Clumsy Me, Oddity!

Our London Trip - POST 5

2011-06-29T12:41:00.009-05:00

All over London there were these cute little pubs. I am a huge pub fan! I'd take a pub over a bar any day! This is me going into one of those really cute pubs :) This is the inside of the pub - see how cute they are?? See why I am such a big fan!?! I loved them! They were all so unique.This is Kings Cross Train Station (they are getting ready to host the 2012 Olympics, which is why the rings are there - very cool to see!). If you know ANYTHING about Harry Potter, you know they come here to get to the Hogwarts Express Train...

Which is why I had to stop off at Platform 9 3/4!!! Unfortunately, the Hogwarts Express was not waiting for me on the other side...

Chris' sister told us about a new restaurant that had been featured on the Apprentice Show called The Circus, so Chris made reservations. In the middle of dinner, they would have these performers come out about every 30 minutes and put on an act. It was really entertaining!! I've never been to a restaurant like that before! Here's a sample: The bathrooms were so neat! This is the place you wash your hands - there is a sensor when you put your hand underneath the arrow (see it on the white side?) and water would come down the from the ceiling!! It was so cool, I had to take a picture! It took me a while to figure out how to wash my hands at first... and the hand dryer was the same way!

When we found out the dates we would be visiting London, Chris bought tickets for us to see Dirty Dancing! This show was SO amazing!!! I loved every second of it!! The actors danced, sang and portrayed the characters perfectly! He got us GREAT seats! This was taken without a zoom!

The final post will be coming soon!

Our London Trip - POST 4

2011-06-27T14:20:00.013-05:00

We took a boat ride on the River Thames to the Tower of London - Me on the boat :) The Wobbly Bridge - they used this bridge in the last HP movie - the dementors destroyed it.
Tower Bridge

Tower of London - this was my favorite place we toured

Traitors Gate - Chris told me a story about this gate... they would attach people to this gate and let the tide come in and drown them... when the tide went down, they left your body for the rats to eat... Guess they take traitors pretty seriously!!

Tower of London - The Torture Dungeon - this was a torture device that strapped you down and stretched you out.

Where they Keep the Crowned Jewels! We were able to tour the Crowned Jewels as well (no pictures allowed) - they were STUNNING! We were able to get so close to them... I wanted to take all of them home!

I am standing where Queen Anne Boleyn was beheaded

St. Paul's Cathedral - a magnificent building

Absolutely beautiful

Everything is so detailed. It's amazing to look at.

Post 5 Coming Soon!!!

Our London Trip - POST 3

2011-06-25T08:00:00.020-05:00

This was a VERY busy touring day for us!
Parliament and Big Ben

London Eye Westminster Abbey

The sites and history here were AMAZING! The ceiling was beautifulTa-Da!!! THE Alter William and Kate were just married at! Downing Street St James’ Palace St. James’ Park On Route to Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace We took a break at a cute little pub On a Double Decker Bus!! (that I thought was made up just for Harry Potter!) Piccadilly China Town And ended our day with some Champagne Bellini’s at the Oxo Tower. Those Bellini’s were AMAZING!!

Post 4 to come soon!!!

Our London Trip - POST 2

2011-06-24T07:39:00.019-05:00

Chris left early in the morning for his Visa interview at the embassy. I was meeting his Dad at the Royal Opera House a couple hours later, so I had to take my first ever train all by myself!!! His mom was kind enough to walk me to the platform and wait with me until the train came. My stop was the last one, so I couldn’t really mess it up… then I grabbed a taxi from Waterloo Station and off I went!

The Royal Opera House was so beautiful! I was so happy to have this private tour! Chris finished early with his interview and was able to come along as well.

The entire place was so pretty
I was in love with these chandeliers

We went to the Sarastro Restaurant for a cup of coffee with his Dad afterwards, and this place was like no other restaurant I had ever seen!!See what I mean??

Then we saw some school kids who asked us to answer a few questions for an assignment, and I couldn’t resist taking a picture with them! They looked so cute in their uniforms!

At lunch, Chris’ Dad ordered an ‘American Sized’ Tiramisu for me – YUM!

Then Chris and I went off to Hampton Court Palace!! It was so beautiful and HUGE!!!

The Chapel Royal

The Ceiling in the Chapel was gorgeous!

Just so you can get a feel for how huge this Palace is....

Chris and I thought it would be fun to do the Maze in the Gardens
I found our way to the center! Yay!!!

We grabbed a snack at The Albany Riverside Pub & Eating House. It was so delicious!

There were rowers practicing – it was pretty neat to watch them.

That night we hung out with Natalie and Dan again. We did facetime with my sister and decided to dress the part – Introducing the next King and Queen of England!!

Post 3 will be coming soon!!!

Our London Trip - POST 1

2011-06-23T09:48:00.011-05:00

I am going to break down the London Trip into a couple different posts being that I have so many pictures!! I had such a GREAT time in London. I loved the history, the buildings, the pubs, everything about it - but mostly I loved meeting Chris' family and seeing where he grew up. So here goes Post #1...

When we landed we picked up our hire car (a rental as Americans call it). It was a cute little BMW 1 Series – and it seems everyone in London drives a hatchback!!! We went to visit Chris’ two adorable nephews, Lewis and Oliver, at his sister, Natalie, and BIL, Dan’s House. They quickly learned about my Harry Potter obsession and told me they had a cupboard under the stairs!! I of course had to take a picture in it! (for those who don't know, Harry Potter grew up in a cupboard under the stairs.) The next morning we met Natalie and Dan at Feedwell Cafe (pronounced caff). Apparently there is a difference – a cafe is not as ‘nice’ as a café, and Chris wanted me to experience what a true English cafe was. We had a traditional English breakfast (that I forgot to take a picture of!), and then went on our way to Kingston – which is kinda like a shopping mall.

The popular coffee house is Costa – look how cute our coffees were! I had the heart mocha : ) One of our missions in Kingston was to purchase a hair straightener for me (needed the European plug). It was raining that day, so we were walking outside the shopping center to Boots (like our Walgreens), when Chris suggested we jump into a store really quick to dry off… little did I know we were walking into Links of London (its like the American equivalent to Tiffany’s). He had planned on taking this little detour so that we would end up at this store. He had me pick out a bracelet I wanted, and bought it for me – what a romantic!!! He said he wanted me to have a nice London gift. He spoils me (but you won’t hear me complain!). On our way back we passed by the school he went to growing up! That night his Mom prepared a yummy traditional English dinner! It was my first time to try Yorkshire Pudding, and I loved it! Post 2 (and the touring pics) will be coming soon!

California Getaway

2011-05-24T08:51:00.003-05:00

Chris has proven he is very spontaneous on many occasions. Naturally, when I received a text from him asking if we had anything planned for a specific weekend in a few months, I knew he was up to something. Finally, the third weekend he asked about was empty. About 45 minutes later, I receive a text instructing me to check my facebook…

This is what I read:

What a romantic! - It looks like we will be heading to California and cruising along the Pacific Highway in a convertible! WOOHOO!!!

San Antonio Visit

2011-05-23T09:02:00.006-05:00

This past week, Chris' Dad and Stepmom came to Texas for the very first time! Chris wanted to show them some Texas history, so we went to San Antonio and visited the Alamo. I couldn't remember the last time I had toured the Alamo, so it was a treat for me as well!

Remember the Alamo!! I Shall Never Surrender or Retreat!Chris with his Dad and Stepmom

Me and Chris
We also took a boat tour, walked along the banks, and had lunch and dinner on the Riverwalk the day before. I think its safe to say we all had a wonderful time in San Antonio :)

5K Obstacle Course Mud Run

2011-05-20T12:35:00.004-05:00

Groupon was having a 50% off registration fee to Boondock Battle, a 5K obstacle course mud run, so I checked it out and thought it would be SO much fun!! I immediately contacted my friend Emily who ran with me in a 10K Beach run last year, as well as the 5K Turkey Trot. She thought it sounded like a blast as well, so we signed up!

This was my very first obstacle course to run. I had the best intensions on training for it, however the week that I was supposed to start a crossfit training class; I had a flare up In my eye and was on doctors’ orders not to do anything strenuous. Then after about 2 weeks, I forgot… so I completed the Boondock Battle without training… but it was not easy, and I paid for it – and I was not able to run the whole time… but nonetheless, Em and I had a lot of fun!!!

The pictures crack me up! The camera was at the very end, where they have a HUGE mud slide. Em and I asked if we could together, which they should have told us no! We ended up colliding and it did not feel all that wonderful – but again, it was fun!

