Oh Christmas Tree

Oh Christmas Tree.... Oh Christmas Tree... How Lovely are your branches. 

We knew we wanted to take the Westy to pick out our tree this year but it was just finding the right time. Last weekend we had planned on going but it was so rainy and ugly out we decided not to. This morning I made us a tasty breakfast that included biscuits, sausage and gravy. We decided we would wait around to till the mail came to see if our Odometer came in that we had sent off to be repaired before heading out. No point in putting the dash back together if it was going to come today. Sadly no such luck. So the hubbs screwed everything back into place and we headed out. It was the perfect day. The temperature was just right, it was nice not to have to bundle all up like we live in the Arctic. 

So we headed out early this afternoon to a local Christmas Tree Farm, Lazy Spread Farms to pick out our perfect tree for this years Holiday Festivities. This is the 2nd year now that we've picked out a real tree and I absolutely love it. 

We took our time, looked around the farm at all the tree's before settling on the perfect one. It's just right!! I can't wait to get it inside and all decked out!! It's the last thing we have to do, to have our house perfectly decorated for the man in the big red suit to come visit us. 

Happy Vansgiving

We decided to do things a little nontraditional this year and for go the big hoopla of a meal and all that comes with it. Wednesday afternoon I was able to get out of work a bit early and make it home just in time to help the hubbs finish packing up the Westy. Shortly after we where on our way to celebrate our first holiday of what I am sure will be many to come in the Westy. Vansgivning!!!! 

We arrived at Montgomery Bell State Park just after sun set, set up camp (which in the Westy is seriously so easy.) While the hubbs worked on starting a fire I started getting dinner ready. Bean & Cheese Quesadilla with a side of chips and salsa. We are still trying to figure out what meals work for us on the road / camping and what doesn't so we decided to keep it as simple and easy this time around. We spend the better part of our evening around the fire just enjoying the evening. The weather was perfect not to chilly at all. We roasted marshmallow, made s'mores, and chatted with the In-Loves a bit. 

The next morning we, well I tried to sleep in some but the pups and my ever so lovely automatic alarm clock in my head just didn't let me. One beautiful thing about arriving to your camp site after dark is when you wake up you get to see the beautiful surroundings around you. The stream running right behind us, and the lush trees made for a cozy sight. Which simply put that pep in my step for a early start to our day. Sausage, Eggs and a bagel for breakfast while sipping on some Hot Chocolate. After breakfast we headed out to do a little exploring around the camp site with the pups. I managed to get in over 8000 steps before 10:30 that morning. It always fun to take the pups out walking along the trails, they get so excited. 

The plan was to have Thanksgiving lunch at the Park Resort. It was only 3 miles away so we knew we would just ride our bikes up there. Literally up, it was mostly up hill half way there. Around 11:00am we decided to make our way over to the Resort, knowing we'd probably have to wait a little bit we wanted to get a early start. Much to our surprise the Resort Restaurant was already packed full of waiting guest's to eat. We where told it would be about a 45 minute wait, which really didn't seem to be that bad considering the amount of people there. It gave us time to catch our breath and cool down from our ride. Lunch / Dinner was served Buffet style, with all the traditional Thanksgiving foods and then some. I'd never been to anything like this before and I asked the hubbs if he had either and he said nope. I didn't really know what to expected. I was so used to doing everything myself and or being with family. This was all so new to me, but let me tell you the food did not disappoint. It was simply fabulous, hot, fresh and kept us full. It wasn't a bad deal at all for $15.95 you could enjoy a feast till your heart desired and that we did, dessert included. Although I couldn't help but think about the fact that we had to ride our bikes back. 

We headed out to the parking lot and the hubbs mentioned he figured out a short cut. Ok, I'm all about that, although he failed to mentioned that we would first have to carry our bikes down a couple flight's of stairs ride across a bridge and then straight up close to 100+ stairs to get back up on the road. I wearing boots, blue jeans, a sweat and not to mention I'd just stuffed my face with loads of food. So to say I struggle just a tiny bit would be a true statement. 

The pups did so well staying in the Westy while we where gone. We didn't think we would be gone that long but I'm so glad they didn't mess anything up or get into anything.

 What else do you do after a full Thanksgiving feast, crash out. And that's just what we did. The four of us passed out on the bed. We left the door open to enjoyed the nice breeze coming through and the pups did so good, they didn't even get up to go out once. 

Later that afternoon we went on another little trail hike across the stream back behind our camp site. I loved how it was super dog friendly and yet gave us a pretty good work out at the same time. Gotta work off all that goodness we ate right. 

