O Christmas Tree

Our tree is up, the house smells of pepperminty goodness, our stockings are hung, and tomorrow morning we are expecting a cold front. Perfection.

Last year we were given this tree by a friend of my momma's and this is the first time we were able to set it up. I love it! It can't compare to a real tree but it does have many charming attributes: it was free, it doesn't need to be watered, it's tall and full, and it's ours.

We saw these lovely pup ornaments at Target and couldn't resist getting one to represent each of our little beasts. And we will make our annual trip to Downtown Disney soon to pick out our ornament for the year (a tradition we started for our first tree together).

To show how far we have come (tree wise) take a look back at our Christmas trees the past two years (because I can't find a picture of our first tree):

2008: The year before this (aka the picture that disappeared) we only had the construction paper chain, snowflakes, and "star". All handmade of course, I know it's hard to tell. But in '08 we added lights ("ooo") and three real ornaments ("ahhhh"). We also threw a pillow case halfway over the base of the tree. You know, to keep it classy.

2009: An actual star! And it lights up too! We are moving up in the world as you can see. A tree skirt was also purchased along with more ornaments. The paper decorations didn't make the move from our tiny apartment into our new house but I did save a few :)

Now we have a tree that fits our house and looks pretty great in my opinion. Stay tuned for more Christmas-y fun to come!

Steppin' Out Saturday 11.27.10

Our Saturday was spent decorating the house and annoying our neighbors with the blaring of our Christmas music. I just love this time of year.

top: American Eagle

jeans: Old Navy

shoes: Kohls

More pictures of the Christmas decor to come but for now I leave you with an adorable picture of my little reindeer and my new bangs (which I don't know if I like yet).

Giving Thanks w/ the in-laws

I don't have any horrifically hilarious in-law stories for you. No casseroles caught on fire, there was no hair pulling or tears, the pups refrained from chowing down on the turkey, and everyone got along. Sorry to disappoint but my in-laws pretty much rock.

Instead we enjoyed some quality time with the hubs parents. We played with ate stone crab legs and saw my pregnant, soon to be sister in-law for the first time since she has had an adorable baby bump.

Mojitos were made by the pitcher. Food was consumed in large quantities. I watched the hubs shuck (is it shuck? or maybe chuck? no that can't be it...) oysters with his dad, which was quite a sight to see! Those little boogers are not as easy to get into as they make it look on tv.

The food was delicious, the company was lovely, the weather was beautiful, and the whole day was great. I hope you all had as happy a Thanksgiving as we did :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Two years ago today I lost my daddy. And I found out I was pregnant. Let's just say that November 25th is a date that I will never forget. This year Thanksgiving is happening simultaneously with a day that brings so many emotions for me. There isn't a day in the year that I need to be reminded even more that I have many things to be thankful for.

I'm thankful for:

- twenty-two years with an amazing father

- two pups that drive me crazy and keep me sane all at the same time

- a family that loves me

- friends who support me

- a yummy cup of coffee

- having a job

- lazy sundays

- a husband that rocks my socks

- wearing pj's until sunset

- chocolate & dr. pepper (especially together)

- all of you. your kind words, well wishes, and prayers

- a thanksgiving feast

- a good book

- cool weather and warm sweaters

- the strength to see the good in situations

- the faith to know everything will work out the way it's supposed to. eventually

Honestly there are so many things I am thankful for that I could fill the pages of a novel if given the chance. So I will just stop myself there before I get carried away. The point is, I am thankful. Very thankful.

Wordless Wednesday (at the in-laws)

Mojitos made by my father in-law. Starting the holiday off right :)

Did I mention I my in-laws are awesome?

Finally!

Last night, I went to see the newest Harry Potter movie!!

(Don't give me that look guys!)

My bestie and I worked all day (did I mention I work with my bestie now?) and then went straight to the theater two whole days after its opening. We usually see the midnight showing so this was a long time to wait for a couple of nerds like us.

It was really good! The only semi-complaint I have is that it ended abruptly. But I knew it would because, duh, it's cutting off in the middle of the book. Now I can't wait for my next HP installment. Maybe another trip to Harry Potter World is in order?

And now I must go to sleep, I have been up past my regularly scheduled bedtime too many times this week!

ps- i like twilight too. and no i'm not actually thirteen.

Steppin' Out Saturday 11.20.10

This weekend is being cut short since I have to work tomorrow and the hubs had to work this morning but we made the most of what we had. I spent the morning running, cleaning, and helping my brother with homework. Once the hubs got off work we headed out to run some errands and do a little Christmas shopping, although I think we only bought decorations and crafting supplies. Here is what I stepped out in for our adventures in shopping:

top: Aerie (so incredibly comfy)

jeans: Aerie skinny jeans

shoes: you can't see them but they're from Target and you're not missing much

(I know, lots of Aerie but can't beat the 40% off discount!)

Hopefully we will be able to get actual Christmas shopping done soon but I mean we needed to get Wentworth a stocking... and some new ornaments... and fabric... right? Hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend :)