Where the Comfort Zone Ends...

I started my first blog in 2009, Idle Banter (it's still out there, check it out if you dare!). At the time I was a part of an online community of mostly newlyweds, all embarking on a similar journey, an exciting time in our lives, in love and relatively unencumbered. I was working as an auditor, typically between 40 and 60 hours a week and traveling for work often. I have always been a creative person, my mother is very creative and her influence has had a great impact of my own creative nature. My career at that time did not provide me much opportunity for the creative outlets I had come to love: sewing, scrapbooking and baking. Many of the women in my online community were bloggers or had recently become bloggers and it seemed like a great way to do something outside of my everyday work. I had never been a writer, I still don't consider myself a writer, so I wasn't sure if this is something I was capable of but I was intrigued, could this be the creative outlet I was so badly missing? I really felt out of my league at the time, but thought 'why not'. I focused on things I could blog about while traveling or working long hours like fashion, makeup, trends, foods, etc. My blog did pretty well considering it really had no vision and I essentially just flew by the seat of my pants.

In 2012, my husband and I decided to start trying for a family. My blog was tired and I felt I had outgrown it. I decided to start a new blog that would mostly be all of the things I loved (and would soon come to love) like traveling, running, and eventually babies, Our Own Kind of Paradise was born. I did weekly pregnancy updates that in the end were probably mostly viewed by family, I'm sure of it. I have posted things we've done, places we've traveled, recipes, and a DIY craft here and there. During this time I also started an Etsy shop creating clothing and accessories for kids. I was busy, working every night from Henley's bedtime to 10pm making headbands and leggings or embroidering shirts. My blog accumulated dust and eventually went months without posts. I ran my shop for about two years before life just got larger than the amount of free time I had.

Fast forward to 2017. I have two girls and work a full-time job as an Accounting Director. I have learned so much about myself in the last four years. I have learned that I am an introvert in almost every sense of the word. I have learned that I love my family more than life and would give anything for them. I have learned that giving myself time alone helps me be a better wife and mother. I have learned that I need to be creative to be me, to be happy.

I resurrected the blog about two months ago and it finally clicked that this is a perfect creative outlet for me at the moment. I can put all of the words and thoughts rushing around inside me into print (type?) and hopefully share it with you all. I've been enjoying it more than I really ever have before but I want more. I want to be better.

I came across the Year of Creativity from Coffee + Crumbs which is a year long online course of monthly lessons themed and designed to inspire your creative side. From their site:

The Year of Creativity is for the woman who is uninspired, disconnected from her creative self, longing for something more. This program is for the woman who wants to dedicate this year to rediscovering inspiration in order to make beautiful things.

When I initially read about it, I was interested but I wasn't sure it would be a good fit for me. I was intrigued and kept coming back to the website. I was reading more and more about it and before I could talk myself out of it I signed up. I've been a fan of C+C for a while, their essays are so inspiring and real. I immediately thought how much I would love to be able to create like that.

The first lesson started January 1 and I am so excited to get started working with all of these amazing women but mostly, in this moment, I am scared. I am a CPA, I am not a writer. These people are real writers and bloggers. I am majorly out of my comfort zone and while I'm mostly excited about it, I am still nervous and feeling vulnerable. I'm confident I will embrace this journey and get the most out of it that I can and this is the last moment that I am going to let myself feel undeserving to be included. Tomorrow I will log in to my lesson and write as if I have been writing my whole life, because in my heart, I believe I have been. 

::Me:: What I've Learned...About Myself

I’m 34. It’s so weird to see that number because I don’t feel how I thought 34 would feel, in reality I don’t know what 34 should feel like. So much about life is different from what we expect it to be.

Time flies by. I know that is such a common saying but everyone says it because it’s so true!

I recently found myself referring to someone that is 26 as “about my age”. That’s not true obviously. Someone that is 26 is eight years younger than me but that’s honestly what it feels like. However looking back it does make sense that I’m 34. I’ve been out of college and in the working world for over ten years. I have been a mom for four years. I have been with my husband for nineteen years and we’ve been married for ten of those years. Not to mention the countless life lessons I’ve learned about the world and also about myself.

I am a procrastinator. I never really gave myself that label before but over time I realize that I push everything down to the wire. If there is no deadline, I accomplish most of my goals eventually but if there is a deadline, I’m usually working right up to that moment, maybe a few hours before. My work day usually begins with catching up on Facebook and the news rather than knocking out my list and using any free time at the end of the day to catch-up.

I am introverted. I’m friendly, chatty even at times but for the most part I want to keep to my world (my friends, my family, my turf). I make plans with good intentions but usually have thoughts to cancel. If I don’t cancel, I usually do have fun but sometimes in the moments leading up to it, I have second thoughts and regret committing.

I love Pinot Noir and I love knowing which wines I love. I also love that I know which wines I like best with which foods.

I value friends but I’ve learned I can break-up with a friend if it’s in the best interest of both of us and that’s ok. Friendships are needed in those moments you just need a reprieve; whether it be a break from work, kids, or real life, friends are there. Friendships are easy and natural and for the friendships that are not these things, it’s ok if they are no more. Life is too short; time and energy too limited to be expended on friendships that aren’t enjoyable.

I love Target, like LOVE. I love that I can redecorate my patio while picking up wipes and yogurt. I love that I live three miles from one. I love that I can peruse the aisles with a Starbucks tea and a cake pop. I love that my girls love Target as much as I do. ::keep up the good work Target::

I find peace in a good book and I’ve learned that a bath can heal almost anything.

I value people. I will not put others down to make myself look better and I will not step on someone to get higher. I put family above work at all times. I know I only get 18 or so years with my girls and no job or promotion is worth missing out on any moment with them.

I do not have a poker face. I wear my thoughts and emotions and it’s felt in my demeanor. I do not play games and I am genuine.

I am capable of more love than I could have ever fathomed 15 years ago. I love my husband more every day. I love my girls each so much. I love my family and my friends. I love this life I have built with them.

I am so blessed to have all I do. Who knows where I’ll be in another ten years but based on the last ten, I look forward to seeing it.

::Random:: Grateful for 2012---Bring on '13!

In 2012, my main goal/resolution was to be grateful for what I have. I made a goal to note one thing I am grateful for every day. I set an alarm on my cell phone for 10pm and every night before bed I made sure to write down something I am grateful for in the notes on my iPhone. Sometimes these things were big and meaningful and sometimes they were as simple as some yummy food. Tonight I am finished and I am so glad I followed through with this goal. Reflecting each day on what was happening around me and pinpointing something in that madness to be thankful for shed light on how lucky I really am.

I wasn't sure I was going to share all of this with you all but I want to document this somewhere so here it is:

365 Things I am Grateful For:

01.01.2012: Today I am grateful for my sister. Seeing her come home from NYC so happy to be here made me see how much I care for her and love having her around.

01.02.2012: Today I am grateful for the day to myself. I loved having time to scrapbook and catch up on my shows.

01.03.2012: Today I am grateful that people have faith in my abilities to manage at work, even if a manager position isn't right for me at the moment.

01.04.2012: In memory of GW, I am grateful for the relationship and influence Gary had in our lives. He opened our world to so many things we otherwise would not have experienced. I'm grateful he was a mentor and a positive influence to Teddy.

01.05.2012: Today I am grateful for my first run of five miles without stopping. Plus it was 42° outside this morning. Go us!

01.06.2012: Today I am grateful for the weekend, especially when it's a month end close after the holidays.

01.07.2012: Today I am grateful for a husband that pushes me when I am no longer willing to push myself. 8 mile run thanks to him.

01.08.2012: Today I am grateful for the outlet that scrapbooking provides to me. I love that I get to reminisce about things we've done and trips we have taken while using my creativity.

01.09.2012: Today I am grateful for a positive ovulation test. This test shows I am ovulating and hopefully will result in Baby G sometime soon. Oh and for the Jr. Homewrecker burrito from Moe's--yummy.

01.10.2012: Today I am grateful that Plaka is up and running again. Food was so yummy!!

01.11.2012: Today I am grateful for my bed. Goodnight!

01.12.2012: Today I am grateful for my family. I love snuggling up with Fitz and loving my husband. I love spending time with the people I love.

01.13.2012: Today I am grateful for the relationship I have with my husband. We can really have fun in any situation.

01.14.2012: Today I am grateful for a successful 10 mile run thanks to decent weather and motivation from hubs.

01.15.2012: Today I am grateful for successful, experimental, recipes: goat cheese and chive soufflé. Delicious and fun to make with Teddy.

01.16.2012: Today I am grateful for chocolate chip cookies. That and the 4 mile run in 42 minutes, fastest ever.