Em and I coming down the mud slide:

Hitting the water at the end:Trying to get out of the mud pit: After I finished the whole course: We both agreed we will do it again next year (and I will actually train for it), and that we want to get a big group together to run it with us.
We are now signed up for the Beach Palooza in September with a large group, which is a 5K Obstacle Course on the beach in Galveston. And I fully intend to train for that one as well!

Thursday Thirteen: Vacations

2011-04-21T03:00:00.002-05:00

Thirteen Places I have Vacationed:

1 – Orlando, FL

2 – Winter Park, CO

3 – Folly Beach, SC

4 – Lake Charles, LA

5 – New York City

6 – Lincoln, NB

7 – Las Vegas

8 – Miami, FL

9 – Shreveport, LA

10 – Casper, WY

11 – New Orleans, LA

12 – Cancun, MX

13 – I combined all my Texas Cities: San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Galveston, Longview, Freeport, Lubbock, Conroe, Fredericksburg, Port Alto

My Newest Addiction: Shellac

2011-04-20T11:47:00.005-05:00

I am amazed...

I never get manicures because the polish chips and peels the very next day, so I feel its a waste of money unless it was for a specific occasion.

I recently experienced Shellac Nails for the first time - and I am hooked!!! I had them done on Saturday, and they still look flawless today (4 days later). They are supposed to last 2 weeks!! They run around the same price as fake acrylic nails do, however these don't tear up your nails (in fact, they make them stronger). It's a special Gel Polish that require UV light to dry. It takes about 15 minutes longer to do, but when you leave the salon, they are completely dry! Say goodbye to struggling to get out your credit card from your wallet, going to the bathroom, or touching anything after you leave the salon!!! The only downside is they do not have a wide variety of colors to choose from. They have only been out about a year, so I am sure they will get more colors as it gains popularity.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T03:00:00.001-05:00

Due to a recent eye scare, I have been on a new medication that makes food taste differently... although I haven't really noticed it in food - I have in drinks. My all-time FAVORITE drink is Cherry Coke Zero - I would drink it daily! After one dose of my medication, I took a sip and was disgusted... turns out, its ANY carbonated drink (including beer!!).

I saw the FUZE drinks in the deli downstairs at my work, so decided to try it... Oh my goodness - I have found a NEW favorite drink!!! I love this thing! It is SO tasty! I haven't tried any other flavors, but this one is amazing... after I'm off the medication, it's going to be a toss up between Cherry Coke Zero and FUZE..... I am thinking I should start calling these Wordfull Wednesday's instead. Turns out, I don't know how to be Wordless...

Muggle Monday's

2011-04-11T13:12:00.004-05:00

It's been quite a while since I have done a Muggle Monday, but seeing as I just went to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter this past weekend, I thought I should share a picture taken from my favorite ride there - the Forbidden Journey. Absolutely AMAZING! I had the best time there - the park far surpassed my expectations - I will post more about the trip later :)

Happy Monday!

My 5 Dream Vacations

2011-04-08T03:00:00.001-05:00

Have you ever thought about 5 vacations you would like to go on? Without thinking about how much time off work you’d need, or how much money it will cost, but just 5 dream vacations…

Usually when someone mentions a place I think ‘oh, that sounds cool’ or ‘I want to go there!’ but trying to narrow it down to 5, is actually really hard… and then putting them in order? It took me days!! So here is my list of 5 dream vacations… (and the orders of 2,3,4 are subject to change). 1 – Italy:

Truthfully, this one was the easiest one for me and the one I was most certain was not only going to be ON my list, but #1 on my list…

2 – Bora-Bora:

From all the pictures online, I don’t think I have ever seen a more relaxing, more beautiful place!! It’s so remote and gorgeous! Talk about a dream!

3- Greek Islands:

I think it would be amazing to rent a house and go sailing to the different islands there… The sights you would see would be absolutely breathtaking!

4- Cape Town:

I had always heard great things about this place but it wasn’t until I saw it on this past season of the Bachelor that I was completely sold on it! It was beautiful and adventurous! You can’t get much better than having a vacation incorporate both romance and fun!

5- Ireland:

Ever since the movie PS I Love You, I have wanted to visit this place. The sights are amazing, I think I would spend a lot of my nights in a local Pub listening to a live band, drinking beer, and soaking up all those Irish accents!

Happy 7th Birthday, Vito!!

2011-04-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

Today, my sweet angel is 7 years old!!! I am so sad that he is growing up so quickly... it seems like only yesterday he was a little puppy jumping through the grass....

Vito the day I brought him home....

I knew I wanted a dog, but Vito is not what I had in mind... I wanted a white, fluffy, girl dog. I made an appointment with a breeder to see a Malti-Poo (part Maltese, part Poodle), but before I left work that day, Vito's breeder sent me a picture of him. I instantly fell in love with his face. I went to look at the Malti-Poo, my Mom was with me telling me to take her home... but my heart was taken by a sweet, black and white, long-haired, boy, Chihuahua... So that Saturday (June 12, 2004), I went with my Dad and little sister to pick him up in Lake Jackson. He was every bit as cute in person that he was online... After I paid for him, and the doggie necessities from Petsmart, I literally had $30 in my bank account... Was I financially ready for a dog? Probably not, but I wouldn't trade him for the world!!!!

It was love at first site for him too... Now my baby is all grown up, yet he still acts like a puppy!! He has also mastered the art of working his 'puppy dog' eyes... He's a little Prince :) He still likes to test his Mom though.. this past weekend he was trying to chase a person riding a bike, when he got his dew claw caught in the chicken wire... OUCH! Again, he put a little dent in my checkbook, but he is worth every cent I have ever spent on him. He is the most handsome little guy ever!

Happy Birthday Vito!!!!!

Bachelor #4... Interrupted

2011-04-07T03:00:00.002-05:00

Obviously from these dates, I was a little disappointed and discouraged… but I still had a date setup for Bachelor #4. I wanted to continue to put myself out there, and I told Danielle I would take it seriously…

Then I got a call from my cousin Valerie. She had received an email from Chris who noticed me from a comment I had made on her facebook status. She told me to look at his pictures and see if I would be interested in meeting him. Um, YES! He was super cute and had the most gorgeous blue eyes ever. Val told me he was a fun guy and that he was originally from London and had an accent (extra bonus!). I couldn’t wait to meet him! The next week, Valerie set up a group Happy Hour. The rest is pretty much history! I was so smitten by him the first night I met him, that before I even heard from Chris the next day, I canceled the date with Bachelor #4… So I guess its a good thing he called for date #2!!! Since then, things have been going great!!

Here's a picture of us at my cousin's wedding :) Sorry Bachelor #4 – no date for you either… I'm off the market :)

Bachelor #3

2011-04-06T03:00:00.001-05:00

Bachelor #3:

This entry won’t be that interesting because he was completely normal and his pictures even looked like him! He might have been a tad misleading on his height, but oh well… I ended up going on 3 dates with Bachelor #3 and even met some of his friends and really liked them, however I just didn’t feel that ‘spark’. I am really big on chemistry! Its either there or its not, and after 3 dates, if its not there, its not coming… so I ended it…

But I would still like to entertain you guys, so I will show you a guy I was ‘matched’ with (well his profile) I'm not kidding - this guy looked almost identical to Creepy Thin Man on Charlies Angels!! That was an easy one to weed out!

Stop by tomorrow for another story!!!

Bachelor #2

2011-04-05T03:00:00.001-05:00

Bachelor #2: He was extremely good looking in his pictures, had a great job, grew up in Katy, etc – everything sounded great! We began talking on the phone and texting a lot. I quickly learned that he was a fitness fanatic (going to the gym twice a day was normal for him), a health nut (who goes to Fuddruckers, orders a salad, and brags about it??), and didn’t like to drink. He would go out and maybe have a drink or two, but he never got buzzed, never drunk, was always the DD, and said he didn’t like the calories from the alcohol… ok buddy… that’s so not going to work for me.

I can deal with the working out and health nut, I can tease you about those things… but the no drinking? No thank you! I enjoy having a glass of wine after work, and I don’t want to drink alone all the time, I don’t want to go out and constantly think about how many drinks am I consuming because I know he is completely sober, I want to get buzzed together… I don’t know if that makes me sound like an alcoholic, but I enjoy movie and wine night… and I would like to enjoy that WITH someone. It just doesn’t fit in my life style… This guy was a stick in the mud!

Sorry Bachelor #2 – You don’t even get a first date!

Stop by tomorrow for Bachelor #3!!

