.

13. I have had 5 surgeries (tubes in my ears, 3 knee, and wisdom teeth removal)- having my wisdom teeth cut out was the worst.

14. I've always wanted to follow a band on tour.

15. I am always up for learning something new, or trying something new.

16. When I look at my niece, Kaelyn, I feel an overwhelming sense of hope.

17. I miss people the second they leave.

18. Money scares me, but I can't not be in control of things which is why all the bills are in my name.

19. I cry at weddings (televised weddings, weddings for people I don't know, weddings for people I do know).

20. I get really excited about 10 minutes before Scott gets home and I stay excited until I fall asleep.

21. I like taking pictures of myself.

22. I love mac & cheese!

23. I make up songs to sing to Scott... I'm not sure how much he enjoys them, but he usually laughs.

24. This is probably a bad thing, but I put myself in 2nd place to the people I care about.

25. For 5 years I have kept a fortune from a Chinese fortune cookie that states "You were meant to be famous."

Dawning of a New Era

2009-01-20T18:41:00.003-05:00

OBAMA:

My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land — a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America — they will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sanh.

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. All this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. Those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control — and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart — not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our founding fathers ... our found fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all the other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort — even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment — a moment that will define a generation — it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends — hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence — the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent Mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world ... that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet (it)."

America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America.

~~~I can honestly say that as I watched the inauguration I was overwhelmed with pride, conviction, emotion, and elation. I believe in our President; I believe in his message and in his objective. I have hope. I don't expect change over-night, but I know that change is on the horizon. I feel like I am awakening from an 8 year coma and am being thrust into the front car of a roller coaster and I've got my hands up and a smile on my face! "YES WE CAN!!!"~~~

Brrrrrrrr!

2009-01-15T12:22:00.002-05:00

Columbia Gas has given me more problems than any other utilities company I have ever dealt with. First you think they're doing you a favor by mailing you a form so that they can waive a fee, then you find out that they don't receive postal mail (unless it's your money), and finally they cut off your heat... on the coldest day of the last 5 years!

After almost 40 hours without heat, it's FINALLY back on!!

And the Winner is...

2009-01-11T13:31:00.002-05:00

Vote...

2009-01-07T08:42:00.002-05:00

...on my hair.
I fully intend to cut my hair in the next couple weeks, but I need help picking a style, because I'm a chicken and I tend to stay too safe.
So here are the contestants:
A)

B)
C)
D)Let me know what you think. If you have a pick, please comment with A, B, C, or D. Thanks!

The Newest Birdwhistell

2009-01-03T18:04:00.005-05:00

A friend from work bought us a wall-mounted fish bowl; so, we went to Meijer and bought a beta fish. When we went to check-out the woman at the register didn't know what to price him at since he didn't have a barcode. {Note: you cannot scan fish, it will kill them.} I told her what the price I read was and since no one was working in the pet department she went with it. Unfortuntately, she rang him up as "seafood", how sad is that?! So, to keep with the theme, I proudly introduce to you:

Sushi

Happy 24th Birthday Hubby!!!

2008-12-28T19:35:00.003-05:00

Since we won't have Insight out until after Scott's birthday I wanted to go ahead and post my little shout-out.

Happy Birthday Scott!

I love you so much and I am so excited to share in your birthday! I hope that even with all the craziness we've got going on right now that it's a good one. :) {Muah!}

Moving

2008-12-28T19:28:00.003-05:00

Scott snagged some willing guys to help us move from our 1 bedroom apartment to our 3 bedroom house tomorrow. (Un?)fortunately I will be at work so I won't be assisting in this, but don't think I got off easy. As of 5:30pm today we had the kitchen, upstairs living room, upstairs bathroom, master bedroom, large guest bedroom, and downstairs living room all painted. Since we own more furniture than actually fits in our apartment the guys have to go to Scott's parents, my Dad's, and the apartment to load up everything. That does not mean that everything is furnished or will be furnished soon, it does mean that we have very supportive family members that don't mind being a little cramped. (Thanks you guys!!) With Scott's birthday being on Tuesday, we're going to try and have as much done as possible so that the two of us can celebrate appropriately. (Yay!) So, keep praying (it's working so far) and we promise to have you over to see the finished product soon!

Happy Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T21:02:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone! You're in my heart and in my prayers. May God bless you all this holiday.

It's Finally Here!!!

2008-12-19T08:08:00.002-05:00

We close on the house in an hour! ONE HOUR!
It's ours! We made it! Its finished.
I can feel air pour through my nose and mouth- breathing- a sensation I haven't felt in a month. It's amazing. Amazing how a human body can withstand such stress, anxiety, worry, joy, and frustration all at one time... and then, it just disappears and you become overwhelmed with the most glorious calm.
I wanna dance. I wanna skip work... but I have to pay for this house, so I won't do that. I wanna get started making it ours.
