Having one of those I'm "Sick & Tired" of days. I am sick and tired of coming home after a long day of work and cleaning, and cleaning on the weekends, and having to figure out what to make or pick-up for dinner. That's how I was feeling a little while ago. Then, I began reflecting on this attitude of mine. I started feeling guilty and began asking myself, "How can you be angry when you have so much to be thankful for."
I know at times we all feel overwhelmed and exhausted and "tired of" the same old same old. I have SO MUCH to be thankful for. A loving husband who cares for me & is home with me every night, wonderful family who love and support me, friends who would drop everything in half a second if I ever needed them. I have a job in this AWFUL economy, a job that I REALLY like.
With that being said, I work with people every day that have 6 months or less to live. Working with people toward the end of their lives, really makes you reflect on your own life. Bottom line is, life is TOO SHORT to spend any time being miserable or feeling sorry for yourself. God has a plan for me, for you, for everyone and I really believe in my heart, he won't give us anything we can't handle.
As I was cleaning off the desk in the spare room, feeling frustrated today, I came across an old "fortune" from a fortune cookie laying on the desk.
It read, "Ask yourself this question: "Is my attitude worth catching?"
So, I ask anyone who is reading this blog entry today to please reflect on that question. I know I will...
Back to cleaning and organizing around the house. Planning on doing so with a BETTER ATTITUDE.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Many Changes
So many changes have happened since I last blogged. On September 2nd I started my new job as a Hospice RN Case Manager. Basically, I am responsible for a group of patients in nursing homes, assisted livings, and private homes within the community. This is end-of-life care and requires lots of travelling. I don't mind the travelling, as there is mileage reimbursement, and it is something so different than what I was doing before. I really enjoy getting to spend more one-on-one time with patients, work with an interdisciplinary time, and have more autonomy within the practice. This is really what I have been hoping to do since I graduated nursing school.
I will be orienting with more experienced nurses' over the next few weeks. So far, I am really enjoying my orientation process. There is a lot of new paperwork, policies, and procedures that I am learning about. I even did a few assessments myself this week.
In other news, Tom & I will be celebrating our one year anniversary on Sunday! I can't believe we have been married that long already! I think we are going to have a low-key day, which will hopefully include cake & ice cream (LOL!) I am so proud to call Tom, my husband and I look forward to seeing what the future will bring for us. I am hoping for at least 70 more anniversaries :OP.
Until next time...
I will be orienting with more experienced nurses' over the next few weeks. So far, I am really enjoying my orientation process. There is a lot of new paperwork, policies, and procedures that I am learning about. I even did a few assessments myself this week.
In other news, Tom & I will be celebrating our one year anniversary on Sunday! I can't believe we have been married that long already! I think we are going to have a low-key day, which will hopefully include cake & ice cream (LOL!) I am so proud to call Tom, my husband and I look forward to seeing what the future will bring for us. I am hoping for at least 70 more anniversaries :OP.
Until next time...
Friday, July 16, 2010
Our New Car
Drumroll please! At least we have picked out our new car. I picked it up from the Dealership yesterday. In case you have not heard, it is a 2010 Pontiac G6. We got a great deal & low financing, and I seriously couldn't be happier with it.
Things I love about the new car:
1. It is a GORGEOUS red. I named my car "Rose" because of it's color
2. It has the radio buttons on the steering wheel
3. It has an 'info' button that tells you (% of oil in your car, miles, tire pressures, etc)
4. It has cruise control (we really could've use it on our road trip)
5. It has I-pod hookups
6. The cup holders are really close so you don't have to reach so far
7. It has a lumbar support button to firm or soften the area of the seat touching your lumbar spine
8. It has A/C (the Blazer's A/C was broken & with this heat wave, I couldn't be more grateful)
9. It has a 3 year 36,000 mile warranty
10. Tom & I bought a major thing together & are building up our credit even more!!!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Roomies Reunited
Nicky (my bestest & roomie from college) came to spend Thursday & Friday at our house. Last night she arrived around 4:30 pm, then we caught up for a bit & went out for dinner. Tom, Nicky, Steven (my brother in-law), and I ate at this place in Pawtucket called the "Garden Grill." It was so fabulous to have an entirely vegetarian meal...and actually have more than two items to select on a menu. It's officially my new "happy place." We had grilled sweet potato wedges for an appetizer. I drank a ginger lemonade that tasted heavenly. Main course was a butternut squash quesadilla (butternut squash, black beans, avacado, and vegan "cheese." It was honestly AMAZING. After dinner, we all took a ride to whole foods and bought these decadent vegan cupcakes with about a mile of frosting. YumTastic!
Today, Nicky & I woke up around 7:30, had a cup of coffee, went to Stop & Shop, ate brekkie, then headed out for a walk on the bike path. Then we took a ride to work to pick up my check, then to the bank. Next, we headed to Jackie's Galaxie for lunch. We ate avacado sushi rolls & Yasai sushi rolls (a mixed veggie sort) and had some nimche (lettuce, basil, bean sprouts in a rice wrapper with peanut sauce). After lunch, Nicky treated us to some fruit smoothies from the Coffee Connection. Finally, we went to the Wrentham Outlets for a few hours & shopped around a bit. It was a GREAT GREAT GREAT day. Sadly, Nicky had to leave around 4 pm :O(
Tonight, Tom & I went to a Hyundai dealership and priced out some vechicles. We have come to the conclusion that we are going to buy a car instead of an SUV b/c it is more fuel efficient. We will keep the blazer, which has 4WD for the winter time. So now we just have to save a little, then we're so buying a car. Still not sure what type though. Perhaps and Hyundai Sonata???
We also took a ride to Walmart tonight to pick up a few things, then went back to Stop & Shop to do some grocery shopping. And, alas, we are now resting. Have to get up for work early tomorrow...
Today, Nicky & I woke up around 7:30, had a cup of coffee, went to Stop & Shop, ate brekkie, then headed out for a walk on the bike path. Then we took a ride to work to pick up my check, then to the bank. Next, we headed to Jackie's Galaxie for lunch. We ate avacado sushi rolls & Yasai sushi rolls (a mixed veggie sort) and had some nimche (lettuce, basil, bean sprouts in a rice wrapper with peanut sauce). After lunch, Nicky treated us to some fruit smoothies from the Coffee Connection. Finally, we went to the Wrentham Outlets for a few hours & shopped around a bit. It was a GREAT GREAT GREAT day. Sadly, Nicky had to leave around 4 pm :O(
Tonight, Tom & I went to a Hyundai dealership and priced out some vechicles. We have come to the conclusion that we are going to buy a car instead of an SUV b/c it is more fuel efficient. We will keep the blazer, which has 4WD for the winter time. So now we just have to save a little, then we're so buying a car. Still not sure what type though. Perhaps and Hyundai Sonata???
We also took a ride to Walmart tonight to pick up a few things, then went back to Stop & Shop to do some grocery shopping. And, alas, we are now resting. Have to get up for work early tomorrow...
Sunday, July 4, 2010
A Quick Weekend Update
Friday, everything was back to normal. My mother-in-law and I did our normal Friday shopping & prepared a fabulous meal for the guys when they got out of work. It was great.
Saturday & Sunday we spent at the campground where my parents have a seasonal site. A few of my other family members were camping there, too & it was so great to just relax and have a WHOLE HOLIDAY WEEKEND off...the first entire holiday weekend off in over two years!
Saturday & Sunday we spent at the campground where my parents have a seasonal site. A few of my other family members were camping there, too & it was so great to just relax and have a WHOLE HOLIDAY WEEKEND off...the first entire holiday weekend off in over two years!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Williamsburg, Virginia
We stopped in Virginia for a couple of days because it was the halfway point of driving home. The first night we got there, we checked into our hotel & then went around Downtown Williamsburg. We went to some cute little shops in the area & even made it to the Ripley's Believe It Our Not Museum. Pics are up on Facebook if anyone is interested. We had dinner at Firehouse Subs (mmm best veggie sub ever) & then headed back to the hotel.
The following day we were planning on going ot Busch Gardens but decided to skip out because there were so many great things to see in Williamsburg. In the AM we went to the Jamestown Settlement. It was a historical and super interesting & quite interactive museum. I learned a lot about the original settlers there. We left for a bit to eat breakfast at a small restaurant nearby, then went back to poke around some more. After we left Jamestown, we headed to the Williamsburg Winery. It was $10/person for a 45 minute tour & tasting of 7 wines they made there. We even got to keep our wine glasses! After the tour we bought 8 bottles of wine...we may be winos but seriously they were so delicious. My favorite was this raspberry dessert wine that was out of this world AMAZING. Later that afternoon, we went to Prime Outlets and I got the deal of a lifetime on a Coach purse!!! It was originally $289..marked down to $229 dollars, then 50% off of that, and another 20% off coupon they gave us at the door. So the bag was only 91 dollars! I was so flippin excited. My very 1st Coach bag ever <3. We also went to the L.L. Bean Outfit. Tom bought this amazing winter sweatshirt for $15 & I bought a really comfy pair of black flip-flops. We had dinner at the Golden Corral (which I think gave Tom food poisoning) d/t the fact that he was very sick on the ride home the following day. Later that night, we went to another shopping area & decided to poke around Barnes & Noble for a while. This guy in the store showed us all about the Nook (you know, that electronic book). It's actually quite cool but not worth the 250 dollars in my opinion. Then, we went to the movies and saw "The Prince of Persia"--ooo we both loved it! It kept us on the edge of our seats!!!
The ride home was long. But the VACATION was amazing and I'm glad the two of us got to share such a great adventure together. I feel like it was a great bonding vacation. Me, Tom, & the Wide Open Road. Bliss, really.
The following day we were planning on going ot Busch Gardens but decided to skip out because there were so many great things to see in Williamsburg. In the AM we went to the Jamestown Settlement. It was a historical and super interesting & quite interactive museum. I learned a lot about the original settlers there. We left for a bit to eat breakfast at a small restaurant nearby, then went back to poke around some more. After we left Jamestown, we headed to the Williamsburg Winery. It was $10/person for a 45 minute tour & tasting of 7 wines they made there. We even got to keep our wine glasses! After the tour we bought 8 bottles of wine...we may be winos but seriously they were so delicious. My favorite was this raspberry dessert wine that was out of this world AMAZING. Later that afternoon, we went to Prime Outlets and I got the deal of a lifetime on a Coach purse!!! It was originally $289..marked down to $229 dollars, then 50% off of that, and another 20% off coupon they gave us at the door. So the bag was only 91 dollars! I was so flippin excited. My very 1st Coach bag ever <3. We also went to the L.L. Bean Outfit. Tom bought this amazing winter sweatshirt for $15 & I bought a really comfy pair of black flip-flops. We had dinner at the Golden Corral (which I think gave Tom food poisoning) d/t the fact that he was very sick on the ride home the following day. Later that night, we went to another shopping area & decided to poke around Barnes & Noble for a while. This guy in the store showed us all about the Nook (you know, that electronic book). It's actually quite cool but not worth the 250 dollars in my opinion. Then, we went to the movies and saw "The Prince of Persia"--ooo we both loved it! It kept us on the edge of our seats!!!
The ride home was long. But the VACATION was amazing and I'm glad the two of us got to share such a great adventure together. I feel like it was a great bonding vacation. Me, Tom, & the Wide Open Road. Bliss, really.
Georgia
Here is post #2 from our East Coast Road Trip Vacation.
We arrived in Georgia around 2:30 in the afternoon & visited with Noni & Papa & their little chiuaua "Tico." I also met some of Tom's family down there that I'd never met before. We went swimming at Tom's Aunt's house for a while because it was soooo hot. The following day we went shopping at some of the local area shops & took a trip to St. Mary's to check out the water. We wished it would've been a little cooler but we couldn't stay out in the heat too long because it was 104 degrees!!! There was a cute little gift shop we went into & bought a few little trinkets. That night we also went to this Japanese restaurant where they cook in front of you...it was entertaining & yummy. We even tried Watermelon Martinis at his Aunt's house that were sooooo delicious. The following day we unfortunately had to leave. We had a lunch with his family at Ruby Tuesday's before we left.
We had a great time even though we were only there for a couple of days.