01.17.2012: Today I am grateful for spontaneous dinners with family. Having my mom and Grant here made for a nice night---that and the Heat kicking butt!

01.18.2012: Today I am grateful for new recipes that turn successful. Homemade pizza was delish!

01.19.2012: Today I am grateful for LeBron James, the best player in the world according to Charles Barkley. Go Heat!

01.20.2012: Today I am grateful for the woman I hit in the parking lot of the condo. Her understanding and compassion really made me feel better today and helped me see that there are still good people out there. I need to remember to pay it forward.

01.21.2012: Today I am grateful for best friends. Had a perfect day shopping with Heather!

01.22.2012: Today I am grateful for beautiful days in January. There is snow in many parts of the country and today was 80° and gorgeous!

01.23.2012: Today I am grateful for a husband that does the grocery shopping for us. Love him!

01.24.2012: Today I am grateful for today not being Monday. I am looking forward to the weekend.

01.25.2012: Today I am grateful for new cookware. It's fun cooking with new pans or tools and even better when its on sale.

01.26.2012: Today I am grateful for Friends. Any show that can make me laugh after all this time is amazing.

01.27.2012: Today I am grateful for Zac Brown Band and a husband who was willing to endure the music and pain for me! Lucky girl.

01.28.2012: Today I am grateful for Laini Butt. She is so good and it was nice to see her and hang out with her.

01.29.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband who not only puts up with my cranky moods but also gives me a massage and some good loving.

01.30.2012: Today I am grateful for the bad days because they make me appreciate the good ones so much more.

01.31.2012: Today I am grateful for a good book. I love the feeling of finishing a great book, almost feels familiar.

02.01.2012: Today I am grateful for the strength to actually finish a couple goals I set for myself--no caffeine, no coke, and this nightly posting.

02.02.2012: Today I am grateful for being home before 9pm. Thankful also that tomorrow is Friday.

02.03.2012: Today I am grateful for the ability to unwind on the way home with the windows down and music blaring.

02.04.2012: Today I am grateful for old friendships that never fade. Loved spending time with my S.O. girls tonight.

02.05.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband--he doesn't insist on watching the Super Bowl, loves me, believes in me, supports me and is always there for me. One lucky girl I am!

02.06.2012: Today I am grateful for Mondays that fly by. It was already 10:30 the first time I looked at my watch. Hope the rest of the week flies by too.

02.07.2012: Today I am grateful for my blogs. I have really gotten to love having the outlet. It's a great way to document my life.

02.08.0212: Today I am grateful for being done with all of the house stuff and in bed reading by 9:30. I also love that I am grateful for this rather than feeling "old". I love my adult life.

02.09.2012: Today I am grateful for good sushi and a good run. Two miles in less than 20 minutes.

02.10.2012:Today I am grateful for easy new recipes that are tasty. Tonight we tried Greek chicken pasta and it was quick and easy.

02.11.2012: Today I am grateful for great weather that is planned for tomorrow's race and my first race expo.

02.12.2012: Today I am grateful for a great half marathon. Extremely cold but worth it.

02.13.2012: Today I am grateful for awesome days. Today I was off with all successful, new baking recipes. Early V-day gifts from hubs were perfect. Loved every bit of my day.

02.14.2012: Today I am grateful that Teddy and I don't need a specific day to show our love. I love that we are really good at showing our affection all year long.

02.15.2012: Today I am grateful for all of the successful recipes I've made recently. Maybe owning a bakery or cafe isn't so far out of reach after all.

02.16.2012: Today I am grateful for the Internet. There is always something new to read and learn.

02.17.2012: Today I am grateful for early days off! Leaving work at 3 and shopping was a nice way to end the week!

02.18.2012: Today I am grateful for a running PR. 5k in 29:57

02.19.2012: Today I am grateful for new friendship that keep growing. Dinner with Tobby and Nicole was great!

02.20.2012: Today I am grateful for Monday's that fly. Today was pretty quick and productive. Best to get those Monday's out of the way.

02.21.2012: Today I am grateful for getting back into my normal non-running workout routine. Ready for health and fitness to continue.

02.22.2012: Today I am grateful for bonuses! Chico's exceeded target and it was announced that we will be getting a bonus! Yipee!

02.23.2012: Today I am grateful that tomorrow is Friday and a work day on the beach!!

02.24.2012: Today I am grateful that I have my sister and Nick to bail us out sometimes. Love them.

