And as usual, it's been months since I've updated. I'll blame it on
all the great stuff going on right now :p And the stressful things.
We've
been in our house for about 5 months now! It's amazing, honestly. I
love the colors we've put on the walls, I love that the grass is growing
back all lovely, and most of all, I love that we have not gone broke!
WIN! :) It really has been a great time, making this house ours,
decorating, buying furniture... Most days when I come home from work, I
can't believe it's my house. MINE. It feels so incredibly grown up to be
paying a mortgage, and even though it's been fun, it's also been a
learning experience. Thank goodness Matt knows how to mow a lawn, fix
toilets, and calm me down when cracks appear (apparently because the
drywall seams weren't taped, nothing structural). I would be lost
without his help. And he would be lost without my decorating sense ;)
So far we've painted the lower half of the dining room brown, a
nice big accent wall bright red in the living room, and used a nice sky
blue to paint both the ceiling in our bedroom and an accent wall in the
guest room/nursery. We are going to IKEA tomorrow to pick up a nice
(well, nicer than what we have) tv stand so we can condense all the
shelves we have in the living room, which will in turn allow us to
re-organize the office. Let's see, what else have we done.. Oh, we fixed
the main line into the house that was leaking, which ended up being not
as big a thing as I thought (thank goodness). We also replaced some
windows, re-seeded the grass (looks so good!!), and re-mulched all the
flower beds in the front.
Hmm...bad things that may have happened? Well, we had a huge
storm about a month ago that broke one of our trees in half, but thanks
to luck, it didn't damage anything. Just looks wonky. We've had to fix
the toilet in our bedroom a couple times, but it was a cheap fix... The
cat has managed to pretty much destroy the lower half of the door going
into the garage. Ah yes, the cat. Well, we tried to allow her to stay in
the house overnight and while we were gone, but she, as usual, decided
to be destructive, so in the garage she goes! She has a nice little set
up out there with food, toys, blankets, but I still feel a bit bad that
we have to do that. Funny enough, she seems to LOVE having a huge space
to roam around; she runs in there on her own when we open the door.
Helps alleviate my guilt.
I suppose that's enough about the house, but really, it's just amazing being a homeowner. Even the annoying HOA emails we get occasionally, while really, really annoying, can't change how I feel about it.
Work is still going great. I got promoted to LSII (Library Specialist II) in March, with a bit of a raise. I love my job. :) I got accepted to the UNT Library School last year, but wasn't able to go due to budgetary issues...and so this year I've applied for a scholarship through the library. I'm actually extraordinarily stressed out about it right now, because if I don't get it, I just can't go, and god knows when I'll be able to apply again...so..yes. Very worried about it. Hopefully will hear soon. If I don't get the scholarship, I'm going to begin a certification program that will lead to a raise..soo that's something. Overall though, I really have no complaints when it comes to my job. Matt is doing great at his; got promoted about 9 months ago to Assistant Art Director, and he has his own office now! It's kinda hot ;)
Speaking of Matt, we've been married about 14 months now. We survived what was at times a very stressful and busy first year, and are enjoying our time together. I couldn't ask for a better husband. He takes care of me and the house without complaint, and is just.. my best friend. I'm sure it seems like I'm being vague, but I don't think I can put into words how much his support and love means to me. We're a perfect pair :)
Oh, and we went to CA this year! My dad is working part time in Irvine, CA, which is outside of LA, and he was nice enough to let us spend a few days there with him. We LOVED it. LA is kind of a filthy city, but we went up to Griffith Observatory and got a really lovely view of the entire metroplex, and the Hollywood sign! We went to Grauman's Chinese Theatre, Beverly Hills, several absolutely gorgeous beaches (I want to go back, especially to Laguna Beach, lovely town), and San Diego! I loved the Zoo, it was incredible. I'm so glad we were able to take a big trip this year :)
Oh yes, and babies. I want one. Now. :p
Friday, June 15, 2012
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Another late update
I keep meaning to update this darn thing, but I usually remember when I'm at work; not the best place for blogging.
So, what's happened since August? House buying!!
We are currently under contract for our first house! We close on January 20th, and I'm freaking out. We both are. We started saving up when we got married, thanks to some good chunks of change as wedding presents, and have been diligently saving a good 15% - 20% of our paychecks ever since. It was hard at times (less clothes buying & going out, no trip at all) but it was been worth it. Around early November we decided that we had saved enough (we went with an FHA loan, which means only 3.5% of the home price down + closing costs) and I started researching online. We got pre-approved for a mortgage, and began the fun process of actually going IN the houses. We spent AGES driving around College Station & Bryan before this point, picking out neighborhoods and areas that we really liked. The top picks for us were Castlegate in CS, Copperfield in Bryan, and a nice area around a big park in CS. The realtor (Sherry Perry, she's great!) started us in Castlegate looking at some great choices, and the house we picked ended up being the second one we looked at. At first, it didn't overwhelm us, but the price on it was great, and it had room for improvement/building equity. The more we thought about it, the more we liked it, and we decided to place an offer, which after some negotiation, was accepted! The sellers were very reasonable, and ended up agreeing to pay our closing costs, which was a huge burden lifted off of our backs.
It's a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with just over 1500 square feet on a cul-de-sac. It has a great long driveway with lots of trees on the (nearly quarter-acre!!) lot and a big covered porch in the back. We are SO excited. I can't even describe the level of nervousness and freaking-out that is going on. We started packing this week since we were both of from work, and have about 50% or so of the house packed. My to-do list is huge, but we are plodding through it. At this point, I just want to MOVE. I want it NOW! hehe!
I'm also, honestly, terrified of having a mortgage that is twice what we are paying for rent. I know we can handle it, but it makes me wonder how we will afford daycare when we have a baby, or how we buy a new car or go on a trip. I'm sure it will calm down, and it will be easier than I think, but honestly, I wanted to have a baby next year, and I don't know how we are going to afford one. But...these are good problems to have. I just...want to get them figured out? Daycare is what, 500$ a month or so? Plus extra health insurance and diapers/etc? Eeks. I wish we could afford for me to stay home with our kids, but that just isn't an option, and as Matt has pointed out, I would go crazy with nowhere to go all day. I'm not built to stay home. I'm jealous of those who are. I hope I do as good a job as those moms I know who are staying home, or as good as my mom did.
I'll admit it, I've got the baby-crack bad. Good thing I have a sensible husband that will make me buy a baby-friendly car (btw, yuck. I want a sports car. not baby-friendly. haha!!) and have furniture in the house before we go down that road. :p
Ok, in less baby-centric news, the new (not so new job now) job is still going very well. I enjoy my colleagues and the work I'm doing. It keeps me very busy, which tends to keep me less depressed. Always a good thing! It looks like there might be some changes in my department in the next few months, and I'm very interested to see what happens. Matt is doing great in his new position as Assistant Art Director, and is getting the manager thing down.
My sisters are up here at A&M now, which has been really awesome. It was strange at first, because I haven't been in the same city as them in about 6 years, but we are getting used to it, and it's nice to have family up here. They both had really rough semesters school-wise. They are perfectionists like me, and worked their butts off at their schoolwork. I'm really proud of them, but I hope next semester they can relax more. Mom is doing much better, in my opinion. Even though she isn't super fond of her current work situation, I'm really proud of her for getting out there back into the workforce. I haven't seen much of Dad lately, but he should be coming down to help us move.
Oh, right, and the holidays! This year Matt & I stayed at the Marriott in Sugar Land, which was SO MUCH FUN because I remember sneaking into that hotel to use the bathroom in high school, and it just gave me the biggest kick to be a paying guest there now! It was horrible weather the whole time, but we walked around Town Center anyways, and enjoyed seeing how HUGE the area has gotten. Xmas at my Mom's was good this year, everyone is really happy for us and we had a really nice time.
Next time, I'll try to put up some better pics of the house...here's a teaser one for now ...
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Work is slow today
I remember in middle school/high school when updating my xanga/blog was OMGSOIMPORTANT. I suppose it took the place of a diary, of which I still have a few locked away somewhere in a memento box. I've noticed that as I've gotten older, and have things that are actually important, I write less. Maybe because I have less time?
Speaking of time, I have slowed down my book-reading significantly since starting to work full time. All I want to do when I come home is veg on the couch with the hubs..and then I get annoyed that I'm not finishing books as fast as I used to :p
So, being married...is really no different than before, except now we have a joint checking and savings account, which is really no different than before either. I have noticed that we take things much more seriously, in regards to saving, buying a home, having a baby, etc.
So far, we are about 1/3 of the way to our savings goal, which is about 9k. We figure with an FHA mortgage, plus closing costs, this is about all we should need if we buy a house in the 150-175k range (the only good thing about living in B/CS is very nice houses are very affordable). We think we will have enough next summer to start talking to a realtor, which is very exciting :). I can't wait to have my own backyard and my own house with no other people's houses touching it! :D The thought of having to pay for anything that breaks, however, is a bit terrifying. I think that we've thought it through, though, and hopefully anything that comes up we should be able to take care of.
As for a baby, well, we decided (and I don't really mind putting stuff like this on a blog since NO ONE reads it :p) that next summer, after we buy a house, we can start trying :D Hooray! I've already started saving up my vacation/sick time so when the time comes, I don't have to worry about being without my paycheck for a month or two, and we are hopefully planning it so that I will have the summer to recuperate/get used to baby before work gets completely crazy again in the fall. However, some health problems I have been having might cause all this planning to go down the tubes, so we'll see how it goes.
Finally, my job. Is awesome.
Speaking of time, I have slowed down my book-reading significantly since starting to work full time. All I want to do when I come home is veg on the couch with the hubs..and then I get annoyed that I'm not finishing books as fast as I used to :p
So, being married...is really no different than before, except now we have a joint checking and savings account, which is really no different than before either. I have noticed that we take things much more seriously, in regards to saving, buying a home, having a baby, etc.
So far, we are about 1/3 of the way to our savings goal, which is about 9k. We figure with an FHA mortgage, plus closing costs, this is about all we should need if we buy a house in the 150-175k range (the only good thing about living in B/CS is very nice houses are very affordable). We think we will have enough next summer to start talking to a realtor, which is very exciting :). I can't wait to have my own backyard and my own house with no other people's houses touching it! :D The thought of having to pay for anything that breaks, however, is a bit terrifying. I think that we've thought it through, though, and hopefully anything that comes up we should be able to take care of.
As for a baby, well, we decided (and I don't really mind putting stuff like this on a blog since NO ONE reads it :p) that next summer, after we buy a house, we can start trying :D Hooray! I've already started saving up my vacation/sick time so when the time comes, I don't have to worry about being without my paycheck for a month or two, and we are hopefully planning it so that I will have the summer to recuperate/get used to baby before work gets completely crazy again in the fall. However, some health problems I have been having might cause all this planning to go down the tubes, so we'll see how it goes.
Finally, my job. Is awesome.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Wedding & Honeymoon
I can't seem to remember to update this thing regularly. Lack of time lately, I suppose. Just for posterity's sake, I'll update the world on what's been going on...
We got married! I can't believe I haven't written about it yet. We left for Vegas on April 18th, and got married at the Excalibur wedding chapel on April 19th at noon-ish. It was great! It was relatively stress-free and easy. Matt really enjoyed his first plane ride, and kept his forehead glued to the window looking at everything :). I planned everything as much as I could from home, so things went pretty smoothly. The hotel room was great, it was a huge suite with a gigantic marble bathroom and hot tub (which we LOVED using after a long day of walking) and a nice view of the Hooter's hotel (ok, that was the only bad part, but at night, the sunset was amazing, and the mountains were beautiful to look at!). We stayed at the MGM Grand, and really enjoyed it. It was an absolutely huge hotel, with dozens of restaurants and shops, and a huge, smoky casino area that of course you had to walk through to get anywhere. We didn't do much gambling, but I did play some slots, and we played a hand of blackjack. The slot machines were much more complicated than was necessary - why can't i just put a quarter in and pull the lever?? What's with all the buttons? Heh. Matt was disappointed that we couldn't find him a "real" poker game to sit in, but he had a great time anyways.
As for the actual ceremony...it was both super short and took forever at the same time :p. We actually got there too early, so we sat outside the chapel to have a soda before we went in, and I'm sure we looked amusing in our wedding gear. We were able to go in ahead of time and take some pictures, but my camera didn't cooperate well, and the pics didn't turn out as well as I'd like. The pastor dude was kind of funny, like a game show announcer. The whole time he was performing the ceremony, I kept trying not to giggle. Funny enough, everyone who watched the ceremony on the internet thought he was amaaaaa-zing. I suppose if you weren't there he came off a little less um, pompous? Hehe. Anyways, it was over before I knew it, and there! Poof! Married! We had to take some pro pics after, which turned out AWFUL (!!!!), but then we were free to enjoy our honeymoon! It felt very surreal to be married. I think I just kep looking at him and giggling, and calling him my husband. It still feels unreal sometimes, even two months later.
Anyways, we tried to do WAY too much in the time we had, so every night we were exhausted, but we really did enjoy ourselves. We both loved how the Paris casino looked, and had a good time going up their replica Eiffel Tower. Matt had the biggest and best burger of his life at Hash House a Go-Go, and we had the strongest and most expensive drinks of our life at the MGM Casino. The NYNY Casino was great to hang out in and had less expensive grub, and the Bellagio had some beautiful gardens right in the middle, and of course an awesome fountain show! We brought home all sorts of souvenirs, and about 400 pics on my camera (heh). Oh! We also decided that Vegas is not a kid-friendly place, no matter what the tourism department says lol. There were cars that drove by plastered with pictures of strippers, and panhandlers that would hand out pamphlets of um, questionable places to visit. And Fremont St reminded me of Bourbon St, all sorts of strippers dancing on tables, beer carts everywhere, and just general trashiness. That was probably my least favorite area that we went to, by FAR.
Overall, I'm really thrilled we got married the way we did. At times in the month immediately following the wedding, I would have pangs of jealousy that my newly-engaged friens would have such a bigger bash than I, but now that things have calmed down, I've realized that had we tried to do a "real" wedding, we would still be in the planning phase, with no idea when we would actually be wedded! We managed to get married without any debt, and our out of pocket expenses were probably around 1500$. My dad helped out with the hotel, food, and air miles, and I think his portion ran about 1000$ or so. So, really, not a bad deal for a wedding & honeymoon!
Oh, and we had a party! It was held at J&V's house, and we invited about 30 people, of which maybe 20-25 showed up? We had Fuddrucker's cater, which was delicious, and put out some snacks, had some beers, and a really great cupcake tower and mini cake made by VeLisa! It was nice to see Matt's family again, although I was disappointed that only my immediate family could come, and that many of my friends were unable to make it. It felt a little lopsided. My dad made a sweet toast that I can't really remember, and then we put Matt's dad on the spot for a toast, which was nice as well. Got some great presents, and a big chunk of cash that went straight to the house fund, and that was it! Wedding, honeymoon, and ceremony complete!
This was much longer than I expected, so I'll post another one with the rest of our lives' updates later...
We got married! I can't believe I haven't written about it yet. We left for Vegas on April 18th, and got married at the Excalibur wedding chapel on April 19th at noon-ish. It was great! It was relatively stress-free and easy. Matt really enjoyed his first plane ride, and kept his forehead glued to the window looking at everything :). I planned everything as much as I could from home, so things went pretty smoothly. The hotel room was great, it was a huge suite with a gigantic marble bathroom and hot tub (which we LOVED using after a long day of walking) and a nice view of the Hooter's hotel (ok, that was the only bad part, but at night, the sunset was amazing, and the mountains were beautiful to look at!). We stayed at the MGM Grand, and really enjoyed it. It was an absolutely huge hotel, with dozens of restaurants and shops, and a huge, smoky casino area that of course you had to walk through to get anywhere. We didn't do much gambling, but I did play some slots, and we played a hand of blackjack. The slot machines were much more complicated than was necessary - why can't i just put a quarter in and pull the lever?? What's with all the buttons? Heh. Matt was disappointed that we couldn't find him a "real" poker game to sit in, but he had a great time anyways.
As for the actual ceremony...it was both super short and took forever at the same time :p. We actually got there too early, so we sat outside the chapel to have a soda before we went in, and I'm sure we looked amusing in our wedding gear. We were able to go in ahead of time and take some pictures, but my camera didn't cooperate well, and the pics didn't turn out as well as I'd like. The pastor dude was kind of funny, like a game show announcer. The whole time he was performing the ceremony, I kept trying not to giggle. Funny enough, everyone who watched the ceremony on the internet thought he was amaaaaa-zing. I suppose if you weren't there he came off a little less um, pompous? Hehe. Anyways, it was over before I knew it, and there! Poof! Married! We had to take some pro pics after, which turned out AWFUL (!!!!), but then we were free to enjoy our honeymoon! It felt very surreal to be married. I think I just kep looking at him and giggling, and calling him my husband. It still feels unreal sometimes, even two months later.
Anyways, we tried to do WAY too much in the time we had, so every night we were exhausted, but we really did enjoy ourselves. We both loved how the Paris casino looked, and had a good time going up their replica Eiffel Tower. Matt had the biggest and best burger of his life at Hash House a Go-Go, and we had the strongest and most expensive drinks of our life at the MGM Casino. The NYNY Casino was great to hang out in and had less expensive grub, and the Bellagio had some beautiful gardens right in the middle, and of course an awesome fountain show! We brought home all sorts of souvenirs, and about 400 pics on my camera (heh). Oh! We also decided that Vegas is not a kid-friendly place, no matter what the tourism department says lol. There were cars that drove by plastered with pictures of strippers, and panhandlers that would hand out pamphlets of um, questionable places to visit. And Fremont St reminded me of Bourbon St, all sorts of strippers dancing on tables, beer carts everywhere, and just general trashiness. That was probably my least favorite area that we went to, by FAR.
Overall, I'm really thrilled we got married the way we did. At times in the month immediately following the wedding, I would have pangs of jealousy that my newly-engaged friens would have such a bigger bash than I, but now that things have calmed down, I've realized that had we tried to do a "real" wedding, we would still be in the planning phase, with no idea when we would actually be wedded! We managed to get married without any debt, and our out of pocket expenses were probably around 1500$. My dad helped out with the hotel, food, and air miles, and I think his portion ran about 1000$ or so. So, really, not a bad deal for a wedding & honeymoon!
Oh, and we had a party! It was held at J&V's house, and we invited about 30 people, of which maybe 20-25 showed up? We had Fuddrucker's cater, which was delicious, and put out some snacks, had some beers, and a really great cupcake tower and mini cake made by VeLisa! It was nice to see Matt's family again, although I was disappointed that only my immediate family could come, and that many of my friends were unable to make it. It felt a little lopsided. My dad made a sweet toast that I can't really remember, and then we put Matt's dad on the spot for a toast, which was nice as well. Got some great presents, and a big chunk of cash that went straight to the house fund, and that was it! Wedding, honeymoon, and ceremony complete!
This was much longer than I expected, so I'll post another one with the rest of our lives' updates later...
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Update
I didn't realize it had been this long since I've updated. All sorts of stuff going on! I found an great job working at Evans Library! Full-time! With benefits and everything! Yay! I'm hoping that it won't be the same experience I had with the last full time position I took. I think though, that being a library position, the people will be much more like me. Hopefully. I just dislike drama and negativity, which is all that the courthouse was. I start on March 21st, and they are being very welcoming, and very understanding about my upcoming wedding/need to take off. I'm very excited, and it'll be great to finally have something to do in the afternoons other than clean.
In wedding news, we had a lot LOT of back and forth and rescheduling and changing before settling on our current plans. We decided to have the wedding ceremony in Las Vegas (which my family isn't thrilled about) and have a reception/party two weekends after we come back, with burgers, drinks, cupcakes, etc. I think it'll be fun :) I'm very excited to be getting married, but also nervous. I get anxious easily, and the thought of being someone's wife is intimidating. I'm sure it'll be fine, as we have a great relationship and tend to work things out quickly. I guess coming from two generations of divorce I feel wary, but I know I am not my parents (or grandparents, or aunt) and that I can make good decisions regarding our relationship. I just wish I could tame the anxiety. It has skyrocketed since we got engaged, and I'm just hoping that after the wedding it'll chill the hell out.
The funny thing is, the closer we get to the wedding, the more "baby pangs" I'm getting. It's very unsettling, to be honest. I've never really wanted kids. I don't know if I'm cut out to be a mother, and I'm not sure if this is a world I want to bring a child into. But lately, damn do I want a baby. I don't know why!! Every time I see baby pictures on facebook, or watch baby shows on television, I start thinking about us having one, and how we would raise him/her and etc. I've even looked up parenting tips, and the pros/cons of cloth diapers! What the hell is wrong with me?! ::deep breath::
I think this is a normal, biological reaction in response to the upcoming wedding. I think that for my body marriage = stability, and Matt = stable provider/father. I really do realize that I can't have kids right now. No, it would not be horrible if it happened in the next couple of years, and I'm sure we would be thrilled and would make it work. But...I have things to do. I want to drink snobby beers and stay up late playing video games. I want to be able to go where I want without a diaper bag weighing me down, and I want to travel! I think that I want to wait at least 4 years. Logically, 4 years from now we should have bought a house, we should have more income, and I should (WILL) have travelled to Europe by then. I also will only be 27/28 which is still young enough to not have much worry about conceiving. I hope.
Anyways, that's really all for now. It's been a busy few months, and the next 6 weeks are going to be busy/awesome!
In wedding news, we had a lot LOT of back and forth and rescheduling and changing before settling on our current plans. We decided to have the wedding ceremony in Las Vegas (which my family isn't thrilled about) and have a reception/party two weekends after we come back, with burgers, drinks, cupcakes, etc. I think it'll be fun :) I'm very excited to be getting married, but also nervous. I get anxious easily, and the thought of being someone's wife is intimidating. I'm sure it'll be fine, as we have a great relationship and tend to work things out quickly. I guess coming from two generations of divorce I feel wary, but I know I am not my parents (or grandparents, or aunt) and that I can make good decisions regarding our relationship. I just wish I could tame the anxiety. It has skyrocketed since we got engaged, and I'm just hoping that after the wedding it'll chill the hell out.
The funny thing is, the closer we get to the wedding, the more "baby pangs" I'm getting. It's very unsettling, to be honest. I've never really wanted kids. I don't know if I'm cut out to be a mother, and I'm not sure if this is a world I want to bring a child into. But lately, damn do I want a baby. I don't know why!! Every time I see baby pictures on facebook, or watch baby shows on television, I start thinking about us having one, and how we would raise him/her and etc. I've even looked up parenting tips, and the pros/cons of cloth diapers! What the hell is wrong with me?! ::deep breath::
I think this is a normal, biological reaction in response to the upcoming wedding. I think that for my body marriage = stability, and Matt = stable provider/father. I really do realize that I can't have kids right now. No, it would not be horrible if it happened in the next couple of years, and I'm sure we would be thrilled and would make it work. But...I have things to do. I want to drink snobby beers and stay up late playing video games. I want to be able to go where I want without a diaper bag weighing me down, and I want to travel! I think that I want to wait at least 4 years. Logically, 4 years from now we should have bought a house, we should have more income, and I should (WILL) have travelled to Europe by then. I also will only be 27/28 which is still young enough to not have much worry about conceiving. I hope.
Anyways, that's really all for now. It's been a busy few months, and the next 6 weeks are going to be busy/awesome!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Proposal Story!
Well, even though my brain knows I don't have to go to work today, apparently my body doesn't! I figured I'd go ahead and get my proposal written down before it all melts away!
So, I've known this was coming for a while, but it was still a big surprise and wonderful! Matt and I went a couple of months ago to pick out rings, and he knew I had my heart set one a particular one. One weekend a couple weeks ago, he told me he and his brother were going to the shooting range. I had my suspicions that he was buying the ring, but when he came home with a shot up target, I figured well, darn, they really did go shooting! Little did I know that they indeed had gone to the mall, and had stopped by their work to pick up an old target of Jason's to cover their butts! Tricky devils!!
Last week I started to get antsy, because I had a suspicion that it was coming pretty soon. I even dressed up in heels on the Thursday before Xmas, convinced it was going to be that night! Well, it wasn't, but turns out while I was at work that day, Matt was picking up my ring, which wasn't actually supposed to be there until Xmas eve. Luckily it came in early! We headed off to my mom's house for Christmas with them, and he told me he was nervous all weekend whenever he thought about it. My mom actually asked him flat out about his "intentions" with me before we left on Christmas, so I figured a proposal that day was out of the question.
We got back to our home, and exchanged our presents for each other. Matt set up our new Wii, and for the next couple hours we sat there playing video games. Well, I did. I may have monopolized it just a teeny bit. Around 4 or so I went upstairs to take a shower, and remember thinking to myself, "well, I didn't get my proposal, but that was an AWESOME Christmas, and I am so lucky!" Little did I know he was setting things up downstairs! I cleaned up and headed downstairs, Matt poured us some drinks, and I settled back on the couch, assuming we'd just play video games some more. He got up, brought over the Christmas poppers, and suggested we open them! He had never seen the poppers before this Christmas, but they are a tradition in my family and my mom had given us two to pop that night. We had already popped some at my mom's house, but I didn't manage to get the cap to go off in mine, so when he gave me the popper at home, I was really determined to pop the heck out of it! I grabbed the little cardboard strip and yanked as hard as I could. The contents went flying, and Matt started to tell me that something flew out across the room. I got up to look for it, and see the cat sniffing at something in front of the movie shelf. I bent over to pick it up, realized what it was, and screamed (just a little). The tears kicked in immediately, and I turned around to look at Matt.
He came over to me, got down on his knees, and through my blubbering, asked me to marry him. I'm pretty sure I nodded, then cried some more, then asked him if he was sure, and asked him to put it on my finger. I could tell he was so nervous! For the next hour or so we just sat on the couch cuddling and giggling, and maybe crying a bit (on my part!). We called my parents about an hour and a half later, and the rest of the night is kind of a blur. I'm pretty sure we played video games some more. :p
Well, that's it, and it was wonderful and a great surprise, and I can't wait to start planning the rest of my life!
So, I've known this was coming for a while, but it was still a big surprise and wonderful! Matt and I went a couple of months ago to pick out rings, and he knew I had my heart set one a particular one. One weekend a couple weeks ago, he told me he and his brother were going to the shooting range. I had my suspicions that he was buying the ring, but when he came home with a shot up target, I figured well, darn, they really did go shooting! Little did I know that they indeed had gone to the mall, and had stopped by their work to pick up an old target of Jason's to cover their butts! Tricky devils!!
Last week I started to get antsy, because I had a suspicion that it was coming pretty soon. I even dressed up in heels on the Thursday before Xmas, convinced it was going to be that night! Well, it wasn't, but turns out while I was at work that day, Matt was picking up my ring, which wasn't actually supposed to be there until Xmas eve. Luckily it came in early! We headed off to my mom's house for Christmas with them, and he told me he was nervous all weekend whenever he thought about it. My mom actually asked him flat out about his "intentions" with me before we left on Christmas, so I figured a proposal that day was out of the question.
We got back to our home, and exchanged our presents for each other. Matt set up our new Wii, and for the next couple hours we sat there playing video games. Well, I did. I may have monopolized it just a teeny bit. Around 4 or so I went upstairs to take a shower, and remember thinking to myself, "well, I didn't get my proposal, but that was an AWESOME Christmas, and I am so lucky!" Little did I know he was setting things up downstairs! I cleaned up and headed downstairs, Matt poured us some drinks, and I settled back on the couch, assuming we'd just play video games some more. He got up, brought over the Christmas poppers, and suggested we open them! He had never seen the poppers before this Christmas, but they are a tradition in my family and my mom had given us two to pop that night. We had already popped some at my mom's house, but I didn't manage to get the cap to go off in mine, so when he gave me the popper at home, I was really determined to pop the heck out of it! I grabbed the little cardboard strip and yanked as hard as I could. The contents went flying, and Matt started to tell me that something flew out across the room. I got up to look for it, and see the cat sniffing at something in front of the movie shelf. I bent over to pick it up, realized what it was, and screamed (just a little). The tears kicked in immediately, and I turned around to look at Matt.
He came over to me, got down on his knees, and through my blubbering, asked me to marry him. I'm pretty sure I nodded, then cried some more, then asked him if he was sure, and asked him to put it on my finger. I could tell he was so nervous! For the next hour or so we just sat on the couch cuddling and giggling, and maybe crying a bit (on my part!). We called my parents about an hour and a half later, and the rest of the night is kind of a blur. I'm pretty sure we played video games some more. :p
Well, that's it, and it was wonderful and a great surprise, and I can't wait to start planning the rest of my life!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
I always seem to forget to update when I have the most going on. I've been a busy bee lately. I had my latin final last Friday, and it was MUCH harder than the midterm. He picked a passage from a day that almost everyone (including myself) missed class, so I had no clue what I was doing. All I needed was a 48 to pass the class, so I'm not tremendously worried about it. Graduation is Saturday, and my whole family (minus Grandma) is coming down to see me. I hope it goes ok, no divorce drama or anything. I think afterwards we will go to Ozona's for lunch (mostly cause i LURVE Ozona's) and hang out for a little bit before I have a wedding to go to that night. It hasn't really kicked in yet that I'm graduating, but I suppose that's because I don't have my grades yet.
Matt and I decided to move, and spent AGES looking for a cheaper but just as nice place (HA). We were about to give up when I convinced him to go look at the places right behind us, and BINGO! New place! They've updated the older apartments with nice laminate wood floors and new fixtures, etc, and even better, they are over 100$ cheaper a month! This will help us quite a bit with saving for our house :) Hopefully the walls won't be so thin in this new place...
As for getting married....well, I have this feeling that it's coming soon. Like next couple of weeks soon.
Matt and I decided to move, and spent AGES looking for a cheaper but just as nice place (HA). We were about to give up when I convinced him to go look at the places right behind us, and BINGO! New place! They've updated the older apartments with nice laminate wood floors and new fixtures, etc, and even better, they are over 100$ cheaper a month! This will help us quite a bit with saving for our house :) Hopefully the walls won't be so thin in this new place...
As for getting married....well, I have this feeling that it's coming soon. Like next couple of weeks soon.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Killing Time
I've run out of nerdy websites to drool over. And clothing websites. Btw, if I could buy every dress on Modcloth.com, I would. amazerrging! Of course, most of them only go up to Large, which, ahem, my plentiful assets exceed by just a little bit. Anyhoo, lots going on!
I got my latin test back, so hellooo graduation! (I got a 92, btw, no applause necessary) I'm excited, but now terrified that I won't find a job. The interview I had last wek that I thought had went so well hasn't contacted me for a second interview. Oh well. :( There just aren't a whole lotta jobs for little old me! I'm very VERY tempted to just go to grad school and be a perpetual student. Too bad I let my grades sink. Anyways. Hopefully everyone will make it down for my graduation. I really don't WANT to walk the stage, but I'm pretty sure after waiting 5.5 years, my parents may just strangle me if I don't walk.
This is the first holiday season that I will be experiencing as a post-divorce child, and so far it's been difficult. Matt and I have to figure out how to make his parents, my mom/grandma/sisters, and my dad happy. Not an easy feat. I think (THINK) we have most of Thanksgiving figured out, but my mom hasn't said yet whether she wants us to come down, so it all may change. Christmas is going to be difficult as well, but luckily most of us have vacation during that time, so that gives us a little breathing room to see people. I don't want any of my family feeling lonely on the holidays!
In more fun news, this weekend is 3 days for us! Woo! It's Matt's last vacation day of the year (other than holidays) and we are going to Waco on Saturday to see his parents. And go to his favorite comic book store & hamburger joint. heh. Tomorrow I think I'll drag him to a bakery I've been wanting to try, and then reward him with homemade pizza for dinner. I need to buy some new jeans at some point.
On the marriage and house front, things are very much up in the air. Not as in, we can't decide whether we realllyyy want to be married, but as in, it depends on if I have a job, etc. If I have a job in the spring, but for some reason don't have health insurance and/or can't afford my own, we are getting married at the courthouse ASAP in order to get me on Matt's health plan. If we can wait, then we will probably be getting hitched in October-ish? Even if we do the whole icky courthouse thing, we will probably still do a 'real' wedding so I can get a dress, shoes, etc. ;) As for the house, if I have a job in the spring, that puts us over the income limit, and we will wait. If I don't find a job, or am still under the income limit, then we will start house hunting. AND if we decide to start house hunting, that means courthouse wedding and no real wedding for a couple years. Oh right, and if we start looking for a house, probably no engagement ring. (DRATS!)
It's all very convoluted. Oh, and I've started having baby pangs. It's freaking me out. I never actively wanted children before, but I guess now that my hormones feel safe and provided for, they've decided to start screaming at me to procreate. Yikes!! Just to clarify, no I'm not pregnant, and we have NO plans to have any for at least a few years. Too many video games to play!! :D
I really can't believe that I'm discussing marriage and a house, let alone babies. After Evil Ex and I broke up, I was dead set against any of this crap for at least a few years. Looks like fate had other ideas for Matt and I. I couldn't be happier with him. He is truly my other half, and I really didn't realize that it was possible to be this far into a relationship and be this HAPPY! All the time!! He is always making me laugh and picking me out of the dumps. Even when things feel so awful rotten that I just want to crawl in a hole, he's there to hug it better. Love it!!
Oh, and just so I have this in writing, Matt agreed last night (sober) to get a tattoo of me on our 5 year anniversary. HAH!!
I got my latin test back, so hellooo graduation! (I got a 92, btw, no applause necessary) I'm excited, but now terrified that I won't find a job. The interview I had last wek that I thought had went so well hasn't contacted me for a second interview. Oh well. :( There just aren't a whole lotta jobs for little old me! I'm very VERY tempted to just go to grad school and be a perpetual student. Too bad I let my grades sink. Anyways. Hopefully everyone will make it down for my graduation. I really don't WANT to walk the stage, but I'm pretty sure after waiting 5.5 years, my parents may just strangle me if I don't walk.
This is the first holiday season that I will be experiencing as a post-divorce child, and so far it's been difficult. Matt and I have to figure out how to make his parents, my mom/grandma/sisters, and my dad happy. Not an easy feat. I think (THINK) we have most of Thanksgiving figured out, but my mom hasn't said yet whether she wants us to come down, so it all may change. Christmas is going to be difficult as well, but luckily most of us have vacation during that time, so that gives us a little breathing room to see people. I don't want any of my family feeling lonely on the holidays!
In more fun news, this weekend is 3 days for us! Woo! It's Matt's last vacation day of the year (other than holidays) and we are going to Waco on Saturday to see his parents. And go to his favorite comic book store & hamburger joint. heh. Tomorrow I think I'll drag him to a bakery I've been wanting to try, and then reward him with homemade pizza for dinner. I need to buy some new jeans at some point.
On the marriage and house front, things are very much up in the air. Not as in, we can't decide whether we realllyyy want to be married, but as in, it depends on if I have a job, etc. If I have a job in the spring, but for some reason don't have health insurance and/or can't afford my own, we are getting married at the courthouse ASAP in order to get me on Matt's health plan. If we can wait, then we will probably be getting hitched in October-ish? Even if we do the whole icky courthouse thing, we will probably still do a 'real' wedding so I can get a dress, shoes, etc. ;) As for the house, if I have a job in the spring, that puts us over the income limit, and we will wait. If I don't find a job, or am still under the income limit, then we will start house hunting. AND if we decide to start house hunting, that means courthouse wedding and no real wedding for a couple years. Oh right, and if we start looking for a house, probably no engagement ring. (DRATS!)
It's all very convoluted. Oh, and I've started having baby pangs. It's freaking me out. I never actively wanted children before, but I guess now that my hormones feel safe and provided for, they've decided to start screaming at me to procreate. Yikes!! Just to clarify, no I'm not pregnant, and we have NO plans to have any for at least a few years. Too many video games to play!! :D
I really can't believe that I'm discussing marriage and a house, let alone babies. After Evil Ex and I broke up, I was dead set against any of this crap for at least a few years. Looks like fate had other ideas for Matt and I. I couldn't be happier with him. He is truly my other half, and I really didn't realize that it was possible to be this far into a relationship and be this HAPPY! All the time!! He is always making me laugh and picking me out of the dumps. Even when things feel so awful rotten that I just want to crawl in a hole, he's there to hug it better. Love it!!
Oh, and just so I have this in writing, Matt agreed last night (sober) to get a tattoo of me on our 5 year anniversary. HAH!!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Positive thinking!
I am attempting to be a positive thinker today, so here are some things that made me smile today:
- Matt in his awesome halloween costume!
- Our 9pm run to HEB for cookies and ice cream....
- Watching him taste different wines; he looked so classy and sexy!
- My dad texting me to see what trinket I wanted from Atlanta (even at 23 I like souvenirs!)
- Getting sweet hugs from Matt's niece and nephew
That's all for now :)
- Matt in his awesome halloween costume!
- Our 9pm run to HEB for cookies and ice cream....
- Watching him taste different wines; he looked so classy and sexy!
- My dad texting me to see what trinket I wanted from Atlanta (even at 23 I like souvenirs!)
- Getting sweet hugs from Matt's niece and nephew
That's all for now :)
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
darn
Well, Matt and I didn't get the housing assistance we applied for. Shucky darns. We were about 200$ (!!) over the yearly income limit, which is intensely aggravating. Oh well. This was a good experience, and we have a better understanding of what we need to do in order to save up for a house. Hopefully it won't take as long as I think it will.
Latin midterm could have gone either way. I was the second person finished, which isn't unusual, but still makes me nervous that I completely blew it. I just want to get the heck out of college!
I've started applying for jobs post-graduation, and I had one last-minute interview yesterday afternoon that I think went quite well. I've got my fingers crossed that something lines up.
I may or may not have confused Matt into telling me he's proposing before Christmas ;)
Latin midterm could have gone either way. I was the second person finished, which isn't unusual, but still makes me nervous that I completely blew it. I just want to get the heck out of college!
I've started applying for jobs post-graduation, and I had one last-minute interview yesterday afternoon that I think went quite well. I've got my fingers crossed that something lines up.
I may or may not have confused Matt into telling me he's proposing before Christmas ;)
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Excuse the pity party
This will be a little bit of a bitch and moan entry, so just excuse me :p
I have so many things whirling about in my head, it's a wonder I don't take off into CRAZYLAND! Or maybe I already have! Things are progressing very fast with Matt and I, and although I am completely sure that he is who I want, and this life is what I want, it's just a little overwhelming. Tomorrow we meet with a city of Bryan organization that provides down payment assistance for first time homebuyers. If we qualify, we will go to the bank to qualify for a mortgage, and then start looking for a home. If we don't, then we figure we will give it a try in a year or so when we have saved more money. This blows my mind. I didn't expect us to buy a house for YEARS. I didn't think there was any way for us to afford it. Apparently there are lower priced townhomes in the area, and here we are! Freaking out! I have been researching mortgages and closing costs and realtors like a crazy person. I will be PREPARED, dammit!
On top of that, Matt and I are uh, "pre-engaged"? That's such a stupid term, but I don't know what else to call it. We looked at rings and I've been informed that I will be proposed to sometime in the next few months. SO that means a wedding! Which costs money! And if we are buying a house, that means we have NO money! So does that mean no wedding? Does that mean we put it off for a year? Would I be ok owning a home with him and us not being married? Do we have a quickie courthouse wedding? Would that bother me? I don't know! I don't know ANYTHING! Lordy.
And just to put the icing on the stress cake (mmmcake), mom is still barely speaking to me, and sisters are evidently of the opinion that I'm on evil Daddy's team. Sigh. I miss my mommy. It bothers me that when Matt proposes, the first person I will be calling is my Dad. Don't get my wrong, my Dad is great, but I would have really liked to share these things in my life with my Mom. I miss having a whole family, and I'm sure as the first holiday season post-divorce approaches, I'm going to be a wreck. Who do I have Thanksgiving with? Christmas? Which parent's feelings do I hurt?
Also, Latin sucks. That is all.
I have so many things whirling about in my head, it's a wonder I don't take off into CRAZYLAND! Or maybe I already have! Things are progressing very fast with Matt and I, and although I am completely sure that he is who I want, and this life is what I want, it's just a little overwhelming. Tomorrow we meet with a city of Bryan organization that provides down payment assistance for first time homebuyers. If we qualify, we will go to the bank to qualify for a mortgage, and then start looking for a home. If we don't, then we figure we will give it a try in a year or so when we have saved more money. This blows my mind. I didn't expect us to buy a house for YEARS. I didn't think there was any way for us to afford it. Apparently there are lower priced townhomes in the area, and here we are! Freaking out! I have been researching mortgages and closing costs and realtors like a crazy person. I will be PREPARED, dammit!
On top of that, Matt and I are uh, "pre-engaged"? That's such a stupid term, but I don't know what else to call it. We looked at rings and I've been informed that I will be proposed to sometime in the next few months. SO that means a wedding! Which costs money! And if we are buying a house, that means we have NO money! So does that mean no wedding? Does that mean we put it off for a year? Would I be ok owning a home with him and us not being married? Do we have a quickie courthouse wedding? Would that bother me? I don't know! I don't know ANYTHING! Lordy.
And just to put the icing on the stress cake (mmmcake), mom is still barely speaking to me, and sisters are evidently of the opinion that I'm on evil Daddy's team. Sigh. I miss my mommy. It bothers me that when Matt proposes, the first person I will be calling is my Dad. Don't get my wrong, my Dad is great, but I would have really liked to share these things in my life with my Mom. I miss having a whole family, and I'm sure as the first holiday season post-divorce approaches, I'm going to be a wreck. Who do I have Thanksgiving with? Christmas? Which parent's feelings do I hurt?
Also, Latin sucks. That is all.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Whew, it's been a while since I've had a chance to update! No, not really. I lead a boring life, but let's pretend you are interested in it anyways ;)
School is ok, for now. I haven't had my first test yet, and am starting to worry about it. The people in my class act like middle schoolers most of the time, but it's getting to be more amusing (aww arent they cute!) than annoying. I'm sure they think I'm a bitch, but I just have nothing to say to hyperactive 12 year olds (ohh snap!).
Work is fine, I got moved to the back with the graphic artists, so less customer interaction and more smacking my computer because it refuses to open Word.
In December I graduate, and I'm starting to worry again about finding a job. There aren't many out there :(
In a happy note, Matt and I looked for rings the other day, and assuming we have the funds, we may just get married :)
Really, my life is boring.
School is ok, for now. I haven't had my first test yet, and am starting to worry about it. The people in my class act like middle schoolers most of the time, but it's getting to be more amusing (aww arent they cute!) than annoying. I'm sure they think I'm a bitch, but I just have nothing to say to hyperactive 12 year olds (ohh snap!).
Work is fine, I got moved to the back with the graphic artists, so less customer interaction and more smacking my computer because it refuses to open Word.
In December I graduate, and I'm starting to worry again about finding a job. There aren't many out there :(
In a happy note, Matt and I looked for rings the other day, and assuming we have the funds, we may just get married :)
Really, my life is boring.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Ah, undergrads
So far this week has flown by (::cue Hallelujah chorus::) and I've only been to one class. The prof had stomach flu, so no Tuesday class. Therefore, I just got out of my first Latin class, and umm hermm it was ok? I had stupidly drank an espresso coffee right before, so I am currently in the midst of lovely heartburn and the shakes. Bad Jen. Prof seemed amusing, but the fellow students seem to be um, hyper? Obnoxious? Both? Not all, but most. Especially a couple who would not stop talking as the prof was discussing syllabus. Not cool dudes, especially in class of ohh 10? SHUT UP! I needs to hear!! ::deep breaths:: Nor so I want to hear about how amaaaazing you are. Was I this bad at their age? Probably, and I shall cut them some slack as I am the senior member of the class. And probably the stupidest. Durh. Anyhoo, so freaking glad it's almost Friday, cannot wait to sit on my ass and do NOTHING. Latin will be conquered.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
I applied for graduation today. Only about 1.5 years after I was supposed to get that "all-important" sheepskin. Except, I don't think it's important anymore. The hassle and annoyance and expense of college has not been worth it. Do I feel it's important to have an education? Duh! But...I feel no sense of relief, no pride in what I've accomplished. Trying to graduate has taken up so much of my energy and emotions that it just feels numb at this point. And I don't even know if I'll pass Latin! I'll try my best, I always do...but I just don't care anymore. If it doesn't happen this semester, then I'm dropping out. These days, people are being told to leave their degrees of their resumes anyways. Screw it. I have a good head on my shoulders (mmm braaaaaains!...sorry, couldnt resist) and I'll be fine. I've got my honey, I've got a good work history, and I will have a good life, with or without that stupid 24K worth of debt degree. SO THERE!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Lame blog
I really am pathetic at this blogging thing. When I was younger, I was constantly on my Xanga (throwback!) writing little rants about how unfair life was, and feeling rebellious (but maaa, why can't I go to a bar with a strange man?!). Now, my life is boring, and I have more common sense now...i.e. writing TMI on a public page is really not in the best interests of my future.
So. lame. blog.
There are roughly three weeks left until I start my Latin class. I've been squeezing in study time, and am still nowhere near where I need to be. I'm terrified. What if I don't pass?! Thousands upon thousands of stupider than me college kids do it every year! Why is this one damn class tripping me up?! Ugh. And yes, I realize that that may be the TMI I was previously speaking of. ::pbbttt:: So there.
Matt is comforting, though. If I don't graduate, or find a well paying job, I don't THINK he will be disappointed. Oh, right. yes he will. But he's a good enough guy to pretend that he looves taking care of me and paying for things. :p I need to stop panicing. That will just throw me into super lockdown not able to do anything mode, and no one wants that.
Oh, right. This is boring to you, yes? Well, my life is boring. OOOH but I did make an awesome dinner last night! I had vowed to try out some new recipes, and last night was stuffed mushrooms and baked pasta shells with broccoli and green beans. The pasta ended up being a glorified Velveeta, but was still not bad, and Matt really liked the mushrooms! Success! :) I'll put some pictures up when I get back home. Next up is some cheese ravioli with spinach, and mebbe some biscuits....Matt made some amazing quesadillas on Sat night, OMG can that man make Mexican! Happy belly!
I really do wish I had more interesting things to say, but being somewhat estranged from the majority of my family, I have no interesting tidbits on that front, and frankly, M&I do not have the money to do interesting things. Can we say 20$ til Friday!
OH RIGHT!!! This weekend is the Bayer family reunion in Round Rock at M's aunt and uncle's house. TERRIFIED. I have met a couple members of his mother's side, as well as his brother and sister + niece and nephews.. but I have yet to meet anyone on his dad's side. Apparently this is the "normal" side? Which just terrifies me more because I am not what you call normal, and am just freaking out unnecessarily. I doubt they even want me there, but Matt insists because I'm his "family" (awww). I'm sure it will be fine. SURE. I'm making a cake! ....that I've never attempted before.... Let's cross our fingers that it doesn't poison everyone. I hope it will be ok. I hate meeting people. and I'm chubby. Unrelated maybe, but not to me!
OK, done. Lame little blog.
So. lame. blog.
There are roughly three weeks left until I start my Latin class. I've been squeezing in study time, and am still nowhere near where I need to be. I'm terrified. What if I don't pass?! Thousands upon thousands of stupider than me college kids do it every year! Why is this one damn class tripping me up?! Ugh. And yes, I realize that that may be the TMI I was previously speaking of. ::pbbttt:: So there.
Matt is comforting, though. If I don't graduate, or find a well paying job, I don't THINK he will be disappointed. Oh, right. yes he will. But he's a good enough guy to pretend that he looves taking care of me and paying for things. :p I need to stop panicing. That will just throw me into super lockdown not able to do anything mode, and no one wants that.
Oh, right. This is boring to you, yes? Well, my life is boring. OOOH but I did make an awesome dinner last night! I had vowed to try out some new recipes, and last night was stuffed mushrooms and baked pasta shells with broccoli and green beans. The pasta ended up being a glorified Velveeta, but was still not bad, and Matt really liked the mushrooms! Success! :) I'll put some pictures up when I get back home. Next up is some cheese ravioli with spinach, and mebbe some biscuits....Matt made some amazing quesadillas on Sat night, OMG can that man make Mexican! Happy belly!
I really do wish I had more interesting things to say, but being somewhat estranged from the majority of my family, I have no interesting tidbits on that front, and frankly, M&I do not have the money to do interesting things. Can we say 20$ til Friday!
OH RIGHT!!! This weekend is the Bayer family reunion in Round Rock at M's aunt and uncle's house. TERRIFIED. I have met a couple members of his mother's side, as well as his brother and sister + niece and nephews.. but I have yet to meet anyone on his dad's side. Apparently this is the "normal" side? Which just terrifies me more because I am not what you call normal, and am just freaking out unnecessarily. I doubt they even want me there, but Matt insists because I'm his "family" (awww). I'm sure it will be fine. SURE. I'm making a cake! ....that I've never attempted before.... Let's cross our fingers that it doesn't poison everyone. I hope it will be ok. I hate meeting people. and I'm chubby. Unrelated maybe, but not to me!
OK, done. Lame little blog.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
My favorite things...
This blog has never been anything resembling a theme. For the most part, it's me ranting or complaining or even occasionally happily burbling about my life. I've never really aspired to be one of the "writer" bloggers, or whatever you would call them. I don't have a cause, nothing interesting really happens to me, and I'm not clever. That being said, I thought I'd share some of the things that are making me smile lately, and what I think about them. I'd love to update this more often with book reviews, things I've cooked that were yummy, etc. We'll see if that happens.
First off, I have been searching for new science fiction/fantasy writers to sink my teeth into. I think I've discovered my new favorite. Terry Pratchett has apparently been writing books constantly for the last couple of decades, and I somehow managed to look the amazing Discworld series for all this time. Shame! My library had a smattering of his books, so I picked one at random and went with it, this being the novel Going Postal.
It is essentially about a crook saved from the hangman's noose by a dictator and ordered to run the decrepit post office. ::crickets chirping:: Sounds a bit boring eh? Well how about letters that come to life, a man obsessed with collecting pins, and clay golems fighting for their freedom? No? Well, then we just can't be friends. The book is hilarious, and is exactly the kind of tongue in cheek humor that I enjoy. I highly recommend the Discworld novels, and I myself plan on looking for as many as I can. Before you start worrying about starting at book one, I think going postal was oh, #33 or so, and I read it with no confusion at all.
On to video games. As you may or may not have gathered, the BF and I are pretty serious gamers. Most of our leftover money each month goes towards a new video game, be it a brand new PS3 title or an old NES copy of Startropics. One game we both absolutely adore is Fallout 3.
I have never been a huge fan of first person shooters. I used to be. Halo used to be my game of choice, and I loved watching my dad play Doom (wayyyy back when). However, I've mellowed a bit, and enjoy a good drink with my video games. This does not mesh well with frantic running and shooting. Hence, Fallout, a game that at first glance is FPS, but is so leisurely to play that you forget about that quickly. And by leisurely, yes, I mean easy. It's one of the only games I have beaten, and without much difficulty. However, it's got a great story, and although you may get tired of the endless gray and brown landscape, the quests are super interesting and it's fun to just roam around shooting at crap and discovering new places. The overall feel of a 50s paradise gone bad is pretty interesting as well. If a well done quest-based FPS is your cup of tea, then Fallout 3 should be where you head. And Fallout: New Vegas comes out in October! YAY! And it looks more colorful! :)
I could say quite a bit more on this , and I may at some point devote an entire entry just to this game. But for now....
That's all folks!
First off, I have been searching for new science fiction/fantasy writers to sink my teeth into. I think I've discovered my new favorite. Terry Pratchett has apparently been writing books constantly for the last couple of decades, and I somehow managed to look the amazing Discworld series for all this time. Shame! My library had a smattering of his books, so I picked one at random and went with it, this being the novel Going Postal.
It is essentially about a crook saved from the hangman's noose by a dictator and ordered to run the decrepit post office. ::crickets chirping:: Sounds a bit boring eh? Well how about letters that come to life, a man obsessed with collecting pins, and clay golems fighting for their freedom? No? Well, then we just can't be friends. The book is hilarious, and is exactly the kind of tongue in cheek humor that I enjoy. I highly recommend the Discworld novels, and I myself plan on looking for as many as I can. Before you start worrying about starting at book one, I think going postal was oh, #33 or so, and I read it with no confusion at all.
On to video games. As you may or may not have gathered, the BF and I are pretty serious gamers. Most of our leftover money each month goes towards a new video game, be it a brand new PS3 title or an old NES copy of Startropics. One game we both absolutely adore is Fallout 3.
I have never been a huge fan of first person shooters. I used to be. Halo used to be my game of choice, and I loved watching my dad play Doom (wayyyy back when). However, I've mellowed a bit, and enjoy a good drink with my video games. This does not mesh well with frantic running and shooting. Hence, Fallout, a game that at first glance is FPS, but is so leisurely to play that you forget about that quickly. And by leisurely, yes, I mean easy. It's one of the only games I have beaten, and without much difficulty. However, it's got a great story, and although you may get tired of the endless gray and brown landscape, the quests are super interesting and it's fun to just roam around shooting at crap and discovering new places. The overall feel of a 50s paradise gone bad is pretty interesting as well. If a well done quest-based FPS is your cup of tea, then Fallout 3 should be where you head. And Fallout: New Vegas comes out in October! YAY! And it looks more colorful! :)
I could say quite a bit more on this , and I may at some point devote an entire entry just to this game. But for now....
That's all folks!
Friday, July 16, 2010
I should be in the shower
Instead, I'm sitting on my butt because the air up here is fairly cool and I just don't feel like moving. So there.
Anyhoo, life. Such as it is.
On Monday about 1am I woke up completely unable to breathe, freaking out etc. Lasted about 15-20 seconds and then for an hour afterwards I was feeling poorly. Went to the doctor on Tuesday and was told that this is due to the really bad acid reflux that I've had since elementary school. Kinda scary that heartburn can stop your breathing!! Anyways, he ordered me to cut down or entirely stop drinking soda and alcohol, and lose at least 10 pounds. Sigh. Erg. Bleh. Soda and I are BFFLs. Vodka and I are also BFFs. This was not happy news to me, BUT the fact that it is entirely controllable and fixable made the changes seem not too bad. Therefore, for the last few days, I have cut down to 2-3 sodas a day (this is a SIGNIFICANT decrease) and only one alcoholic drink a night. I've also been eating healthier, with a V8 for breakfast and reduced/healthier portions throughout the day.
I already feel so much better. Aside from being tired at work. But besides that, I haven't had a bad headache in two days, and NO heartburn! Hooray! It's awesome. I don't feel skinnier yet though :p It really is amazing what little changes can do to how you feel. I'm going to keep this up, because I would much rather drink less fizzy/alcoholic drinks and eat less ice cream than have daily headaches and feel awful.
Matt, however, is going to have to stop eating ice cream in front of me, or I may steal it and run away...
Anyhoo, life. Such as it is.
On Monday about 1am I woke up completely unable to breathe, freaking out etc. Lasted about 15-20 seconds and then for an hour afterwards I was feeling poorly. Went to the doctor on Tuesday and was told that this is due to the really bad acid reflux that I've had since elementary school. Kinda scary that heartburn can stop your breathing!! Anyways, he ordered me to cut down or entirely stop drinking soda and alcohol, and lose at least 10 pounds. Sigh. Erg. Bleh. Soda and I are BFFLs. Vodka and I are also BFFs. This was not happy news to me, BUT the fact that it is entirely controllable and fixable made the changes seem not too bad. Therefore, for the last few days, I have cut down to 2-3 sodas a day (this is a SIGNIFICANT decrease) and only one alcoholic drink a night. I've also been eating healthier, with a V8 for breakfast and reduced/healthier portions throughout the day.
I already feel so much better. Aside from being tired at work. But besides that, I haven't had a bad headache in two days, and NO heartburn! Hooray! It's awesome. I don't feel skinnier yet though :p It really is amazing what little changes can do to how you feel. I'm going to keep this up, because I would much rather drink less fizzy/alcoholic drinks and eat less ice cream than have daily headaches and feel awful.
Matt, however, is going to have to stop eating ice cream in front of me, or I may steal it and run away...
Friday, June 18, 2010
Monday, June 7, 2010
Oops it's been a while
Gosh, I haven't posted in forever.
Here's the short version
Started new job
Hated new job
Quit new job
Found 'new' new job
Like 'new' new job
:p
Long version:
I started at the courthouse expecting to like it. After all, it paid well, had good benefits, and seemed like a pretty easy job. For the most part, it was easy. Stupid easy. Monkey could do my job easy. As for the secretarial part, my boss was never there. As in would stop in once a week for half an hour to drop mounds of paperwork on my desk, then leave. And I had to tell every person that called that I had no clue when he would be getting back to them. It was ridiculous. That on top of a very negative atmosphere led to me usually coming home exhausted and pissed off. I tried to be positive, but the whole place just reeked of bitchyness and lawyer assholes, and ugh! It was awful! I agonized over my decision to leave though. After all, where was I gonna find another full time job?? After talking it over with Matt and thinking, I decided it wasn't worth it. So I left!
And I'm SO FREAKIN GLAD I DID!!
I am now working in the Media Resources department of the College of Veterinary Medicine at A&M. It's a very low key place where the people are friendly and the hours are good. I'm working full time this week, but usually it's just 8-1. So no, I'm not making as much money. However, i have time to do errands, to clean, to relax(!!) and I come home in a much better mood. Matt and I have both benefitted ;)
Other than the job front, things are great! Matt and I just celebrated our 6-month anniversary with a lovely dinner out, and Matt helped me plan a family outing for my 23rd birthday yesterday. My dad finally met his parents and I think (hope!!) it went well. I think it did. I hope. I have no idea. lol! Anyways, my mom and sisters didn't want to come, which was disappointing, but hopefully at some point they will be able to meet his family, who I really enjoy.
Our apartment is great as well, other than some problems with the a/c. And the fact that I just bleached the carpets orange. ORANGE! YIKES!!! hopefully Matt doesn't hit the roof when he comes home....
All in all, things are wonderful. I've registered for latin in the fall, and have begun to get materials together for study, so cross your fingers I can graduate in December!!
Here's the short version
Started new job
Hated new job
Quit new job
Found 'new' new job
Like 'new' new job
:p
Long version:
I started at the courthouse expecting to like it. After all, it paid well, had good benefits, and seemed like a pretty easy job. For the most part, it was easy. Stupid easy. Monkey could do my job easy. As for the secretarial part, my boss was never there. As in would stop in once a week for half an hour to drop mounds of paperwork on my desk, then leave. And I had to tell every person that called that I had no clue when he would be getting back to them. It was ridiculous. That on top of a very negative atmosphere led to me usually coming home exhausted and pissed off. I tried to be positive, but the whole place just reeked of bitchyness and lawyer assholes, and ugh! It was awful! I agonized over my decision to leave though. After all, where was I gonna find another full time job?? After talking it over with Matt and thinking, I decided it wasn't worth it. So I left!
And I'm SO FREAKIN GLAD I DID!!
I am now working in the Media Resources department of the College of Veterinary Medicine at A&M. It's a very low key place where the people are friendly and the hours are good. I'm working full time this week, but usually it's just 8-1. So no, I'm not making as much money. However, i have time to do errands, to clean, to relax(!!) and I come home in a much better mood. Matt and I have both benefitted ;)
Other than the job front, things are great! Matt and I just celebrated our 6-month anniversary with a lovely dinner out, and Matt helped me plan a family outing for my 23rd birthday yesterday. My dad finally met his parents and I think (hope!!) it went well. I think it did. I hope. I have no idea. lol! Anyways, my mom and sisters didn't want to come, which was disappointing, but hopefully at some point they will be able to meet his family, who I really enjoy.
Our apartment is great as well, other than some problems with the a/c. And the fact that I just bleached the carpets orange. ORANGE! YIKES!!! hopefully Matt doesn't hit the roof when he comes home....
All in all, things are wonderful. I've registered for latin in the fall, and have begun to get materials together for study, so cross your fingers I can graduate in December!!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Yay!
::drumroll::
I got a job! Hoorah! :)
As my many (two) readers know, I have been on the hunt for new employment for quite some time. It was a combination of factors. My job at the library did not have any opportunity for advancement, the hours were not conducive to my happy home life, and I didn't make enough money to feel like an equal partner in my relationship. I have nothing against the job, it's great for students, and the bosses are wonderful. It just wasn't a good match anymore. Therefore, back in February or so, I started to look. Many MANY applications and several interviews later, I finally received an offer!
::drumroll no.2::
My new position is as a Legal Assistant at the Brazos County Attorney's Office! The great thing about this job is that it is in the field that I am interested in. I had planned on doing a paralegal program at some point, but this is a great way to see if I'm interested in this as a career without having to pay for classes just yet. And it's in the courthouse! So important! At least, I like to think so. The money is good (I'm making as much as Matt, so no problem feeling equal now!!) and the hours are even better: a normal 8-5 job! Yay! My duties are going to include some secretarial work, such as phones, etc, but I'm also going to be preparing dockets for trial and editing tapes to show to juries. Sometime this week I'm going to go to old job at library where we have the movie editing software I will be using. Want to get a leg up on the job duties, ya know?
Obviously, I'm excited. I finally feel like I'm going somewhere. I've been stuck in such a bad rut for so long, it's wonderful to feel like I'm actually growing up. I have my last few days at work this week, and then it's off to the new job on the 19th! I'm pretty scared. New people and new situations = running away. :p Matt is being nice and supportive, which is helping.
Can't wait to start bringing in the bacon!!
I got a job! Hoorah! :)
As my many (two) readers know, I have been on the hunt for new employment for quite some time. It was a combination of factors. My job at the library did not have any opportunity for advancement, the hours were not conducive to my happy home life, and I didn't make enough money to feel like an equal partner in my relationship. I have nothing against the job, it's great for students, and the bosses are wonderful. It just wasn't a good match anymore. Therefore, back in February or so, I started to look. Many MANY applications and several interviews later, I finally received an offer!
::drumroll no.2::
My new position is as a Legal Assistant at the Brazos County Attorney's Office! The great thing about this job is that it is in the field that I am interested in. I had planned on doing a paralegal program at some point, but this is a great way to see if I'm interested in this as a career without having to pay for classes just yet. And it's in the courthouse! So important! At least, I like to think so. The money is good (I'm making as much as Matt, so no problem feeling equal now!!) and the hours are even better: a normal 8-5 job! Yay! My duties are going to include some secretarial work, such as phones, etc, but I'm also going to be preparing dockets for trial and editing tapes to show to juries. Sometime this week I'm going to go to old job at library where we have the movie editing software I will be using. Want to get a leg up on the job duties, ya know?
Obviously, I'm excited. I finally feel like I'm going somewhere. I've been stuck in such a bad rut for so long, it's wonderful to feel like I'm actually growing up. I have my last few days at work this week, and then it's off to the new job on the 19th! I'm pretty scared. New people and new situations = running away. :p Matt is being nice and supportive, which is helping.
Can't wait to start bringing in the bacon!!