We arrived in Georgia around 2:30 in the afternoon & visited with Noni & Papa & their little chiuaua "Tico." I also met some of Tom's family down there that I'd never met before. We went swimming at Tom's Aunt's house for a while because it was soooo hot. The following day we went shopping at some of the local area shops & took a trip to St. Mary's to check out the water. We wished it would've been a little cooler but we couldn't stay out in the heat too long because it was 104 degrees!!! There was a cute little gift shop we went into & bought a few little trinkets. That night we also went to this Japanese restaurant where they cook in front of you...it was entertaining & yummy. We even tried Watermelon Martinis at his Aunt's house that were sooooo delicious. The following day we unfortunately had to leave. We had a lunch with his family at Ruby Tuesday's before we left.
We had a great time even though we were only there for a couple of days.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Our Summer Vacation: Part I
Wow...our East Coast Road Trip was incredible! Couldn't have asked for a better vacation. After some GPS malfunctions prior to our departure Thursday night, we were anxious to get on the road. We finally left around 9pm Thursday and made it to South Carolina by 2 pm on Friday. We drove straight through and the ride was suprisingly easy & fun. WE COULD NOT WAIT TO GET TO ADAM & AMBER'S HOUSE!!! As a matter of fact, Amber & I must've texted all day on Friday in excitement of the four of us finally getting together. This was really the 1st time we were able to spend a lot of time together not running around with weddings and such. It was a great time. They were sweet enough to let us stay with them for the whole weekend in there home--what amazingly wonderful friends.
I am breaking up our vacation into a few different entries because otherwise they will be much too long. So here's what we did in SC--or at least a basic outline of most of what we did :O)
Friday PM: Tom, Adam, & I went to get Ella Jae from daycare. I fell in love with her at 1st site. What a precious little angel she is. Around 5:30 Amber came home (we were so excited!!!!!) and the 5 of us went to Down Town Aiken & went to a little pub/restaurant that made there own beer. It was yummy. Tom & I slept like rocks because we were so tired from driving.
Saturday: Amber & I were able to sneak out for an hour to have a girlie breakfast at "New Moon" Cafe, also in DownTown Aiken. Yummers, the latte was delicious and I am dreaming about it as I type. I was so happy to just sit and talk with Amber because we really relate in a lot of ways. After breakfast, Adam & Tom went to play golf at the local country club...they had a blast. Meanwhile, we had girlie time at Bed Bath & Beyond, Ross, and other fun errand spots, including their local farmers market. Ella Jae was soooooo good the entire time. Then we went home and got ready for a bridal shower for one of Amber's friends. All of the people there was so sweet. And they had SWEET TEA which is my favorite. After the shower we met up with the boys and went out to dinner at this FABULOUS pizza place--I think it was called the Mellow Mushroom. Then we went to a GreenJackets game (the local minor league baseball team). I ate boiled peanuts for the very 1st time. Note how everything we do revolves around food :O). Then we came home and hung out & ate this wonderful red velvet cake that they bought us as a welcome present. It was so thoughtful.
Sunday: We went to Dunkin Donuts for breakfast. Thanks be to God that they have one right down the street from their house. Then we went to their church, a Contemporary Baptist Church. It was really unlike anything I'd ever experienced before. The beginning was kind of like a rock concert with music & the preacher preached on a screen from a different location but it was probably one of the best sermons I've ever heard. It was really neat to experience a different kind of religion than what I am used to. After church, we went to Grandma Betty's (Amber Grandma). Ooooo she makes the best sweet tea & macaroni pie EVER. Then, we went over Adam's parents house to go swimming for a while. It was so nice to see everyone there because we hadn't seen them all since Adam & Amber's wedding almost 3 years ago!!!
Monday: This was a sad day because Adam & Amber had to work & we were leaving to go to Georgia.
And on Wednesday night...we were happy. We missed them so much we came back to have dinner with them. It was so great to get to see them one last time before we headed home. We are so blessed to have such compassionate and real true friends like the two of them.
I am breaking up our vacation into a few different entries because otherwise they will be much too long. So here's what we did in SC--or at least a basic outline of most of what we did :O)
Friday PM: Tom, Adam, & I went to get Ella Jae from daycare. I fell in love with her at 1st site. What a precious little angel she is. Around 5:30 Amber came home (we were so excited!!!!!) and the 5 of us went to Down Town Aiken & went to a little pub/restaurant that made there own beer. It was yummy. Tom & I slept like rocks because we were so tired from driving.
Saturday: Amber & I were able to sneak out for an hour to have a girlie breakfast at "New Moon" Cafe, also in DownTown Aiken. Yummers, the latte was delicious and I am dreaming about it as I type. I was so happy to just sit and talk with Amber because we really relate in a lot of ways. After breakfast, Adam & Tom went to play golf at the local country club...they had a blast. Meanwhile, we had girlie time at Bed Bath & Beyond, Ross, and other fun errand spots, including their local farmers market. Ella Jae was soooooo good the entire time. Then we went home and got ready for a bridal shower for one of Amber's friends. All of the people there was so sweet. And they had SWEET TEA which is my favorite. After the shower we met up with the boys and went out to dinner at this FABULOUS pizza place--I think it was called the Mellow Mushroom. Then we went to a GreenJackets game (the local minor league baseball team). I ate boiled peanuts for the very 1st time. Note how everything we do revolves around food :O). Then we came home and hung out & ate this wonderful red velvet cake that they bought us as a welcome present. It was so thoughtful.
Sunday: We went to Dunkin Donuts for breakfast. Thanks be to God that they have one right down the street from their house. Then we went to their church, a Contemporary Baptist Church. It was really unlike anything I'd ever experienced before. The beginning was kind of like a rock concert with music & the preacher preached on a screen from a different location but it was probably one of the best sermons I've ever heard. It was really neat to experience a different kind of religion than what I am used to. After church, we went to Grandma Betty's (Amber Grandma). Ooooo she makes the best sweet tea & macaroni pie EVER. Then, we went over Adam's parents house to go swimming for a while. It was so nice to see everyone there because we hadn't seen them all since Adam & Amber's wedding almost 3 years ago!!!
Monday: This was a sad day because Adam & Amber had to work & we were leaving to go to Georgia.