That evening our site-neighbors arrive, we chatted with them a bit, cooked up some skillet pizza's for dinner, made some s'mores and relaxed around the campfire.

We knew we wanted to head home shortly after breakfast the next morning and of course I did everything I could to sleep in but it just didn't happen. So up early again, I cooked us up some eggs, bacon and potatoes that we enjoyed and then we went on a little walk to get some of the pups energy out before heading out. 

It was the perfect Vansgiving, just the two of us. The weather was amazing the entire time!!! No hustle and bustle of trying to get a big meal prepped and cooked or being on a time schedule having to be at one place or another. I am very traditional and generally want to do things the old fashion way but this was perfect for us. As I grow and experience life I've learned and come to realize that its not all about doing things like everyone else or going all out but rather simply just about being with the ones that matter and that was just what we did this weekend. It was simply but it was perfect!!! 

I Hope You and Your Family had a Wonderful Thanksgiving and are Enjoying the Holiday Season. 

#GabrielVansgiving2015

July 4th Weekend Getaway!!!

Over the 4th of July weekend I headed up to Ohio to meet up with my In-Loves. My Father in Law has family there and apparently they do a annual 4th of July shindig and go all out. Not having any plans of my own I was excited about the opportunity when my MIL mentioned it to me a few months back. I was a bit nervous though as I'd never met any of this side of the family and neither had the hubbs. Talk about a funny story, me meeting some of his family before he ever had. So Thursday morning I dropped the pups off at the Kennel facility, first time for them. I was a bit of an emotional wreck but we all survived. lol. Headed to work for a few short hours before they let me go early knowing I had a drive ahead of me. I had my lunch and snacks packed for my road trip so I wouldn't have to stop other than to use the restroom, thankfully my car get awesome gas mileage and I knew I'd make it with out having to stop and fill up. I arrived in Delaware, OH right after 9pm and was warmly greeted by my sweet In-Loves. Aunt Janet who will be 80 years young soon, (who we where staying with) had already gone to bed. We chatted up the evening a bit before calling it a night, knowing the next few days where going to be busy busy.

Up bright and early Friday to get my work out in followed my a trip down to Columbus, OH to check out the North Market. A local indoor market with tons of vendors offering any where from yummy eats, desserts, breakfast, full meals for lunch or dinner and an assortment of household goods and trinkets. It was such a neat little place, not to big not to small. I really wish we had some thing like this in Clarksville. We have a outdoor market but its only open on Saturday early Spring - late Fall, where as The North Market is open year around. There was a Bakery / Pastry shop that sold Macaroon's. I'd never tried one but I've always wanted to so  picked up to. A Lemon flavored and then Strawberry. I ate them and gave it a fair shot but lets just say I wasn't a fan. Not something I'll be jumping up and down again to get or go out of my way for. A little way's down however was the neatest Donut shop / booth called Delicious Donuts. Let me tell you they did not disappoint at all, they where marvelous and HUGE. I decided on a plain glazed, I mean you can't go wrong with simple and sweet right?!?!? That was until they brought out a tray of Cinnamon rolls that where literally bigger then my face. Ok so I caved and bought both. Let me tell you it was totally with it to!!! After walking around once more making sure we'd seen everything, the large display of Fiestaware as well, (to bad I had all the piece there already, I was really hoping to add to my collection.) we called it a trip and headed back to Delaware. Some of us girls where meeting up for Pedi's (Thursday night when I got in-town my MIL asked if I'd want to go, UMMMM YES PLEASE). It was so nice to have a little girls time out while the guys where prepping for Saturday's big festivities. I was able to have the chance to get to know my FIL cousin and her daughter while being pampered a little, something I never do for myself. I had planned on paying for mine but before I had the chance Lori was kind enough to pick up the bill for all of us. Yall everyone was so incredibly nice and caring the entire time we where there. This was just one of the many things they did for us. We went back to Lori's house for a glass of wine and did a little getting to know each other / catching up on the patio with some yummy snacks.

 A few hours went by and we headed home to get freshened up for dinner. In Delaware they have a thing called First Friday, they shut down the street that runs through downtown (Delaware, OH is really small) and local businesses come out, set up tables to promote their business and bring the community together. We had dinner at a new little Pub / Bar and then walked the street a bit seeing what all was there. I really didn't take to many pictures at all and sadly none this evening. After seeing everything there was we headed back to Pam's house for yet another round of drinks (who am I to complain, keep the wine coming) by the fire. Not realizing what time it was when we decided to go because it was still so day light out but it was already well past 9pm. That was the thing that baffled me the most, it didn't get dark till close to 10pm each evening and both morning and night it was quite chilly. Not something we have right now in TN.

