New Year. New Me.

2013

has been a great year.

I graduated college, landed a great job, celebrated five years of dating with my wonderful boyfriend and traveled to Pittsburgh for our second annual Steeler's game. While this list is not comprehensive, I'd say 2013 has been pretty good to me. But, like most people, I can't wait to take on 2014. Out with the old, and in with the new--isn't that what they always say?

With my love of lists, you better believe I have a list of New Year's Resolutions.

Most of them are ones the usually make the list--workout more, lose those last ten pounds, read more etc. etc.But this year, will be different. (and not just because I say so--although that has a lot to do with it)  I came across an old book I used to read as a preteen about making goals. And that's what new year's resolutions are after all, right? In order to make the goal stick and able to be achieved, you have to write down how you are going to make it happen.

For instance, one of my goals is to lose those last 8-10 pounds.

How am I going to make this happen?

1. Join a gym..(I've already done my research and found one that I liked, but you might add a step before this that says research gyms in my area. Then join that gym.)

2. Create a realistic workout schedule I can follow. (Ex. I will work out MWF and do light cardio on TTH and have the weekends off) Whether is trying new classes, or getting a personal trainer--I usually like to plan my time at the gym so it won't be wasted.

3. Eat less junk food & eat more fruits and veggies.

4. Plan my meals in advance, so I won't be scrambling at the last minute and be tempted to eat something bad for me.

As a lover of lists, having these extra guidelines/steps really helps me stay on track. The above, was just an example and the same principle can be applied to any resolution you make.

Make 2014 the year of YOU

Because I said so!

All Things Merry and Bright

This Christmas was probably the best Christmas I've ever had. No really.

(getting a bike from Santa when I was 8 is a close second though)

Something about living away from home and being able to come home for two days to spend time with my crazy family, really made my day.

Usually, to me, Christmas is all about the presents and the food. Can't get enough of either one of them. How selfish of me, I know. But this year was different. I really took a moment to appreciate all of the work that everyone went through to either make/buy the gifts given to me, cook the delicious food we had for dinner, and took pride in the gifts I gave. Maybe it has something to do with getting older and growing up (which I'm still not a fan of), but this Christmas was different. But different in all ways good.

Of course I got lots of presents that I've been wanting needing.  Here a few of my favorites: (although I absolutely adore EVERYTHING I received)

Phi Mu T-Shirt Quilt-which I knew was coming, but I honestly forgot about. I was amazed at how well it turned out--I've seen some pretty awful T-shirt quilts. I highly Highly HIGHLY recommend Southern Charm Quilts if you're looking to get one done :)

Refinished End Table-Given to me by my Mom -oh i mean Santa. The table literally used to be the ugliest table and one of my grandma's pieces (no offense Mawmaw). But I really couldn't see keeping the thing around for much longer. My mom gave it a whole new life and it's fabulous!

Selena Gomez Floor Seats- I LOVE LOVE LOVE Selena Gomez and my sweet boyfriend surprised me with floor seats to one of her concerts. He showed up with a piece of poster board with a bunch of blanks on it and made me guess letter by letter. He's so creative!

Jar of Buttons- Disclaimer: I'm kind of obsessed with things that have a history/are unique. So my Mimi got me a jar of buttons that were my great grandmother's. She used to collect them. In addition to the full antique mason jar with antique buttons, she gave me four red buttons in a separate envelope. These red buttons had been on a dress of hers at one time, as well as, one of her sister's dresses. Now they are mine. I'd like to find something to put them on--if only I could sew.

Hand Painted Cross Canvas- I now have an original Bomar painting! My aunt's husband painted it for me after I saw a similar one at an auction earlier in the year. It's absolutely gorgeous and it means a lot that he would paint a similar one for me. I can't wait to figure out where to hang it!

I got way to many presents to count, but I really  appreciate each and every one of them. No matter if it was napkins (it means I don't have to buy any at the store) or pot holders/magnets/chip clips (you never know how much you need the small things until you are stranded and your chips are going stale) or an old shirt that my dad used to wear that he passed down to me (it's the little things), I'm really thankful for each and every person in my life and how thoughtful they are.

Every Christmas I always hear that it's not all about the presents, but this year I finally realized that it's true. I'd give any to still be with my family today (growing up has it's drawbacks). However, it's not the amount of time that we spent together, but the quality of the time spent together.

So be thankful for those loved ones in your life and find joy in the little things--because I said so!