And on Wednesday night...we were happy. We missed them so much we came back to have dinner with them. It was so great to get to see them one last time before we headed home. We are so blessed to have such compassionate and real true friends like the two of them.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Hubby's Home & Vacation's a Coming!
Well...Tommy ended up having to stay on the Vineyard an extra day and didn't get home until about 8:30 pm last night. Needless to say, I was so thrilled when he finally got home. It is true that absence makes the heart grow fonder. For four years of college, we used to be away from each other five days a week. I figured it would be easy enough without him, but boy was I wrong! Since we've been married we haven't spent a day apart from one another, and I REALLY REALLY missed him. I think he felt the same way. This actually ended up being somewhat of a blessing because it gave us time to appreciate the time we spend together. I AM SO HAPPY HE IS BACK HOME!!!!!!!!
Today we spent the whole day together, and later met up with his parents & some family friends for dinner :O). It was bliss!!!
We are getting SO EXCITED for our upcoming vacation. It's hard to believe we only have 3 more days of work until we leave for our East Coast Road Trip. We're leaving at night and plan to be in South Carolina by late Friday afternoon. We can't wait to spend time with our dear friends, Adam & Amber and meet there beautiful new baby girl, Ella Jae!!! It is going to be such a wonderful weekend with them. On Monday, we'll sadly have to say goodbye and we'll be heading to Georgia for a few days to visit Tom's grandparents. It will be good to finally see them :O). The rest of the vacation from there is up the the road & us!
Today, we went to Big Lots and bought snack food for the road. We are going to be packing a cooler with drinks too, so we won't have to stop as often. I have soooo much laundry and packing left to do, but I'm off Thursday and will have plenty of time to get myself organized before we leave.
And of course, when we return I will be sure to post TONS of photos of all the fun times we had.
Bon Voyage...
Today we spent the whole day together, and later met up with his parents & some family friends for dinner :O). It was bliss!!!
We are getting SO EXCITED for our upcoming vacation. It's hard to believe we only have 3 more days of work until we leave for our East Coast Road Trip. We're leaving at night and plan to be in South Carolina by late Friday afternoon. We can't wait to spend time with our dear friends, Adam & Amber and meet there beautiful new baby girl, Ella Jae!!! It is going to be such a wonderful weekend with them. On Monday, we'll sadly have to say goodbye and we'll be heading to Georgia for a few days to visit Tom's grandparents. It will be good to finally see them :O). The rest of the vacation from there is up the the road & us!
Today, we went to Big Lots and bought snack food for the road. We are going to be packing a cooler with drinks too, so we won't have to stop as often. I have soooo much laundry and packing left to do, but I'm off Thursday and will have plenty of time to get myself organized before we leave.
And of course, when we return I will be sure to post TONS of photos of all the fun times we had.
Bon Voyage...
Monday, May 31, 2010
Last Weekend In May
Wow...what a crazy, fun, busy, and exciting weekend this past one was!!! Unfortunately I had to work Sat, Sun, & Monday...but after work we had such a blast.
Thursday night we went out to dinner with my parents, my Aunt Tracy, and Uncle Scott & Aunt Karen (who were visiting from West Virginia). We went to the restaurant my brother works at that serves mostly seafood but I love the owner because she made me a veggie burger :O). After dinner, everyone came over to my mom & dad's and had a little campfire.
Friday night was my cousin Dylan's Birthday Party. My Dad's Whole Family was there.
Saturday, we went to Sarah's 25th Birthday. She got a telescope for her birthday, but more importantly, SHE GOT AN ENGAGEMENT RING from her boyfriend!!! It was a day worth celebrating. And for the record...I totally called it.
Today we had a BBQ at my in-laws house & welcomed them home from their weekend trip to Georgia.
Tomorrow, the hubby is leaving for 4 days to go to Martha's Vineyard for work. I am really going to miss him. Though, once he gets back, it will only be a few more days until we leave for VACATION!!!
Thursday night we went out to dinner with my parents, my Aunt Tracy, and Uncle Scott & Aunt Karen (who were visiting from West Virginia). We went to the restaurant my brother works at that serves mostly seafood but I love the owner because she made me a veggie burger :O). After dinner, everyone came over to my mom & dad's and had a little campfire.
Friday night was my cousin Dylan's Birthday Party. My Dad's Whole Family was there.
Saturday, we went to Sarah's 25th Birthday. She got a telescope for her birthday, but more importantly, SHE GOT AN ENGAGEMENT RING from her boyfriend!!! It was a day worth celebrating. And for the record...I totally called it.
Today we had a BBQ at my in-laws house & welcomed them home from their weekend trip to Georgia.
Tomorrow, the hubby is leaving for 4 days to go to Martha's Vineyard for work. I am really going to miss him. Though, once he gets back, it will only be a few more days until we leave for VACATION!!!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Another Weekend Update
This weekend was filled with way too much eating, but it was so enjoyable!
Friday: Mom-In-Law, Noni, & I went for a fun-filled day of shopping. We had breakfast at Coffee & Cream, then went to a bunch of flower nurseries and a few stores. I bought another cute sundress--it's black and cotton, and so cute and comfortable. We met family friends for lunch outside. The weather was absolutely BEAUTIFUL. Friday night, we dined at "Eagle Brook Saloon" which was so much fun. The place was PACKED and they had the most delicious "Tumbleweed Salad"...yummers.
Saturday: Tommy woke me up at 6 AM to go drive to North Kingston to this donut shop called "Ally's"...I'm not usually much of a doughnut love but OH MY GOODNESS, these donuts were to die for. I totally at 2 and 1/2 donuts, haha! After breakfast, we went to a Toyota dealership to test drive some cars. I drove the Toyota Tacoma (which I loved) but it was way out of our price range. I felt a little overwhelmed because I felt the dealership was particularly pushy. We left empty-handed but with a better understanding of the type of vechicle I want. Saturday night we had a cookout at Tom's parents. I made an italian salad (my specialty) and veggie kabobs. There is seriously nothing like a good veggie-kabob on the grill. I'm salivating, just thinking about it.