02.25.2012: Today I am grateful for the ability to see positive in most situations, thanks to my hubs a lot of the times.

02.26.2012: Today I am grateful for 80° weather in February and sunny boat days with family and Fitz.

02.27.2012: Today I am grateful that Monday is over and we are on the way to another weekend.

02.28.2012: Today I am grateful for true friends. Heather reminds me what a true friend is and means to me. I don't deserve anything less.

02.29.2012: Today I am grateful for the end of close. Today is practically the end of the busy days...for this month anyways. :-)

03.01.2012: Today I am grateful that my husband is interested in my interests. I'm thankful he spent the time helping me figure out what I needed for my bracelet making.

03.02.2012: Today I am grateful for opportunity. Today was Joe's last day and before leaving, he took the time to go through opportunities I have and areas for improvement. It gave me a more positive outlook on Chico's. Also grateful for craft project working first time around (bracelets)!!

03.03.2012: Today I am grateful for my love. Seeing Lise-Anne and Joe's wedding reminds me how much my love for Teddy has grown over the last five years.

03.04.2012: Today I am grateful for recipes that flop because they make me appreciate the ones that are awesome. Thanksgiving dinner in March is pretty awesome too.

03.05.2012: Today I am grateful that today is the first of two short weeks. Come on Thursday night.

03.06.2012: Today I am grateful that after 14 years Teddy and I still have great conversation and I still learn so much about myself through talks and conversations with my love.

03.07.2012: Today I am grateful for effortless nights with my sister and Nick. It's great to not have to worry about entertaining and we can just eat dinner, watch a movie, and paint our nails.

03.08.2012: Today I am grateful for my Papa. He is 87 today. I have such great memories of him--picking fruit, riding on the lawn mower, "painting" the sidewalk. I feel blessed to have him this long and still going strong.

03.09.2012: Today I am grateful for time off. I enjoyed being able to experiment with baking, watching some tv, and hanging out by the pool. Three more days off!

03.10.2012: Today I am grateful we have found a church where we fit in and feel comfortable. I really enjoy going to services and worshiping for the first time in a long while.

03.11.2012: Today I am grateful for awesome beach days. Today was perfect--Cayo Costa beach with Teddy, Fitz, Kelli, and Allison. Also grateful for daylight savings time---one more sign summer is near.

03.12.2012: Today I am grateful that my hubs and I got to spend a random Monday afternoon off from work together and watching a Red Sox Game.

03.13.2012: Today I am grateful for my life. Seeing my life in comparison to others makes me see all I have. I love my life.

03.14.2012: Today I am grateful for being able to be there for my sister. I'm thankful that my experiences offer her perspective.

03.15.2012: Today I am grateful for presale tickets to Lady Antebellum. Yipee!

03.16.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday and rockband with sister love---oh and wine!

03.17.2012: Today I am grateful for St. Patrick's Day. Love holidays and anything festive. Grateful for Teddy and Him getting us brownies late at night!

03.18.2012: Today I am grateful for perfect weathers on beach days in March. The weather was perfect, water was bright blue and clear, and we had a great time. Also I am grateful for Heather. She's an awesome friend---Happy 29th Dudey!

03.19.2012: Today I am grateful for our first run in a month. It was great to have the time off to relax but I'm glad to get back into it. Beach body here I come!

03.20.2012: Today I am grateful for awesome Heat games. I'm also grateful for the ability to go to great events last minute with friends. Planning on the FMFF tomorrow with Nicole and Tobby.

03.21.2012: Today I am grateful for a great friendship that is growing with Nicole and Tobby.

03.22.2012: Today I am grateful for early Fridays and free tickets to the Red Sox vs Yankee game. Seats were great.

03.23.2012: Today I am grateful for time to think. Being at the beach today allowed for awesome me time that I love to have. Hunger Games was awesome!!!

03.24.2012: Today I am grateful that I belong to a church that is making such a large impact on the community. 25,000 can goal for Feeding Ft. Myers.

03.25.2012: Today I am grateful for reaching and exceeding our goal of cans, 38,000. I'm also grateful for Homemade Snickers. Yummy.

03.26.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy. He is such a considerate and thoughtful husband. I'm lucky to have him in my life.

03.27.2012: Today I am grateful for new adventures. Planning this tattoo is both stressful and exciting. Such a big decision.

03.28.2012: Today I am grateful for Heather. She's a great friend and I feel blessed to have her in my life.