An (Almost) White Christmas

It's basically a fact that we will never have a "white" Christmas here in Louisiana.

However, last week/weekend I had the opportunity to go to Pittsburgh and was able to experience a white "almost" Christmas!

Day 1: Drove 17.5 hours from Louisiana to Pittsburgh, PA in a Prius.  Needless to say, I needed to stretch my legs desperately.  We first saw snow in West Virginia (same as last year)

Once in Pittsburgh, there was even more snow on the ground! We went out to dinner (courtesy of my parent's gift cards) and bought some last minute cold weather essentials--like gloves and headbands. (That's when I knew it was going to be a great weekend)

Day 2: We woke up to SNOW!! Lots and lots of snow --on the ground and in the air!

We drove. in the snow. super scary. don't do it.

We were lucky enough not to have hit any ice--but we thought about it EVERY TIME we went up and down a steep hill. I do not know how people drive in the mountains! Finding the covered bridges in Pittsburgh's countryside was probably my most favorite part of the whole weekend. When we got to the first one, it was snowing a lot and the scenery was magical. We proceeded to play in the snow and made our way downtown to  explore IN THE SNOW! Did I mention it was snowing!? We visited an "urban winery" in the heart of Pittsburgh which was very cool--Pittsburgh Winery is definitely a place to check out.(hello, free wine tasting) That night, we visited the Phipp's Conservatory and saw all of the pretty Christmas lights and displays they had. We also tried our luck at the River's Casino and didn't do too bad.

Day 3:  This day was dedicated to what Josh wanted to do (and arguably the whole reason we even came to Pittsburgh) The NFL Steeler's Game (which they won--thank goodness). I became famous on twitter, froze my butt off (apparently three+ layers are not enough), and then froze even more. The game was fun and we had better seats than we did last year--but it was the COLDEST game ever. Even the locals sitting next to us were sympathizing with us and agreed that this was the coldest game they've ever been to. My water bottle FROZE in the cup holder. Yea it was COLD.

Day 4: Monday, we almost couldn't find anything to do! We did everything we could think of--next time we will have to come with more of a plan. We explored more of downtown, went ice skating, checked out a brewery inside an old church (way cool), and ate at a restaurant on top of Mt. Washington overlooking the whole city! So it wasn't a boring day at all. There's always something different and interesting to do!

Day 5: Drove 17.5 hours away from the snow and back to Louisiana. Least favorite day. EVER. Especially since we woke up at 3:30 am to drive back.

Pretty sure I've said this before, but for real..Next year we are FLYING!

Because I Said So!!!!!

Snow in West Virginia!

Freezing at the Steelers Game!

Pittsburgh Winery visit

Phipp's Conservatory

I tweeted this picture of the city and it got retweeted by the Weather Channel and I was asked if it could be used on NBC Nightly News!! #famousstatus

Ice Skating--lasted for about 5 mins--it was in the 20s that day

Church Works Brewery inside of an old church--it was said that the priest of the church used to come for a beer every week after the church closed.

And We're Off

Pittsburgh here we come!!

After a rather stressful 24 hours of making triple sure I have everything packed for the trip and squared away at work, I'm proud to report that we are on the way!

Josh made the rookie mistake of telling me to pack light. Um excuse me, but what does that even mean? Have you met me? This will be my first major snow experience so I cannot just "pack light" I NEED all 5 pairs of boots and all 4 jackets. Yes, NEED. However, I did manage to fit everything into two bags so gold star for Allison.

This is what my apartment looked like in the midst of packing!




This is about to be the longest 18 hour drive ever, I just know it. I guess it's a good thing I'm not driving :) (Josh is such a trooper) I'm going to be in desperate need of something to do other than sleeping and eating! (Any ideas are greatly appreciated)

Also, this trip will be the first time I take my new camera for a spin. I'm hoping to get some good pictures that I can frame for my apartment!

Needless to say, I'm super excited and wish we could be there already (and we've only been in the car for about 30 mins)

Next year we are flying--BECAUSE I SAID SO!

Pittsbrrrrrgh

Yep that's the forecast for Pittsburgh this weekend..the weekend we will be there!!! It's time for our 2nd annual road trip to watch the Steelers play!

Last year on the way up, we first saw snow when we got to West Virginia. But it was way up in the mountains so we didn't get to actually experience it. This year, I think we will be seeing snow a lot sooner and a lot more frequently because of all of the recent snow storms.