Bev, Dave, and Scott - roll your sleeves up, tomorrow is going to be an awesome day! :)

Drawing Closer

2008-12-15T09:20:00.002-05:00

It's Monday and we only have to wait until Friday for things to be official. Friday is our closing, Friday we will sign our lives away, Friday we will be granted a key and full access to our first house. It's not that long to wait; my heart is pounding, my palms are sweaty, and I spending every moment thinking. This is a very tiring process.
I packed 3 boxes last night, the first 3 boxes to be packed.
We've picked out paint colors, but I'm too much of a chicken to go ahead and purchase them because the closing isn't until Friday. I live in the land of the great "what if". I have plans to start painting on Saturday, continue on Sunday, take a break Monday and Tuesday, snag my sister-in-law for a late night paint session on Wednesday, a break for Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, then back at it that afternoon. I hope that's all the time it requires; I hope that those 4 days are enough, but I can't be sure. I also have furniture to touch-up, but that can wait until closer to move-in day.
Move-in: that's on Scott's terms. He's taken vacation the last week of this month to get us moved in, and he's elected the help of some friends and family to get the process done fast-ish.
Prayer and positive thoughts- that's what we need.

Soon Enough Isn't Soon Enough

2008-12-09T20:05:00.003-05:00

Paint, furniture, accessories, and more- all things that you consider when purchasing a home. Knowing that buying these items now isn't the best idea because you're not in the home yet is frustrating, but livable. Realizing that there are more opinions than just your own to consider- stressful.
Back-and-forth, to-and-fro, soon enough just isn't coming soon enough! 9 days to closing, 18 days to Scott's vacation, and I've only got Saturday's and Sunday's to share in the load.
I want to say "thanks" in advance to everyone that's agreed to help with painting, moving, and then some. It means a lot to have such willing friends and family.
Keep your fingers crossed ad say your prayers- we'll need them these next couple weeks.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T20:23:00.002-05:00

I would like to wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving!

I have a lot to be thankful for this year; my loving husband, my job, my amazing family, along with many other things I've been blessed with the last year.

Be safe and do the retail industry a favor- don't go too nuts on Black Friday.

I'm a Cullen Now

2008-11-22T11:12:00.002-05:00

I had Scott adjust my image in PhotoShop so that I would fit in with the fictional vampire family, the Cullen's- I think it's a great likeness... now I just need to get bitten.

WoW!

2008-11-22T00:20:00.001-05:00

SCOTT AND I ARE ESSENTIALLY HOME OWNERS!

Happy Birthday Munkei!!

2008-11-17T23:19:00.003-05:00

Happy 21st Birthday to my little brother, my greatest friend, my partner-in-crime, my munkei!
Love you lots! Have a great one!

Dazzled

2008-11-13T18:14:00.003-05:00

I just finished reading "Twilight" for the second time. This book is one of the most dazzling things I have ever read. I usually read a book, put it down, and quit thinking about it. Not this book. Not this story. I find myself daydreaming about the characters, what I imagine them to look like, how I envision the scenes to play out, and what they're voices sound like with each emotion that spills from their lips.

In 8 days I won't have to use my own thoughts or ideas to bring this book to life. In 8 short days "Twilight" the movie will hit theaters and I will join thousands of young girls as they flock to the theaters to drool over the fictional boy they wish would take them away from their boring lives.

Fortunately for me, when I leave the theater I'll have my own personal Edward by my side. (Thanks honey for being so supportive of my latest obsession.)

The most I have ever seen a single film in theaters is 4, I think. If this movie as good as the book, I may very well break my cardinal rule of never going to a movie alone....

Halloween-i-versary

2008-11-03T21:48:00.002-05:00

Scott and I just got back from Tennessee and we had a great time!
We stayed in a cabin, "Grin and Bear It", which featured a hot tub, jacuzzi tub, pool table/air-hockey table, board games, and 2 big-screen TVs. There we lounged, watched TV, and played games.
In town we shopped, played mini-golf, we went to Ripley's Museum/Haunted Adventure/Aquarium, and out to eat.
Here are some pictures:

Anniversary Trip

2008-10-27T20:54:00.003-04:00

In just a few more days Scott and I will be leaving for Tennessee to celebrate our anniversary.
Here's a link to the cabin we'll be staying in:
http://www.yourcabin.com/220GrinAndBearIt.aspx
We're both really excited and looking forward to getting away for a few days.
Please pray that we'll have a safe and fun trip, and that we'll get there without trouble.

A Day With My Niece

2008-10-22T20:46:00.002-04:00

I was blessed with a phone call a few weeks ago requesting my babysitting service in Ohio with one very special little girl; my niece. Steve was going to be out of town and Kelly had a lunch meeting, and I was capable of adjusting my work schedule to be there. (Scott would've been there too, but was unable to adjust his work schedule.)

So I arrived this morning at 9am and play-time officially began. We broke for lunch and an attempted nap, then again for a brief panic attack where Kaelyn decided she did in fact miss her mom (yes, I survived my first toddler break-down!), then the play-time kicked back into gear. We watched a show on TV where they made fascinating cakes, Kaelyn was intrigued by the flowers. Kelly, Kaelyn, and I enjoyed dinner at McAlisters, then I headed back home.

It was the first time I'd seen both of them in months, so it was great to see them both! Love you guys, call me again if you need a sitter and I'll try to work something out. ;)

Here's a shot of my adorable niece:

2 Years Ago

2008-10-14T00:34:00.004-04:00

On Friday, October 13th, 2006 Scott and I got engaged. Two years ago- wow! Enjoy a walk down memory lane:
This photo was taken just hours after Scott proposed.
Our favorite photo from the engagement session.

HEY BABE:
17 DAYS!!!

{Pout}

2008-10-14T00:30:00.002-04:00

So, we're not getting the house we had our hearts set on. The day that we signed the contract and made an offer, Ball Homes decided to make it a rental property, and they refuse to talk to us. We're going to look at 3 more houses tomorrow, but lets be honest housing hunting really isn't fun. We're hopeful that this goes well and that we find something we fall even more in love with... and that it works out.

The Day has Dawned

2008-10-09T08:29:00.003-04:00

I woke this morning with butterflies in my stomach and a smile on my face. I almost feel like I did the day I married Scott; all nervous and excited.
Today, Scott and I are making the next big step in our marriage- we're putting an offer in on a house. Our Realtor is coming by at 10am with the contract for us to sign, to collect our pre-approval letter and the offer that we intend to start with, then he'll work his magic and hopefully by Monday we'll know if they accepted our offer.
Wow! This is such a grown-up feeling, this decision making and legality.
After today, I'm going to need to do something very immature in order to maintain my balance... maybe I'll eat sweets and not brush my teeth. No... can't do that... not brushing my teeth freaks me out.
Guess I'm stuck being a grown-up.
Fingers-crossed... in the next week we could "have" a house.
...I feel light-headed... Waaay too much adult.

Quite a Week

2008-10-01T10:49:00.004-04:00

For my birthday Scott's parents got me tickets for the circus. They've changed the layout and this year was focused around a clown named "Bello". He was amazing!
After the circus ended, I "decided" that I was going to quit my job and ride the elephants in the circus for the rest of my life. :)
Here are a few pictures of Scott and I at the pre-show:
This week Scott and I also started house hunting. We found a cute home not far from our apartment. We've been to the bank, been inside, and have a few more steps to go through before making an offer.
Here's a photo of the exterior:
We plan to grab the parents and go back tomorrow for another look.

I Chopped It...

2008-09-18T10:29:00.003-04:00

For my birthday, my in-laws gave me some money to get a haircut. I've had this one particular style in mind for probably 2 months, I just haven't had the guts to go for it. I'm not a big fan of cutting my hair, its always been long, and I've rather enjoyed it that way. But, I grew a pair and went for it, so now here's my new look:

What do you think??

Guilty

2008-09-12T08:02:00.002-04:00

I stand up for what I believe in on a regular basis. Usually it's to protect or defend someone or something else. So why is it when I stand up for simply myself I feel guilty about it?

I know the life I'm living is a good one, and I know that where I am at this point in my life is amazing... But sometimes things happen, outside of my control that aren't explained to me, and I feel compelled to ask questions. I felt better... for about 10 minutes with the answers I'd received, then was bombarded with other people's opinions which left me feeling like I never should have said a word.

Darn guilty conscience.

How I Racked Up

2008-08-31T19:45:00.003-04:00

My birthday was last week and it was awesome! I would like to thank my family and friends for all their well-wishes and gifts.

I will be getting my haircut on the 16th (thanks to Bev and Dave), a massage on the 18th (thanks to Nana and Dad). I also have some extra cash for whatever I decide to spend it on (a manicure maybe? -thanks to Gran and Grackie, and Grackie Bird). My sister-in-law made me a word-picture which is at my bedside. My Mom sent me a girlie box of goodies- love it! I purchased "One Tree Hill" season 5 on DVD from Target (thanks to Rodney). I've been to the movies and had popcorn (thanks to Munkei) and intend to go a few more times.

Then the gift my hubby got me- its permenant and will always be with me:
I LOVE THEM!
And because I don't inflict pain on myself without having someone join me, Scott got this:

My birthday was awesome! I thank everyone so much!
XOXO

Happy Birthday... to ME!

2008-08-23T09:59:00.003-04:00

(to be sung like the birthday song)

Happy Birthday to Me
Happy Birthday to Me
I am 23...
My brother is a Munkei!
Happy Birthday tooooo MEEEEEEEEEE!

(all celebrate)

A Little Blue

2008-08-16T07:40:00.004-04:00

I miss my Mom.

Just So You Know

2008-08-12T23:48:00.001-04:00

My birthday is August 23rd. I will be 23. Get shoppin'. :)

Doing Something for Me

2008-08-05T14:53:00.001-04:00

After a lot of thought, a lot of conversation, and even more prayer I decided not to continue working at Creme Planning. I don't have the time or the energy to dedicate to the position offered to me, and I can't see myself leaving AT&T at this time. So, today was my last day.

I am proud to say that I just have the one job now, that I can be more dedicated to my family, and that I can do things for me a little more frequently.

I appreciate the support and the prayer.

Honor and Glory

2008-07-22T22:15:00.009-04:00

I am thankful for my Daddy. He's been there for me through so much, even through times when I wasn't there for him. He's the most thoughtful person I know, so giving. He may not always be the most understanding person, but he puts forth great effort. I am so proud of my Dad. I like to think of myself as his #1 fan, his supporter. I will always be "Daddy's Little Girl," his "Sweetimust Beats" (don't ask, it's just something he's always called me).

I honored him on Father's Day, and on July 23rd I do so again.

HAPPY 53rd BIRTHDAY, DADDY!

Here are some of our moments:

Sleeping on Daddy's chest, just a few weeks old.

A glorified foot-rest, always willing to service his needs.

Those are my Dad's legs in the picture... I didn't want him to plummet off the "huge" ladder.

Celebrating my college graduation.

Being my Dad's date to the Woodford County Humane Society event 2007.

Loving on my Dad, who helped bring me into the world on my last birthday.