Today (Sunday): Tom let me sleep in until 8 am (yay!!!). We got up, ate some breakfast at home, then went shopping in Attleboro. Didn't buy anything, but it was fun to poke around the stores. We picked up sandwiches on the way home. I had the meditteranean veggie wrap (my fav). Then, Tom took a nap for a couple of hours...this whole contact dermatitis thing is making him very tired. Meanwhile, while he was snoozing, I cleaned the bathroom, did 2 loads of laundry, emptied all the furniture (minus the appliances) out of the kitchen, mopped and vacuummed, then moved all the furniture back in. I also tried a new "getting rid of ants" tactic that I read in a magazine. I found any holes where ants could escape into the house and put cayenne pepper in those holes to deter the ants from entering. So far, so good. I also did the dishes. After I finished the housework, I woke up my sleepy hubby and we decided to take a trip to the Wrentham Outlets. We were looking for a GPS (which btw, Sony no longer makes), so no luck there. Tom suggested we hit up the Tommy Hilfiger Outlet. $97 dollars later I left with four fabulous shirts that I can take on vacation. Considering, they were normally priced at over 50 bucks a piece, I would call the shopping trip a success. We went to DQ for dinner with his parents and some family friends. Nothing like a Sundae on Sunday :O).
As far as Tom's contact dermatitis. He is so itchy and I feel absolutely terrible that he hurts. A friend of ours gave him this "Ivy Wash" to try and she said it really cools...so he's going to dry that. I also told him to take a benadryl tonight to see if that my help. I'm hoping tomorrow he'll feel a little better.
And as for me, I must start eating healthier and exercising again tomorrow because I ate way too much this weekend. Back on track...
Friday: Mom-In-Law, Noni, & I went for a fun-filled day of shopping. We had breakfast at Coffee & Cream, then went to a bunch of flower nurseries and a few stores. I bought another cute sundress--it's black and cotton, and so cute and comfortable. We met family friends for lunch outside. The weather was absolutely BEAUTIFUL. Friday night, we dined at "Eagle Brook Saloon" which was so much fun. The place was PACKED and they had the most delicious "Tumbleweed Salad"...yummers.
Saturday: Tommy woke me up at 6 AM to go drive to North Kingston to this donut shop called "Ally's"...I'm not usually much of a doughnut love but OH MY GOODNESS, these donuts were to die for. I totally at 2 and 1/2 donuts, haha! After breakfast, we went to a Toyota dealership to test drive some cars. I drove the Toyota Tacoma (which I loved) but it was way out of our price range. I felt a little overwhelmed because I felt the dealership was particularly pushy. We left empty-handed but with a better understanding of the type of vechicle I want. Saturday night we had a cookout at Tom's parents. I made an italian salad (my specialty) and veggie kabobs. There is seriously nothing like a good veggie-kabob on the grill. I'm salivating, just thinking about it.
Today (Sunday): Tom let me sleep in until 8 am (yay!!!). We got up, ate some breakfast at home, then went shopping in Attleboro. Didn't buy anything, but it was fun to poke around the stores. We picked up sandwiches on the way home. I had the meditteranean veggie wrap (my fav). Then, Tom took a nap for a couple of hours...this whole contact dermatitis thing is making him very tired. Meanwhile, while he was snoozing, I cleaned the bathroom, did 2 loads of laundry, emptied all the furniture (minus the appliances) out of the kitchen, mopped and vacuummed, then moved all the furniture back in. I also tried a new "getting rid of ants" tactic that I read in a magazine. I found any holes where ants could escape into the house and put cayenne pepper in those holes to deter the ants from entering. So far, so good. I also did the dishes. After I finished the housework, I woke up my sleepy hubby and we decided to take a trip to the Wrentham Outlets. We were looking for a GPS (which btw, Sony no longer makes), so no luck there. Tom suggested we hit up the Tommy Hilfiger Outlet. $97 dollars later I left with four fabulous shirts that I can take on vacation. Considering, they were normally priced at over 50 bucks a piece, I would call the shopping trip a success. We went to DQ for dinner with his parents and some family friends. Nothing like a Sundae on Sunday :O).
As far as Tom's contact dermatitis. He is so itchy and I feel absolutely terrible that he hurts. A friend of ours gave him this "Ivy Wash" to try and she said it really cools...so he's going to dry that. I also told him to take a benadryl tonight to see if that my help. I'm hoping tomorrow he'll feel a little better.
And as for me, I must start eating healthier and exercising again tomorrow because I ate way too much this weekend. Back on track...
Friday, May 21, 2010
An Itch of a Week
My poor husband came down with this rash on his face the other day and then it started spreading. He went to the doctor and got diagnosed with "contact dermatitis" which in simple terms means he had an allergic reaction to something he touched--probably a chemical or something in the sawdust at work. I am so happy he finally went to the doctor because he was so ITCHY and I felt horrible that I couldn't do anything to make him feel better.
I went to see "Jersey Boys" with his parents, Noni, and Auntie yesterday--it was amazing, but I was really bummed hubby wasn't able to come due to his chronic itching and rash.
Now he is on a corticosteriod and an anti-itch oral medication, and his skin looks much better today...though the itch persists. Thankfully, it is not contagious, so he can't spread it on himself or anyone else more. The doc said it could last from 2-4 weeks. For his sake, I am hoping shorter...Especially because vacation is happening in less than 3 weeks.
I went to see "Jersey Boys" with his parents, Noni, and Auntie yesterday--it was amazing, but I was really bummed hubby wasn't able to come due to his chronic itching and rash.
Now he is on a corticosteriod and an anti-itch oral medication, and his skin looks much better today...though the itch persists. Thankfully, it is not contagious, so he can't spread it on himself or anyone else more. The doc said it could last from 2-4 weeks. For his sake, I am hoping shorter...Especially because vacation is happening in less than 3 weeks.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Back to Posting
THE PAST
Tom & I did go to the Cape a few weekends ago to spend some time with my grandparents. It was really great & relaxing, and we enjoyed their company :O).
Last week, we went out for a dinner with Tom's stock club group which was a nice little social gathering.
Tom & I cooked up a Mother's Day Brunch for my Mother-In-Law and a family friend of ours. I think they appreciated it, and it was a nice Sunday morning. Sunday evening we went out to dinner with my parents and brother to celebrate Mother's Day with my mom.