With snow in the forecast, this southern girl is having trouble figuring out what to wear!! I mean, what does one where to sit through a football game in the snow (possibly) and actually still look cute? My guess is I'm just going to end up looking like a big puffball and still freeze. Oh the things I do for my football obsessed boyfriend. Just kidding, but really.

The only time it's actually snowed in Louisiana was my senior year in high school and that was, let's face it, about 5 years ago.

So here we are about to go on our road trip (yes, an 18 hour road trip--those are fun right?) and I have no cold weather clothes....it was pretty much 70 degrees last week here. Regardless, I'm so excited that I could care less if I freeze. If worse comes to worse, then I'll just buy a parka once I get up there. Yep, that's the plan and I'm sticking with it.

In addition to the Steelers game, I hope to go see the many covered bridges in Allegheny County, as well as, visit the Phipps Conservatory. Josh wants to eat the famous "Roethlis-burger", visit the beer barn, and start tailgating the moment we get there.

Thursday needs to hurry up and get here BECAUSE I SAID SO!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

I love Love LOVE Christmas! Everything is better at this time of the year for some reason. The air is colder, Christmas movies are on TV, and people are generally nicer and more caring.

I'm most excited about this Christmas because I get to decorate my apartment. At first, the thought was too daunting. How was I going to pick out, buy, and transport a live tree (because to me that's really the only way to go)?! Thankfully Josh was able to come through on the "manpower" front--I just told him which one and where to put it :) He drew the line at decorating though haha

Buying almost every decoration and starting from scratch really wasn't the way I wanted to spend all of my money...at first. But now seeing how cozy everything looks, makes me glad I did.

TA DAAAAA!!! Still a work in progress, but it's turning out FABULOUS!

I'm especially loving my fleur de lis ornament, which is only fitting for my first Christmas in NOLA :)

A few more shots from my apartment. I managed to grab some decorations from my parent's house that my mom wasn't using! I'm glad I'm not the only one who goes over the top for Christmas (here's looking at you mom)

I can't wait to wrap presents and put them under the tree, watch the 25 day of Christmas on ABC Family, and reflect on the real meaning of Christmas.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holidays..Because I said so!

Five Years and Counting

Five years is a long time. I know people who have been in and out of too many "relationships" to count In five years or are even married with a kid or two by the time they know each other for five years. While I'm not in either of those boats, I wouldn't have our relationship any other way :)

Five years ago, I never would have thought that I could love someone so much. When Josh first asked me to dance at our Senior Homecoming dance, I didn't know I'd be his be his girlfriend soon after. Though honestly, I was hoping. After a few dates to various Saints games, he finally asked me to be his girlfriend (in the parking lot of our old high school). Romantic I know.

Our relationship had quite the dramatic start and many people didn't think it would last and were probably hoping that it wouldn't. Boy were they wrong.

For our fifth anniversary a few weeks ago, Josh took care of all of the dinner reservations. This was quite the lesson in trust. I have notoriously high standards--but not in a bad way of course. Plus I love HAVE to be in control of most everything.

Needless to say, the man did good. He did really good. The evening surpassed my expectations!
We ended up eating at Sun Ray Grill in downtown New Orleans. I'd never heard of it, but it was definitely a good surprise. Complete with white table clothes, candlelight, and a bottle of wine. Sun Ray Grill has some of the best food I've had in awhile (seafood and grits and bread pudding were ah-mazing) and a very cool atmosphere with exposed brick walls and original artwork for sale on the walls around us.

From now on, I think I'm going to let him pick the restaurant every time we go out (bet he didn't know what he was getting into) :)
He's certainly paid attention to every time I've said I liked this or that or because I said so!

Black Friday

This year, there was nothing that I just had to have or want to stand in line at midnight for. That being said, I'm still participating in the whole Black Friday festivities--with two pre-teens.

What am I thinking?!

My two younger sisters and Josh's younger sister are my companions for this shopping trip. I'm hoping it won't be a drama filled day with a 12 year old, a 13 year old, and an almost 19 year old--it's me and all teens! We've never all hung out before so I'm hoping that this day will be a bonding opportunity and that the Ellzey girls don't scare Gabby away--we can be a little intense when we are all together!

First hurdle, get everyone out of bed. Easier said than done. Stephanie is the hardest person to wake up. Jumping on her bed, turning on the lights, ripping the covers off--nothing worked. She gets up on her own time. Fifteen minutes later, we're ready to shop!