03.29.2012: Today I am grateful for the Heat winning. Two losses in a row were enough.

03.30.2012: Today I am grateful for simple date nights after all this time. I love that Teddy and I still enjoy a simple dinner and a movie together.

03.31.2012: Today I am grateful for awesome days at the beach. Today was gorgeous on Sanibel. I'm a little bummed the tattoo plans fell through but Monday is the new plan.

04.01.2012: Today I am grateful that my mom finally has a place to call home of her own. Proud that she got this all taken care of on her own. On to positive things.

04.02.2012: Today I am grateful for new and exciting situations. My tattoo showed me I am so much stronger than I think sometimes.

04.03.2012: Today I am grateful for healthy babies. So glad Mary and Joe have a healthy baby girl and everything went well.

04.04.2012: Today I am grateful for the Miami Heat beating the Thunder after a great game.

04.05.2012: Today I am grateful for decompression. A night on the balcony with a bottle of wine is a perfect way to relax after a busy week of close.

04.06.2012: Today I am grateful for the end of a crappy week, it's Friday. I'm also grateful for a great dinner a Cristof's with hubs.

04.07.2012: Today I am grateful for my family. We had an awesome Easter dinner. I love spending time with them!

04.08.2012: Today I am grateful for a gorgeous day on the beach, both alone and with the hubs. So relaxing! I am grateful that I am learning how to just be.

04.09.2012: Today I am grateful for family---even though crazy at times, always a blast! Dominos, red wine, family!

04.10.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband. I know all his actions and thoughts are made out of love, even if they frustrate me sometimes. I am grateful he loves me for me, through the good and the bad.

04.11.2012: Today I am grateful for my strength. Sometimes I forget that I am pretty strong and am able to change the things in my life I do not like. Life is too short not to seize the day.

04.12.2012: Today I am grateful for the strength to bring up topics for conversation to Teddy. It's taken me some getting comfortable with but I am trying.

04.13.2012: Today I am grateful for relaxing, early Friday's off with my sister. Yay for the weekend.

04.14.2012: Today I am grateful for fun nights out just dancing. Here's to hanging out with friends, both old and new. It was great to see Kiley and spend some unexpected time with her.

04.15.2012: Today I am grateful for the ability to just relax and be with Teddy. Great day at the beach. I am not grateful for taxes today though :-(

04.16.2012: Today I am grateful for Monday that don't totally suck, especially when the Heat win.

04.17.2012: Today I am grateful for cuddling on the couch with lover!

04.18.2012: Today I am grateful for great friends and hockey. Everblades won and it was super fun.

04.19.2012: Today I am grateful for breakfast for dinner. Banana, chocolate chip pancakes with granola and bacon was the perfect meal. Delish!!

04.20.2012: Today I am grateful for fun times and Fridays. Sandy Parrot was great tonight with Tobby and Nicole, Tim and Shanna, Joan, and Tobby's mom.

04.21.2012: Today I am grateful for things that are bigger than I am. Seeing the stories behind some of the baptisms today makes me see how much I have to be thankful for. God is good!

04.22.2012: Today I am grateful for this awesome Earth. I'm grateful that we have so much beauty and amazement to enjoy. Gorgeous beaches, beautiful water, mountains, and sunsets. There is so much to be thankful for! Happy Earth Day!

04.23.2012: Today I am thankful for Corey and his family. There are many times I get aggravated but I'm thankful they truly care about us and I love them all, especially the little ones. Praying for a BFP tomorrow.

04.24.2012: Today we potentially have out first BPF! A faint positive is still a positive right. Praying the positive test is true and Baby G is on the way!

04.25.2012: Today I am grateful for another positive test. I'm also grateful for new friend Nicole lucky I have a good, Christian, positive person in my life.

04.26.2012: Today I am grateful for my relationship with my mom. I'm lucky to have her in my life and I enjoy being able to be there for her.

04.27.2012: Today I am grateful for yummy wholesome food at Fresh Market. Dinner was a grilled ribeye, grilled portobello, asparagus and corn.

04.28.2012: Today I am grateful for fun rainy days on the boat and floating coolers. It was also awesome telling my sister the big news today.

04.29.2012: Today I am grateful for all of the possibilities that lay before me. Makes me giddy inside just thinking about it.

04.30.2012: Today I am grateful for Monday's that aren't horrible. Today easily could have been a terrible day being its quarter end close but it was bearable. Yay.