~~~As I end every birthday well-wishing to my Dad.... You've got a month to plan for my party, get started early! HAHA~~~

I Believe...

2008-07-19T09:43:00.005-04:00

Batman is not my favorite superhero.

Even when I mention my favorite superhero I have to admit I'm not a die-hard fan that knows every little detail.

I'm a really good listener. I married a really passionate person. I enjoy listening to him talk about the things that excite him. Therefore, I know A LOT about Batman.

I know that the "Nolan series" (Batman Begins and The Dark Knight) are two of the best takes on the character(s) thus far. They are darker, grittier, more cerebral, and highly entertaining.
For those that have seen Tim Burton's "Batman" and Joel Schumacher's "Batman Forever" you become familiar with the super-villains Joker and Harvey Dent/Two-Face. Really it's the lighter-side of both characters.

In the new film, "The Dark Knight", we are presented with Bruce Wayne/Batman desperately wanting out of his role, Joker who really just wants some respect, and Harvey Dent working to make the city a better place, when Harvey becomes Two-Face you have a hard time viewing him as a bad guy.

Here are some screen shots:
Heath Ledger does deserve an Oscar for his role as the Joker. He's brilliant! He becomes that character so fluidly that you can no longer find Heath behind the eyes or the make-up.

Aaron Eckhart (Harvey Dent/Two-Face) is so compelling, so motivating that you truly do believe in Harvey Dent.

Christian Bale made the dual character of Bruce Wayne and Batman so different that you can clearly see when he's one and when he's the other (mask or no mask). No wonder people don't consider him to be one in the same.

I believe the Nolan series are the true telling of the Batman tale. I believe that the characters are so legitimate that they confuse themselves with whom they are playing. I believe that YOU should see this film NOW, not later!

Bat Fest 2008

2008-07-15T08:51:00.007-04:00

On Thursday, July 17th Scott and I will be hosting Bat Fest 2008 in our tiny apartment.

If you want to be a part of the action here's what you've got to know:
You need to get your ticket for the midnight showing of "The Dark Knight".
You need to be at our apartment around 1pm (later if you don't have the day off work [we understand]).
You need to bring some cash for food; we're planning to order about 5 large pizzas.
If you break ANYTHING in our apartment it's 30 lashes and you're paying for it. (Is she joking?... guess you'll have to find out.)

What does Bat Fest entail?

Well, here's the plan:
We're going to start with the 1966 Adam West Batman (& Robin)
Then to Michael Keaton's "Batman", followed by his "Batman Returns"
We will then watch Christian Bale's Batman debut in "Batman Begins"
Followed by a "mad dash" to the theater to catch the latest installment "The Dark Knight"
Heath Ledger has already received Oscar buzz for his portrayal of The Joker, people have described his character in this film as "stunning", "surprising", and "scary" (which is fitting for what we [as fans] know about the Joker.

Have a great one, and we hope to see you at the movies.

iPhone Launch

2008-07-11T06:42:00.003-04:00

Today is July 11th. Today is "D-Day". Today the new iPhone 3G launches. Today I work.

I've been informed that there will be a lot of people; both employees and customers. I've been informed that we will not have enough phones to satisfy everyone's needs for today. I have been informed that the new phone is awesome.

Here's a picture:

I must admit... I have succumbed. I would not mind having this phone at all. However, the chances of me getting one... slim to none. Oh well... next time.

Obsessions, Obligations, and Wish-Fulfillment

2008-07-08T20:01:00.004-04:00

I've been rather busy this last week.

