I Can Shop Again!

Ok, I did it! I actively tried for one month to not shop...and I only had 2-ish splurges. (the -ish is for my online shopping that didn't arrive until after the 18th, hehe). So now I think I need a new purse...and I found one I am in LOVE with!! I found it in the new Nordstrom's accessories magazine, and I think I might pop into Nordstrom's sometime this week to make the purchase. Yay, so excited!!!

Baylor Gear!

The 1st Baylor home game is this weekend! We play UConn and the BF is so super excited! He even gave me strict instructions about what time we need to leave Dallas, I was impressed! But then he asked me what I was going to wear to the game....and I'm stumped! I have super cut Baylor gear, but it's all wintery. Cute sweatshirts and green jackets, etc. And unfortunately, we're praying very hard for extreme hear b/c you know those Yankees won't fair well in the heat :) So I decided that with my month of no shopping coming to an end, I really needed some new Baylor gear!

So I ordered this tee, which I already have but my Medium has shrunk (yes, it did shrink, it's not just me!!).

But then I came across www.chicka-d.com. And wow, cute Baylor women's wear! Finally! :) I was super excited. So I ordered this halter top.

And I also ordered this dress. But sadly, they were out of my size :(

So instead, I got this dress...we'll how how it looks in person.

All ya'll Baylor fans should check it out! Sic 'em!!

Updates

I started bootcamp this morning! Wait, I take back the exclamation point... Is was intense, to say the least. I was probably the youngest there, and I was at the back of the pack. Of course, I justified it by thinking that the bootcamp is in Plano, so that means these are all stay-at-home moms who can work out like everyday, right?! And running a mile in pavement so totally different than on a treadmill. I totally felt like I was back in Track, which is part of the reason I love/hate doing bootcamps. But I do need to get back in shape, and this is def. going to kick my butt! I could barely make it off the couch after work and we def. went out for dinner b/c I had no energy to cook. So bootcamp is going...

And my shopping free month is almost over!!! Wahoo!! But I do have a confession...on Sunday I splurged and bought a Nike shirt. I really, really needed it to look great on my 1st bootcamp session. :) I also ordered a new Baylor shirt, but it doesn't come in till Thursday or Friday, which is after my month is over! So basically, I only made 2 purchases in 1 month! How good is that?! I am very proud of myself. Now let's hope I don't go crazy in a few days when it's over. (B/c I have been dreaming of those J.Crew tortoise heels!!!!!!)

What I'm Craving Right Now

This weekend I am craving....

A new pair of black leggings since my ones from last fall need to be replaced (this will be a for sure 1st buy once my month of no shopping is over)

A comfy college shirt like this...they didn't have Baylor, so I will settle for a pic of the Oklahoma one

A great pair of black heels

And some new aviators since mine were bent in my purse

Walking in Hope

This morning my mom and I participated in a 5K 'Team Hope Walk'. This walk benefits the Huntington's Disease Society of America. My mom and I walked in honor of our close family friend, Susan, who has HD. Huntington's Disease (HD) is a devastating, hereditary, degenerative brain disorder for which there is, at present, no effective treatment or cure. HD slowly diminishes the affected individual's ability to walk, think, talk and reason. Eventually, the person with HD becomes totally dependent upon others for his or her care. Huntington's Disease profoundly affects the lives of entire families -- emotionally, socially and economically.

And this morning it was pouring rain!! But as my mom and I visited with the others who were walking and heard the stories of those there, it didn't matter than it was pouring cats and dogs and we were soaked to ours bones. We were truly lucky to be there and be able to walk. I wish I could do more than donate some money and do a 5K. My prayers are with Susan and all others affected by this disease.

If anyone would like to donate, please visit http://www.firstgiving.com/hdsateamhope.

Labor Day Weekend

What did everyone do this 3-day weekend?

I watched the Baylor Bears beat Wake Forest!! Wahoo!! Sic 'em Bears!

I also watched tons of other college football games (and sadly watched OU loose...sorry, Brother!)...

I went to dinner at Ruth's Chris for the last night of Restaurant Week.

I cleaned my shower.

I bought some beautiful sunflowers!

And most importantly, I relaxed with the BF :) My favorite part! Hope every one's weekend was great!!

Texas Hill Country Suggestions?

The BF and I have been together for over 3 and a half years...and we have gone on many (countless) vacations together. However, we have never gone on a vacay just the two of us! So after much discussion, we have finally picked our destination for our OWN 1st official vacation....the Texas Hill County! And while I think this is a great idea, I have to give the credit to my wonderful BF...how genius is he?! We don't have to fly so that saves a ton of money, and neither of us have really ever explored this area so it's very new to us....perfect! Due to law school and my work schedule (I can't really take off the 1st - 15th of the month), the only time we have to take this vacay is in December. After law school finals are over and before Christmas. And if any of you remember, that is also right after my birthday!! (I also looked up the dates of possible Baylor bowl games and I think they are all after Christmas, because I know a Baylor bowl game will get priority over the vacay!)

So we have the dates, and I've asked off from work...so we're all set for 4 nights in the Hill County. But I wanted to know if anyone had any suggestions?! I'm thinking of staying at B&Bs...but there are tons! Has anyone had any good/bad experiences? I'm also thinking of staying in a different town every night. Maybe Llano, Fredricksburg, Ingram, and Boerne. Thoughts? I can't wait and I am super excited to be planning this! I just want to make this perfect!! So any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

One Year Anniversary

Today is my one year anniversary with Greystar (formerly JPI)! This past year at this job has been great...and I can't wait for my 2 yr. anniversary!! I am so happy to be out of public accounting and have a life outside of work. I took a leap of faith and it has definitely worked out!

Another Challenge...Bootcamp!

For those you who know, you know I have a love/hate relationship with working out. Ok, I admit, it's way more hate than it is love...but there is some love, deep...deep...deep down. Prior to high school graduation I always had some coach telling me to go run/work out/etc. Then suddenly *poof* no one to notice if I didn't work out for like a month. (No one except my jeans!!!) And I do work out sometimes, but it's more sporadical than anything. The only time I can stick to it is when I have a trainer, which is way too expensive right now for this recessionista! So anyways, I work out like maybe 4-6 times a month. But this past month I have been feeling the need to do more and be more active. I have even set my alarm earlier in an effort to wake up and go to the gym that is on the bottom floor of my apartment complex, but yet every single time the snooze button just seems like a much better idea. (And once I heard that you burn more calories sleeping!) Then last week at work my boss talked me into signing up for a bootcamp...and I did it! I have done this bootcamp before in January, but I stopped after 2 and a half weeks because I didn't know anyone and there was no one to keep me accountable. So hopefully now that I have a friend that I am working out with I can be more successful. But right now, I'm kind of freaked... It is 6AM on Mondays & Wednesdays, 7PM on Tuesday & Thursday, and 8AM on Saturday. It's not only freaking me out that this is 5 days a week, but did anyone read 6AM?!!! Oh lordy, this is definitely going to kick my butt :) Let's hope! The bootcamp starts Monday, Sept. 14th. I'll keep you all updated on my status from not working out in 4 weeks to butt-kicking 5 times a week...yikes!

And also...I have not shopped once since my last post about my necklace splurge! And I think I'm halfway done...wahoo!

Where I'd Rather Be Wednesday

This Wednesday I'd rather be... in Colorado!

I'm feeling outdoors-y today. I could totally go fro a hike or a gondola ride to the top of a mountain. Just being outside would be a nice change of scenery than being stuck in front of a computer for 8+ hrs. Some clean air & starry nights always make things better!

Autumn & College Football

Autumn is coming! It seems like everyone is back to school...my mom's a teacher, the little bro is in high school, and the BF is back in law school. New clothes are in stores with long sleeves and soft textures (my fav!). And to top all of this, college football is just around the corner!!! And from what the BF tells me, this is Baylor's season! We have the chance of going bowling...wahoo! (In case you're confused by the sudden love for Baylor getting to a bowl game, remember that this would include the chance for me & the BF to go on a trip!) This season we have season tickets to all the Baylor home games, which will mean many day trips to the great city of Waco. I really hope this will be a great, winning season for those Bears...because it will just make the BF's year :) Sic 'em Bears!!!!!!!!

10 Things You May Not Know About Me!

1. When at the grocery store (or any other store with carts), I always put the cart back in it's proper location. I cannot stand when I see carts randomly around parking lots!

2. I have been scared of elevators since I saw Speed back in the '90s. Every time I step into one, I think that it is going to drop. (Oh and BTW, I work on the 16th floor...so this is everyday)

3. I check US Weekly, WFAA, and CNN at least once every hour. I secretly have always wanted a job that is tied to the news, but I don't think that is coming anytime soon..

4. I have seen Sleepless in Seattle over 100 times. I could repeat it to you word for word...I could even repeat the special commentary by the director & co-writer Nora Ephron. If you have a question about the movie, I probably know the answer to it.

5. Even though I say I hate confrontation, I know that usually it is better to has out the situation and come to a resolution then just do nothing. (Something I learned from my bestie, AMP)

6. I am convinced I am going to live in Europe for just a little bit of my life. The way my life is right now, nothing is falling in place for that, but I still dream of that...

7. I love that fact that I have lived in the South for all of my life. And I really, really want a Southern accent. I hope my kids have one!

8. I don't think I have ever said no to trying a new food...I am very open minded in that aspect.

9. Deep-down I am very organized, it's just the most seen part where I become messy. If you look under the pile on mail on the table, you will see that I dust every 2 weeks.

10. When I get bored, I plan trips. I have like a million trips planned. If you ever need trip suggestions, let me know!

Shopping Update

Ok, I admit...I bought something! A friend of mine had a jewelry show, she is selling Stella & Dot jewelry...and I fell in love... with a beautiful pearl necklace! It is very versatile and I can wear it with everything. So one slip-up this week. But you should be proud because I went into Target and I did not buy anything other than the facial cleanser that I went in for. (And did I mention that it's tax free weekend!)

Here is the pic of my new necklace!

And if I was not on my shopping sabbatical, I would totally consider buying these oh so cute shoes! (J.Crew, of course)

Where I'd Rather Be Wednesday

This Wednesday I'd rather be..... by the pool!!

No specific location...but I would prefer a hotel pool, so I can be pampered! With a cool drink, some gossip mags, a quick dip every now and then, and 45 SPF.....life would be dandy :)

One Month, No Shopping

So I have decided to challenge myself...I am not going to shop for clothes, accessories, jewelry, decorations for the apartment, or shoes for one month starting TODAY. I know I can do it...but the email from J.Crew for an extra 20% off their sale items was soo tempting!! I can't think of anything I need (ie- dress for wedding or clothes for a trip) for the next month, so I should be good, right? I can totally live with what I have in my closets & dressers (yes, both are plural) for one month with nothing new....totally....

I'll keep all of you readers updated on how this goes! (I already can't wait till Sept. 18th!!!)

St. Elmo's Fire

While I was at RND's apartment this weeknd, I was browsing her movie collection and came upon St. Elmo's Fire. Since I love 80's movies and I had never seen this one, RND was nice enough to let me borrow it. (Thanks!!)

The movie is about a group of friends and their 1st year out of college...and since I am about a year and 1/2 out, I fully related with this movie. In fact, at brunch with the lovely LEB this Sunday we were discussing our life since college and how much different it is than we thought it would be. LEB mentioned that she thought colleges should prepare us in some way for the fact that grown-up life is hard and basically to not expect everything to be as completely perfect as you thought it would be. My reply to that is that if college told us that then I would still be in college and never graduate :)

St. Elmo's Fire takes you through the very real job gains and losses, relationship changes, family changes, etc that happen after college. And it reminded me that I am not the only person who misses college and most significantly the simplicity of life in college..

Where I'd Rather Be Wednesday

This week I'd Rather Be....in Kaua'i, Hawaii!

When I 8, my favorite movie was Blue Hawaii. Everything about the entire movie fascinated me... It was my first Elvis Presley movie....and I knew every word to all the songs. That movie had it all...romance, music, and a perfect setting. So from that time, I knew I just had to go to Hawaii one day. And while that day has not yet come, I know it will! I have faith! I mean the BF loves any place with a beach...so Hawaii should be easy to convince, right :)

Ok, so why Kaua'i? Well Kaua'i is the Garden Island...and for some unknown reason every time I look at a map of the islands of Hawaii, I always pick out Kaua'i...who knows!!

Below are pics of the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. Doesn't it look magical?! Can you even imagine spending a whole week here?! I found plenty of activities to do in on Kaua'i also. These include: a zip-line tour through the jungle, a downhill bike tour through Waimea Canyon, horseback ride at Silver Falls Ranch, and a cruise on the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto. If work wasn't so busy I would explain more about these activities...but for now enjoy the pics!

This is an overview of the resort.

Can't you imagine this guy going to a pig roast, right after this... He looks so Hawaiian!

Of course, they have a couples massage at their spa!

And I could just look at this view forever...

And layout by this lagoon....

And I know the BF would love the water slides :)

Eye Candy

Mark Sanchez- former USC quarterback, drafted to NY Jets.... This picture makes my Thursday a little better... hope it brightens your day!

The Cougar

Has anyone out there been watching The Cougar? (On TV Land Wednesday nights 9PM.) Since I don't have any shows on Wednesday I will occasionally watch this new show. It was created by the same people that created The Bachelor, but ovi this has a premise of an older woman looking for a younger man.

But I've noticed something about this Cougar (whose name is Stacey)...she apparently doesn't like it when the suitors tell her that they love her. Everyone one of the boys that has said 'I love you' to her has been dismissed at the next 'Kiss Off' ceremony. Now isn't the point of this show to fall in love? Why are you sending home the guys who say 'I love you'?

**On a side note...this 'Kiss Off' ceremony is hilarious...instead of the boys receiving a rose or not receiving a rose to determine if they stay or go, each one has to walk up to The Cougar and try to kiss her. If she turns and he kisses her check, then the boy must go home....but if she lets them kiss her, they can stay. And trust me, it's awkward.

Where I'd Rather Be Wednesday

This Wednesday I'd rather be.... in Waco, Texas studying for finals!Alright, I know it's not a great vacation place, but during this time of year I always wish I could go back to my time in college...specifically during finals. Ok, so call me crazy...but my favorite time of the year in college was finals! I loved everything about finals! I love the crazy, stay up all night studying that comes witht finals....it was truly a bonding time for me with whomever I was studying with (usually AMP, KKS and whatever Sig Eps happened to be studying at our apartment). I think there is something magical on Baylor's campus during finals...everyone knows the end is so near, but the finals draw people together. You start talking to people in your classes that you usually didn't talk with. You start actually learning about the classes you are taking! (Or maybe that was just me?) Everyone during finals is learning....it's crazy to think about! There always seemed a point during finals where you were like "I'm going to fail this test, fail this class, never get a job, my life is over." But the some study partner would just hand you another Red Bull or Monster and you would pull through. And then suddenly the finals are over and you get SUMMER! No school, no responsibilities....just great weather and the pool.

So in remembrance of my college days I would rather be at Baylor in Waco, TX freaking out over studying for finals....

Bride Wars

So I have had weddings on the brain recently....let's blame it on the 3 wedding showers and 1 wedding I have attended in the past month and the 2 weddings I have coming up in the next month. Well with the BF out of town for a few days, I decided it would be the perfect time to indulge myself in a girly flick...and with weddings in my mind of course I picked up Bride Wars from the local Blockbuster. OMG, AMP (ie- bestie).....have you seen this?! If not, you must rent it. And watch without AKD (ie- bestie's BF). This is us if we get engaged in the same time period.

Seriously...she's brunette, I'm blonde. She's creative, I'm analytical. We're both competitive, but loving people...who would go insane just like the girls in the movie if our weddings were booked on the same day. This is truly a movie all girls can relate to because it is very similar to the way girls fight in real life....a little dirty because we know the deepest, darkest secrets and fears, but in a way where we would never, ever want to hurt the other because bestie love will always be there. There is a scene in the movie where Kate Hudson says "I miss my friend." I cried...I have been there. I have been in a fight with the bestie where I am so mad at her, but she is the only person who can comfort me at the same time. Guys just don't understand this kind of friendship. Miranda and Carrie had it....Liv and Emma in Bride Wars have it...and AMP and I have it. I love you bestie...thanks for always being there for me. Thanks for teaching me to be a stronger person like you and for always being there for me. But do not even dare get engaged during the time I am getting married :) Or else it's on!

Jon and Kate Plus Eight

According to US Weekly and basically every other gossip website, the dad (Jon) from TLC's Jon and Kate Plus Eight is cheating on his wife. I hate to believe this! Please say it isn't so!

Jon and Kate Plus Eight is in my top 5 favorite shows...it is DVR'd every time it comes on TV...I don't even mind watching the reruns. I am not a big laugh-out-louder...people have even commented on the fact that I rarely laugh at loud while watching a funny TV show. But the kids on this show literally make me laugh out loud. I usually watch this show alone because the BF does not enjoy the screaming and crying kids as much as I do and I always end up cracking up. I think this is one of the few unscripted reality TV shows out there that I actually believe this is the people's real lives. You can't make kids have the response they do! Yes, Jon and Kate bicker in the show...and yes, she nags him...but it's kind of refreshing to see real people interact. I totally understand why Kate wants them in their play clothes and not going out clothes sometimes...and I also totally understand that Jon does not see a difference in these at all (he's a boy). And I totally relate to Kate getting on her hands and knees every day to clean her kitchen floor and not accepting a maid who won't do that. Basically, I get Kate. Yes, to some she might come off as mean or bossy but she has to look after eight kids....cut her some slack.

So when I saw these articles on Jon cheating on Kate with a 24-year old...it was a little devastating... All I can say is that I hope it's not true...maybe they released this story to boost the ratings for their upcoming 5th season? (Although, that's sick...and I can't even believe people who do that!) In the mean time I will just keep on hoping for my dream of multiples (bet ya didn't know that about me!).

MIA

Sooo sorry to all my loyal blogger readers out there...I have been MIA lately...last week I was just not in the blogging mood and this week has been super busy at work! But I promise some new posts are coming soon :)

I have been thinking about my blog and the direction I want to go with it... Do I want to make it more of a journal format (i.e.- what's going on in my life). Or maybe all reality TV...since apparently it is taking over my life :) Or all about travel because I am obsessed. Or should I just keep it a mix of all of the above? Any thought from my readers? (Comments would be greatly appreciated and there might even be a treat for those who do!!)

I'm with Spencer, Get Me Out of Here!

In other Speidi news today, the pair will be joining the new cast of "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here"....a reality TV show that drops 10 celebrities into the heart of the Costa Rican jungle to face challenges testing their survival skills. Rod Blagojevich, former governor of Illinois, was planning to be on the show, but a judge squashed his dreams and ruled that he could not leave the country because this was a flight-risk. The shows airs June 1st on NBC....and you can be sure I will be tuning in to see who can survive being in a jungle with Spencer...

Speidi Wedding This Weekend

The Heidi and Spencer wedding will officially, legally take place this weekend! I can't wait to see it soon on the Hills...yay! Even though I highly dislike Spencer, I think that Heidi and Spencer might just be made for each other... or maybe they'll be divorced in like 2 years...who knows!

10 Sushi Dining Tips

I was reading an article the other day that listed "10 Sushi Dining Tips" and since I love sushi I thought I might share them with ya'll! So enjoy :)

1. Sit at the bar—this is traditional, and lets you watch the preparation, which is part of the overall experience. It also enables you to interact with your chef.

2. Order omakase (literally “I leave it up to you”)—you can expect a unique experience, but also a higher bill (it’s OK to suggest a budget).

3. Don’t mix wasabi and soy sauce for dipping—the chef should have already seasoned the sushi for you. Dipping in a little soy is OK, and if you particularly like wasabi, you can ask the chef to use more.

4. Eat nigiri (the rice rectangles topped with fish) with your fingers: it’s customary, and lets the chef pack the rice more loosely—which is correct—instead of packing it to accommodate chopsticks.

5. Turn nigiri fish-side down in your hand to help prevent it from falling apart (especially important if you choose to dip).

6. Eat ginger only between courses, as a palate cleanser.

7. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Many people stick with firm, smooth-textured fish, and thereby miss out on other interesting flavors and textures.

8. Sushi rolls are an American invention that, ironically, has made its way back to Japan. Avoid rolls that contain nontraditional (and unhealthful) ingredients like mayonnaise and sweetened sauces.

9. Avoid fish that is unsustainable or improperly farmed.

10. It’s traditional to order miso soup at the end of the meal—it aids digestion.

Where I'd Rather Be Wednesday

This week I would rather be.... at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort!

This new resort is about 15 minutes outside of Austin...and it looks perfect! They have a spa, golf course, pools, dining on-site, and did I mention a spa?! Additionally, if you are craving some city-life, then Austin is a close drive away.

*If the BF is reading, this is a major hint-hint at a vacay I would love to take!

Isn't this view just gorgeous?!

And I love horseback riding!!

And we could get a couple's massage!