05.01.2012: Today I am grateful for my hubs. He will be gone this week and I am going to miss him. He made sure I was all set: car wash, new tires, oil changed, and even made me food for the week. For this I am grateful!

05.02.2012: Today I am grateful for my hubs. He is gone this week and I miss him. He's such a good part of my life. I hope he has fun.

05.03.2012: Today I am grateful for this baby. All of the possibilities are so exciting. I'm ready for a family with the love of my life!

05.04.2012: Today I am grateful for relationships. Tonight at Dixie I ran into so many different crews of people it makes me thankful to have so many different people in my life, old and new!

05.05.2012: Today I am grateful for all of the people in my life. My hubs, my sister, and all of my friends that have kept me company this weekend!

05.06.2012: Today I am grateful for the end of this week and the beginning of another. Teddy comes home tomorrow, we get our first ultrasound Thursday, the Lady A concert Friday night, and Mother's Day!

05.07.2012: Today I am grateful that my husband is home!! Plus I got flowers, I love him!!

05.08.2012: Today I am grateful for my promotion. I'm thankful that so many people support me and are pulling for me. I'm also grateful for craft projects.

05.09.2012: Today I am grateful for the support at work. Over 40 congratulatory emails and calls makes me feel so appreciated.

05.10.2012: Today I am grateful for a little beating heart. My baby is just 4mm small but its heart is beating so strong. I love little baby G and I haven't even been with it that long.

05.11.2012: Today I am grateful for a fun night with Allie and Kelli. The Lady A concert was awesome with the girls.

05.12.2012: Today I am grateful for a hubs that will stay up until 1am to make croissants for my mom for Mothers Day. Awesome!!

05.13.2012: Today I am grateful for all of our families and how excited everyone is. Can't wait to see how this all unfolds.

05.14.2012: Today I am grateful for my mom. I think she will be great to have by my side through this journey. She's already got the baby a monkey toy and blanket!

05.15.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy. He's already helping me see the truth in my irrationality.

05.16.2012: Today I am grateful for hours of Friends TV and cookies & milk---doesn't get much better than that.

05.17.2012: Today I am grateful for a patient husband---tandoori chicken and malikafta was sensory overload and he was so patient. Love him.

05.18.2012: Today I am grateful for Grant. Today he is 19 and he is such a great kid, loving, considerate, caring, and kind. I'm proud to have a little brother as great as him.

05.19.2012: Today I am grateful for Riverdale High. Grant graduated today and there are so many experiences and memories given to us by RHS, a history for my family. I'm proud to be a Raider!

05.20.2012: Today I am grateful for easy Sunday's. I hung out this morning and caught up on some chores and laundry, then went romping with my mom. Got some things I needed. Finished up the day with a nice night with hubs. Easy peasy.

05.21.2012: Today I am grateful for the south---I made homemade peach ice cream today and all that keeps running through my head is Luke Bryan lyrics "homemade peach ice cream on sun burnt lips, that's what country is". Glad to be a southern girl, even if some people don't consider Florida the south :-)

05.22.2012: Today I am grateful for sleep. This little one is burning my energy and I am tired. Until next time...goodnight!

05.23.2012: Today I am grateful for the ability to fall asleep super early. 8:45 sounds totally reasonable for someone in their first trimester right?

05.24.2012: Today I am grateful for four day weekends!!! Yay!

05.25.2012: Today I am grateful for our baby. It's growing as expected and is beautiful. Estimated due date has been moved up to 01.02.2013! Can't wait to complete our family!

05.26.2012: Today I am grateful for time with my bestie. So glad Heather came to visit unexpectedly!! Love her!

05.27.2012: Today I am grateful for 4 day weekend and relaxing beach days! One full day off remaining! Love it.

05.28.2012: Today I am grateful for awesome free tickets. Row 19 for the Heat playoffs were totally awesome.

05.29.2012: Today I am grateful for sleep. After a short nights sleep and a crappy day at work being in bed when the sun goes down is the perfect way to end the day.

05.30.2012: Today I am grateful for early nights. Leaving work at 6 in close is unheard of sometimes and much appreciated.

05.31.2012: Today I am grateful for my hubs. He has been taking care of so much stuff at home and letting me get plenty of sleep while Baby G is growing. Love him so much.

06.01.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday of close week! So glad this week is over.

06.02.2012: Being in my ninth week its safe to say I am grateful for naps!