The last time I saw my sister-in-law she'd asked me if I'd read a book called "Twilight", I said no, but that I'd heard about it a lot of facebook. Well, someone close-to-home bringing it up piqued my interest, so when I saw it at Joseph-Beth I read the back and was intrigued. But... I put it down. Later that night I saw it for $8 at Meijer and couldn't pass up the deal since it was still in my head. I devoured that book. I had about 75 pages left of it when Scott went to Joseph-Beth again and purchased the second book in the series for me as a surprise... I finished "New Moon" in 2 days. So, I've read two books in a week... and have chewed off about 1/4 of the third book, "Eclipse". Today, I pre-ordered "Breaking Dawn".
Kelly, you have instilled an obsession in me. I know you haven't read the books, I know that you merely breathed the words, but I have been dazzled and I CANNOT wait until the movie comes out in December. I've become a little intense to live with... you owe Scott a treat. :)

I've also been working full-time at AT&T. I still love my job and adore 90% of the people that I work with. There are 2 people that I wouldn't mind never showing up again, but I'm a fairly good actress and can put on a nice front.
On July 11th, I might change my tune.... I may hate my job, and the people. That's the iPhone 3G launch and to be blunt I'm rather terrified of the horror stories I've been hearing. People planning to camp out, having to arrive to work 45 minutes before we open so as not to be mauled, BUT... there will be food. The company is providing breakfast, lunch, and overtime... can't complain too much in that department. Of course if we're going to only let in the number of people as sales reps, I'm not sure what I'm going to be doing... so it's going to be an experience never-the-less.

I also work on an event basis with Creme Planning and that job is like a salvation for me. I love planning events, being a part of events, dealing with all the obstacles and seeing something really come together. Well, on July 3rd my little call-me-when-you-need-me job turned into something a whole lot more. My boss is turning over the business to me, essentially. She still owns it, but she's moved to New York and needs someone to run the office, plan the events, and be there as a representative of Creme.
I said yes. I had to. You don't turn down your dream when someone selflessly hands it to you... you don't turn down your dream no matter what.
I have 2 jobs... I don't know how long I'll have 2 jobs, but me and Creme are not planning to separate easily... it would take an army.

This has been a fabulous week. I'm in love with a fictional vampire, I am the front-woman of the AT&T iPhone army, and I am running a business that has been my dream since I was 16. Life is good; stressful, but good.

Happy Birthday Best Friend!

2008-06-28T08:21:00.006-04:00

Today is my best friend, K.C.'s birthday. I'd tell you how old she is, but I'd like her to continue being my best friend. So instead, I'm going to post pictures of her pretty face.

She got mean while she was cinching my bodice.
I love her. She's the greatest. I enjoy all our little moments together, who knew that a home firework session would bring us so close?
Have a great b-day!!!
XOXO

Such is Life

2008-06-27T21:08:00.004-04:00

I have been really enjoying my first week at AT&T. The only down-side is the 8 hours of standing, it's been killer on my feet. In fact, I spent all of yesterday with my right foot wrapped because I had a goose-egg form on the side as big as my ankle.
I went to training... which I'll be honest, seemed kind of pointless and was quite boring. But I got paid to sit there AND I won 4 boxes seats and passes to the Makers Mark club at a Legends game in July. So, that part was cool.
Scott and I went to see "Wanted" at midnight last night and it was much better than I was anticipating. I was expecting to like it and to enjoy seeing it, but I wasn't prepared to be so pulled in by the story. However, the language is a little extreme, so if that's offensive to you, then you might not enjoy it so much.
I am also thinking about cutting my hair again. I really don't like the bangs, so I'm going to let them grow out. Here's 2 pictures of Tori Spelling's hair, the style that I'm leaning towards:
Let me know what you think of the cut.
I'll be attending my friend, Erica's, baby shower on Sunday. I hope that she has a good time and that she gets things that she needs and wants. New Moms deserve special treatment.
Well, that's all my new news. Hope you have a pleasant weekend.
XOXO

iWork

2008-06-23T22:05:00.002-04:00

I experienced my first day as an AT&T sales support representative (SSR) today and let me tell you it was fabulous!
Again job description: stand at front, say "hi", ask "what brings you into the store today?", write down name and request, wait for associate, point them in direction of customer; while no one is in the store stock the accessories, end of job.
So I did that, then around 5pm I sat down with my manager, Patrick, and he gave me my user names and passwords for several different programs, we attempted to order my "team colors" but not all the user names were active yet (I ordered 3 polos [yellow, black, and lime green] and 2 cardigans [black and white]), then I was informed that I would get a waaaaaaay cool phone -- a Blackberry Curve... but for the time being I have been hooked up with an iPhone! Woo-hoo!
I'll be honest, I'm not a huge fan of said phone... yet, but I've got my in-home techie (hubby, Scott) working on it now so that he can put in layman terms how it works.
I have official training on Thursday from 10am-12pm, so we'll see what I learn.
Enjoying it so far though. Thanks for the prayer and support.
XOXO

Official

2008-06-18T08:49:00.002-04:00

I got the official word from AT&T's corporate office the other day that I am clear to start work. My first day will be Monday, June 23rd at 10am. I'll fill out my paperwork, order my uniform (a polo shirt [hopefully more than one]), and begin training (which shouldn't be too hard). I'm looking forward to starting work. The thing that is up in the air will be my schedule; when I interviewed for the position back in April they said I wouldn't be there past 8pm, but I will most likely work Saturday/Sunday. I am looking forward to starting work, I like having a schedule that takes me out of the house... I can only be on my own for so long before I start to get sick of myself.