THE PRESENT
Monday, we had "Margarita Monday and BBQ" a post-Mother's Day Celebration with my mom. Nothing like a nice cold margarita after a VERY LONG AND BUSY Monday!!! Hehe.
Tuesday, we went "used car shopping" with my dad. He is an expert negotiator and talker...so it was very informative. We went to 2 different dealerships. I test drove a Saturn Vue and kind of loved the car, but I was talking with a few different people who owned Saturns and heard only negative comments about mechanical problems...so that car is out. I thought I would like a Ford Escape, but they are much too compact for my liking. I'm basically back at square one and just trying to figure out what I really would like to drive. At least I am in no rush, so I definately have options and time.
Wednesday night, I super cleaned like crazy for about 2.5 hours. I cleaned the bathroom, our bedroom, straightened out the spare room, did laundry, cleaned the stove, did the dishes, and then passed out on my recliner until Tom woke me up and told me to go to bed haha!!!
Today (Thursday)...I spent the morning with Tom's Noni, who is up visiting from Georgia for a couple of weeks. We went to Burlington Coat Factory, Walmart, picked up some weiners for Noni and mediterranean veggie wrap for me. Attempted to donate blood (couldn't due to the fact that I had a PPD yesterday, and have to wait for that to be read before I can donate).
THE FUTURE
Tonight we are going to dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. We are going with Tom's brother David (from NYC), Brad, Kevin, June, Auntie Doris, Noni, and my in-laws. It is going to be so great to be with everyone!!!
Tom & I did go to the Cape a few weekends ago to spend some time with my grandparents. It was really great & relaxing, and we enjoyed their company :O).
Last week, we went out for a dinner with Tom's stock club group which was a nice little social gathering.
Tom & I cooked up a Mother's Day Brunch for my Mother-In-Law and a family friend of ours. I think they appreciated it, and it was a nice Sunday morning. Sunday evening we went out to dinner with my parents and brother to celebrate Mother's Day with my mom.
THE PRESENT
Monday, we had "Margarita Monday and BBQ" a post-Mother's Day Celebration with my mom. Nothing like a nice cold margarita after a VERY LONG AND BUSY Monday!!! Hehe.
Tuesday, we went "used car shopping" with my dad. He is an expert negotiator and talker...so it was very informative. We went to 2 different dealerships. I test drove a Saturn Vue and kind of loved the car, but I was talking with a few different people who owned Saturns and heard only negative comments about mechanical problems...so that car is out. I thought I would like a Ford Escape, but they are much too compact for my liking. I'm basically back at square one and just trying to figure out what I really would like to drive. At least I am in no rush, so I definately have options and time.
Wednesday night, I super cleaned like crazy for about 2.5 hours. I cleaned the bathroom, our bedroom, straightened out the spare room, did laundry, cleaned the stove, did the dishes, and then passed out on my recliner until Tom woke me up and told me to go to bed haha!!!
Today (Thursday)...I spent the morning with Tom's Noni, who is up visiting from Georgia for a couple of weeks. We went to Burlington Coat Factory, Walmart, picked up some weiners for Noni and mediterranean veggie wrap for me. Attempted to donate blood (couldn't due to the fact that I had a PPD yesterday, and have to wait for that to be read before I can donate).
THE FUTURE
Tonight we are going to dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. We are going with Tom's brother David (from NYC), Brad, Kevin, June, Auntie Doris, Noni, and my in-laws. It is going to be so great to be with everyone!!!
Dear Blog, Sorry for Neglecting You
Okay. So I haven't posted in over a month, so I figured I have no excuse. After all, if my dear friend, Amber, with a 2 month old child can blog regularly...I should be able to blog consistently without excuses...hehe!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Getting to Know You: Fruits and Veggies
Those of you who keep up with this blog know that I have recently become a vegetarian. I have opened my eyes to so many new fruits, vegetables and other new things I have never tried before. Steven got my this great book for my birthday with 150 Quick-Fix Vegetarian recipes and I love cooking with it!
This is what I have learned in the past few weeks.
1. Tahini is a sesame paste used in a lot of vegetarian recipes, especially those with "asian" flavors.
2. Tamari is another vegetarian staple, a sort of soy sauce used in many dressings.
3. Tempeh (this soy grain stuff) can be poached. Unbelieveable.
4. I love Whole Foods, especially the produce section.
5. I learned how to pick & cut a pineapple. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJJ-iQkbRNE
6. I tried a mango for the 1st time and learned how to cut it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvLdPjpELyU
6.
This is what I have learned in the past few weeks.
1. Tahini is a sesame paste used in a lot of vegetarian recipes, especially those with "asian" flavors.
2. Tamari is another vegetarian staple, a sort of soy sauce used in many dressings.
3. Tempeh (this soy grain stuff) can be poached. Unbelieveable.
4. I love Whole Foods, especially the produce section.
5. I learned how to pick & cut a pineapple. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJJ-iQkbRNE
6. I tried a mango for the 1st time and learned how to cut it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvLdPjpELyU
6.
Another Year Older
This week has been crazy-busy.
April 6th was my 24th Birthday. I can't even believe that this will be my last birthday closer to 20 than 30--talk about crazy! I had a wonderful pre-birthday celebration at my in-laws on Sunday. My mother in law made my favorite cupcakes & everyone was so generous and gave such nice gifts.
Monday, we had cake at my mom and dad's which was delicious.
On my actual birthday (Tuesday), I ended up working & God gave me the greatest gift of all--a peaceful day at work where I actually got out on time...a miracle in my mind. That night we ordered pizza "spinach, feta, and wild mushroom wood grilled" from Bob & Timmy's. It was sooooo good.
Wednesday, I had the day off but spent most of the day running around & organzing my suprise for mom & dad's 25th anniversary party.
Thursday, I worked and went out with my friend Dawn to Friendly's for dinner.
Friday, I picked up the photo balloon arrangements and floral arrangement I planned as a suprise for mom and dad's 25th. Friday night 22 of us witnessed the renewal of their vows. It was so great. Then we had a nice dinner following. What a great and special night!
Today, Tom went with my dad to help him at the campground and I cleaned ALL DAY and ironed and did laundry. I managed to squeeze in a haircut and eyebrow wax and plan a trip to the spa for next Thursday. Amen!
