Long Over Due Photo Post

So many things to share... but, blogger isn't being very cooperative so I'll have to do another post later with the rest of my photos. Putting in the fence, below, at the new homestead. Yes, that's me working with my most favorite tool ever. (Go ahead and say it guys, I rock.)

I'll post after photos as soon as I get the chance. Mini has one fancy fence now.

Below, a friend's son built J a workbench for his new shop in school. It was a great surprise.















A few Halloween photos I picked from a bunch, below. They're growing up so fast. 8 year old Toot and 2 year old KK. He's so sweet to her, like a big brother and she just looks up to him so much. I love these photos.





























And a few below of them dancing one night at the house. These crack me up.























More later. I got a Britney Spears special to watch in a few...

Cancun, Pop Ins and Talented Friends

• I finally switched back to my old Razor phone. I missed the days of being able to text a full conversation. I missed being able to hear my phone ring in the other end of the house. I had grown tired and fed up of people whining about how they "could never get ahold of me." First off, I hate cell phones. I hate being able to be found. I don't like talking on the phone. But yeah, this LG Shine I had before, just made things worse. Only good thing about it was the mirror on it. It would shut off whenever it wanted, randomly change its volume, I'm pretty sure it was possessed.


• My to do list is getting smaller and smaller these days. I'm feeling less and less anxious. Right now my biggest baby is nurturing the ferns that will flank me and Babers at the altar. Its 40 degrees out or less most nights lately, so I'm taking them in the shop at night. Water. Prune. Fluff. Wake up early, take them out the shop. Hang them. Water. Prune if there's time. Put them back in when I get home. They're like frigging children!! But, I do love taking care of things, especially plants. At least there's no back talk.


• I did my Christmas shopping in less than two weeks, all done online. Amazon.com for books and boy stuff, Ebay for discount designer hobo bags for the girlies in my life, and last but not least http://kittywrinkle.blogspot.com/ <-- Yep, that's Kitty's place. She is one talented chica. I wanted something to do with sewing for my MIL's birthday, which is on Christmas Eve. Well, Kitty just so happened to share a new creation of hers on her blog the week I began shopping:

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Its a pin cushion and needle case. Isn't it precious? I'm so thrilled with the result. I was in the right place at the right time and know my MIL will love it. She's crazy about purple and Kitty was kind enough to create this lovely in as much purple as you can get! At Kitty's suggestion, I purchased pretty new pins in shiny pastels and a new needle set to go along with the cushion & case set. Go see Kitty. She is mega talented!

• In a recent post I admitted to having issues with being social. Its not so much that I don't want to be social, I just don't want to be social ALL OF THE TIME. I have had company or have gone to get-togethers about 6 out of 7 days this past week. I'm so ready for this honeymoon, its unreal. People just pop in at the house. Call me every single freaking day to see what I'm doing. Really people? Can I have just a moment to breathe? And what happened to etiquette? I mean, we're about to be MARRIED. Are people just going to pop in on us as newlyweds? I hope not, because they're going to be in for a surprise if they do and I will NOT apologize for it! *snicker*

• As of today there are 12 days till our wedding. TWELVE. Oh. My. God. I'm calm but nervous. I broke a nail yesterday and just looked at it and shrugged. (I'm not a salon girl, I keep 'em natural.) Six weeks ago I would have broken down in tears if I had broken a nail. If they take the traditional photo of our hands with our rings, I guess I'll just have nubs. Jason keeps texting me things like: I can't wait for margaritas on the beach and massages... I'm super anxious for this trip. I didn't have a vacation this year and I'm hurting for one.

• I'm over the old blog look but I'm having a hard time finding something I like until I can replace with something I make myself. Does anyone have suggestions on sites where I can find cool bloggy backgrounds??

Eh, that's all for today. Making my rounds to leave obnoxious comments. Apologies in advance. I have a case of the Mundays...

Thanksgiving wishes!

Just wanted to pop in, tell everyone Happy Thanksgiving. I have so much to post on, including a trip downtown (with photos) to see a pirate ship battle, lots of personal thoughts including my own battle with socializing, pre-marital counseling review, wedding plans and more! Wow, that just sounded like an advertisement!

Half day at work today, a few hours which I had hoped to be laid back and therefore able to sneak in one of the above posts. Nope. Its a cram-what-we-can-in kinda day. But hey, I'm grateful for a half day!

This Thanksgiving, I'm thankful for:

My family. Though we sometimes butt heads and are occasionally in each others business too much, we are always there for each other. Always. I've been so aware of this lately. When times are rough financially, there's no hesitation in support. When a shoulder is needed, we're there for each other. When I need to vent, there's always an ear. I'm so thankful for that.

My health. I know this seems cliche, but recently exercise has flown out the window due to a full plate of wedding to dos. (And the freezing cold outside!) I'm so aware of the difference in the way I feel when I don't exercise vs. when I do. Its amazing. Right now I am sluggish, tired all the time. I need exercise. I promise myself a couple of walks over the long weekend and to pick it back up full time after the wedding. I'm thankful that I am able bodied and have kept my health up thus far to the point that I can exercise.

My soulmate. He is everything to me. He supports me, comforts me, makes me laugh when I need it most. He is my best friend, my ear, my entertainment. He is selfless, giving, spontaneous, affectionate. Everything I would want in a husband. I am so thankful that God kept us in parallel paths our whole lives and then brought us together at exactly the right moment in our lives. I am so thankful.

Have a wonderful holiday, lots of turkey and may you fall victim to a food coma without being harrassed for it. Hugs!

Gifts and More Gifts

Wow. What an awesome turn out for our shower. All of my favorite friends and family were there, even my out of towners.

So many gifts y'all. Like, obnoxious amounts of giftage. I'm still not through putting things away. Some things we received and adore:

Yes, that's Emerilware. *swoon* I used it for the first time last night making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. Love the sleek look of stainless steel. I just feel like a chef using it. I've been wanting this set since I was 4 years old - I kid. But seriously, this was a must have! Thanks Mom & Dad!

We got 3 tea makers, which was the joke of the night. My friend gave me one because she said it was so fitting due to me being a tea fanatic. I drink tea more than anything, maybe 4-6 glasses a day. She threw a mini tantrum at each tea maker we unwrapped after hers.