Saturday morning the FIL headed back to Rick and Lori's house to help set up for the BBQ while my MIL and I stayed back finished up some dishes we where taking and helping Aunt Janet with some last minute things she had been working on as well. Shortly after arriving back to where the BBQ was at every one else started slowly coming in. That's when it hit me that I was there with out the hubbs and with so much of his family. Even through he'd never met a soul of them it was still a bit sad and overwhelming not having him there. I did have a great time though and everyone again was so sweet and caring. Asking a million questions, simply trying to get to know Me, Us and Our Story. I didn't mind at all though I love love sharing our story, talking about our life together. Plus it totally gives me a reason / the chance to brag on my amazing husband :). Several hours went bye and many plates of yummy food later and we finally found ourselves cleaning up and preparing for a evening of Fireworks later. When Cathy (my MIL) first told me how the families 4th of July Holiday tradition went I couldn't help but chuckle. All of the left over food is packaged up and put in coolers. Everyone heads home for a nap meets back up at a local field at 7pm. I figured a few people would show back up, after all it had already been a really long day. Nope just about everyone came. We gather around in our chairs and socialize for the next several hours waiting until the firework show started. That umm didn't start till it got dark at 10pm "TEN-pm" people. Crazy. The left over food is brought to munch on through the evening and works out really well because no one has to worry about going hungry or bringing food with them. This people are pro's at it to. They foil wrap the burgers and dogs in the buns ahead of time so they are easily dispersed. You can tell they've done this a time of two.
The fire work show was simply amazing. One of the best Ive been to for sure and it lasted for a good 45 minutes, it might have even been longer. The fun part came when it was time to leave. Walking to our car was no problem but getting out of the parking lot was another story. YIKES.

 Sunday morning the In-Loves and I got up bright and early and had breakfast on the Patio at a local Diner called Hamburger Inn, in downtown Delaware. It was most definitely a bittersweet breakfast, I love any and every minute I get to spend with them but this breakfast was followed with a tearful "Goodbye" as they headed on the road to make their 30 hour drive back to AZ, while I stayed back in OH for another day and a half visiting and catching up with a few friends.
I headed back to Aunt Janet's house and decided to clear my head by going on a run. What was suppose to only have been a 3-5 mile run turned into a 10 mile run with a "Oh Crap" moment in the middle because I had to go to the bathroom somethings fierce (because of the huge breakfast I'd just eaten) and there was no bathrooms around to be found. I was turned around in the middle of a residential area and only knew how to get back which was back tracking my route. I paused my run, taking a moment to gather myself on the side of the road. I was determined to make it back and finish out my at that point planned 10 miles. I did it, it might not have been pretty but I finished and had a pretty stellar time and pace. I spent the rest of the afternoon at the house just relaxing and hanging out. That evening I headed back out to Columbus, OH for dinner with one of our sweet friends from Hawaii. Tara and I met through a mutual friend shortly after I started working at the CDC on post and clicked right away. We've stayed in touch over the years as she moved back from HI to TX and now recently back home to OH. We where able to pick right up, it was so great catching up with her in person and just to hear how great she has been doing.

I ended my evening with a little Custard in downtown Delaware. It was pretty tasty!!! 

Monday morning was another early morning for me, up to get my workout it and pack up the car. I had plans to meet up with some of our best friends from our Hawaii days back in Columbus. Jamie and Anthony where the first people I met when I went to Hawaii. I stayed with them when I went out before the hubbs and I where even married. He was in a sense their (at the time) 2nd child. The 3 of them, including their daughter Jessica did everything together. After the guys first deployment Anthony made the decision to get out of the Army and move home. It was heart breaking because I we did everything together. We where always at their house and they where always at ours. Beach and dinner trips, random shopping adventures and outings. We've kept in good touch through FB, phone and texting over the past 6 years but haven't had the chance to meet up and get together. So when I found out I was going to be in OH and so close to them I just knew we had to meet up. We met for breakfast at Bob Evan's. It was my first time there and let me tell you it didn't disappoint, it was pretty fabulous. A little back story, Jamie and Anthony left Hawaii with two girls. Jamie had their 2nd daughter right before the guys deployed. Now fast forward 6 years and they've added TWO more kids to the mix making it a grand total of 4 kiddos. CRAZY!!!!! 3 girls and the youngest a boy. They are all so cute and Jessica the oldest is almost 16 which is crazy for me to even think she can be that old. After breakfast we went down to the Ohio State Campus and walked around a bit checking it out, taking a few pictures. We ventured over to a local park and hung out there for a while. The weather was perfect and Jessica had brought her Violin and serenaded us while we continued to visit and catch up. Before to long our parking meters where up and I needed to get on the road to head back to TN. Another heart breaking "Goodbye" not knowing when we'd see each other again. Soon I hope, the plan is to, plan a trip once the hubbs gets home from deployment for us all to meet up for a weekend of camping.