Bachelor #1

2011-04-04T03:00:00.001-05:00

I had been single for quite some time so my friend Danielle said she was going to register me on an online dating site… She did everything, paid for it, created my profile, etc. I told her I would take it seriously and go out on these dates and meet the guys… well, if anything, I have some pretty funny blog entries for you! I am not going to post pictures, use names, or say which site I was registered on. But I am going to share with you some of my experiences…

Bachelor #1:

I had spoken to him on the phone for over 2 hours before we met and seemed to have an interest in each other… so I agreed to meet for my very first Internet dating experience…

He was nervous that he was running late so he literally RAN to the restaurant. I was already there seeing as I am always punctual… so my first impression of Bachelor #1 is completely awful. He is DRIPPING sweat – I mean it is seeping through his shirt, he is constantly wiping his forehead, it’s coming out of his sideburns… it was disgusting. He was like that for about 5 minutes before he excused himself to the bathroom to ‘dry off.’ I was trying to stay positive and continue on the date. He stayed dry the rest of the date (thank goodness).

I could probably write an entire book on this guy and he could maybe manage a paragraph on me… a conversation went something like “Vito is my dog, he’s a long-haired Chihuahua” “Oh Chihuahua’s blah blah” and it was like that pretty much the whole date… I guess he felt comfortable with me because he proceeded to tell me about when he was in college, he bought a fancy printer and made fake ID’s and sold them. He got in trouble with the Government about it, and told me all about how he managed to legally get out of it…. Maybe a little much for a first date?

Sorry Bachelor #1 – you don’t get a second date…

Stop by tomorrow for Bachelor #2!!

Day 30 of 30

2011-04-01T03:00:00.006-05:00

Day 30:

A Photograph of Yourself Today + Three Good Things That Have Happened In The Past 30 Days

Photograph:

Top of the Morning to Ya!!

I start work at 6:30a.m. so this picture was taken WAY too early!! (and if you look to the right, you will see a beautiful arrangement of flowers that were delivered to me earlier this week! aww!!! )

Three Good Things:

1 - My cousin Angela married Chris - The wedding was a blast, I was so happy to be a bridesmaid and stand up for her. My family has thought of Chris as part of our family for so long, its nice to have it official! They are on their honeymoon right now, and I'm sure loving every second of it! Congrats you two!!!2 - In exactly one week from TODAY, I am going with my boyfriend Chris (yes, I said boyfriend - maybe that should have been my #2??) to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!! I can hardly contain my excitement!!! Everyone knows this is one of my DREAMS, and I cannot believe we get to go!!!

3 - If you aren't into Harry Potter and think I'm just a crazy fan, maybe you will like my #3... Chris is from London (yes, he has the super cute accent and all), and he is taking me with him at the end of this month to meet his family!!! We are thinking of possibly sneaking off for a day and take a train to Paris as well :)

So there you have it! I completed the 30 Day Blog Challenge!!! I really enjoyed it, so although I won't be blogging every single day anymore, I am hoping to at least get back into the swing of things :)

Day 29 of 30

2011-03-31T03:00:00.000-05:00

Day 29 of 30:

Something You Could Never Get Tired Of Doing

Although I don't take them as often as I like... one my absolute favorite things is taking a bubble bath with a glass of champaign in my hand. It is so relaxing, I could sit in a tub until I get all wrinkly :) There is no way I could ever get tired of a nice, hot bubble bath...

Day 28 of 30

2011-03-30T03:00:00.000-05:00

Day 28:

Your favorite movie.

Can anyone really narrow that down to one?

I'll go with genres:

Romance: The Notebook
Action: Boondock Saints and Armageddon
Romantic Comedy: The Proposal and Life As We Know It
Comedy: The Hangover
Drama: Requiem for a Dream
Sci-fy: Avatar
Disney: Beauty and the Beast
Musical: Phantom of the Opera
One that deserves its own genre: Harry Potter Series

Day 27 of 30

2011-03-29T03:00:00.004-05:00

Day 27:

A Picture Of You Last Year and Now and How Have You Changed?

Last year: March 2010 This Year: March 2011:

How have I changed?? I feel like I look pretty much the same... even with me transitioning from my Mid 20's to my Upper 20's (oh my!). My hair might be a little darker and longer, but that would be the only physical thing that has changed.

I feel like I am in a much better place in my life than I was a year ago from now. Everything seems to be working out for me and falling in line. It is kind of scaring me because I typically don't have good luck - at all, and yet I feel like I have been showered with good luck recently. The reason? I truly believe in the power of prayer. I pray a lot more and ask for God's advice and guidance almost on a daily basis. I have also been keeping up with my journal which has proven to be a great outlet for myself. So much can change so quickly, that I wonder what I would be writing about myself in March 2012... only time will tell!!

Day 26 of 30

2011-03-28T03:00:00.000-05:00

Day 26:

A Photo of Somewhere You've Been.New York City!

Day 25 of 30

2011-03-27T03:00:00.001-05:00

Day 25:

What's in your Purse.

Luckily, since I just bought a new purse, I don't have as much junk in it... Here's what I see when I look in it...

Here it is all laid out.... So what the heck is in there??

Lysol Spray

Hand Sanitizer

Deodorant - hey, I tan after work!

Sunglasses - I can't go outside without them

Hair Brush

Wallet - Coach of course :)

Planner - would be lost without it!

Keys - on an adorable key chain!

Medicine Bottle with a variety of different pills

Eye Drops (of course)

Lipstick/Lip gloss - I like choices

Powder - for touch-ups

4 packs of gum - Can you tell I like Orbit??

Toothpick - I'm prepared!
Eyeliner
Camera - In a Coach case, no doubt

So there you go - the contents in my purse at all times... I know that one was SUPER interesting to all of you! haha

Day 24 of 30

2011-03-26T03:00:00.001-05:00

Day 24:

A Photo of Something that Means A Lot to You.

This photo is of me and my friend, Ashley. This July will make 2 years since she passed away from a tragic accident. Ashley truly lived life to the fullest, never met a stranger, and I can't think of a single time I hung out with her that I wasn't cracking up laughing the whole time.

This photo was taken the night we were celebrating Match Day for her husband and his Med School friends. We knew everyone was completing their residency all over the country, so we lived it up that night - it was a bitter sweet celebration... No doubt about it, Ashley, you are missed...

Day 23 of 30

2011-03-25T03:00:00.004-05:00

Day 23:
15 Facts About You

1- I believe in fate and that everything happens for a reason.
2- I wear my heart on my sleeve and I'm not ashamed of it.
3- I'm Italian and everything that comes with it.
4- I absolutely love being an Aunt more than anything else. I would do anything for Karys and Blake.
5- I believe in God, and love Him unconditionally.
6- I always follow my heart over my head.
7- I love wine and have a new favorite - Red Zinfandel (go try it - I recommend Seven Deadly Zins)
8- I love to dance. Doesn't matter if its country, club, or line dancing - I love it all.
9- I do not know where I would be without my family and friends.
10- Vito has my heart. He melts me with those sweet, bulging Chihuahua eyes of his....
11- I'm in the process of purchasing a home!!! It's exciting, scary and frustrating!
12- I'm double jointed (and can pop my arms in and out of socket)
13- I've had 6 eye surgeries (2 in left, 4 in right), and will still need more
14- I have a matching tattoo with my two sisters
15- I have 6 piercings: two in each ear, my cartilage, and my belly button

Day 22 of 30

2011-03-24T03:00:00.002-05:00

Day 22:
A Letter to someone who has hurt you recently.

There are two I would like to write:

Dear 13,
Karma's a b*tch :)
Take Care,
Rachel

Dear MWCHB,
My feelings of extreme hurt have now turned into extremely grateful.

I wish you the best.
Love always,
Rach

Day 21 of 30

2011-03-23T03:00:00.000-05:00

Day 21:

A Photo of Something that Makes You Happy

Lots of things make me happy.... here are just a few :)

Vito Kisses:

My Precious Niece, Karys

(she asked me to take her picture this day because she told me she looked fantastic).

My adorable and oh-so-sweet nephew, Blake
The thought of seeing this in person soon.... Hogwarts Castle

It's hard to narrow it down to just a few things... So many things make me happy... But these were just the few that came into my mind first...

Day 20 of 30

2011-03-22T03:00:00.001-05:00

Day 20:
The Meaning Behind Your Blog Name.

Clumsy Me, Oddity.

Clumsy Me - I am so incredibly clumsy. I fall, trip, knock over things, etc all the time. I can't even get embarrassed about it anymore because it happens so often. And not just in heels. It happens if I am in tennis shoes, flip flops, or stilettos!

Oddity - This is a name my older sister created to describe me because she said I was odd. She would always call me her Little Oddity, and being that she was the one that got me started on blogging, I thought it was a nice touch.

Stephanie helped me brainstorm ideas on it. We would send emails back and forth until we were both satisfied :) For my birthday present that year, she bought me a personalized header. I knew I wanted a coffee, shopping, and Vito to be included :) I love it!