06.03.2012: Today I am grateful for my life. I feel so blessed to have a husband and a great family with a baby on the way. So blessed!!

06.04.2012: Today I am grateful for almost being 10 weeks. This pregnancy is going along so well!

06.05.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy as today is his birthday. The most awesome person in my life!

06.06.2012: Today I am grateful for the compassion and understanding that Kim showed as we told her the news. So glad it's over and we can move on and celebrate this life growing inside of me.

06.07.2012: Today I am grateful for being able to stay up and watch the Heat game for the first time in a while! Plus they won. One more win between them and the finals.

06.08.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday dinners with my girls. I loved telling them and everyone else of our news.

06.09.2012: Today I am grateful for lazy Saturdays. These are starting to become common place. Can't wait for some energy but for now might as well enjoy them.

06.10.2012: Today I am grateful for lazy Sundays. I'm also grateful that my husband helped me clean out the guest room. Now it's a blank canvas, ready for the nursery.

06.11.2012: Today I am grateful for family time. No matter how chaotic, I still enjoy spending time with them.

06.12.2012: Today I am grateful that the Heat are in the finals. Let's go Heat!

06.13.2012: Today I am grateful for making it to 11 weeks. Time has gone by so quickly!

06.14.2012: Today I am grateful for my job at Chico's. I have learned a lot in the last year and a half and I am grateful for the opportunity to teach what I have learned to my new team.

06.15.2012: Today I am grateful for relaxed days at work. Wearing pj's to work while pregnant is pure bliss.

06.16.2012: Today I am grateful for my creativity. I am thankful that I am able to channel my creativity and passions into memories and great crafts.

06.17.2012: Today I am grateful for Sundays and the ability to rest!

06.18.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband. This pregnancy is between Teddy and myself, I need to remember that me, him, and the baby are all that matters.

06.19.2012: Today I am grateful for another Heat win, only one to go!

06.20.2012: Today I am grateful for my little baby G. Today's ultrasound was amazing, seeing how much it's grown is simply a miracle. I can't wait for what lies ahead.

06.21.2011: Today I am grateful for the Heat finally winning the Championship!!! They deserve it!

06.22.2012: Today I am grateful for so many friends and family! Seeing 30+ people come out to celebrate my birthday makes me see how loved I am.

06.23.2012: Today I am grateful for Heather. She is always there for me and no matter how long we are apart, we always have a great time playing catch-up.

06.24.2012: Today I am grateful for rainy days with my husband. Love just spending time with him!

06.25.2012: Today I am grateful for my ability to work out. Elliptical today was awesome, a great start to my healthy pregnancy.

06.26.2012: Today I am grateful for fun nights cooking with hubs and great books. I love having a great book that draws me in!

06.27.2012: Today I am grateful for making it to the second trimester. Love this little one!!!

06.28.2012: Today I am grateful that tomorrow is a half day, first day of summer hours!!

06.29.2012: Today I am grateful for Nicole and Tobby's friendship, dinner at Joe's was great!

06.30.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy. I love that just being away from him for the day makes me miss him.

07.01.2012: Today I am grateful for great finds for the nursery! Love Craigslist.

07.02.2012: Today I am grateful for new cars! We finally got rid of my husbands heap!

07.03.2012: Today I am grateful for holidays, even if they are in the middle of the week, a day off is a day off.

07.04.2012: Today I am grateful for having this little baby in me for 14 weeks. Time is going so fast!

07.05.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband. I love how caring he is and how I know he will take care of me and the baby when the time comes.

07.06.2012: Today I am grateful for early Fridays. Today was an early day plus it was rainy and gloomy. Perfect for an afternoon of Friends and napping.

07.07.2012: Today I am grateful for romping with hubs. I loved just driving around and it just being him and me, reminds me of Miami.

07.08.2012: Today I am grateful for my nieces and nephew. They are all so sweet and funny in their own way.

07.09.2012: Today I am just grateful that Monday is over. Yay!

07.10.2012: Today I am grateful for the position of manager I have been given. At times it just feels like meetings but I feel I am learning more and getting more experience every day. I'm also grateful for the cutest cloth diapers ever.

07.11.2012: Today I am grateful for easy nights, just me and hubs and Fitzy. My family! This plus yummy chocolate chip cookies.

07.12.2012: Today I am grateful for Pregnancy cravings. My Jersey Mike's sub was so delicious--probably because it's forbidden fruit.