A quick stop back at North Market for a treat and lunch before getting on the road to head home. A 6 and a half hour drive ahead of me I needed something to get me through. I had the best time, it was a nice relaxing weekend filled with family, friends and delicious foods. I can't wait to do it again next year for the 4th.

Easter Goodness

This year for Easter it was rather low key, I got up and went to the first service at church which was at 8am. This way I still had the whole day ahead of me. A friend from work and her little family came over for lunch that afternoon. I love love cooking and having people over but I really haven't done much of that since the hubbs has been gone so I was more than willing to make lunch for today. Everything came out perfect and tasted to yummy. A little non-traditional meal for our Easter Feast. Although besides Deviled Eggs, I'm not really sure what Easter traditional foods are. On our Menu was: Oven Baked Fried Chicken, Crock Pot Candied Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole (I like my marshmallows really toasted, (they were out of mini ones but the big ones tasted just perfect)), Rolls, Spinach Dip & Chips and Green Bean Casserole (made by B.). I took this opportunity to make a delicious Loaded Chocolate Chip Cheese Cake and let me just say it was Heavenly. It took all I had not to eat the entire thing. Along with a batch of No Bake Cookies. I've been itching to try a couple different recipes out but never bit the bullet till today. And I'm so glad I did, I remember growing up on something similar to these that my step mom made and I always wished I had the recipe. I'm pretty sure these are going to be my newest easy go to dessert for outings. Everything came out perfect and the table looked great with all of my beautiful Fiestaware incorporated in. I was a bit down that the hubbs wasn't able to be here with us (thank you army) but I know next year he will be for sure!! I remember my last Easter at my Mamaw's house. We always had the best time's celebrating Holiday's with her. She's enjoying them now from up above in heaven, and I'm so grateful to have a little bit  of Heaven in our home.
After B and her fam. left I had the daunting task of tackling the yard for the first time this year. I was not at all looking forward to it but it had to be done and I refused to pay someone to do something I know I can do but would just rather not. (back story, last August with the hubbs was away for a month I mowed the yard right before he came home, it took me over 3 hours to do and I killed the grass completely because I cut it so low.) I was determined to have a better experience this time around and that I did. I put on my iTunes and went to work. It took me just less than 2 hours to mow and edge. We've got a BIG back yard so it was a little time consuming. Thankfully the grass hadn't majorly gotten out of hand yet so it wasn't to bad. I laid seed in hopes to help the grass grow so we have a pretty green yard. Fingers crossed I can keep up with it over the next several months with the hubbs away. I just keep telling myself that I'm getting a good work out in while doing it, so I mean that's motivation in its self. Two birds with one stone.
All in all it was a great day that ended with a nice little stroll around the neighborhood with the pups. 

Its been 4 1/2 almost 5....

...years, since I've been back to AZ for a visit. We were actually still living in Hawaii the last time I went back. The hubbs went when we were in the middle of moving from HI to SC but I wasn't able to go. The In-Loves have come to visit us several times but we haven't been back to the Valley. 

So to say I was so excited and looking forward to going "home" to AZ for Christmas would be a understatement. I absolutely love love the Hubbs' parents and his whole family. Going home with out the hubbs was super hard. His mom came to spend Christmas with me in HI one year when he was deployed and it was so hard. I was worried how I would handle it this year. Much to my surprise it went over very well!!! Silly me I don't even know why I was worried about it. The G and J family are so sweet and welcoming. The G's own their own Business, its a Appliance Repair Shop and their hope is that one day after the Army we will move to AZ to take it on as well. Since I was still living in HI last time I went to AZ, my feelings about moving to the Valley were not great. I was pretty much 100% against it. The dessert, PHX to be exact did not appeal to me at all. It was not my cup of Tea at all. Over the past year and a half I've become more open to the idea of living outside TX after the Army. And after this trip to the Valley I'm 100% on board with moving to AZ after we get out. If that's what we decide to do. The In-Loves have moved out of PHX and to Buckeye which is about 45 mins. out of the city. Its a nice open area, best way to describe it would be the AZ Country. Its right up our alley. Away from the city but some small local stores are still close by. Mountains and Dessert for miles and miles. It was simply perfect!!! There were even a few homes in the area that were for sale and the idea of wanting to purchase one now and rent out till we could move there might have crossed my mind but it of course that would be just crazy. And not something we can do right now or for that matter would even consider. 

I so enjoyed being able to go up to "The Store" (were the in-loves worked) and hang out for a bit during the day. Get to know the business more and they even put me to work while I was there. I mentioned to the FIL to just add me on to the Pay Role a time of two and we just laughed. I could really see us living there in the years to come. I've mentioned it before but I truly have been blessed with two of the most amazing In-Loves ever!!! I hear stories after stories of people who absolutely can not even be in the same room as their spouses parents. But I'll jump at the chance to spend time with them. We had an amazing week together. I was even able to spend some long over due time with our fabulous friends P & N and meet there two new beautiful daughters they recently adopted. I was heart broken having to leave and go back to TN. If I could I would have stayed through New Years week but work and life must go on and I had to get back. Let's be honest getting back to our big queen size bed, the puppies and my on going Netflix / Hulu Marathon was very welcomed. 

Christmas Day the whole family came over for a yummy lunch that the MIL and I worked so carefully to prepare. We played a crossword puzzle game that one of his aunts put together, we had dessert and chatted catching up from the past years. G has two cousins and one of them got married last spring, we had briefly met his girlfriend a while back but it was in passing. The two of us girls really got a chance to sit down and chat and get to know one another a bit more over Christmas lunch.  We exchanged FB and have chatted since then. Its crazy because both of us have been in the family for the past 8 years. Her as his Girlfriend and me as G's wife. It's so nice to have another girl in the family!!!! I can't wait to go back to the Valley so soon, it most defiantly will be much soon than 4+ years. Its so comforting seeing how well his whole family gets along and how much they love each other. They may not all agree with what each other does but they are able to all come together for each other and have a wonderful Holiday Celebration and Life. That's a bit more than I can say for some of my family. I'm so proud and blessed beyond belief to be apart of this family and wouldn't at all wish to have it any other way.






Just a Few Pictures from my trip!!!
Aren't these girl's just adorable!! Love Getting to catch up with P & N its been far to long!!






 Matching Christmas Eve Jammies for My MIL.

I didn't take many pictures from Christmas Lunch but I though I'd share these two yummy dishes. 

The Nephews! They've gotten so big. 

Family Lunch!! 

After a long day, me and this guy curled up on the couch together. 

I saw this the first day I was in AZ on Pinterest and it couldn't ring more true. After almost 5 years away from AZ, I most defiantly saw it differently and for that I am so grateful.

Getting to the Valley......

......was no easy task. 

I've been looking forward to today for the last 2-3 weeks, since I decided I was going to AZ for Christmas. I haven't been back to the valley in almost 5 years. We were in fact still living in Hawaii the last time I went. It's going to be a much needed break from life and my busy hectic schedule because lets face it, starting school in January its just gonna keep going. And as much as I want time to speed right on by I need things to slow down just a bit. 

I didn't wanna bother any one with driving me to the airport or picking me up since my flight left so early so I packed the and headed to the airport. Not before a minor heart attack though. Friday night I dropped the pups off at a friends who was so kind enough to watch them. So Saturday morning when I woke up at 3:30am to make the almost hour drive to the airport I didn't think to unset the alarm because I didn't have to let outside. After a couple last minute things around the house I was headed out the door just after 4am. When the alarm went off with what seemed like the loudest possible noise ever. I'm sure if my neighbors would have been at home they would have heard it. My heart was racing, I couldn't figure out how to turn it off and I just knew the police were gonna be showing up any minute. Finally I figured it out although it seemed like the longest couple of seconds ever. Loading the car and heading out my heart was still racing, still waiting for that phone call from the alarm company or the police department. Which thankfully never came. I was able to chat with the hubbs all the way to the airport, I found parking and told him to make sure he remembered were I parked lol. A lot of help he's gonna be in a week right. Lets hope I remember. This is the first time flying out of Nashville, its the busiest time of year and I was on my own so I wanted to make sure I had plenty of time to catch my 7:45 flight. All was going well until I went to check in when the self service machine told me I had to see the gate agent for my seat assignment because I didn't have a seat. Ummm, excuse me. I'm not on a stand by ticket, the seat has already been bought and paid for. I stood there for a couple minutes but everyone was so busy I just continued on with checking it. Completely forgetting to check my bag in or even see if I could change my seat. Panic set in again, what in the crap was I going to do. I had a plane to catch and a layover with another plane to catch. Finally I was heading through security when of course my bag had to be searched, oh dear lord what else on earth could happen this morning. I made it to my gate and asked about my "not having a seat" the kind gentleman explained to me that my connecting flight in ALT hadn't opened up yet so the system was unable to allow me to select a seat or sign me one. Ok so that made so much more sense and I able to stop panicking. Wow it'd been a morning and it was just barley 6am. The sun was coming out though and Starbucks was calling my name. Not before a quick Airport Bathroom Selfie of course.

Finally back at my gate I enjoyed my cheese danish while waiting to board my flight. I was exhausted and could wait to catch a couple hours of sleep until I realized it was only a 35 minute flight. We arrived in ALT with just over a hour to spare before my next flight took off. Landing at terminal E having to ride the Sky Train to terminal A which was mmmm only 5 terminals away. Not to mention the long walk to get to the Sky Train. I was hungry, tired, my bags were heavy, I was hot and I needed to get my seat assigned first. Goodness grasiou what a morning it had been. Finally getting to my gate and getting a seat I didn't even think twice about it when the kind man gave me my ticket. I grabbed something to eat from a non-fast food place (seeing's I've completely given up FF with the hubbs is gone) and sat down to eat. This creepy man came over asking about my boots and was trying to feel the thickness of them. Seriously dude, you want to ask before you go touching something that someone is wearing. It made me so uncomfortable, and then he just stood there for what seemed like 10 minutes, awkward moment of the day for sure. 

We all boarded the plane, and I quickly figured out how many people work the checked baggage system and get out of paying for their bags. Pack a carry on roller back as though your going to carry it on and then at the gate take them up on the gate check to "help" save over head space. Seriously about 20+ bags were dropped and tagged at the gate with no service fee charge. You can't tell me at least half if not more of those people didn't have a plan. 

Walking down the aisle to my seat I knew I was in the back by the seat number but I didn't think I'd be the very last freaking row. I should have known that was going to happen. At least the seat still reclined a good bit. Again expecting to now get some good sleep the fight attendant announced they were going to be showing a movie I had been wanting to see. Dolphin Tales 2, call me a kid but I saw the first one and just though it was to cute. Only down fall was I forgot my head phones in my car. I even reminded myself to get them when I parked and still forgot. So I splurged and paid the $2. that Delta was charging for them. Seriously I remember when they were free, well that and when you didn't have to pay for checked bags. My how times have changed. I did manage to get a hour or so of sleep after the movie. 

We arrived in PHX about 25 minutes early, so I was able to get my bags and head outside before my Mother-in-Love arrived. In tow with her was one of the hubbs Aunt and our two nephews who I hadn't seen in forever. Finally after a crazy morning I had made it and felt like I could really start to relax and enjoy the Holiday. 

5 day's of Christmas...

This past week at work we've had a Secret project going on and its been kinda fun. I always enjoy doing these kinda things during the Holiday's. The suspense of not knowing who has you, or who everyone else has is fun. Thankfully it was only a week long. Each day was a theme we were given a sheet to feel out sharing what our favorite was.

Day 1- Drink / Soda
Day 2- Candy
Day 3-Candle Scent
Day 4- Snack / Chip
Day 5- Final Gift

*One the 1st Day of Christmas my secret santa gave to me:

(I don't drink soda so my secret santa got me a sweet tea. )

*On the 2nd Day of Christmas my secret santa gave to me:

 (I don't eat candy, I gave it up for the deployment. Little Debbie snack cakes)

*On the 3rd Day of Christmas my secret santa gave to me:

 (A beautifully smelling Cinnamon Apple Candle)

*On the 4th Day of Christmas my secret santa gave to me:

(A box of yummy Wheat Thins & not pictured because I already ate them, a bag of Baked Lay's)

*On the 5th Day of Christmas my secret santa gave to me:

(The finale day, two infinity scarves, two pairs of fuzzy socks and a pink throw) 

I love this time of year and all the fun and love it brings!!! I had a idea of who had me by Wednesday evening and I was spot on. Why it was non other than the other Tiffany who works at our school. Which I though was to funny. 

My Saturday

With only two local Craft shows left of the season, (that I knew of at least) I was looking forward to a day of shopping and holiday fun. After a early morning chat with the hubbs I tried to go back to sleep but the pups had other plans. Dingo needed to go outside but I was so comfy in bed. Finally 8-ish rolled around and I figured I'd just give in. I let them outside and started making some breakfast. Half way though Dingo was having a fit to come in, go figure right. Then Bailey started at the door as well. When I let her in she didn't smell so great but I couldn't figure it out. Next thing I know I looked over at Dingo and noticed he was covered in mud and poop. (its been raining all week, so our backyard is super muddy) It had to of been on Bailey I just couldn't tell because of her coloring. I quickly kicked them outside while I figured out a plan. It was freezing cold out, they needed a bath and I was hoping to head out the door with in the next 30 minutes or so. I put on my shoes, grabbed some towels, shampoo and went for it. The stupid water hose had so many kinks in it, 50 feet of mess. I stretched it all the way out in the yard through the mud and finally got it working. Needless to say the puppies were not so happy with me after I was finished washing them. But hey the feeling was mutual. My hands were freezing, my shoes and pants were soaked from the knees down. Not the way I wanted to start the day. Thanks to them trampling through the house the floors now needed a quick mop over. 

Eventually I was dressed and headed out the door to check out the holiday craft shows. I didn't even get all the way out of the neighborhood when I realized I left my wedding ring on the kitchen counter.   As crappy as it sounds I didn't want to turn around and go in to disturb the pups. Stop one, after I finally found it was a complete let down. $1. admission should have been a given. I literally walked in walked around and left. I headed over to the High School were the other one was being held, I figured it had to be better. I mean HS's generally do a pretty good job at putting them on. I should have known again with $1 admission that it was going to be a disaster. I didn't even walk around the whole thing, it just wasn't worth it. So much for my day of shopping. Nothing like a little trip to Target to turn my day around. I never leave there empty handed and always come out with more then I went in with. I had to run in Kohl's for a gift for my Father In Love and the guy at the register must have been having a really good day because he was just beside himself that I had to wait in line to simply purchase one item. I wasn't complaining though, even better after he decided to given me a discount on top of the sales item I was already purchasing. Score!!! A local Thrift / Antique store here  had posted pictures up on FB a few days back of some Fiesta Ware one of the booths had in. With my love of all things Fiesta I really wanted to go check it out to see if there were any pieces I didn't have. But I was just there last Saturday, and it wasn't exactly on my way home either. Decisions Decisions!!! I figured what the heck not like I have any thing to loose, I'll go in just check out that booth and head out. Thankfully I did, there was a beautiful orange over sized large serving bowl that was perfect. I didn't have a piece like that and for $40 it was a complete steal so I had to get it. My day of shopping was turning around. I headed home to check on the pups knowing I'd be heading out later that afternoon for a little girl time with my new friend Sarah. We met up a few hours later at a local Pottery Painting Room to try our hand at painting. I kinda had a idea of what we were going to be doing we had a very similar place in Cola. I went in not knowing at all what I wanted to paint when Sarah mentioned doing something for her sister as a gift. Hello light bulb, I still needed a gift for the In-Loves and what better thing then a hand painted platter. It would be great because then we can use it for Christmas dinner. I can't pick it up till next Saturday once its been fired and finished but I'll be sure to share a picture when I do get it. I had such a great time chatting with Sarah and getting to know her more. I've been attending church with her and her little family over the last couple weeks and its been a great addition to my weekends. I can't thank Kate (at Kate Tell's Stories) for connecting the two of us!!! Moving's a struggle but I'm finding my grove and getting out there when I can. 

On the way home I made one last stop at BB&B for a little gift looking. Having a brother who lives in the same state as your family makes shopping so much easier. Another gift purchased and checked off the list. Best part is I had two coupons expecting to only be able to use one, I was waiting to see which one would give me a better deal when the cashier said she would run them both SCORE!!!! My day was complete and it was still early, only 5:30. I had though about going to the local Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony but it was so chilly out and still a bit ugly from all the rain we've been having so I decided to call it a night and headed home. I made a yummy quick dinner and enjoyed a glass of wine while watching some Netflix. This Apple TV over Cable has really grown on my over the last 6 months, were has it been all my life!!! My Saturday in a not so little nut shell, I guess that's what happens when you haven't blogged in what seems like ages.

Of course a post wouldn't be complete complete with out a few random pictures!!!  

I did drive pass Public Square and snapped a picture of the downtown Christmas Tree. Such a beauty!

I picked up this fun mug at Target, I got myself one during black Friday shopping with a T on it and loved it so much I had to get the hubbs one. The Orange FiestaWare bowl I got. I took a picture next to our bread bowl to send the hubbs for a size comparison. 

And just a little Sunday Morning Selfie before heading out to Church this morning!!! 

Here's to hopping back on the blogging bandwagon and getting back into the swing of things!! 