Day 19 of 30

2011-03-21T03:00:00.001-05:00

Day 19:

Another Picture of Yourself

February 2011:

Day 18 of 30

2011-03-20T03:00:00.000-05:00

Day 18:
Something You Crave A Lot.

I know this is strange... but I crave raw noodles. I could eat an entire pack of raw spaghetti if I didn't make myself stop! I don't know what it is, but I love them...

Day 17 of 30

2011-03-19T03:00:00.003-05:00

Day 17:

A Photo of you and your Family:

This is a picture of my Mom's side of the family on New Years Eve 2010. Not all of us are in the picture, but its the majority of us. This is a picture with my two sisters - March 2011

I absolutely love my family!

Day 16 of 30

2011-03-18T03:00:00.002-05:00

Day 16:
Your Celebrity Crush:

I have a quite a few, but if I had to pick... Gerard Butler. OMG - he is hot, funny, quirky, the entire package! He can play a serious role, like PS I Love You, a romantic comedy like Life as We Know It, and even guys respect him because of 300. He is gorgeous and that accent? Yum! I am a total sucker for the accent...

Day 15 of 30

2011-03-17T03:00:00.001-05:00

Day 15:
Something You Don't Leave the House Without
This one was easy - Without a doubt - my iPhone4. I think I would go crazy without it! Not only do I not leave the house with it, but it is usually in every single room I am in as well. I am in love with my phone....

Day 14 of 30

2011-03-16T03:00:00.003-05:00

Day 14:
A TV Show You're Currently Addicted To.

Vampire Diaries and Pretty Little Liars. I cannot get enough of them!

Vampire Diaries has some very nice eye candy to add to the enjoyment of the show - plus I love vampires! The story lines are great - I hated the books, but luckily the show doesn't follow them. Probably the only book series I did not like... But the show? Love!Pretty Little Liars is a hybrid of Gossip Girl and Desperate Housewives. It always leaves you hanging and I always want to know what 'A' is going to do next! What made me interested in the show was the main girl, Lucy Hale. She is gorgeous and was on the show Privileged, which I really liked but was canceled. When I saw she was staring in a new show, I had to check it out. So glad I did! There isn't a storyline that I have been bored of yet!

Day 13 of 30

2011-03-15T03:00:00.005-05:00

Day 13:
Your Favorite Musician and Why?

Right now, hands down - Taylor Swift.

The songs she writes about love, happiness, break ups, sadness, regret, etc - I can relate to almost all of them. I love the way she writes and puts her emotions in her songs. She also has no shame or sympathy for ex-boyfriends or guys that have treated her badly. What girl hasn't wanted to call out a guy that has done them wrong?!?! I know I have. A lot.

My favorites include Haunted, Breathe, Sparks Fly, well all of them really... Plus, who else plays on such a sparkley guitar?!?!

Day 12 of 30

2011-03-14T03:00:00.002-05:00

Day 12:

A Photograph of the Town You Live In.

I was raised in Katy, went away to school for a year in Lubbock, lived in the city for about 1.5 yrs, and then moved back to the burbs.... I love Katy - some refer to it as my 'bubble' but I don't care. Katy is my home :)

Day 11 of 30

2011-03-13T03:00:00.000-05:00

Day 11:

What's in your Makeup Bag?

I used to use a really pretty Victoria Secrets Box that would double as a decorative piece in my bathroom, as well as hide my makeup... but the box has seen the end of it's days now, and to replace it is this cute little bag I received as a Christmas gift. It has an 'R' initial on the front

Inside you will find a mixture of Smashbox, Mary Kay, Loreal, a couple makeup brushes, toothpaste, toothbrush, eye drops, and a bottle of perfume. Not all that interesting...

Day 10 of 30

2011-03-12T03:00:00.000-06:00

Day 10:

A Photo of Your Favorite Place to Eat.

This was easy - This is by far my favorite restaurant! I do not go here often, as it is quite pricey but you can't find better food. You don't even need a knife to cut your steak. It's as if it melts in your mouth! So yummy!!

And if the steak hasn't won you over, just wait until you taste this little piece of heaven!

They have the BEST Tres Leches Cake I have ever tasted! If you have a special occasion coming up, you can buy a cake from them - which I have done and it was just as delicious as it was in the restaurant.... now I am craving some Churrasco's!

Day 9 of 30

2011-03-11T03:00:00.000-06:00

Day 9:

A Photo of the Last Item You Purchased

I am in love with my recent purchase.... To celebrate my recent bonus, I convinced my sister to go into the new Coach Store by us... Coach has been my weakness for quite some time now...

Just look at this summer time beauty!

Would you like a Close-Up??

The inside is just as pretty!!!

Then at the check-out, I saw this adorable yet very functional key chain and had to have it as well. See how perfect it is for when you valet your car, or don't want to carry all your keys?? Love!

Whoever said money can't buy happiness obviously has never been shopping with me in a Coach Store - I cannot help but smile and be giddy - and I still smile every time I see it - and the whole time I was writing this post... ahhh, I love Coach :)

Day 8 of 30

2011-03-10T03:00:00.000-06:00

Day 8:

A song to match your mood.

I'm seeing Rascal Flatts at the Rodeo tonight, so I think its only fitting that I chose one of their songs...

I chose 'Why Wait' because it's a fun, catchy song and the idea behind it is entertaining... I've been told I'm a spontaneous, fun, and a little crazy kinda girl - so it makes sense for me to love this song :) and I could totally see myself doing it!

If you don't know it, look up the lyrics, or better yet - listen to a preview on iTunes - I bet it will make you want to buy it!!!

Hope they play it at the Rodeo Tonight!!

Day 7 of 30

2011-03-09T03:00:00.002-06:00

Day 7:
Your Dream Wedding.

I have two - one that I know I cannot have because my family would be too offended, and one that I would love to have.

Dream Wedding #1 (the one my family would hate): Getting married to the man of my dreams/best friend barefoot on a beautiful beach in Italy with only a few witnesses... something small and intimate. I'd get to skip the stress of planning, and I would already be in the ideal spot for my honeymoon!

But back to reality (and Katy).... There are two venues that I absolutely love. I'd like an outside ceremony with an indoor/outdoor reception. One venue has a Tuscany feel to it, which would be perfect for my family. The other has a very homey feel to it as it's a beautiful plantation home located on many acres of land. It reminds me of a true southern wedding - Gone With the Wind Style! Of course all my friends and family are there, lots of dancing, delicious cake, my little sister catching the bouquet, all the traditions, etc. And of course, a honeymoon to follow in Italy...

Day 6 of 30

2011-03-08T03:00:00.000-06:00

Day 6:

A photo of an animal you'd love to keep as a pet.

I am sure this is supposed to be about an exotic animal, but instead I decided to post a picture of the next dog I would love to get. I will not be getting one anytime soon because Vito would kill me (or the new puppy), they are very expensive, and I don't have the lifestyle to have two dogs alone... but eventually, if I do own another dog, this is what I would love to have...

Introducing - a Puggle!!!

A puggle is a mix between a Beagle and a Pug. How precious are they?!?!?!

I mean, look at that sweet face!!!!

Like I said, no time soon - but maybe eventually.

Day 5 of 30

2011-03-07T03:00:00.000-06:00

Day 5:

A photo of yourself two years ago.

This is a photo from my friend, Brooke's, wedding. It was May 2009.

I'm at the table with my friends Val and Ariana.

Day 4 of 30

2011-03-06T03:00:00.000-06:00

Day 4:

Your favorite photograph of your best friend

Well I have 2 best friends... My sister, Stephanie, and my long-time friend, Kara. So here is one of each :) I decided to let them send me a picture, so these are the two photos from them:

With Stephanie at our company Chirstmas Party/My Birthday Celebration.

With Kara in Vegas (the only time I have ever been!) - we had a blast on this vacation!!

Day 3 of 30

2011-03-05T03:00:00.002-06:00

Day 3:

Your idea of the perfect first date.

I'd love for a guy to show up on a white horse, sweep me off my feet, and ride into the sunset together.... oh wait... that only happens in fairy tales...

Back to reality!

First dates are always nerve racking for me, so someone who makes me comfortable with and carries on good conversation would be ideal. I'd like to go to go grab dinner at a romantic restaurant and then go to a wine bar afterwards because we just aren't ready to call it a night. Probably stay there drinking wine and talking until the place closed down. The 'perfect' part would not be where we went, but the feeling. There would be lots of smiling, laughter, chemistry, and a shared connection. He would end the night with a kiss, and I'd feel that spark and the butterflies in my stomach :) (can you tell I'm a hopeless romantic??)