I am looking forward to relaxing tonight and tomorrow with my hubby because we have barely seen each other all week. Finally time together. I really can't wait.
April 6th was my 24th Birthday. I can't even believe that this will be my last birthday closer to 20 than 30--talk about crazy! I had a wonderful pre-birthday celebration at my in-laws on Sunday. My mother in law made my favorite cupcakes & everyone was so generous and gave such nice gifts.
Monday, we had cake at my mom and dad's which was delicious.
On my actual birthday (Tuesday), I ended up working & God gave me the greatest gift of all--a peaceful day at work where I actually got out on time...a miracle in my mind. That night we ordered pizza "spinach, feta, and wild mushroom wood grilled" from Bob & Timmy's. It was sooooo good.
Wednesday, I had the day off but spent most of the day running around & organzing my suprise for mom & dad's 25th anniversary party.
Thursday, I worked and went out with my friend Dawn to Friendly's for dinner.
Friday, I picked up the photo balloon arrangements and floral arrangement I planned as a suprise for mom and dad's 25th. Friday night 22 of us witnessed the renewal of their vows. It was so great. Then we had a nice dinner following. What a great and special night!
Today, Tom went with my dad to help him at the campground and I cleaned ALL DAY and ironed and did laundry. I managed to squeeze in a haircut and eyebrow wax and plan a trip to the spa for next Thursday. Amen!
I am looking forward to relaxing tonight and tomorrow with my hubby because we have barely seen each other all week. Finally time together. I really can't wait.
Monday, March 29, 2010
April's Around the Corner
Had a fantastic weekend with Family & Friends. Friday night, we went bowling with a couple of my friends from work which was soooooooo much fun. Who doesn't love to bowl??? What a great night out!
Saturday we spent the day with the in-laws. First, we went to Newport Creamery for breakfast...I seriously hadn't had their homefries in like 6 years and was so happy to finally get to go there and taste them again! Delicious. Then we shopped around a bit and went to my newest favorite restaurant Chipolte Mexicana or something like that. All of their burritos are organic and they make the biggest and tastiest veggie burrito ever with the absolutely BEST guacamole I've ever tasted. The only way I can describe the restaurant is to call it the "panera" of "taco bell." Fast food but classy fast food. And hey, they even serve MARGARITAS!
Saturday evening, we went to the yearly auction at the school mom in law works at...and my parents came to which made the evening awesome. Tom & I got some great deals & helped support the school. We bid on a $50 gift certificate to a nearby Chinese food restaurant along with 10 tickets to the local speedway and won it for only $50.00! What a bargain. Tom fell in love with a Cross Pen and spent 35 dollars on that (I thought it was a bit much for a pen, but Tom insists it retailed at 135 dollars). And our biggest DEAL of the night was bidding & winning on a red Lane Recliner & a $100 gift certificate to a local furniture store...for both together we only paid $250.00. And needless to say, I am in love with my new recliner. It's FABULOUSSSSSSSSSSSS.
Sunday, it was my mother in laws birthday so we had a nice dinner and of course CAKE. Yum delicious.
So basically eating was the theme of the weekend. We are looking forward to what April brings!!!
And a certain someone has a birthday coming up a week from tomorrow...wonder who???
Saturday we spent the day with the in-laws. First, we went to Newport Creamery for breakfast...I seriously hadn't had their homefries in like 6 years and was so happy to finally get to go there and taste them again! Delicious. Then we shopped around a bit and went to my newest favorite restaurant Chipolte Mexicana or something like that. All of their burritos are organic and they make the biggest and tastiest veggie burrito ever with the absolutely BEST guacamole I've ever tasted. The only way I can describe the restaurant is to call it the "panera" of "taco bell." Fast food but classy fast food. And hey, they even serve MARGARITAS!
Saturday evening, we went to the yearly auction at the school mom in law works at...and my parents came to which made the evening awesome. Tom & I got some great deals & helped support the school. We bid on a $50 gift certificate to a nearby Chinese food restaurant along with 10 tickets to the local speedway and won it for only $50.00! What a bargain. Tom fell in love with a Cross Pen and spent 35 dollars on that (I thought it was a bit much for a pen, but Tom insists it retailed at 135 dollars). And our biggest DEAL of the night was bidding & winning on a red Lane Recliner & a $100 gift certificate to a local furniture store...for both together we only paid $250.00. And needless to say, I am in love with my new recliner. It's FABULOUSSSSSSSSSSSS.
Sunday, it was my mother in laws birthday so we had a nice dinner and of course CAKE. Yum delicious.
So basically eating was the theme of the weekend. We are looking forward to what April brings!!!
And a certain someone has a birthday coming up a week from tomorrow...wonder who???
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March & Veggies
On March 12th Tom & I officially reached our 6 month anniversary as a married couple. It seems unreal that time has flown by so quickly. I picked up a little cake & card for us to celebrate. I am seriously the luckiest woman in the universe to have such a fantastic husband. Today was awesome because Tom cooked a delicious breakfast for us and we just went for a ride around town because it was so BEAUTIFUL out. I love that Spring is so near!!!
In other news, in the past week I have decided to become a vegetarian. I read this book called "Eating Animals" - by Jonathan Safran Foer. If you enjoy eating meat I strongly suggest not reading this book, but if you feel ready to read about our farm system and the horrible things they do to animals; it is quite enlightening. Tom is okay with this decision and has been very supportive. Don't get me wrong. I ate meat the last 23 years of my life, so I have nothing against those who will continue to choose meat...but for me, I think this is the right decision. Oddly enough, I really don't miss it that much either. I have been eating much healthier options and feel genuinely good. My skin looks clearer, I am not eating to the point of feeling "stuffed," and my portions are under much better control.
Until next time...
In other news, in the past week I have decided to become a vegetarian. I read this book called "Eating Animals" - by Jonathan Safran Foer. If you enjoy eating meat I strongly suggest not reading this book, but if you feel ready to read about our farm system and the horrible things they do to animals; it is quite enlightening. Tom is okay with this decision and has been very supportive. Don't get me wrong. I ate meat the last 23 years of my life, so I have nothing against those who will continue to choose meat...but for me, I think this is the right decision. Oddly enough, I really don't miss it that much either. I have been eating much healthier options and feel genuinely good. My skin looks clearer, I am not eating to the point of feeling "stuffed," and my portions are under much better control.