Merry Christmas 2014 (our card & letter)

A Year of many changes good and not so. We rang in the New Year in the middle of Time Square watching the ball drop. Bucket list: check. Followed by an unexpected snow storm, causing us to drive back to South Carolina. Mid January the girls and I met up in Miami for our 2nd annual Country Music Cruise. Early February we took a trip to Tennessee to do a little house hunting and enjoyed catching up with some of our Hawaii Army family. Gabe Graduated his final group of PTV’s going through BCT, his time on the Trail was quickly coming to a close. April was a big month for several reasons Gabe received his EIB (Expert Infantry Badge). We bought and closed on our very first home in Clarksville, TN. We celebrated my 27th birthday with some great friends. Gabe and the pup’s bid far-well to Ft. Jackson and Aloha to Ft. Campbell. While I stayed back to finish out the school year at EDS. The first weekend of May I drove up to TN to celebrate Gabe’s 31st birthday. Our house hold good’s were also being delivered the same day so we were able to get our new home unpacked and set up. Later that month I had a unfortunate accident and wrecked my car, just a week before I was suppose to move to TN. We can’t say Thank You enough to the Meyer’s family for everything they did to help. Finally making my way to TN, I started working shortly after I arrived. I excepted a position at a local Preschool in there Pre-K program. It’s been an adjustment but I’m enjoying it. Gabe spent his first couple of months at Ft. Campbell as a Platoon SGT before he was moved to his current position as a Squad Leader which he seems to be enjoying. The summer months came and went far to quickly. Gabe was away for the month of August at JRTC training at Ft. Polk. While I took a course at the local College in preparation to start school in the spring. We were lucky enough to have The Gabriel’s come out for a visit early September. We took full advantage of having guest’s and played tourist the whole week. We also took a few fall road trips that included South Carolina, West Virginia, and a Anniversary get away to Chattanooga. November by far was the hardest month as we embarked on our 3rd deployment. We said our “See You Soon’s” as Gabe headed off to Afghanistan just day’s before our 7 Year Wedding Anniversary. I’ve managed to stay busy since he’s left to help pass the time. He has settled in as best he can and has been quite busy since then. If you think about it please keep him and his Unit in your thoughts and prayers for a safe and quick return. I spent Thanksgiving with some of our fabulous Army Family, The Brooks. Followed by some traditional Black Friday Shopping with a Friend. I’m excited to said I’ll be spending Christmas in Arizona, thanks to the Gabriel’s. It’s been quite some time since I’ve been back so it will be great to catch up with family and friends. 

With that being said we do have a spare bedroom and I’m open for visitors starting now, through next fall. Or any time for that matter, your always welcome!! :) We hope that 2014 has been a great for you and your family. 

We can’t wait to see what the New Year has in store for us. 

Happy Holiday’s 

( Now that our big not so great news is out, I'll be blogging more about our journey through deployment number 3. )

This is the 8th Year we've ordered our Christmas Cards from ShutterFly and we will continue to do so in the future. I absolutely love the options, amazing deals and sales they offer. Not to mention the quick turn around time on shipping. Be sure and check them out for all of your photo gift giving needs. 

Happy Birthday 'Merica

Just a little fun art we did at school last week during class. We talked about Independence day, learned the Pledge of Allegiance, had a Picnic outside for Lunch and even read books on Fireworks. 

The kiddo's really seemed to enjoy all different fun activities we had planed for them and the best part about the whole thing was…..it was a 4 day school week!!! Holla!!!! 

We had a low key celebration this year, we talked about going to a few different Fire Work shows in the area, even down in Nashville but we really didn't want to have to deal with the after math of the traffic getting home. So we opted to stay home and do a little grilling on the patio. Earlier that day we went out and did a little shopping for some things around the house. We also checked out the local mall here, it actually wasn't to bad for such a small country area. A few store defiantly worth going back for. After a quick lunch we headed back home to start on dinner.

 It was just going to be the two of us, I had invited a couple people from work over but they had other things going on. Our friends B & C were outta town and so it was just going to be the two of us. After I got to cooking and putting everything together I realized we had a lot of food for just the two of us. That tends to happen every so often. lol Lucky we had been out chatting with our neighbors earlier and they had mentioned they were grilling out as well. I decided to go over and see if they'd want to join us instead. They so kindly took us up on our offer and joined us for dinner. 

We spent the next 4+ hours outside on our patio enjoying their company, getting to know them better and watching the fireworks through the tree line behind our house. We eventually carried the conversations inside, were we spent the next 2 hours chatting away. It was a great evening and it couldn't have worked out better. Simple, relaxing with great company and yummy food. Who could of asked for a better way to celebrate America's Independence!!! 

I didn't take to many picture but we did have quite the feast: Grilled Chicken & Bison Kabobs, Grilled Veggie Kabobs, Twice Baked Potatoes, Roasted Corn and Homemade Strawberry Coconut Cake with Homemade Buttercream Icing.