Day 2 of 30

2011-03-04T08:14:00.003-06:00

Day 2:

A photo of something you ate today:

I will start by saying this is my least favorite day from this challenge... I doubt that any of you care what I had for breakfast... but here ya go!

It's Egg, Cheese, and Bacon on an English Muffin. I needed something greasy after drinking yummy martini's last night! This is not my usual breakfast, but this is day 2 of the challenge! Of course my breakfast would not be complete without a large cup of coffee - in case you were wondering, it's hazelnut flavored :)

Happy Friday!!

Day 1 of 30

2011-03-03T07:36:00.005-06:00

Day One:

A photo of yourself and a description of how your day was.

Today I woke up in a very good mood. Maybe because I had dinner with a couple friends last night, and then met up with a different friend afterwards (and during the work week! gasp!).

The drive coming into work this morning was awful with the fog being so thick!! When I got to work, I had a hilarious series of emails from my friends that made me laugh out loud! Having 2 cups of coffee made my morning :) For lunch, the deli was serving my all-time favorite lunch special - taco salad! Yum!!! This evening I am going home, folding some laundry (so glamorous), painting my nails, and then meeting up with a new friend for drinks.

Work was pretty busy, which is good. I'm excited/anxious/nervous today because I know I have a lot of things happening in the next couple of days. All in all, it's been a pretty normal day... Maybe I should have started the challenge on a different day so you would have something more interesting to read!

Hope you all have a great Thursday!

30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-03-03T07:33:00.002-06:00

I have been really slacking on the posts lately, so when I saw a couple of my fellow bloggers doing this 30 Day Challenge, I decided to go ahead and jump on the bandwagon as well. Here is what I will be blogging about for the next 30 days - I will post Day One in a while. Happy Posting!! (for at least 30 days!)

Day 1 - A photo of yourself and a description of how your day was.

Day 2 - A photo of something you ate today.

Day 3 - Your idea of the perfect first date.

Day 4 - Your favorite photograph of your best friend.

Day 5 - A photo of yourself two years ago.

Day 6 - A photo of an animal you'd love to keep as a pet.

Day 7 - Your dream wedding.

Day 8 - A song to match your mood.

Day 9 - A photo of the last item your purchased.

Day 10 - A photo of your favorite place to eat.

Day 11 - What's in your makeup bag?

Day 12 - A photograph of the town you live in.

Day 13 - Your favorite musician and why?

Day 14 - A TV show you're currently addicted to.

Day 15 - Something you don't leave the house without.

Day 16 - Your celebrity crush.

Day 17 - A photo of you and your family.

Day 18 - Something you crave a lot.

Day 19 - Another picture of yourself.

Day 20 - The meaning behind your blog name.

Day 21 - A photo of something that makes you happy.

Day 22 - A letter to someone who has hurt you recently.

Day 23 - 15 facts about you.

Day 24 - A photo of something that means a lot to you.

Day 25 - What's in your purse.

Day 26 - A photo of somewhere you've been.

Day 27 - A picture of you last year and now and how have you changed since then?

Day 28 - Your favorite movie.

Day 29 - Something you could never get tired of doing.

Day 30 - A photograph of yourself today + three good things that have happened in the past 30 day

Ringing in 2011

2011-01-05T03:00:00.000-06:00

This year my family wanted to go dancing for New Years Eve - I love to dance, so I was super excited! We all went to Wild West, rented out a private room, had food catered in, and danced the night away!

With my two cousins and my sister wearing our New Years HatsThe boys! My three cousins and soon to be cousin-in-law this year!
The girls again!

My Big Fat Italian Family!!! Just some of my Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins.... haha and that's not even all of us! We have a very large family, and I LOVE it! My friend Cheryl came out and enjoyed the festivities!

Merry Christmas 2010

2011-01-04T11:42:00.007-06:00

Every year my Nana throws a huge Christmas Party on Christmas Eve. It's one of my all-time favorite events of the year!

Christmas Eve With my Mom

The Girls! This is my two sisters and my cousins... who put that blond in there? j/k Val :)

Every year Santa comes and we all have to sit on his lap and tell him what we want for Christmas. Here are my niece and nephew, Karys and Blake - they are dolls!Valerie and I on Santa's lap
My Aunts, Mom, and Nana with Santa

I hope you all had a Very Merry Christmas!!!

Happy NewYear!

2011-01-03T11:26:00.004-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful new year!! This was my favorite New Years yet - and pictures soon to come!!

Now time for Resolutions... I have a couple that I would like to set for myself:

1 - Get back into running: I have been slacking lately... I ran a Turkey Dash 5K on Thanksgiving Day, but other than that, I have not put my running shoes back on. However, due to my super busy schedule, I do not think I will be able to start this one until next week.

2 - Get back on Weight Watchers: Over the holidays, I managed to gain a few pounds, as I am sure most of us did... however I was allowing myself to eat whatever I wanted... now it is time to kick myself back into gear, and lose my holiday weight. Luckily I didn't put on too much, so it shouldn't be that hard to get off. This resolution has started today.

3 - Listen to my gut instincts: I tend to believe and trust in people to a fault. Unfortunately, I was proven wrong one too many times, and learned how surprisingly nasty some people are. This resolution might be the most important one that I follow.

All in all, I wouldn't say that I hated 2010, but I couldn't wait for 2011!!! There are going to be some big changes in in my life this coming year, of which I am sure I will blog about. I am looking forward to this year and all the possibilities it holds!!!

2010 Fantasy Football Leagues

2010-12-29T07:56:00.010-06:00

For many years, people have tried to get me into Fantasy Football, but I never had the slightest bit of interest... until this year. My cousin, Valerie was in a league, Sunday's Best, that needed a couple extra players, so I thought why not?

I loved coming up with my name, it's Harry Potter inspired, of course! My name in all the leagues is Felix Felicis. For all of you who are not HP Fans, Felix Felicis is the potion for Liquid Luck!

The draft was so much fun, that we decided to create a family league as well. My BIL, Tim, set it up and came up with the name No Experience Necessary (with one division called Spaghetti, and the other one Meatballs - oh so clever).

Then I was invited into a Survivor League (I Will Survive)...

And then a weekly Pick 'Em League (NFLMoyerMadness10)....

So basically, I went from playing in zero leagues, to playing in 4 different leagues in a matter of a week! I was a little overwhelmed...

I did horrible in the Survivor League and was out after the second week (thanks Dallas, you just gave me MORE reason to hate your dumb team....)

I missed the first week of the Pick 'Em League, but I am still hanging in there pretty good. I am above the average, so that works for me!

The No Experience Necessary League (family league).... I started out strong and then took a quick turn for the worst and nose-dived into 9th place... didn't even make playoffs!

The Sunday's Best League completely took me by surprise. I was winning almost all my games (only lost 2 the whole season) and when playoffs started, I was ranked at #1!!! I was so nervous going into last night's game because it determined who won the league... and guess what? I DID!!!! I came in First Place!!

Since this was a free league, I won bragging rights.

SO THIS IS ME BRAGGING!!

YAY ME!!!!

And here is some FF Humor :)

I am so excited and so hooked on Fantasy Football now! It actually made the games fun for me and I learned who some of the players are!!!

Thursday Thirteen: Christmas Edition

2010-12-23T03:00:00.001-06:00

13 Things I love about Christmas

1 - Christmas Lights (picture taken last year driving through neighborhoods)

2 - Christmas Cards! Giving and Receiving! (see post below of my cards)
3 - Christmas Music: (sorry the video is sideways, I don't know how to fix it...)

4 - Egg Nog, Starbucks Holiday Flavored Coffee, Homemade Baileys, and Frrrrozen Hot Chocolate! Basically, all the Christmas Drinks! (I have been wanting the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate ever since I went to NYC, and this year I finally bought it for myself!)

5 - Christmas Decorations:

Tree Last yearTree This Year... see a difference?? :)

Last year's Picture6 - Wrapped Present's Under the tree (yeah, I wish mine looked like that!)

7 - Christmas Movies (classics and newbies) - my favorite is the clay annimation of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer!

8 - Baking!

I made these cute elf pants for my team at work - I made homemade fudge, cookies, and stuck some candy canes in there :)

9 - Mistletoe (do I need to explain further??) I love how sparkly my mistletoe is!

10 - Scarves:

11 - Santa Clause! (and watching Karys believe in all the Christmas Majic!) 11 - Christmas Parties - my work Christmas Party as well as my Nana's Christmas Party, the event I look forward to every year!

12 - Holiday / Christmas Candle Scents 13 - Saving the best for last - Making the time to spend with Friends and Family - nothing can beat that!