Off Topic:
Scott and I went to King's Island yesterday, neither of us felt to woozy in the head, so we stayed until like 7:30pm. The only thing we purchased (aside from food) was a hand-made, custom, leather collar for Max... yes, we spoil our dog, a lot! But it's so... I want to say "cute" but Max is a boy, so that may not be the best word, so I'll say "awesome". :)

I Did It!

2008-06-16T15:07:00.007-04:00

Scott and I had our blood work done this morning; I didn't cry, didn't whimper or complain (too much), and I didn't tell the lady that I disliked her. So, I'm proud of myself in that regard. We should get the results back in a week or so.

I have also been playing with Photoshop. I will share my creations with you now.

Tomorrow Scott and I head to Ohio, we're hitting King's Island. Pray for our travels and safety, and pray that Scott doesn't start feeling too sick after the first couple rides- we'd both like to be there the whole day.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T07:44:00.009-04:00

I have been blessed three-fold with the greatest Dad, "step"-Dad, and Father-in-law on the planet.

To my Daddy- I will always be your number 1 fan, your passionate fighter, and you "innocent" princess. With every lesson that you have taught me I have made sure to bring it out into the world for all to see. I am a better person for having you as my Daddy. I wish I had the words to express how much I appreciate you.... I love you, so much!

To my Dad- You are awesome! You are so much a part of who I am and I will cherish that always. I love all the quarky things that you've gotten me hooked on- "The Rocky Horror Picture Show", horror movies, "what was she thinking putting THAT on?!", and your ability to listen to me complain without rolling your eyes. I love you!!
To my Father-in-law- I don't know how I got so lucky to be part of a family as amazing as yours. I enjoy your sense of humor, when you yell at those pesky players that just don't listen, and how great you are with everyone you encounter. I appreciate that you have accepted me with open arms and an open mind. You rock!
(I can't help it, it's like my favorite picture of you EVER!)

Now on to some other special Dads I know:

The father of my beautiful niece, Steve.
The "father" of my "child", Scott.

...Scary...

2008-06-14T10:28:00.002-04:00

I don't readily use the word "hate", but there are a couple things that I do in fact hate:

needles (I know, I have 2 tattoos, my ears pierced, and a facial piercing- but that's different)
most bugs (primarily the ones that sting or bite) and
the sound dishes make when they scrape together.

Needles and I have had a rather twisted relationship. Once I was blessed with a brother I deemed him my own personal crash-test dummy; he was ALWAYS the first to have blood work drawn or any type of shot when we went to the doctor together. When I had my first knee surgery the nurse granted me with a numbing agent that didn't allow me to feel the needle stick. My other two knee surgeries I had my Mama there to distract me by telling stories. (Note: I was OVER the age of 18 for all surgeries mentioned, which does make me a whiny baby.) The one time I had blood work drawn they took two vials about 2 inches tall... and I cried the entire time and was un-able to drive home due to my hysterics. However, I willingly got 2 tattoos (and would do that again in a second) and when I got my Monroe piercing it was more of a anything-you-can-do-I-can-do-too (thanks hubs!).

On Monday I have to have blood work drawn to test my thyroid, cholesterol, and blood count. Fortunately, Scott does too. I say "fortunately" because Scott will go first and he won't cry or scream or say "ouch"... he'll just sit there let it happen, hold the gauze down to make the bleeding stop, and smile at me once he's finished. This will tell me that it's not-so bad, even though in the back of my mind I'll be saying "yeah, well, he's a boy, and boys are supposed to be tough".

In advance, thank you Scott for being brave, for not making fun of me for being scared, and for telling me afterwards that your proud of me. This is just one of the reasons why you are my best friend and my rock. XOXO

:)

2008-06-09T20:03:00.002-04:00

I got a job at AT&T.
It is the job that I turned down because I'd already accepted the position at ClearMYRecord.com. My title: Sales Support.
Job Description: Stand at the front to the store, say hi to customers as they enter, write down their name, mobile number, and reason for visit, then find a sales associate to help them; AKA easy!
I am so happy that I didn't have to spend months searching.
I start on the 23rd, which is perfect because I can spend Scott's week vacation off with him and I still have a paycheck coming from CMR.
YIPPIE!!
Thanks again for all your prayers and support, it means a lot to me.