Until next time...
Thursday, March 4, 2010
March
Since I last update our good friends in South Carolina have given birth to a sweet baby girl. We are so excited for them as first time parents.
My vacation request at work was finally processed. Tom & I will be on vacation June 8th-20th. Woo hoo! We are planning on driving and taking a little East Coast road trip to visit family and friends. We are planning on leaving that Thursday evening and driving 16 hours to South Carolina to visit our friends and their little bundle of joy for the weekend. Then, on Monday we would drive another 4.5 hours down to Georgia to visit Tom's grandparents for a few days. Then head back toward home on Thursday and stop somewhere halfway ? West Virginia and hopefully be home for Saturday night. This will be our 1st family vacation (minus the honeymoon of course), so I am really excited!!!
This month we are also planning on getting together with Nicky & Joe for another night out--possibly to Dave & Busters, since they have never been :O). And toward the end of the month we are going to the yearly Good Shepard Auction which is always tons of fun! This year my in-laws and my parents are coming so it will be a fun family affair!
'Til next time...
My vacation request at work was finally processed. Tom & I will be on vacation June 8th-20th. Woo hoo! We are planning on driving and taking a little East Coast road trip to visit family and friends. We are planning on leaving that Thursday evening and driving 16 hours to South Carolina to visit our friends and their little bundle of joy for the weekend. Then, on Monday we would drive another 4.5 hours down to Georgia to visit Tom's grandparents for a few days. Then head back toward home on Thursday and stop somewhere halfway ? West Virginia and hopefully be home for Saturday night. This will be our 1st family vacation (minus the honeymoon of course), so I am really excited!!!
This month we are also planning on getting together with Nicky & Joe for another night out--possibly to Dave & Busters, since they have never been :O). And toward the end of the month we are going to the yearly Good Shepard Auction which is always tons of fun! This year my in-laws and my parents are coming so it will be a fun family affair!
'Til next time...
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Arts & Crafts Night
Tommy & I decided this date night we would have an "Arts & Crafts Night!" After a quick trip to A.C. Moore and a lot of imagination, these are the creations we painted. I painted the coasters & coaster holders & Tommy painted the calendar & is currently working on a clock! We had lots of fun. My how relaxing painting is!!!
Friday, February 26, 2010
End of the Month Update
Craziness, these last few weeks. Hubby had some GI issues over the past month or so but all his labs and CAT scan came back negative, which is wonderful news! Perhaps he had a stomach bug or something. All I know is I'm relieved he is okay.
In other news, we finally got our taxes done the other day and are going to be getting a decent return...Federal Return is going directly into savings and the state return is going to our trip to South Carolina/Georgia this summer. We are thinking about June 11-18th for vacation (which will hopefully get approved) and are planning on driving down to Georgia to visit with his grandparents.
Then we will come back up the East Coast to visit our dear friends in South Carolina who are expecting their very 1st baby girl in less than a week!!! How exciting. So anyone reading this blog, please say a special prayer that our friend's labor will be short and that the delivery goes smoothly and that they have a happy and healthy newborn.
Today I opened a 2nd savings account because my goal in the new year is to save save save up money. We have not been to good at that lately so I am going to be setting monthly goals because it is oh so important to have an "oh shit fund," especially in this economy. Now that we have finally figured out how to manage our monthly expenses and know how much we should expect to pay on our bills, savings will be our focus!!!
March is right around the corner, and I am really looking forward to what it will bring...another month and more adventures to come!!!
In other news, we finally got our taxes done the other day and are going to be getting a decent return...Federal Return is going directly into savings and the state return is going to our trip to South Carolina/Georgia this summer. We are thinking about June 11-18th for vacation (which will hopefully get approved) and are planning on driving down to Georgia to visit with his grandparents.
Then we will come back up the East Coast to visit our dear friends in South Carolina who are expecting their very 1st baby girl in less than a week!!! How exciting. So anyone reading this blog, please say a special prayer that our friend's labor will be short and that the delivery goes smoothly and that they have a happy and healthy newborn.
Today I opened a 2nd savings account because my goal in the new year is to save save save up money. We have not been to good at that lately so I am going to be setting monthly goals because it is oh so important to have an "oh shit fund," especially in this economy. Now that we have finally figured out how to manage our monthly expenses and know how much we should expect to pay on our bills, savings will be our focus!!!
March is right around the corner, and I am really looking forward to what it will bring...another month and more adventures to come!!!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
February
I have been so terrible at this blogging thing, but here goes. January was a good month, not too much snow. I was able to go out for a manicure with Miss Maria which was a wonderful time. Also, in January, Hubby & I went out on a double date with Nicky & Joe. We had so much fun going out to eat with them & then bowling (though Nicky whooped us all).
Now on to February...today, Tom & I are having my in-laws over for breakfast. The house looks nice and neat, and I prepped breakfast last night. We are making this peaches & cream french toast. I hope it tastes delicious, yum! Tonight, we are going with my parents & pepere to a fundraiser for my cousin Emily who is raising money for Parkinson's because that is her "Miss Outstanding Teen" platform. She is such a love and we would do anything to support her. It should be a fun nice of dining and dancing and entertainment, oh my! Today also marks exactly 6 years since Tom & I went on our very 1st date. And yesterday marked exactly 5 months since we have been married.
Looking forward to the fun the weekend has to bring. So glad Tom & I have a full weekend off together...this is nothing short of a miracle.
Now on to February...today, Tom & I are having my in-laws over for breakfast. The house looks nice and neat, and I prepped breakfast last night. We are making this peaches & cream french toast. I hope it tastes delicious, yum! Tonight, we are going with my parents & pepere to a fundraiser for my cousin Emily who is raising money for Parkinson's because that is her "Miss Outstanding Teen" platform. She is such a love and we would do anything to support her. It should be a fun nice of dining and dancing and entertainment, oh my! Today also marks exactly 6 years since Tom & I went on our very 1st date. And yesterday marked exactly 5 months since we have been married.
Looking forward to the fun the weekend has to bring. So glad Tom & I have a full weekend off together...this is nothing short of a miracle.
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