I hope you all have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

My Little Cuban Dream in a Cup!

2010-12-21T09:49:00.006-06:00

Colada's are one of my favorite things about Miami! I had forgotten how much I loved these little Cuban espressos until I revisited this past weekend. My friend, Justin, loves them just as much as I do and showed me how easy it is to make them at home. The stove top espresso maker (aka 'moka pot') is easy to find in Miami, however they are not so common in Katy, TX.
You have no idea how excited I was when I ran across one at HomeGoods! I immediately snatched it up and was even more excited after reading the price: $7.99!On my way home from work today, I will be stopping off at the grocery to buy some espresso coffee beans and natural brown sugar – I can’t wait to enjoy a colada today!

Rachel and Vito Through the Years...

2010-12-10T09:03:00.012-06:00

Vito and I have been sending out Christmas Cards for many years now. Unfortunately, we didn't take one our first year together (2004), but here is a look of us through the years!!

1st Annual Christmas Card (2005): 2nd Annual Christmas Card (2006):
3rd Annual Christmas Card (2007):

4th Annual Christmas Card (2008): 5th Annual Christmas Card (2009):

6th Annual Christmas Card (2010):

Merry Christmas!!!!!

~Love Always, Rachel & Vito

2010 Turkey Dash 5K

2010-11-30T14:58:00.004-06:00

I completed my second 5K on Thanksgiving Day. I was very nervous about this one because I have been slacking on my running... it had been almost 3 months since I had run - at all!!

My friend Emily ran with me the whole time, we kept each other entertained by talking to one another and before we knew it, we had less than a mile left to go!

My time was 35:42, which is only 1:04 min slower than my first 5K. I was really shocked considering I haven't trained! I couldn't be more please with my time :) I didn't get any pictures this time but we had a pretty good sized group again.

It was fun and I am ready to do another one! But I need to train for the next one, I was extremely sore for 2 days after this run! My muscles made me pay for not using them up in months! It's crazy to think that I have completed 3 races this year! Two 5K's, and one 10K. Wonder if I will beat my number next year!! I am determined to beat my times :)

PS - I know the picture says 2009, but I could not located a 2010 emblem...

Halloween 2010 (a little late)

2010-11-09T09:00:00.002-06:00

My camera was dying on Halloween, so I was only able to take three pic...

Mandie brought over this really cool Pumpkin Pizza for all of us to eat - I thought it was so cute! Sleeping Beauty and her Bat Brother :)

Steph and I wanted something festive, however we waited until Halloween night to go grab something, and all they had left were devil horns... at least they were sparkly!!

TEXANS!!

2010-11-08T10:02:00.002-06:00

I was able to go to my second Texans Game of the season yesterday. Although we lost, I still had such a great time.

Thanks to Emily and David, we had AMAZING seats!! This pic was taken RIGHT before we scored... I tried to get a picture of us making the touchdown, but I was jumping up and down and cheering, so the picture didn't turn out all that great...And I was excited to wear my new Pink Texans Jersey!!! I love it! You can't really tell from the picture, but the number is glittery :) who said you can't still look girly while you tailgate??

Thanks again to Emily and David for the tickets!!!

MM on Friday!

2010-11-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

This is a special Muggle Monday because in only TWO WEEKS from TODAY, Part 1 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is going to be released!! Here is the trailer for the movie - I get goosebumps every time I see it!

And, to no surprise, I have had my ticket for quite some time. I am doing the assigned seating again, it's so worth it for a premier as large and important as this one - I can't wait!!!!

Special thanks to the Leaky Cauldron for the trailer.

CCBC

2010-11-01T11:53:00.008-05:00

Lately, I have read so many books, it would take too long to tell you about them... so I just wanted to shorten it to the ones that have really caught my attention and that I would HIGHLY recommend to you.

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield: I could not put this book down. There is a crazy twist in the story that I did not see coming, and it made it that much better. You constantly want to know what was going to happen next. It started out just a tad slow, but once it picked up, it never stopped!!

Stephanie introduced me to The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins: I had only been captured by two other series, Harry Potter and Twilight, until I picked up this series. This series does not have vampires or wizards, so if that's not your thing, don't worry. I honestly had no idea what these books were about when I started them, only that they were so great. It is unlike any other series I have ever read. I am completely in love with them. I love the characters, the story, the way it was written - everything!! I would even find myself making excuses not to leave the house because I was so engrossed in this story. I think everyone would enjoy this series (not just girls!). Thank you SO MUCH, Stephanie, for introducing me to them!

Muggle Monday's

2010-09-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

Muggle Monday's are back... do you know why??? The countdown of course!!!

74 Days

until Deathly Hallows Part 1 is released!!!!!!!

Sand Crab 10K

2010-08-30T03:00:00.001-05:00

I completed my training program (B210K) and ran my first 10K!! I know it will be by far the hardest 10K that I will ever do! It was a night run on the beach in Galveston. The sand was so brutal! On all of us!!

Part of our group! (and Vito got in this picture too, which I love!!!)

Me with the Newly Engaged Couple, Emily and David :)

Us getting ready for it to start!!

My original goal was to do this 10K without walking. I achieved that goal, however my time was kind of disappointing to me. 1:21 min. I want to do another 10K in October so that I can feel better about my time. I'm glad I did this run, but I'm glad its over!!

Going Private

2010-08-27T03:00:00.001-05:00

I have been debating on on whether or not to make my blog private because I didn't want to lose some readers, which I am sure I will. When I originally started my blog, I was careful not to put too much of my personal information, but after time I started slacking on it. What ultimately made up my mind was when I searched my name and saw a picture of my niece. It didn't sit well with me at all....

If you would like to continue to read my blog, please email me at iheartvito@hotmail.com and provide me with your email address so that I can add you to my approved readers list. ANYONE I know is more then welcome to email me - friends, family, even if we don't talk on a regular basis, please do not hesitate to email. I will make it private in 2 weeks, on September 10th.

As a side note - if you follow me through Google Reader or Bloglines, my updates will not show after I become private. Please don't forget to stop by!!

Remember - if I know you, you are more then welcome to continue reading.

Thanks for understanding guys!!

Meeting Baby Kinley

2010-08-25T03:00:00.002-05:00

A haven't posted in quite a while... but I recently went with my two friends Brandon and Vanessa to visit Kara & Wes, who had a sweet little bundle of joy :)

When we got there, I didn't want to put her down! And yes, Vito went too :)

The next morning I got to give her a bath!

The three girls! (my sister pointed out to me that almost exactly one year earlier, the three of us were taking this picture in Vegas! Oh how times change!!!)

Kinley became obsessed with her Baby Einstein Videos :) She was so precious!!!

I hate that Kara and Wes live so far away :( I wish I could visit them more because I know that Kinley is going to grow up so fast!!! Thanks Kara and Wes for hosting all of us!!!

YUM!

2010-07-23T09:43:00.003-05:00

When a co-worker recently returned from vacation, she surprised me with this! She knows I love all-things-Twilight, and that I am Team Edward!! I'm not sure which one looks more delicious - Edward or the candy... who am I kidding?! EDWARD!

My Surprise!!

2010-07-20T21:22:00.006-05:00

My friend, Brittney, is an awesome runner. Running 6-10 miles a day is normal for her!! So naturally, she was one of my biggest supporters when I decided to start running.

When she found out she was chosen to run in the NY Marathon, she decided to to make a vacation out of it and asked me if I had any recommendations for her. I told her about a few places but stressed the restaurant, Serendipity, which was featured in the movie, Serendipity, they have the most AMAZING frozen hot chocolate! I absolutely LOVED this place!!

After I ran my 5K, I received an unexpected package in the mail from her. What girl doesn't love to get a package?? Because she was so excited for me finishing my run, she sent me a gift!!! The package had the movie Serendipity with a sweet note :) I was so excited!

Thank you SO much Britt!!! I can't wait to watch it!!

My FIRST 5K Run!

2010-07-15T08:23:00.012-05:00

We did it!!
Stephanie and I completed our training program (C25K) just in time to make the Run Wild 5K our graduation run!!!

I never would have attempted this challenge if it wouldn't have been for my sister, and I KNOW that I would not have completed the program without her - I am so happy we did this together and SO proud of BOTH of us for following through with it!! I ran it in 34:38min - not too bad for my first!!

And the group we ran with! Our group was HUGE!!!

Next up? I am training for a 10K in August. Wish me luck!! I am in week 2 of the 6 week training program and it is already pretty tough!

Independence Day & Run Wild 5K!!

2010-07-04T04:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Independence Day!!! I hope everyone has a fun and safe holiday!!

And...

TODAY IS THE DAY!!