The Job Market vs. J. Birdwhistell

2008-06-05T09:16:00.000-04:00

I believe I have applied for 25 jobs and solicited roughly 10 advertising agencies in the area to see if they were hiring.
Now for those of you who don't know, in college I majored in Integrated Strategic Communications, this major allows you 4 focus options: creative (no), account management (no, but I've done it), direct marketing (no, but I've looked into it), and public relations (ding, ding, ding!). What public relations does is connect a target group with a product, service, or person; it also does chaos management (when something goes wrong they tell how it's being fixed or why it's not as bad as it sounds). I also pursued a minor, but it was in a field that I was able to create: Entertainment. I took a lot of classes relating to theatre, film/television, and music.
Now that you have a better understanding of my educational background, can you explain to me why I keep getting soliciting emails about working for financial companies? (Financial adviser, escrow account specialist, etc.) I just don't see it.
I want to do something that lines up with what I fell in love with in college. I was a great student, I am smart, and I don't think that it is too much to ask to get to work in the field I dedicated myself to.
I just don't want to wait another year to land a job. I'm trying to be less picky, but it's hard... I feel like I should be more picky since I chose wrong last time.

Survival Mode

2008-05-30T16:51:00.002-04:00

This has been a really hard day.
I got up this morning and took care of Max, sent a few e-mails, made myself breakfast, then headed off to work. Sounds easy enough.
I had just gotten off a call when the marketing director came down and asked to speak with me. I didn't think anything of it, he made me a little nervous, but he's my superior... they're supposed to make you a little nervous. We went up to his office and he informed me that the company was downsizing and that I was going to be affected by that process.
I've been at my job 12 days... I was let go from my job on the same day that I received my first paycheck (ironic, I know).
I wish I could tell you how I feel. I wish I could say something simple, like I'm sad or angry, but I can't. I'm every emotion. Every single one, even the good ones. I can't figure it out. I know that God is in total control of my life, and that is the greatest safety net of all.
I do qualify for unemployment- thank goodness- so we'll be able to keep our apartment. I already made one phone call about a job that was offered to me after I accepted this one, so we'll see where that goes.
Yes, this situation really, really sucks.
But I will survive. We will survive.

It's Finished!!!

2008-05-25T22:32:00.013-04:00

I'm not sure how it happened, but it has, we have finished (aside from getting some pictures hung) our apartment. I now feel good about sharing pictures of the place, so here we go:

Living Room---

Our beautiful new TV and coffee table really complete the living room.

Office---
Kitchen---
Bathroom---
Bedroom/Closet---
Utility Room---

There was NO way all of our stuff was going to fit, so my quick-thinking in-laws provided us with a bookcase for extra storage space.

Patio---

From our patio we get to look out onto the glorious courtyard, which consists of a waterfall, bridge, pond, and the pool.

We're getting comfortable in our humble home, it's great to just be us and the dog, getting to know one another even better than we already do. Married life is fabulous, working is fabulous, obtaining a sense of normalcy is FABULOUS!

Brag Blog

2008-05-25T22:07:00.001-04:00

For those of you who don't know how friggin' cute my niece is, here is the video they did for Mother's Day:

I know I haven't seen anyone this adorable ever before!

I <3 TV!

2008-05-20T10:59:00.003-04:00

Scott and I finally got our TV. It's beautiful. And it works. I love it. Makes me want our living room to be completed so that we can both sit on the couch.... Oh well, all in due time.

So I'm a Liar

2008-05-18T22:19:00.002-04:00

I really did think that I would have the apartment finished by now, but we hit a lot of speed-bumps between Friday and today.
When I got home from work on Friday there was a note tucked into our door from the property manager stating that there had been a complaint regarding Ebony's loud barking. Now I have 2 issues with this complaint: first, according to Kentucky state law you can only be cited for dog barking if the barking lasts more than 10 minutes at a time (Ebony barks for a couple seconds then stops), the other problem I have is with the use of the word "loud"- how on earth do I make her bark quiet?! Because of this Scott and I spent practically all of Friday evening searching for some kind of quick-fix. We purchased a muzzle, but Ebony is apparently a ventriloquist and can bark just as loud without opening her mouth. So we ended ordering a no-bark collar that sends a "harsh vibration" when she barks. There are 7 levels of vibrations, with a 2-second break between each level, and it resets if she goes 5 minutes without barking. I really hope this works. There are several things about this situation that have made me angry: this complex allows dogs so they should expect barking, there are at least 4 other dogs in our building and they all bark, dogs should be allowed to get used to a new area and we have barely been here a week.
Saturday I ran all over the city running errands. I went to Hamburg to do a book exchange for my Mom, I went to Most Valuable Pets to exchange the aforementioned muzzle, then to IncrediPet to get the correct dog food, then to my Nana's to do 2 + weeks worth of laundry (stinky!). I did get 1 bookcase set up, however.
Today, we went to church, then out to lunch with the in-laws, they then brought over 1 large bookcase and 1 small bookcase (thank you both sooooo much, they're a big help), I built the other bookcase, spray painted an end table, and unload 8 boxes. And we're still not done... doesn't even look like we're that close. I just can't seem to find homes for all our stuff. I know we'll get if figured out, I just want it to go a little faster.
Shout out to my Mama, thanks a ton for the cash you threw our way so that we can get a coffee table, I plan to order it this week!!!
Note to my Daddy... when you come over you've got pictures to hang and a mirror.... you said once that if you had a nickel for every picture you'd be a rich man, well I may have a few nickels. :)
Love you all and thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers.