Wish me luck--because I said so!

Being Thankful

Happy Thanksgiving!

This holiday was exactly what I needed  at exactly the right time. With the stress of work and everyday life starting to get to me, I am happy to have gotten off work early Wednesday (and for the rest of the week) to be home. After an interesting night crammed in one bed with 12 legs (two people and two dogs), a few elbows (did you know dog's have elbows? Well they do and they are super bony), and some snoring, I woke up and went for a much needed early morning run. I'm usually not much of a morning person, but running in the crisp air of the early morning was the perfect way to start my sure to be hectic day.

Thanksgiving Round #1:

The Ryan Family -- 12 o'clock noon.



Your standard Thanksgiving lunch with football in the background, sibling bickering, and a few not so subtle questions as to why Joshua and I aren't engaged yet. You know, standard. (It is engagement season after all)

I promise we did NOT intend to match!

 

Thanksgiving Round #2:

The Ellzey Family --4:45PM

Our Thanksgiving started with a trip to the movies to see the much anticipated movie, Frozen. I'm a sucker for little kid movies so after critics said it was the best Disney movie since Lion King, I knew I had to see it. It was actually very good and kept my dad laughing the whole time, which is rare. So this movie gets a two thumbs up!



After the movie, we rode by Best Buy and Target to check out the lines--and man were there lines. I had half a mind to pop out of the car and just ask WHAT exactly they were standing in line for. I mean is any new Playstation worth that? I guess to some people it is. For me, not so much. I prefer to do my shopping on the actual "Black Friday" which is not until tomorrow.

When we finally made it home, we started on Thanksgiving dinner. Up until about yesterday, the plan had just been to order pizza, but Carol wanted the "Traditional Thanksgiving Meal." And I'm glad, although, nothing my family does is "traditional." We threw everything together in about an hour or two and even learned how to fold fancy napkins! (Note fancy napkins below)



Dinner turned out wonderful, despite the fact that it was a mix n match dinner thrown together last minute! With only a few dramatic moments throughout the night, I have to say that this might be the best Thanksgiving yet.  I have so much to be thankful for and it's great to have this time to reflect on how truly blessed I am.

Off to D.C.

Well it's off to Washington D.C....

Not for me (I wish), but for my sister Carol.

If I thought I was getting up early yesterday, boy was I in for a rude awakening this morning. That would be a 3:30 AM wake up call early. But that's what being a supportive big sister is all about :)

Little Carol isn't so little anymore. Besides the fact that she is already taller than me, she's off to a brand new city without mom or dad--I know she's thrilled! She went on this trip with her school and they have a super packed itinerary! But in order to see most everything in D.C. in 4 days, with a bunch of twelve years, I guess that's the way it has to be done.

Besides all of the exciting, new sites I'm sure she's more than happy to: a. not be wearing her uniform b. be able to wear leggings and L.L. Bean boots everyday and c. showcase all of her new clothes bought just for the trip! She is quite the little fashionista!

We are staying in touch through our NOTORIOUS family group messages and a shared photo stream (thanks to me giving her my old iPhone). So far, she says its cold and overcast, but SHE. LOVES. IT! I can't wait to hear more about her trip...

Have fun Carol--you got it, because I said so!

Early Mornings

I dread getting up early, but when I finally manage to crawl out from underneath my warm covers; I'm usually so glad I did.

Getting up an hour earlier allows me to:

-make a healthy breakfast

-pack a healthy lunch

-see my nutritionist

-watch my favorite morning show--The Today Show

-prepare for the day

-reflect

Today and tomorrow will both be early days, but for good reasons. Today was the nutritionist. Tomorrow, my baby sister Carol leaves for D.C.

How exciting!! I'm so jealous...My mom and Carol will be staying with me tonight--I LOVE HAVING COMPANY! (but yikes, I should probably clean up before they get here)

Lets hope I still like early mornings after tomorrow morning!!!

Home Goods Happy

This past Sunday was the

GRAND OPENING

of Home Goods on the Northshore.

Hip Hip Hooray! My mom and I have been waiting forever for one to finally open in our area. And with me having a new apartment, what better way to spend all of my hard earned money (and my mom's and my dad's), right?

The opening was scheduled for 8 am, Sunday morning. So naturally we got there early--as did the rest of Mandeville and Covington.