This is what Stephanie and I have been training for!! Wish us luck! I am SOOO excited! Hopefully all this hard work will pay off today and we will make it within our goal time!!!

Eclipse

2010-06-30T04:00:00.000-05:00

I cannot WAIT for this movie to come out!!! The previews have been amazing and only increased my anticipation! I am doing the same thing for this movie that I did for SATC - getting reserved seating. I can only imagine how outrageous the lines will be!

I cannot wait to see Edward on the big screen! I even got a shirt made for this event!!

C25K Training - Update

2010-06-22T04:00:00.000-05:00

Can you believe that my sister and I have actually stuck to it?!?! We are in week EIGHT now! The whole program is 9 weeks, so we are almost there! We no longer get to take 'breaks' in our runs... from here on out it is straight running. We are working on picking up our pace...

I feel confident that I will be able to run the entire time, which was my original goal... now my challenge will be to complete it in 30-33 min. Wish us luck!! The 5K is over July 4th weekend so its coming up soon!!

I have been told that running while I am in Wyoming will be really hard, but will help a lot when I run the 5K - I sure hope so!! Maybe that will give me the boost to acheive my goal time!!

Getting Carrie'd Away...

2010-05-27T14:28:00.003-05:00

Tonight I get to enjoy SATC2 with my two sisters! I am SO excited!! I am also relieved we have assigned seating for this showing since today is opening day - I am sure it will be packed!! I am in desperate need for a girls night, and what's better then Sex and the City?!?!

Wordless Wednesday's

2010-05-26T12:35:00.001-05:00

Loving Summer with Vito!!

Great Strides Walk 2010 (again!)

2010-05-20T03:00:00.002-05:00

Please help me raise money for the Great Strides CF Walk, I am participating in.
Every penny helps! Even though I have reached my personal goal, my team has not met their goal yet, so it would be wonderful if you could donate!

Your donations will go towards finding a cure for the devestating disease CF, Cystic Fibrosis. My friend Cara has this disease and is the team leader of the group I am walking with, CARA'S CORPS.

CLICK HERE if you would like to donate! Thank you to everyone who is helping out for this cause!!

C25K Training

2010-05-19T08:39:00.007-05:00

My sister wanted to start running, but said she needed a buddy to keep her motivated… so she talked me into running with her. Honestly, I was not all that thrilled about it. I am not a runner, I don’t typically enjoy it, and I was lazy…
We are now into our 3rd week of training, and I am shocked! I don’t LOVE it yet, but I don’t hate it – which is great! We are following a plan called Couch-to-5K. There is an app that we downloaded onto our iphones that tells us when to run and when to walk. It slowly builds up your endurance and stamina so that you don’t get burned out and quit.
We both signed up for our very first run – The Run Wild 5K this July. A lot of Joe’s family (that’s really into running) will be in town for his step-brother’s wedding. They will be running it as well, along with some of my family. Run Wild 5K has turned into a family event! I am really looking forward to it! Joe is going to be racing my cousin, Philip, for the 3.1 miles – my goal is just to complete it without walking.
And I will be honest… I am not doing this for my health… I am hoping to get a little toned, and lose about 3-5 lbs. Wish us luck on our new adventure!!!

My Nissan Altima

2010-05-11T07:58:00.014-05:00

Here's the new car! It's my very first 4-door car!!

And I have buttons on my steering wheel!
Although I can't put the top down in this car, I can open my sunroof!!
You see the arrow and the caption that says 'RIGHT HERE!!!' - that happens to be my favorite feature.... HEATED SEATS!! Even though I live in Houston, I am ALWAYS cold, and will use the heck out of the heated seats!

So there you have it - my new car!! It drives so differently then the Mustang, so I'm still getting used to it. I really do like my new car, I can't get over how smooth it drives!! I'm still sad about the Mustang, I wasn't ready to give up that car yet.... but I am enjoying this car, its newer and has 1/2 the miles so I know it was a smart choice. Let me now what you think!!!

It's Totaled...

2010-05-02T18:57:00.017-05:00

Again! This is the second car that I have totaled from hydroplaning.

I was so sad to say bye to the Mustang, it was the first car I bought. It was such a fun car, and I'm going to miss the convertible.

Here is the damage...It was totaled because the frame was damaged (couldn't even open my driver side door!), the airbags deployed (ouch!), needed a new bumper, hood, side quarter panels, windshield, etc... you get the point...

And here is the damage to me... This is my wrist - a burn from the airbag My knee
My forearm had a deep bruise as well... that one hurt the worst..

I was on my way to Dallas for my high school friends wedding. Thankfully, I was not hurt badly and managed to make it in time for the rehearsal dinner.

Shopping for a new car isn't as much fun when you HAVE to, rather then you WANT to... I pick up my new car today... I am excited, but it's a 'smart' decision rather then a 'fun' decision... I will post pics of my new car soon!!

Bluebonnets in the Spring!

2010-04-20T10:03:00.015-05:00

Is this not beautiful?!?!

They were so tall, Vito had to JUMP through them! It was hilarious! This is him in the process of jumping - I was cracking up. He looked like a little kangaroo!

Why?

2010-04-15T08:42:00.004-05:00

Karys – What you doing, Ro-Ro?
Rachel – Drying my clothes.
Karys – Why?
Rachel – Because I washed them.
Karys – Why?
Rachel – Because they were dirty.
Karys – Why?
Rachel – Because I wore them.
Karys – Why?
Rachel – Because I have to wear clothes.
Karys – (her matter-of-fact face) Because you can’t walk around naked. See my cute outfit?

Rachel – (cracking up) Oh my gosh I love you!!

CCBC

2010-04-12T13:24:00.014-05:00

I have been pretty busy when it comes to books lately… I was given a GC to Katy Budget Books from Emily for my birthday which I used to purchase the first book in The Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith. I love the new TV series and really liked the True Blood Book Series as well, so I thought I would be just as impressed with the Vampire Diaries… honestly, the first one was good – but after that, I only read them because I bought them. They just became too weird and too fake for me (yes, I realize I am saying that about a vampire series). It just was not what I was expecting, and I was severely disappointed…After finishing that series, I wanted something more happy, up-beat, and girly. My best friend, Kara, recommended A Total Waste of Make-up by Kim Gruenenfelder. I really enjoyed this book… all the way until the ending. I was hoping the ending was going to have a little bit of a twist to it, but I still really liked the book. It was a fun read!I am currently trying another Nicholas Sparks book that was recommended to me; however I am very leery of it because he always writes the most tragic stories! I hope this one will have a happy ending… I'll let you know how it goes...

Joe introduced me to Audio books. I didn’t know how I would like them, so he let me borrow one of his called Act of Treason by Vince Flynn. I LOVED it!! It wasn’t my typical book whatsoever as I tend to go towards love stories, vampire novels, girly romance type books and this was a novel over political conspiracy. I googled the author and found out Act of Treason was in the middle of a 10 book series! I listened to the first one in the series, Transfer of Power, and I am currently on the second novel called The Third Option. I am totally hooked on audio books for drives – I listen to them to and from work and on my drives to visit Joe. I am not too thrilled that audio books are so expensive because I can finish them so much faster, but they help with the drives tremendously!

I feel like I am constantly reading (or listening) to books, but I love it. I don’t think I would ever read the Vince Flynn novels just because they aren’t my type of books, but they are great stories and its nice being able to discuss the books with Joe, since he has read and listened to them.

What are you guys reading?? Anyone else like audio books?? I love all the recommendations!!

Great Strides 2010

2010-04-09T08:46:00.005-05:00

Please help me raise money for the Great Strides CF Walk, I am participating in.

Every penny helps!

Your money will go towards finding a cure for the devestating disease CF, Cystic Fibrosis. My friend Cara has this disease and is the team leader of the group I am walking with, CARA'S CORPS.

CLICK HERE if you would like to donate! Thank you to everyone who is helping out for this cause!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T03:00:00.002-05:00

Easter Sunday with my Cousins!!!

Today is a very special day... It's Vito's 6th Birthday!!

Happy Birthday Sweetie!!!

A Dream Come True!

2010-03-21T11:44:00.003-05:00

I have wanted to swim with dolphins for as long as I can remember! I was able to give them commands to do tricks, give kisses, and even got to have them push my feet!! It was amazing!!

This is me with Kokaih.

Rascal Flatts Rodeo!!

2010-03-11T09:22:00.013-06:00

Last night I saw Rascal Flatts. It was Support the Troops Night at the Rodeo. They had an amazing Flag Ceremony, recognized Medal of Honor Recipients, etc. It was all very touching.It has been years since I have seen a Rodeo. I was completely blown away by how awesome the stage looked!! And I must say, I have a new found respect for Rascal Flatts – they sound AMAZING live! Just like they do on the radio – and now a days, that doesn’t happen very often!