Strange How Things Work...

2008-05-16T10:19:00.002-04:00

It's almost bizarre the way that God works. Sometimes you just want to shake Him, to ask Him what on Earth He was thinking. I've pretty much figured out my relationship with God at this point. The best way to express it is by making you think of "Home Improvement" (my father-in-law will love that), there is an episode where Mark has a science project to do and he really wants to do it by himself, but Tim fully intends to help, and in the process of helping completely takes over. Well, sadly, in this scenario, I am Tim. I should just let go and let God, but I'm such a control freak, I so love having to be a part of it all. So many times I have wished for the ability to step back, to relax, to let someone else do it for me... that just isn't the personality I have.

Today is my 2nd day at my new job. I introduced you to this subject the way that I did because of what I have been experiencing thus far. I am not allowed to answer phones yet... they ring ALL the time, but I can't touch them, can't even say "ClearMyRecord.com, this is Jessica, will you hold please?" I am being forced to step outside of myself and just let the darn things ring. Now, it's making me crazy, but it's like one of God's little learning exercises, and this one fits my needs pretty straight on. Over the last couple days I have spent all my time (at work) on the Internet, I am "memorizing" the webpage. Why? Because the webpage is all the client gets to look at, and if I don't know what they're seeing or what they are reading, then I'm really not of much help to them. At some point today I will get to plug my headset (I'm such a dork, I think having a headset like you see receptionists have on TV is SOOOOO cool!!) into someone else's and listen to the way they do things. On Monday I will get to test-drive a phone call, someone will listen to what I say, watch what I do, and correct me along the way. They told me on the 4th or 5th day, I will be solo. AHHHH! I'm liking what I am doing so far, not loving it - haven't had the opportunity to fall in love quite yet, and I'm enjoying the learning process.

I fully intend to have the apartment finished by Sunday. We probably won't have a TV by then (Target has been sold out of the one that we want), but we'll keep calling and checking into it. I have tonight after work, tomorrow when I'm not busy running errands and doing laundry, and then Sunday after church... by George I will have it completed!!

The Last Few Days...

2008-05-14T21:13:00.010-04:00

So we haven't finished getting settled into our apartment quite yet; with the clean-up at Bluegrass Christian Camp, Scott working, and then going to Columbus, Ohio to see a comedian we've had a bit of a struggle getting everything un-packed.

Don't judge us based on the boxes, but I have a few pictures to post of the inside of our apartment at this point:
Living Room
Living Room / Hallway
Alcove (originally the Dining Room)
Kitchen
Bathroom
Bedroom

Once we get completely settled, I'll post better pictures of the apartment and of our amazing view.

We had Insight out on Monday to set-up our cable and internet, and that turned out to be more of an experience than we were planning. The guy got everything set up really quickly and everything worked wonderfully, then he stepped out the front door. As soon as he walked out the TV screen went completely black, we still had sound, all the lights were still blinking and proving that they were hard at work, but the picture was gone. The picture tube (which is the essence of the TV) pooped out, died, went to TV heaven. So, now we're on the hunt for a new TV, not exactly something we budgeted for. Oh well.

Like I said above, we went to see a comedian in Columbus, Ohio. His name is Eddie Izzard and he is AMAZING!!! He is a transvestite, but currently he is "off-duty". Here are pictures:
He is mostly a historical comedian, but at this particular show he talked about "everything". Being that he is dyslexic, he ad-libs his shows, so if you were to get the opportunity to see him twice (once at the start of his tour, once at the end) you would experience 2 very different shows.
As a side note (before I start helping un-pack more boxes), I start work tomorrow. I'm looking forward to it, a little nervous, but mostly excited. I'll let you know how it goes.

Roll Out

2008-05-09T09:10:00.006-04:00

Tomorrow is a very busy day for this Birdwhistell bunch, we're spending our morning at Blue Grass Christian Camp cleaning up from the flood that occurred a couple months ago, then spending the afternoon/evening MOVING!
This is an exciting time for us, our first big gulp of independence, of really being on our own, and seeing what it's like to be "normal" newlyweds.
We found a beautiful apartment at Shillito Park, our home overlooks a newly renovated pond and waterfall. The pool is already open for summer, the park is right there for us to take the kids (our dogs, Ebony and Max), and (if I can muster up the courage) we can walk across the train tracks and be at Fayette Mall, several restaurants, the movie theater, etc. I will be a two minute drive to work, Scott roughly 4 or 5. It's all just falling into place so nicely.
We'll be doing the walk-through today, to search out any problems or concerns with the property, and then tomorrow we'll be hauling our possessions in!
Above Photo is us while we were apartment hunting. Oh, and for those of you who didn't know that Scott is now blond!
I plan to post pictures of our new "digs" soon!