(me super tired/excited at the grand opening)

The line was wrapped around the building before the doors were finally opened. Once we got in, it was HEAVEN. So many unique things to decorate with! And don't even get me started on their Christmas section! Regretfully I didn't pick up any Christmas decor, but I know I'll be back at least once before now and the official start of the Christmas season (which is after Thanksgiving btw) My mom and I literally made 4 laps around the store just to make sure we didn't forget anything!



 

Having never been in a Home Goods before, I found that most everything was affordable, unique, and just AH-MAZING!

After spending two hours shopping, we spent another 45 minutes in the check out line--which rivaled the length of the line to get in the actual store. It was wrapped/snaked all around and throughout the store. Seems like everyone wanted to check out at the same time...

Thinking like a marketer, it was actually a good idea for them to snake the line because I know for a fact that people were more inclined to impulse buy. That black and white rug in the buggy, yep. Impulse buy. The ladies in front of us in line practically got a whole new buggy just for their impulse buys. Well done Home Goods. Well done.

After spending close to $300.00 between the two of us, we finally wrapped up our first visit to Home Goods. When talking to one of the manager's and finding out their sales goal for the grand opening was $160,000; I feel sure they met it--especially with our hefty contribution.

As we were leaving, more and more people were streaming in! Good thing they had plenty in the store room! I  know that this is a store that I will visit every time I go home, just to see what new things they have in stock.

Thanks to Home Goods, my apartment is finally starting to feel more like a HOME!

If you are ever in the area, Home Goods is a must--because I said so :)

On My Radar

With it being a new month, I've decided to post what I'm currently loving--right this second.

1. The Nike+ Fuelband.





This little piece of technology is the coolest thing ever. It keeps track of how many fuel point you get a day by assigning a value to each thing you do. Basically the more active you are, the more points a day you get! It's the perfect motivator for me. I'm a visual person who needs a constant reminder to move. Josh has one too, so we can kind of race and make it like a game.

2. The Nikon Coolpix P520



This beauty is now mine thanks to the Joie de Vie last night! I've already taken a dozen pictures, my subjects mainly being Carol and Laney. They are natural born divas so they didn't mind my paparazzi like picture taking. I can't believe I have such a professional camera and can't wait to use it more. Now I will be able to take more pictures for my blog and edit them like a real photographer/blogger. #holla

3. Cold Weather

It is finally COLD here in the south. At least in the mornings. I think it was in the 50s this morning when I woke up. This make me so happy and like I've mentioned before, it puts me in a better mood...maybe because the holidays are coming up? I hope that it stays cold..it is November after all.

What's on your radar this month?

 

Joie de Vie

"Joy of living"

also known as the auction my old high school puts on annually

 Between the auction items, yummy food, and beautiful decor--the joy of living was accomplished and the auction lived up to it's name.

I went once before and missed last year, so I was thrilled to get to this year (and that my mom bought my ticket). Each year there is a different theme and the money goes towards one specific thing the school is working on. This year the theme was "A Joyeaux Cajun Noel" and all money raised is going towards building a new entrance to the school--and for anyone who went/goes to/knows anything of NCS know this IS HUGE.

I was pleasantly surprised upon arrival. The decorations weren't too tacky (a million things come to mind when you hear that it will be swamp themed and you are encouraged to wear your shrimp boots) and some even came from my mom's own personal collection (but shhh, you didn't hear it from me). 

Cute centerpieces right?

Also I must comment on the food from Don's Catering. Technically, he is "competition" for the company I work for now, but he also is part of the reason I got my job. The passed hors d'oeuvres consisted of crab cakes, bacon wrapped shrimp with pepper jelly, and a spinach pastry. Delish. I didn't get a chance to try much of the other food, but the food definitely matched the theme and was yummy! Again, pleasantly surprised.

And now for the most exciting part of the whole night.

I went into the auction knowing the one item I wanted to bid on. The camera. It was donated by my little sister, Carol's 7th grade class. So naturally I had heard about it for a week prior. A little back story--a camera has been on my Christmas list for 2 years running now and I really wanted one before Josh and I go to Pittsburgh this year.

Knowing what I wanted, I wrote my name on that item's sheet first and had to play the waiting game. The camera was one of the last items to close and I literally checked on it every 10 minutes! As the close for the camera came closer, I found myself hovering and willing people to not bid on--I may or may not have glared at some people. Sorry!

After a stressful, nail biting hour or so, I'm now the proud owner of a brand new Nikon! I will now be able to take pictures with something other than my iPhone. I'm so beyond excited and can't wait to test it out!