Wordless Wednesday's

2010-03-10T03:00:00.001-06:00

My first time to feed my nephew, Blake Ryan :)

Baby Blake!

2010-02-26T20:20:00.002-06:00

My nephew, Blake Ryan, was born on 02/25/10 at 11:34am. He's 7lbs, 6oz, 19 3/4in long. He's a perfect little boy! I'm so in love with him!!

Here's the happy family!

Proud Aunt Ro-Ro!!

What a sweet face!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

GET FIT!!

2010-02-22T03:00:00.002-06:00

I began Weight Watchers in October 2008. It has allowed me to not only lose 15 lbs, but keep it off! YAY! I am about to take a trip to the Caribbean in a little less than 3 weeks, so I decided that its time to get FIT!

A while ago (as in over 6 months ago) I bought the Power 90 Workout DVD's - and they sat all wrapped up in package - I was apparently too lazy to even take them out! But dangle a trip to the Caribbean in front of my face, and I am all on board!!

A Not So Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-17T03:00:00.001-06:00

Here are some Skydiving Pictures!!!

Learning what to do...

I'm about to land!!A picture with my instructor!!

SKYDIVING (for real this time!)

2010-02-12T03:00:00.005-06:00

This weekend I will be SKYDIVING! (well, if the weather permits it!) I told you in 2007 that I was planning on going, however my plans fell through. I have been wanting to do this for such a long time! I cannot wait!
Wish me luck! Saturday is the big jump!!!

Muggle Monday's

2010-02-01T03:00:00.005-06:00

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is really coming along!! Check out this awesome picture of Hogwarts!! This is the actual castle after they construction was finished! Looks AMAZING!! Here are some additional facts (thanks to The Leaky Cauldron) on the park and a photo that WB released showing their vision for Ollivanders!!**The wand-choosing experience will last from 2-5 minutes per person, and the team is currently working on how to handle what are expected to be long wait times.

**The inside of the castle includes rooms built to full scale from the films - Dumbledore's office, the Great Hall, the Gryffindor Common room, and more

**The Ollivander's shop will include every detail from the books possible, down to the tinkling bell, the single window, and the sign that hearkens the shop back to 382 b.c.

**The experience of having your wand choose you is free, though the wand costs money to buy.

**The wands have all been designed by Stuart Craig and approved by J.K. Rowling.

**When trying out your wands, there may be mishaps in the shop - flowers wilting, thunder and lightning in the store, etc. - when you use the wrong one.

**There are no current plans for "dark" areas of Hogsmeade, a la Nocturne Alley, but Coup said to "stay tuned for that."

I will keep you all updated when they release the date for the opening!! I cannot wait!!!! I really hope I get to visit it later this year! (fingers crossed)

HP and the Super Bowl!!!
There is going to be a commercial in the FIRST half of the Super Bowl for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!! I'm excited to get a good look at what all the park has to offer!!

Chicken Rolls

2010-01-29T03:00:00.003-06:00

Chicken Rolls are SO yummy! I was asked what they were, so I figured I would let all of you in on it – once you make them, you will fall in love with them too!!

Ingredients:
1 – 8oz package of Cream Cheese
1 – bundle of green onions
1 – small container of fresh bella mushrooms (you will only need a couple of them)
1 – package of maple flavored bacon
5 – 6 chicken breasts

Directions:
*Chop up the green onions and mushrooms into very tiny pieces.

*In a mixing bowl, mix the cream cheese, green onions, and mushrooms (judge how much you want of the green onions and mushrooms you want in yours) It works best if you set the cream cheese out for about 30 min prior to soften it up.

*Flatten out chicken breasts (I use my fist).

*Roll/Stuff the Cream Cheese Mix into each chicken breast and wrap 1 – 2 pieces of bacon around it. (I use all the Cream Cheese Mix, I like mine ‘over-stuffed’)

*Place in glass baking dish, put in oven at 350 for 35-40 minutes

ENJOY!! Let me know if you make them! They are delicious!

(I googled a photo because I didn't take a picture of mine.... but you get the picture)

Ooh-La-Love!

2010-01-28T08:59:00.008-06:00

My pregnant sister told me she was craving Chicken Rolls and wanted to know if I would make them for her... so of course I did :) While dinner was in the oven, she informed me the bakery around the corner from her house, had a Drive-Through!!! Yes, a bakery with a Drive-Through!!!

Oh My Goodness! This Bakery was AMAZING! It is called Ooh-La-La, if you live in the Katy Area, you HAVE to go check it out! It recently won a competition for their delicious cupcakes!Steph picked the Velvet-Elvis Cupcake (Red Velvet cupcake with cream cheese icing), I had the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Cupcake (tasted like a coffee cake from heaven). We also both got hot coffee drinks - I think I found my new guilty pleasure with this place!

After dinner, we enjoyed our cupcake delights, coffee, and topped it off by watching a classic super girly movie - Only You, with the oh-so-hot Robert Downey Jr.

I love girl nights :)

Muggle Monday's

2010-01-25T03:00:00.001-06:00

This is not the usual MM... but I couldn't resist. When Stephanie asked me who Tim looked like, I immediately said HARRY POTTER!!!! Luckily, Joe had his old Halloween Costume and had Tim put it on... Can you see it??

Some HP News

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is really coming along great! It is getting closer and closer to the park opening - There are rumors that it will open in March 2010!! We are going to try to go in October of this year - I cannot wait!!

Wordless Wednesday's

2010-01-13T03:00:00.001-06:00

Shooting a 357 :)

2009 Round-up!!

2010-01-11T10:02:00.021-06:00

I have yet to post pictures from Christmas and New Years - So here it goes!!

Every year my Nana throws a large Christmas party on Christmas Eve. It's an event I look forward to every year! I get to see some of my extended family that I only see once a year!

With my Mom

With my cousin Steven... he makes me feel so short!

With my cousin Jeffrey, who lives in NY, but will be moving back in August!
With my Little Sister, AshleyI got a new camera for Christmas from my Nana, which I opened that night, however it was after a lot of people had left and after we took a picture of my HUGE Italian family!! I would have loved to put a picture of that on here!!

My mom and I on Christmas Day! In between Christmas and New Years, I went ice skating! I haven't been ice skating since I was a little girl! I thought I would be the first in my group to eat it, however I was VERY shocked that I did not fall ONCE!! WOOHOO!!

For New Years, we always go out to eat with my Mom's side of the family. This year Nana treated us to Mexican food. YUM!

Then I headed to my friends amazing party! They had a dance floor, music, poker tables, open bar, etc - I couldn't ask for more!! I had so much fun this New Years!

The girls at the Black Jack table! (where I doubled my money!)

Posing with Brooke The girls!
Me, Brooke, and Audrey (so glad Audrey is back in the States!!)

I had a GREAT Christmas and a WONDERFUL New Years!

Here's to 2010!!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T03:00:00.002-06:00

Some Christmas Humor for you guys :) But, lets not forget the true meaning behind this day. The Birth of Jesus Christ.I received my Christmas Miracle early this year. I had a very serious scare with my eye last month. The pressure was extremely high (55) and my eye doctor told me that my eye would not survive much longer if we couldn't bring it down. For once, I was very nervous because the usual treatment wasn't working. We tried some different meds and when I returned my eye doctor was shocked at how well my eye responded! I am still on 3 different drops and oral medication for the time being, but yet again, my eye beat the odds. There is really only one reason that I can see the way that I do, because of Him.

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas!

God Bless!

Christmas Card Display

2009-12-24T03:00:00.002-06:00

I didn't have a place to display all the Christmas Cards I was receiving, so I decided to make one! I wrapped a piece of cardboard with some wrapping paper and criss-crossed some ribbon and voila!

It's not very big, but it does the trick! Except now that I have so many, they aren't fitting... any other ideas??

I'm Not The Only One!

2009-12-23T03:00:00.003-06:00

Just so everyone knows I am not the only one that spoils him... Do you need a close up?
Yep! You read that right! To: Vito, From: Poppy & Nana!!

(AKA Grand Parents - Even Vito gets presents under the tree!)

My Favorite

2009-12-22T03:00:00.002-06:00

I love lazy days that I get to lay around on the couch with this little guy :) He makes it so easy to love him :)

Green Thumb? Not me!

2009-12-21T08:27:00.002-06:00

This is my very first plant to own. I was a little nervous about killing it, but I was told that Ivy's are pretty much impossible to kill... well apparently I beat the odds. This is what my Ivy looks like now....

I took out all the dead leaves, and watered it (maybe that's why it died??) and am hoping it comes back to life... fingers crossed!!