J's fave was definitely the fire pit. We've already used it twice since we got it. Its so romantical, sitting by the fire in our courtyard together. The Mini Monster purring on our laps, the cool wind whipping through, the flames so hypnotic.

The bedding, I adore, because it makes me feel all grown up. I actually have a design plan for our room that is created around this set, a natural bamboo, woodsy look. It was also the only bedding J and I both agreed on. (No floral! says J.)

Everyone got along so well. So many people came up to me to say how nice my friends are, how sweet my family is, how beautiful the shower was, etc. My cousin took photos of the night which I will share once he sends over, but for now you get a peek of the craziness that night.

My long time readers may remember Tsunami face. It was funny as we were taking photos, but now I realize we posed with this face pretty much in every.single.picture. Tards.

We even got a few family members in on it. Caught my Maw Maw off guard I think. Even so, she managed to pose pretty! And below, my mom. She's going to kill me when she sees I posted a pic of her! Get over it Ma, you look purty! (See her cutting her eyes at me? Ha!)

Me and my dear Michelli, so kindly covering up the inappropriate nippleage in this piece of art. Quite the conversation piece. My dad thought this was hilarious.

After, everyone came over for some vino, fire pit action and plumb sillery. We had a blast. Um, notice there were no pics of J? Sneaky, sneaky.

All in all, a great night. (Though I'm glad we'll only do this once...)

You don't eat WHAT??

As I spoke of in my last post, my good friend is coming in from Houston, TX for me and J's shower. Its going to be a really nice shower that we are calling a "couples shower". I felt it unfair to have a "bridal shower" where tons of women I don't know all that well sit around and watch me open gifts, all the while oooing and ahhhing and pretending to be interested. I also felt it unfair that most of the presents I would be getting would most likely be things that I put on our registry, not so much things J would have picked out.

Before I go too far, I have to say I was so naive in my thoughts. We just had a couples type shower given by the church last weekend. People still tend to give you things the bride wants because, well, the women tend to buy the shower present anyway. Moving on...

So my aunt and uncle, who are also my godparents, are throwing this shower this weekend at the gallery where we are getting married. Both sexes are invited. This is for both J and I. There will be wine and beer and mingling. Instead of sitting around in a circle for hours watching me open presents, our friends and family will walk in and both J and I will open the presents together and then put them on display.

I have a bit of social anxiety, but I'm really good at hiding it. I will have anxiety for weeks over something very simple. When its over I'll say to myself "that wasn't so bad." But, the idea of being the main focus at a shower with all these women fawning over presents and asking me ridiculous questions like "When are you going to have babies?" because dude let us get married first for Chrissakes - makes my skin crawl.

So clever, this couples shower I've suggested, no? :)

Then the other day my single friend asks me if she will be the only person not in a couple. Because its a couples shower. Doh! Guess we should have named it something else...

Back to the topic at hand, my friend that is coming in. She, eh, doesn't eat meat.

Did you miss that? DOESN'T EAT MEAT.

This is the girl I lived with for a year who would eat bacon and eggs for breakfast with me every weekend, who would walk in on Sundays from visiting her parents going Mmmmm!!! because the smell of roast cooking in the crockpot filled the apartment.

How can this be? I understand she wants to be healthier and I'm very excited and most of all, intrigued. I have questions for her:

What about bacon?
Do you crave meat?

Can you eat eggs?
Does this mean you can never have a cheeseburger again?
Do you cheat occasionally or is it like when you quit smoking?
Do you eat tofu?
What does your man eat when you're eating... sprouts?
What about bacon?????

I really am intrigued though. Nutrition has always been of great interest to me and I've always had these great plans for a healthier lifestyle *stare* but I have a feeling I will never be able to fully stick with a plan like one with no meat.

J likes meat. I like meat. I'm the cook. End of story.

So yeah, this weekend is going to be interesting. I'm up for the challenge though! She eats seafood, so tonight I am doing New Orleans style BBQ shrimp, garlic bread and mmm, something else to go with it. Maybe corn on the cob or some stir fry veggies. I dunno. Breakfast should be a breeze and maybe I'll suggest going out for lunch and grill her for more info. Who knows, maybe by the end of this weekend I will have converted to a vegetarian as well.



Nahh....

As of Today

• We have exactly one month before the wedding.
• I have less of a to-do list. Ribbon to bakery for cake. Jewelry for flower girl. Gift for ring bearer. Get kiss proof lipstick. Choose bridal photo for presentation at reception. Pay florist and dj.
• I have less weight on my shoulders. Yesterday J was rained out of work. When I got to the house he had cleaned the kitchen, mopped the floors, done laundry, bathed the dog, scrubbed the tub and picked up around the house. I could have cried. Yes, I know I'm lucky.
• I need to start tanning. Somehow I have bikini strap lines and its been months since I went to the river. I certainly don't want to be that bride that is orange in winter, but I need to knock these lines off.
• I am getting excited about my best girl friend coming in. She's sort of the male version of J. Wait. I'm sort of the male version of J. Guess that's why we get along so well. We became roommates after about a month of knowing each other at work and have been friends ever since. We just hit it off. I can't wait to be silly with her, catch up and hang out with her. She just gets me.

On another note, J and I took the PREPARE test last night as part of our premarital counseling. Not sure if any of you married folk had to do premarital before your wedding, but its something I highly recommend for those who are engaged to be. The test questions you on so many different aspects of your marriage-to-be and life together. Things you probably wouldn't think to discuss together. You take the test each separately, same questions, and then have a counselor review it and note the differences and possible issues. Next week we go to see our counselor to review our outcome. I'm nervous and anxious to see where we are. We know we are highly compatible, but you just never know how it appears to a third party.

That's all for today. Tootles!

15 Years, Forever to go

Tomorrow marks our anniversary. Babers and I have been together for 2 1/2 years. Some days I'm so warm and comfy in our relationship habits that it feels like longer. Other days, he'll do something new, exciting and off the wall and I feel like I only just met him.

J and I have known each other exactly half our lives. We met in highschool 15 years ago. Back then we had a little phase of puppy love, but as sophmores in highschool, relationships were hardly something we were aces at. Still, we were good friends. Shared the same sense of humor, had similiar family backgrounds. We flirted like mad with each other and he still reminisces outloud about how my legs looked in my cheerleader skirt. *blush*

And back then he was always the bad boy, and you know how women love a bad boy. I just happened to get lucky and be one of the few women who get to tame their bad boy. *wink*

After highschool we went our separate ways. But over the years we always came back around to each other. Its like Fate wanted to remind us on our journey that the other was still out there. Sure, it may not have been our time to come together, but She threw us together often.

We saw each other out. J would randomly call me. (Though he'll tell you I ignored many of his phone calls, which is the truth. I was a good girl and was a bit afraid of him for some time.)

For a year we waited tables at the same restaurant together. We had not talked to each other for a while, so can you imagine how giddy we both were walking in on our first training day and seeing the other there. "This is going to be fun," were our first reactions. And it was. I have so many great memories of us that year. Like how I looked forward to seeing the shift calendar at the week's end to see how many shifts I had with him that coming week. Or how he used to sneak up behind me and pull the strings on my apron, sending my apron and its contents crashing to the floor. The way we'd clean our sections and cut up with each other while doing so. How we'd sneak off in between shifts to hang out.

One night two and half years ago (as of tomorrow) J and I were both (separately) talked into going out. We hadn't seen each other in years. My sister begged me out of my pajamas and into lipstick and her car for a night out on the town. On the same night, J's friends drug him out as well.

J just so happened to turn on his barstool and peer out the window at the line waiting to come into the door of a local bar that night and guess who he saw? I can still remember that big ole grin he gave me when we saw each other through the glass.

I remember feeling a rush of giddiness, butterflies taking over my tummy. Me and my sister went straight to the bar so as not to look too excited by rushing to say hey to him first. Still, I kept an eye out over my shoulder.

J came up to me and our conversation never ended. I followed him to another bar for a round of pool. There we talked for hours. He stuck his foot in his mouth by asking if I still had my annoying dog. The dog which had just passed into Puppy Heaven a year back! But, he won me over by asking me to marry him 16 times that night. Funny how things work out.

Six months ago, we reminisced about that night in the bar. About how giddy we were and how funny this time around we just clicked for good.

Six months ago, he questioned what I would say if he asked me just one more time to marry him.

So yeah, today I'm feeling fuzzy, dreamy, romantical and little bittersweet. Because tomorrow marks the last "anniversary", if you will, before we're married. Then, we will have new anniversaries. New memories.

Happy early 2 and a half year anniversary Baby. Loves you (forever).

Tagged for the Kreative Blogger Award!

While I'm not feeling very creative as of late, I do appreciate this awesome award. To me, one of the biggest compliments a person can give me is to tell me I'm creative. Tookie tagged me for this award, go see her!


Here are the rules:

1. Mention the blog that gave it to you and comment on their blog to let them know you have posted your award.
2. Publish these rules.
3. Share 6 values that are important to you and 6 things you do not support.
4. Grant the prize to 6 people.


Six Values That Are Important To Me:

1. Sense of Humor
2. Gratitude
3. Happiness
4. Honesty
5. Passion
6. Health


Six Things I Don't Support:

1. Cursing and lewd language/behavior in front of children
2. Religious kooks trying to force their religion upon others
3. Smoking/Drug Use
4. Irresponsibility
5. Ignorance / Narrow Minded People
6. Rudeness / Disrespect - its so easy to be nice, why not?

I'll tag Kitty, Kelly, Stace, Christie, Damsel and Papa (Papa, this would be a good one to share with your youngin!)

On another note, the Halloween party was fun but left me with a bit of a hangover. I just can't handle the liquor in my old age! ;) Hopefully I'll have some photos to share soon. (I wasn't the camera holder for once!)

I went to vote this morning and actually got a little nervous walking in. Strange. I like watching everyone before they vote - its the most courteous you'll ever see some people in your life. Women and men standing quietly in line with their arms crossed, keeping to themselves. Not staring at anyone, telling the volunteers thank you. Now if we could just get everyone to act this way in the lines at Walmart...

Halloween Mid Life Sadness

J and I are going to a party this Saturday after Halloween. I'm going as a detective and J is going as an inmate. We're going this route mainly because I already have the costume (trenchcoat, fedora, etc) and it was the cheapest set up we could do. Next year we'll go all out, most likely as a geisha and samuri, when we aren't so tight with our budgets.

Earlier I told my boss that I am going to be the least sexiest costume wearer at this party. The women there range from 39-50 something and they all have ass-skimming, skin tight, boobs-hanging-out costumes. I'm concerned and anxious because I know I'll be so embarrassed for them. I mean, can we say Mid Life Crisis? Like those men who turn 50 and buy a red convertible, these women are trying to dress their aging and not-so-sexy bodies in sexy costumes. And for what? I just don't get it. Grosses me out. I'm just turning 30 and feel its not appropriate for ME to dress sexy - the best I got is fishnets and heels to go with my trench. That's it yo.

So what's your costume for this year? (Or your kiddos...)

This and that

I think we could all use a little reminder on how to be the best in our relationships. I read this today and got a little boost from it:

http://zenhabits.net/2008/10/listen-up-how-honest-communication-can-save-your-marriage/#more-1500

On the last post - I know I seemed a little bent out of shape about the friends thing. Truth? I'm not fond of change. Its tough these days to keep in touch with my good friends. The TRUE ones. If it weren't for blogging and email, it would be even harder. Who has time to fit in hour phone calls and the time to make plans every weekend to catch up? Its really tough. Michelli put it best in my comments.

That post was basically about a couple friend I inherited through J. They just don't seem to know the meaning of friendship, respect, or selfishness. I was offended by their actions (or lack thereof). The guy called J last night to have us over for dinner tonight. I guess as a sort of "make up" dinner. I'm torn about it. On one hand I don't want to be like them and not show, but I'm still just a little peeved. There was no apology, no measley "Sorry dude, I got caught up," phone call to J. I also feel like I don't have the time to go either. So, so much to do in the evenings.

Oh, and he threw in a little jab about not having a watch or a schedule. Again, are we not important enough to remember a dinner date with us? Or TWO dinner dates for that matter?? Its just not that hard. I don't get it.

What would you do? Would you go?

To-do list time! Oh how I love scratching off the list:

Stamps for invitations
Address invitations
Finish making bridesmaid jewelry (one left!)
Break in shoes
Marriage license

More on that list, but my breathing was starting to shorten while typing that, so I'll stop there. :)

Off to email our pre-marital counselor. I'm so excited about this! When I asked J how he felt about the pre-marital session, he told me that we were only going to do this marrige thing once. He said he didn't want to half ass it, he wants it to be right and if it means pre-marital counseling, then bring it on.

I so heart him.

P.S. - thinking about a new project. A new site, if you will. Shoot me an email if you want the link when its up yo: blueeyez055@aol.com.

With Friends Like These...

Remember the days when your best friend gave you half her sandwich because you forgot your lunch? Or would call your loser boyfriend to break up with him for you? Remember the days when she cried because you were crying from heartache over the break up of the "love of your life" at 14?

I remember. Where did those friends go?

Do people just get tired of being a good friend? Do they get jaded over the years by the rotten apples and decide Why bother? and become bad friends themselves?

Maybe. But I do remember what it was to once have good friends. I had a friend who used to send me lil cards and hand written letters when she visited her parents over Spring Break. She knew my favorite color, food, music, band, pants size and exactly how to shield me from a certain guy in my life that just wouldn't leave me be. She would always put me first, which made it so easy to put her first. We shared clothes, stayed up late talking about our dating troubles, cried while watching sappy movies together.

Sure, people get older and have less time for this stuff. Sure, she was bipolar and let the crazy take over and I ended up having to say goodbye (another story) but the point is - it can be done.

People can make the conscious effort to call on birthdays, to equally give as well as take, to speak kindly and treat their friend's loved ones with respect.

To not stand people up when invited to dinner, not just once, but TWICE.

Maybe I'm overreacting, but I want to be treated the way I treat people and I just don't feel like its that hard.

Know what I mean??

Sale!! Early Christmas Shopping!

So I just went through my metal phase. Well, I'm still sort of in it, but winter always brings back my love for all things chunky and rich and deep in color.

I just put lots of lovelies on sale so go have a look! http://www.jilllamonte.etsy.com/ - CRAZY SALE LINK!

Items reduced up to 60% off original price. I usually do this a little later in the fall but with the wedding I thought it would be nice for my friends to be able to shop early for Christmas as I'll be MIA during December. :)

I'm anxiously awaiting my order for winter stones. Reds, greens, deep blues and black. Even a little purple and gold coming up for my LSU fans!

Oh and one more thing: free shipping for items over $10!! FREE. As in ZERO MONEY for shipping. :) Just let me know what you want and I'll reserve a listing just for you with the free shipping applied. I'm doing this only for my blog visitors and myspace friends.

Thanks and happy shopping!!

Engagement Photos!!

Well, we finally got to have a look at the engagement photos last night! We're so tickled with the turn out. It was quite embarrassing taking them but seeing them makes it well worth it.

Babers looks so handsome in these. Oh and a week before these were taken I realized that we hadn't really coordinated our outfits. It just so happened that he had a shirt to match the one I wanted to wear. See? Meant to be, in every way. Awww....

And by the way, I spared you guys on the mushy ones. I mean really mushy.

"Put your hand on his face."

"Tuck your hand under her chin."

"Look into her eyes. Jill, close yours."

"Get closer, now be serious. No smiling."

And of course when you tell us not to smile that just creates mayhem. J and I not smile? Pfft. Preposterous!

Being Busy Makes the Heart Grow Fonder?

Surely you've heard of the saying that distance makes the heart grow fonder. Wait. Or is it stronger? Anyway... I've learned of a new one this weekend.

J and I went to Home Depot for some, well, house stuff Saturday morning. The hall bathroom was a hideous green and pink flowered wall paper. J and I (mostly J) have ripped the paper off and are looking at bare walls. I got to pick out a pretty lil trimmer brush and we got some other items to make-under this bathroom.

After, J heads to his parents to change the oil in my car and I head to Jen's to get my hair did, a little pre-bridal photos practice for next weekend. (Ahhh! Next weekend!)

I get home and start cleaning. J is finishing the fence and working on the last few pieces of wallpaper in the bathroom. Then I start dinner. Crab cakes and green bean casserole. And then the LSU game is on and I'm making jewelry and watching Sex in the City in another room.

What? I know! I HATED it. Well, until I got so enthralled with the movie and then it was okay for a minute. And then I got all pouty again. But it was only 2 hours in separate rooms. We're going to be that old couple that dies together holding hands.

Sorry, that was morbid.

Sunday its more cleaning and laundry and jewelry and another football game. (Curse you Football Gods!!!) Then Toot turned 8 and we went to Jen's for present opening and cake and ice cream.

Before you know it, its 8pm and we're done with everything we need to do. And I just look at him and all the love I have for him wells up in me and I kiss him like he's been away on a business trip or something. I mean a big ole smooch. We're talking butterflies. It felt like I hadn't really been with him even though we were in the same house working together for 2 days straight.

I can just see it now. Three years later with baby and boutique and we'll have to pencil each other in our schedules for smooch fests. Yikes!

Or maybe, when we're not liking each other so much in the future, when I'm in menopause and a royal PITA and he's got ear hair and doesn't pick up his socks, I'll yell at him "OH just go somewhere for a few days!!!" and we'll get that loving feeling back again...

Bad Bloglines, bad!

Grrr. So my mom asks me if I've seen the improvements on her blog yesterday and I say No, I didn't realize you updated or posted. I go and check my bloglines and *gasp* - it has been keeping secrets from me! All this time I thought you guys weren't blogging but you were and bloglines did not alert me.

I feel so betrayed... how am I supposed to stay organized and keep my life simple if my organizing tools don't do their job? Well, bloglines is going to bed without supper tonight, that's all I gotta say.

In the meantime, picked up a pretty yesterday for my Jillry party this Friday!



























I hope to read my missed posts today. In the meantime, Happy Hump Day!

Randomness

10.5 random word association

http://randomeme4u.blogspot.com/

Halloween style

I say...you think

1. Halloween: fun!

2. Candy: corn

3. Costume: detective (j's going to be the inmate)

4. October: my birth month

5. Witch: Sarah Jessica Parker. Not sure why.

6. Pumpkin: What Daddy calls me

7. Grim Reaper: creepy

8. Haunted: house!

9. Spooky: my new home's creaks and noises at night!

10. Paranormal: State (me and J love that show!)

till next time...

Ga Ga

That's my word for today. Ga ga. Over so many things...

But one in particular: my bridal necklace.

Yesterday my mother and I went shopping for her mother of the bride gown. Unfortunately we weren't quite in the season for this type of apparel. Apparently women only dress in formals for Christmas. *stare*

Anyway, weird as that shopping trip was, after 4 stores with hardly anything in stock, we headed back home. We picked up my gown while we were out and the length was perfect. Looking in the mirror, I watched the seamstress teach my Mom how to bustle the train and I almost cried, it was so beautiful.

Then we get home and Mom starts digging in her jewelry stash and pulls out this gorgeous piece. My breathe catches in my throat, but I'm so picky and worry. I put the necklace on and me, my sis, and mother ooo and ahhh.

Well that did it. Jen and I just had to put our gowns on, (my second time for that day, which is no easy feat) - my bridal gown and her bridesmaid gown. The necklace is perfect. The red of her dress against the white of mine, just gorgeous. Our gowns, elegant.

Now the burden of making my own jewelry is off my shoulders. Plus, the piece is either my mother's or my sister's, so it can be used as my "something borrowed".

My something old will be my mother's rosary, given to her as a wedding present from my father many moons ago. My aunt has a six pence for my shoe. Now I just need to work on the others. Something new and something blue.

Still on the search for the perfect Father/Daughter song. Wish me luck.

Time for some photo action

These photos are a few weeks old, from the first party J and I had at our new house. We watched the LSU game of course and I made a big ole pot of red beans and rice, coleslaw, and deviled eggs. And my favorite people in the whole wide world were there. There are many more photos, but some people just don't appreciate having their photo splashed on the internet. So weird, I know... ;)













You KNEW me and Jen were going do the photo thing. You know you love it.











I am in love with these shoes. Sadly, they are not as comfortable as they look...

Who IS that handsome Grizzly Babers?

This is supposed to be a photo of my brother. He will not stay still for a photo to save his life. So I had to hold a fluff conversation with my SIL and slowly sneak the camera up to snap a surprise shot. Damn flash gave me away. Good thing his wifey is cute.

We may still be doing this when we're in our 70's...

This was taken the night before at a friend of ours house. We always go there for bonfires during the fall. Hopefully we'll have a fire pit soon and have our friends over to OUR house!

This evening I'm going to see my sister's new salon. Today is their grand opening! I'm so proud of her. I can't believe she's come this far in such a little amount of time.

Also, J and I are putting up the fence. Doesnt' that sound very adult?

What are you doing Friday night?

Oh, just putting up a fence.

And... making Jillry. I'm... crazy in the head, I suppose, because I am having a Jillry party at my house this coming Friday. I know, I'm insane! I blab about all the crap I have to do and I add this to the mix, but the thing is - I enjoy this. I mean really enjoy it. So its not work for me. I'll get to hang with my girls and meet some new people and help everyone out with early Christmas presents. That's what I love most. Being able to help the women (and men) in my life pick a piece of jewelry that's perfect for their loved one without having to visit store after store after store.


I guess I should mention I'm having a CRAZY SALE right now, shouldn't I?

http://www.jilllamonte.etsy.com/

Marked lots of my stuff down up to 60% and have loads of new stuff up. Still in the works of loading more. I so love this! Oh and I've made a new friend at work and she is crazy about the same stuff as I: jewelry, heels and boutiques! She wants to someday be a partner with me when I get my boutique. My ultimate dream would be to have 4 of my favorite girls join in together, that way it won't feel like work.

I could ramble about this for days but I won't bore you any longer.

What are you crazy about?

Hope you liked the photos. See you guys soon. Peace out.

Today's A New Day

Thanks for the encouragement y'all. Sometimes I just need to rid myself of the negative feelings and anxiety verbally to get past it. I try my best to be as self aware as possible... I never want to be that chic that does nothing but whine or be negative, which is why I had taken a bit of a leave. But anyway, today is new day. And I'm treating it as so.

Biggest thing on my mind this morning: Bachlorette party! Right now I can actually visualize some of you rubbing your instigating little hands together, so I'm going to open the gates: what are YOUR ideas for the best bachlorette party ever? Now, let's face it, there's always a budget. We ain't po folk, but I sure don't want to be breaking me and my girls' pocketbooks over one day/night. And I'm not really the go-out-to-a-bar-and-get-blasted-wearing-a-condom-decorated-veil kinda gal.

So anyways, bring on those ideas. While my sister and sis-in-law are on top of it, I'm sure they wouldn't mind a little input from the bride, right? ;)

House update: I've told myself to get over the speckled-with-visitor-dirt white ceramic floors and the mopping of the bathrooms. Thank you, ladies, for that. Last night I did a quick inventory of the Goodwill pile and packed it all nice and neat for delivery. I also brought all the boxes peeking at me in my den to the extra room/office. Right now I keep wanting to call it the "Junk Room", God forbid. Hopefully one day soon it will be the Office/Craft Room.

Wait. Did you hear that? Yep. Angels singing. Craft room.

Also, I want to get big plant for a corner in my den. Any suggestions?

Lessening the load: Okay, this is really hard for me to say, but, I MAY relieve myself of making the bridesmaid jewelry. As much as I want to proudly look at my girls necks and ears all blinged out compliments of me, the thought of actually creating these pieces makes me want to VOMIT. Have no idea why. When I make a piece to sell online, that's one thing. When I try to make a piece for myself or a friend, its seriously hard for me. I'm a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to personal jewelry, I guess.

And now for the fun stuff: I've hired my mom (with payments of love of course) to help me seek the perfect wedding songs. While digging with her, I came across this song for the vocalist during our ceremony: Matthew West - You Are Everything. That links up to my Myspace page (yes, I'm a dorkus). Scroll underneath my profile pic to my music player, he's listed twice (because again, I am a dorkus, dorkus maximus, that is).

Isn't it GOOSE-BUMPABLE??? So yesterday I'll all excited thinking this just may be THE song and I get into my car for my ride home and *gasp* its the first song that comes on. A sign? I think so.

Now me and Mom are trying to find a Father/Daughter dance, and then next will be the Mother/Son dance. And I'm sure you're wondering, What about you and J's dance? Rascal Flatts - Bless the Broken Road. Please, listen closely to the words. Its PERFECT for us. I'm a bit nervous about the condition of my makeup after this dance though. This song cannot be played without me crying. Not sniffles y'all, full out tears falling down the cheeks kinda crying. I just watched that YouTube video I linked and yep, had to grab the tissue to stick in my eyes. I knew this was the song I wanted us to first dance to even before he proposed. :)

Alright, that's all for now. Oh wait - how do we like the new blog colors? They were giving me a headache reversed like that. They don't match as well with my header, but I'm sure I'll be working on a new one soon anyway....

Going to head to the kitchen for my red grapes and diet coke break. Off to visit all my favorites too! Muah!

Come on December 14...

I’m still having bad dreams about J. Last night I woke up at 4am. He and I were at an outdoor party and he got an emergency phone call from a friend of his girlfriend, saying she was ill and needed him to come right away.

He didn’t even look apologetic when I questioned him, completely unaware of how desperate I was in front of his friends to know the truth. I followed him. He took great care to carry this woman and put her on the couch and wipe her forehead with a damp cloth. It broke my heart.

In all my dreams I give him my ring back. I never say anything, just place it in front of him and walk away. In my dreams he’s leaving me, cheating on me, pretending I’m not there. Acting as if I'm a bother. Which is far from reality, but still, it takes hours sometimes to shake the feelings of that dream.

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Our pastor backed out on us due to his health a few weeks ago. Since then, I’ve been asking every Tom, Dick and Harry for their suggestions. I’ve called a reverend who married some friends of mine, one who would be open to marry J and I even with our different religions. For two weeks I've been getting an answering machine and a “Mailbox Full” every time. I was really hoping he would be the solution. *sigh* (Thanks for your help anyway Michelli!)

Latest is, there may be someone in J’s church that could do it. I've asked J to handle it, I just can’t keep this anxiety over the to-do’s in my life right now. I’m tired of feeling anxious all the time, tired of worrying about everything. Did I take the meat out to thaw? What are we going to wear for our engagement shots? Does J have shoes for that? Will I be able to find beads in my stash to whip up something for A’s prom barrettes before Friday? How will I fit everything in this weekend? When will I have time to exercise, my ass is getting bigger and I have a dress to fit into… When will I be able to mop the floors, finish the orders, contribute to the hall bathroom wallpaper fiasco, make the bridesmaid jewelry, meet with the florist, purchase a going-away outfit, choose a ceremony song?? Work out so I won’t be worrying about how I look like in my swimsuit on our honeymoon, and most of all, how I’ll look in my gown on the most important day of my life! And still fit time in for friends and family? “You never answer your phone anymore!” I’m exhausted. That half hour I will spend listening to you bitch about your worthless boyfriend? I could use that time to clean the toilets, make dinner, finish an order. Sorry. Stand in line.

Lately I look in the mirror and do NOT like the woman looking back at me. I KNOW it’s the stress. My skin is so pale, my body is not toned. I’m growing out my hair a bit so I can do something with it for the wedding and right now it is dragging my face down. I put on eye makeup and half way through the day I look like I’ve run a mile and it’s all gone. I cannot wait until December 14, after the wedding, after the preparations. I’m so ready to let all of this go. To be me again. To not worry about things. I’m holding back tears right now typing this. Probably not a good idea to do this at work.

I had hoped to come back with great news, with an uplifting post but really, I needed to come back for a little release. I can let go here, not burden my family or J with these thoughts. If you guys don’t want to listen, you can just leave – I won’t be hurt if you don’t listen, cuz I won’t know! Lol.

We did have our engagement shots this weekend, which was really a lot of fun. I’ll post those once we get them back.

I’m still visiting everyone. Reading your posts entertain me during the slow parts of my work day. Apologies if I don’t comment, I often just… don’t have anything witty to say. Miss you all. Promises of a happier post to come…

Closed Until Further Notice

Like the signs in some businesses here still state, I'm announcing that my blog is closed until further notice.

At the moment I don't have internet at the new house and blogging at work proves to be impossible most days.

Besides that, I'm up to my eyeballs in stress. The pastor backed out at the last minute, so I have to find a new one to marry J and I. I still have tons to wrap up with just barely three months away AND make my entire bridal party's jewelry, including mine. On top of that, I'm moving into our home. Cleaning & unpacking is fun, but oh so tiring.

There. Pity party over.

You can reach me here if you'd like to chat: blueeyez055@aol.com or I'm on yahoo chat: blueeyez055

I'll still be reading my favorites when I can. Ciao for now!

Gustav, can't get you out of my mind

Still getting back to the norm. Gustav is still on everyone's mind, the city is still fonked up, so its hard to move forward.


A few photos of the apartment damage. The sad thing is, I took these on Sunday. The debri is still there. Nothing has been cleaned up by management. I'm crawling over these trees every morning in my heels to get to my car. We're going on 11 days now with zero clean up. Have you smelled a rotting tree before?






















This is the Comite River, which was across from where J and I were staying at his parent's house. Yes, those are tree tops. You can see that its reached the bottom of the bridge. It rose over 8 feet. In this particular spot there are usually sand bars that run along side of the river where J and I ride the 4 wheeler with friends.















This house is to the left of the photo of the river above. This property is considered prime real estate for our area. Its every country boy's dream to have a piece of land to build on that backs up to this river. Its a big want to have easy access for riding and spending time with your family on the river. Now, this prime real estate is a swamp.

On myspace there's a survey circulating about Gustav. I pulled a few questions from it for fun to share. I'm also stealing a funny about Gustav from Michelle's blog, further down.

Hurricane Gustav survey

Where were you when Gustav hit? At my in-laws to-be with J

What was the most valuable thing you packed? my engagement ring

What was the funniest thing you did while you were evacuated? J had me cut up some tree branches with a chain saw. My first time with heavy machinery. (Yes, it WAS heavy!) Prob not funny but it was fun and I felt awful silly. Also, I guess, flipping on lights when entering into rooms when we had no electricity.Grr!

What was the craziest thing you witnessed while evacuating? I didn't evacute but my Monday drive to and from work was pretty crazy. I live 6 miles from my apartment to work and it took me two hours to get to work and two hours to get back home.

Would you say you and your honey got closer during this disaster or did you duke it out from frustration? I think we really found an new appreciation for each other. We just took care of things and worked together as a team. It was fun and lifted stress off the other. J would sit in line for gas and ice, I would cook. J would take care of this, I would take care of that. I don't think we snapped at each other once. J told me, in times like this you really see the best and worst of the people you know. I learned a lot, saw the worst come out in others and the best come out in J.

What is the one memory that stands out about this event that you will NEVER forget? Nothing huge, just little things. Waking up in the mornings feeling like we'd been beaten because of the heat and lack of flowing air through the house. Standing in lines just to get into Walmart for a prescription. Hour and a half lines for gas. 500 people deep lines for MREs and tarps. Can't list just one.

Did you eat a certain food that you just had to have for comfort? I had a bag of Chili Cheese Fritos that I nibbled on all week. They remind me dearly of my Paw Paw. He used to have them in his grocery store and they were our favorite. I found myself returning to them when I was bored or stressed.

Were you horrified when you drove back into town or was it what you expected? We were in the middle of it (a bit outside of town) and took the 4 wheeler to see the damage. Seeing those HUGE oak trees uprooted and thrown on homes and power lines was freaky. Neighbors worked together to chain saw trees that had fallen, blocking main roads.

If another hurricane threatens your town this year will you evacuate? no I'm staying put!

What's the weirdest thing you saw in the debris? Insulation. looked like soaked cotton candy, gross

Do you wish you would have stayed evacuated for a little longer?NO! After 8 days of no power and living with others, I was so ready for my own bed and the AC!

How long did you have to stay in line to get free MRE meals? We just rationed our food, didn't need MREs, we were pretty prepared.

When this is all said and done, do you think you will have a higher appreciation for everything?absolutely. for a/c most of all and so thankful that J is the person he is - helpful, supportive, responsible, a hard worker and care-taker

And now for the funny:

Gustav's Guide to Hurricane Survival


Lessons learned during and after the storm

The hurricane grouch quotient can be calculated by adding the number of children and pets in a home without power, multiplied by the number of days quoted on the power company telephone recording, divided by the number of fans and portable air conditioners powered by your home generator, (however, if you were last in line at Home Depot and have no generator then multiply by the daily high for that day), then add the number of trips to the washateria and the days left until school/daycare reopens. Discount by the percentage of time spent at a neighbor or family members that has power. Recalculate as needed.

No mater how many times you flick the switch, lights won't work without electricity.

It's the only time you'll ever be jealous of someone with gas cans strapped to the roof of their car.

Vienna sausages only appear on the food pyramid during hurricane season.

Gas mileage is recalculated based on miles per fume.

Lovebugs do not disappear in 80+ mph winds.

Disasters can cancel 1 LSU football game but there will be even bigger casualties if we cancel 2.

Baton Rouge resembles Mexico City without traffic lights.

The drain pan under a defrosted freezer can smell like a dead body.

MRE Emergency Meals taste like canned chunky soup and spaghetti 'os .

A frozen jug of water will keep a gallon of milk cold for 2 days in an ice chest.

There are/were a lot of really big trees around here

People will get into a line that has already formed without having any idea what the line is for.

Calories consumed during a hurricane or power outage don't count.

Telemarketers function no matter what the weather is doing.

Most popular text message after September 1st was "do you have power?"

Crickets can increase their volume to overcome the sound of 14 generators.

Dirty clothes in an unsupervised hamper multiply at an exponential rate.

Coffee, spaghetti, french fries and frozen pizzas can be made on a grill.

He who has the biggest generator wins.

Tree service companies are under-appreciated except after a hurricane.

There are a lot more stars in the sky than most people thought.

If you owned a store that sold only ice, chain saws, gas, generators, you would be rich.

That's all for now. I'll try to refrain from Gustav posts from now on. Time to move on I suppose.

Oh yeah, J and I have a house! It's OURS!!!! While I'm blogging away (because I've been told by my favorite fan that I'm not blogging enough, eh hmm "J" eh hmm) he's packing my stuff. Ha! (Love you babe?)

Yeah, yeah, I'm alive

Hey. Its been a hairy week and a half since Gustav swept in here, did his dance of destruction and soared out. I started a post about the ordeal but can't seem to finish it. I'm getting over my bitterness and its taking a good minute to get back into the swing of things. Some people still don't have power, still have trees on their homes, still live in shelters eating MREs, still struggle for money being out of work for so long.

I'm not one of them, but I still feel it when I watch the news every morning. I still want to reach through the tv screen and strangle the idiotic reps on Fox that argue that the South is ignorant to keep rebuilding storm after storm. They will never know the heart this state has, will never understand why we rebuild or why we stay here. Its a shame they will never have an ounce of compassion that this state has.

I have lots of photos of since Gustav, including some damage and a short birthday party we had for my Mom just before the storm. Those will come next, after a few more important things take place, like...

Today's closing!! Yes, we are FINALLY closing today. I'm so nervous to tell anyone because it keeps being put in front of us and then being snatched away.

"You're closing tomorrow!"

"Really?!?!"

"Nope! Haha, got ya again!!"

So yeah, a little on edge. If all goes well today we'll be moving a little over this weekend. I'd love to be in the house by next weekend. I turned in my 30 days the first of this month for the apartment so I don't have much time to scoot out of here. Where is this month going?? Damn you, Gustav...

Preparing for the Worst

Batteries. Check. Bottled water. Check.

Canned food, bags of ice, candles. Check, check, check.

This morning I woke at 7 to the sound of the wind whipping through the trees and alongside the two-story house we're staying in. J woke right after me. Brush teeth, pull on shoes and take the dogs out before the weather gets bad.

Even though its a necessary statement, preparing for the worst is something we just do in the South. No hesitation. We're used to the statement.

Some of us evacuate. Some of us tape windows and border our homes and shops with sand bags. Some of us hunker down for the storm. Some of us go shopping for two days buying all the necessities in case we're trapped for days. (Yes, we are the latter.)

We're hunkered down at J's parents' this long weekend. They're traveling north for their vacation so we left the apartment complex to stay in their home. We have J's brother and his fiancee staying with us as well as an instigating Mini Monster (rat terrier), a psycho spastic pug named Jasper and a calm mothering pit bull named Princess.

The boat, vehicles, trailer and even our new big black beauty is tucked away and strapped safely under the carport. No, we didn't close on the house Friday. No, I don't want to talk about it. *pout* All I really want to say is these companies we're dealing with really need to get a grip on what they've been doing for hundreds of years. "We forgot to include a number on line 3," or "Oops, there's one more thing you need to sign".

Make an effing checklist. You do this shit every single day. There's really no excuse.

Continuing on the Gustav prep... We finished all the necessary to-dos yesterday. Mom's birthday is Labor Day so we went to visit early yesterday for a little pre-birthday, birthday party. She opened presents and we ate a yummy diabetic-friendly dessert that I made for her (pictures and recipe for another post). We all cut up and watched the kiddos play together, but we all talked about the storm. We all had it in the back of our minds. Though my immediate family is only a few miles and minutes away from one another at the moment, we still worry.

The tv stays on the weather station. The words landfall, damage, and winds are heard every five minutes. J paces from room to room, stepping out on the enclosed porch to look at the weather. I let out an occasionally "stop!!" when the pug and the rat terrier get to aggravating each other.

Today's is my mom's birthday. Give her a hug if you have a moment: Tookie Tales Probably doesn't feel like much of a birthday to her.

I'll try to check in, there isn't a whole lot to do when you're waiting for a storm. I have magazines, books I haven't been able to read and J's laptop. Oh, and the ever-entertaining dogs...

Through His Strength

Got this off of ZenHabits and nearly lost half my mascara at work.

TGIF my lovelies.

Awesome Blogger Lost

Don't you hate when you find a new blog by way of a fellow blogger's list of fellow bloggers, through their comments to another list and you FINALLY find one that catches your attention... And you start reading and click on a link they are sharing in their current post and you think "I'm so going to add this one to my bloglines! and then you X out of that shared link to get back to the awesome blogger's page and its GONE.

Just like that. Who knows exactly how I got there. I will never find that clever, witty blogger again. I'm sure of it.

Ugh.

Does this mean we're adults now??

Yesterday Jason and I had planned to stop by an appliance store after work to check out this refrigerator he liked. We both wanted a black side by side, that much we knew. Jason gets there before me and says "The place closes at 5 and there's one black side by side left."

What? I can't SEE it before its purchased?? Yikes!

I stir in my head for a minute. I imagine Jason in devil's clothing on my right shoulder saying "Just be spontaneous for once!!"

"Buy it," I tell him over the phone.

"What?" He says quietly. "Are you sure?"

Now I'm quiet. Then he says "You trust me?"

I get a rush of giddiness through my chest and say forcefully "Just DO it!" Like Ben Stiller does on Starsky and Hutch.

We share a laugh and a squeal and J's off to buy our big black beauty.

And big black beauty it is:























I can't wait to stuff you with all our favorites. Cheeses, pineapple, fresh lettuces, lunch meat and leftovers. Big jugs of orange juice and tea. Frozen bags of hasbrowns and tilapia. *sigh*

If you guys haven't figured it out already, the loan went through and we're supposed to be closing this Friday!!! So J and I are rushing around picking up the necessities. Cross your fingers for us!

Jewelry takes people's minds off your wrinkles. ~Sonja Henie

Even though it bothered me enough to post about it, I was sick just seeing it as the first thing on my blog. Time for a new post!

So now I'll just drive you crazy with my jewelry! I can't help it. I'm so in love with it, I'm cheating on Jason with it. Especially the City Lights earrings.

And uh, if you're interested, 25% entire shop today and today only!! Wahoo!!

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade jilllamonte.etsy.com

Disgusting

I'm on the way to work this morning and my stomach is getting queasier and queasier. Why, you ask? Because the middle aged guy in the work truck in front of me has his window down and is spitting every 3 minutes out his window.

WHHYYY DO GUYS DO THIS???

For you guys reading, just so you know - its DISGUSTING. What exactly is in your mouth that is so gross you have to spit it out in public? Did you brush your teeth this morning? What about your tongue? Cause it might have something to do with it.

What? Its because the smoking leaves a build up that you have to get rid of?

*stare*

Well quit smoking, jack ass.

Another time we were out on the river and I was having a conversation with a female friend of mine and her boyfriend's son, who's 18. The son kept hawking and cackling in his throat like an 80 yr old man who's been smoking all his life. Every other sentence he'd make that awful throaty sound and spit a big ole wad out his mouth. After the third time of him spitting right in the sand in front of me I stopped mid-sentence and walked away.

Where is the respect these days? Who told you that its okay to spit in front of others?

I remember this older man who used to come into the grocery where I worked back in college. He carried a hankerchief and coughed a lot. Once he stopped me in the middle of ringing groceries and said to excuse him. Stepped right outside the doors and pulled his hankie out. I could see him taking care of his spitting routine and as he came back in he apologized.

Why guys think its okay to spit right in front of women is beyond me. If you have a doubt let me make it clear.

Stop. Its digusting.

A New Look

I sat back the other day after loading a few new baubles into my shop and realized that my banner was definitely not representing me, my style, OR my jewelry! Some of you may know that I graduated from LSU as a graphic designer, so having someone else create a banner for me was a big step. But I just couldn't do it for myself. I'm too picky and indecisive. It took this long - nearly a year since I've opened my shop - to finally seek out a another creative soul to paint my new look.

Sounds like I'm getting a self make over doesn't it? Don't make fun - this is so exciting for me!

Behold, the fabulous Swieky Siggies' banner creation:







Go have a look at the bigger picture for yourself: www.jilllamonte.etsy.com

Erin was so awesome to work with. Besides being totally affordable and easy to communicate with, she's super creative and knows her stuff. If you need a banner for your blog - go see her!

http://swiekysiggies.blogspot.com/

I appreciate everything, Erin! I'm totally diggin' my shop's new look, thanks to you!

Back in my arms, again

-- UPDATE!! KLove link has been corrected. Grrr! --

Dear KLove,

I haven't been able to listen to you at work because I had an old junker of a computer leftover from the employee before me. No speakers. No sound card.

My boss had a new computer set up for me today, one with sound! The first thing I did was return to you, my sweet music, my calming melodies.

I've needed you so. Over a month without you in the background of my work day was way too long. I think J even knew I needed you. We rode about town last night in my car and he didn't switch the channel, he left you playing the whole time.

I just wanted to let you know how much I missed you. My world is complete again.

Yours always,

Jill

Why does music have such an effect on me? *sigh* I feel so calm, so clear, even romantic and shall I say, pretty, when I have these songs playing.

On another note, I'm getting a new header for my Jillry Etsy Shop. Finally! And when the header is in my hands, I'll share and shamelessly promote the hell out of my designer, for she is awesome!

Hope you're having a good Friday. Its a beautiful day in my neighborhood...