An added bonus for the night, was the doggie basket I bid on. I got it for $20 and it has all sorts of goodies for Laney including a $15 gift certificate to a dog boutique store, various treats, and a bone. Laney is beyond thrilled and is currently working on that bone.

Laney's ultimate dog basket of goodies

You can just call me Allison the Photographer!

I can't wait for the Joie de Vie next year! If you haven't been before, you should for sure pick up a ticket for next year...because I said so--and its a good cause!

Why Write

Who will even read it?

Who cares what you have to say?

All that work for only your family to read...

You're not an expert on anything.

I thought all of these things and even heard people say some. So why write? Why keep up with something so time consuming? And what do I write about? I'm no expert at really anything...except if you count having a good eye for design and telling people what looks good and what doesn't.

Well, to be frank, I don't really care if anyone reads it. Sure I love to look at the stats and hope that I have at least one reader or a new follower. But that isn't why I write. I write my blog just to write. I've always loved to write and have even been told that I'm pretty good at it. It's a creative outlet for me and for someone who is always on some sort of technology--it's easier to keep up with say a diary or journal.

Last January, while on the job hunt in the marketing field (social media marketing, journalism, etc.), my dad suggested I start a blog. After all, the people I talked to and interviewed with always asked if I had a blog--well no, but I've been meaning to start one was my answer for a while. My dad was just pointing out the obvious. Such a smart man. If they kept asking me if I had one, why didn't I just create one? Why hadn't I thought of that?  It would be a great way to showcase my writing skills and my personality. However, it wasn't until the summer that I actually got started.

And I'm so glad I did. I'm still pretty new to blogging and still struggle with what to write about, but as with anything else if it's something you love then you go for it--and who knows, one day I may make an impact in someone's life because I write.

I encourage everyone who loves to write and has been thinking about starting a blog, just to do it...because I said so!

Those Phi Mu's Are the Best

When I graduated high school, it never occurred to me to

"Go Greek."

No one in family had ever rushed and I thought I could make friends on my own. After all, I "didn't want to pay for my friends."

Looking back, I'm so glad I had a change of heart. I've met some of my very best friends and quite frankly Phi Mu is the best thing that has happened to me and by far the best decision I've ever made.

Being a first generation Greek in my family, I want both my sister's to be Phi Mu's and any future baby girls I have to be Phi Mu's too. I think it comes with the territory.

Fast forward four years and now my baby sissy, Stephanie IS a Phi Mu. (as of yesterday) I spent all of the summer recruiting her and worrying for her future Greek placement. When I was able to attend her Preference Night, I knew I had sealed the deal. Bid Day was the best day ever. Like Christmas! To see her run to the Phi Mu's, her future sisters ,made me so excited for her!  It can be scary, but it's a great feeling at the same time.

I couldn't be happier or more proud.

Yesterday was her initiation. I took a half day at work and everything. The ceremony was beautiful and I love how even though I was a Phi Mu at a different school, I was welcomed with open arms and able to be apart of something so precious. I know she chose the right sorority and will be able to do great things because of it.

So it's official: we are double sisters!

 Is that a thing? Probably not, but it's still cool. We share a forever bond (as if being genetic sisters wasn't enough) and it connects us on a whole different level.  

Steph, I can't wait for you to experience all that Phi Mu has to offer. It can open so many doors for you if you let it. Love you sissy!

She's an official Phi Mu y'all!

LIOB now and forever!

P.S. If you are thinking about going Greek--you definitely should no matter what sorority you choose--Because I Said So!

TGIF

Thank goodness it's Friday y'all.

Another week in the books and the weekend means I have time to catch up on sleeping, shopping, and decorating!

A girl's most favorite weekend activities. 

I don't know what it is, but I can't seem to keep my apartment clean. With the unpacking and the day to day living (read getting home from work and vegging out in front of the TV)...it's a mess. Josh came to visit on Tuesday and just about had a stroke. (He's my much neater half)  When he left, he challenged me to keep it clean until he visits again next Tuesday. Truth be told I'll probably just clean it real fast Monday night before he comes over Tuesday. But I'd like to think that I can keep it clean on a day to day basis--I am a big girl after all. 

I still have NOT unpacked everything from my "big move" last week. I really have no idea how I accumulated that much STUFF in my 22 years of living, and more importantly where it's all going to go! That will be project #1 for the weekend.

Sleeping late will consist of project #2--I know I have it so tough. I find that I can't sleep that late anymore ever since I started working--that and the fact that I have no curtains in my room yet and it gets pretty bright in there.

I will also be scouring the city for thrift shops and the perfect dining room table! I have No Fleas Market on my list, but would love any recommendations! The list of things I need/want for my apartment continues to grow--mostly when I go to say wash my hands and realize I have no soap. Typical. 

I get to see the fam this weekend too--I make it sound like I never get to see them anymore, but it IS different not having them around ALL THE TIME. I can't wait! It is also my weekend to have LANEY! Yes we "share custody" of our pup like a divorced couple, but hey it works for us and Laney loves the occasional change in scenery.

YAY for the weekend!

 

Also if anyone has any must see places and have to do things in  NOLA I'd love to hear them...because let's face it, sitting in my apartment cleaning all weekend, every weekend is NOT going to cut it!

A Place to Call My Own

Well I did it!!!

I'm officially moved out (mostly) and living in my own big girl apartment.795 square feet and its all mine--at least for 14 months.

I only need about 102,897,456 more things to get it the way I want it. Has anyone else had this problem? Maybe it's my "type A" tendencies, but I want it to look HGTV worthy right now without spending more than like $500.

Do I hear a challenge?

My list (and we all know how much I love lists) includes, but is not limited to:

pots and pans

utensils

chairs

rugs

lamps

curtains

a microwave

FOOD

dining table and chairs

etc. etc. it grows by the minute

So when I said I found the perfect place, perfect was relative. It does need some work--don't get me wrong, but you should have seen some of the other places I toured before deciding on my perfectly imperfect space. I'm sure I'll be posting more on my DIY projects, as well as, any of the unique experiences I encounter as I adjust to apartment living.  You'll just have to check in from time to time--Because I Said So :)

Get on Your Bikes and Ride!

And cue the Queen song!

This past weekend was the MS Tour for Cure. It's a (in total) 150 mile bike ride to raise money for those with multiple sclerosis.  75 miles there, 75 miles back...uphill both ways. Just kidding. But there really are lots of hills throughout the course.

I could never. But my dad does it every year. This year being no exception even with the risk of a Tropical Storm--thankfully it dissipated before any damage could be done. Nonetheless, my weekend started off at 6 AM on Saturday. After overseeing the start of the race,  and making sure Dad was off to a good start,





us girls of the family went back home for a quick nap and some last minute packing before heading to the finish line located in Percy Quinn State Park. We were determined to not miss him crossing this year! Once we had arrived, the clouds were seemingly non-threatening...until we had to ride in the back of a ranger's truck to get the finish line. That's when the bottom fell out--of course. So here we are getting soaked before we even get there..I can't imagine how Dad was feeling riding through the rain. At least we had rain jackets?



Luckily for us, and Dad, the rain stopped almost as quickly as it had started. While waiting for dad to cross the finish line, we took many  selfies, cheered random people on who were crossing the finish line, chatted with people sitting around us, and observed the nature that is to be found in the state park (mainly complained about gnats and spiders).

Around 2 o'clock Dad crossed the finish line! Hip Hip Hooray! Time to CELEBRATE!! What better way to celebrate than with an ice cold beer? IDK how he drank that after riding 75 miles!

While Dad recovered and socialized with other bikers,  my sisters and I caught a couple of zzzs --like we were 5 years old again. Seriously napping on a blanket in the park. Even with a nap, the Ellzey family hit the hay early, to get ready for another day of bike racing.

The second day of racing was super foggy.  I noticed that some bikers had strobe headlights on their bikes--which I thought was a nice touch. Dad does have a birthday coming up.....

And it was back to Hammond for the girls and back to Cracker Barrel for the second time this trip. My most favorite thing about Cracker Barrel is that you can buy the PEZ refill candy without the annoying PEZ container and just eat all of it to your heart's content. It comes like 4 in a pack. HEAVEN.

Sunday, thankfully there was no rain, though it looked like it at moments throughout the day. After some quick shopping, we headed to the finish line to await the arrival of Dad. We spread out our blankets and got to tracking dad to see EXACTLY where he was. Modern technology is a tad bit CREEEPPY!

Here Steph is anxiously waiting for Dad to come around the corner.

Beating his time yesterday by an hour or so, Dad crossed the finish line! YAY! GOOOO DAD!!

Can't wait for next year!