07.13.2012: Today I am grateful for early Fridays and also Friday the 13th that are spectacular and no disasters.

07.14.2012: Today I am grateful for Corey and his family. It's not often that we spend time with them but it was fun.

07.15.2012: Today I am grateful for sales---crib mattress is on the way!

07.16.2012: Today I am grateful for my hubs. Love him!

07.17.2012: Today I am grateful for Baby G I just wish s/he would cooperate! Is baby G a boy or girl?!

07.18.2012: Today I am grateful for quality time with Allie. I haven't hung out with her in a whole, it was good to catch up.

07.19.2012: Today I am grateful for creativity. Painting the dresser and thoughts of the nursery are so exciting.

07.20.2012: Today I am grateful for elective ultrasounds---Baby G is a girl!!!

07.21.2012: Today I am grateful for friends. We got so much great stuff today all for free. People are awesome!

07.22.2012: Today I am grateful for hubs and my growing family. Today we began setting up the nursery and it was so awesome to see things starting to get together.

07.23.2012: Today I am grateful for yummy new recipes, first time making lasagna was a success.

07.24.2012: Today I am grateful for my order of cloth diapers. So excited to do this.

07.25.2012: Today I am grateful for the Internet at work, this week has been brutal.

07.26.2012: Today I am grateful for fun times with Nicole--Pinterest Party was fun.

07.27.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday off from work, new purses, and my Snoogle!!

07.28.2012: Today I am grateful for my awesome husband that painted the nursery for our little one. He was so careful to keep the fumes away, it was so sweet.

07.29.2012: Today I am grateful for crafts---starting crafts for the nursery is so fun.

07.30.2012: Today I am grateful for yummy Greek food for only $3 thanks to Groupon.

07.31.2012: Today I am grateful for a husband that cooks dinner when I work late. Love him.

08.01.2012: Today I am grateful for free pizza, it was the only redeeming quality during quarter end close.

08.02.2012: Today I am grateful for close being over. This week has sucked.

08.03.2012: Today I am grateful for early Friday! This week is finally over.

08.04.2012: Today I am grateful for my fabric for the glider!

08.05.2012: Today I am grateful for new friendships that are growing, dinner with Mary and Joe was great (and Ms. Ella too of course)

08.06.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy grocery shopping every week. It's so helpful and I appreciate it.

08.07.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy. I had a horrible day, came home crying uncontrollably and he listened and helped. Perfect husband.

08.08.2012: Today I am grateful for 19 weeks---can't believe almost halfway there.

08.09.2012: Today I am grateful for getting off at a decent time and enjoying a wonderful dinner at McGregor Cafe with hubs. It was fun to fantasize and think about Henley.

08.10.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday. Hanging out and enjoying a nice steak dinner with Teddy was perfect.

08.11.2012: Today I am grateful for fun Saturday's with Allie. It was a fun day hanging out and watching a movie with her---I love Meryl Streep.

08.12.2012: Today I am grateful for curtains! Henley's curtains are backed with blackout material and hung.

08.13.2012: Today I am grateful for kicks and baby Henley. Went to the doctor today and everything looks great. I also felt her for the first time!!

08.14.2012: Today I am grateful for Heather---just chatting with her for a bit today makes me realize that I miss her everyday-ness. I miss seeing her and talking about nothing everyday. Maybe one day again.

08.15.2012: Today I am grateful for being halfway through this pregnancy. So awesome!

08.16.2012: Today I am grateful for yummy brownies and milk!

08.17.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday and the weekend. I never get sick of having time off!

08.18.2012: Today I am grateful for registering! Picking out baby stuff was so fun and exciting. Can't wait to have a reason to use it.

08.19.2012: Today I am grateful for family and memories. Dinner at Mom's was fun and so was looking at old pictures.

08.20.2012: Today I am grateful for another successful run. It was a little harder but still manageable.

08.21.2012: Today I am grateful for leaving work on time.

08.22.2012: Today I am grateful for 21 weeks. On the downhill slide!

08.23.2012: Today I am grateful for Cool Ranch Doritos! It's the simple things sometimes.

08.24.2012: Today I am grateful for my sister. Dinner with her and Nick was nice and Cold Stone after was delish!

08.25.2012: Today I am grateful for Nicole's pregnancy. Henley will have a perfect playmate.

08.26.2012: Today I am grateful that Isaac didn't cause tons of damage even though a crazy storm would have been fun.

08.27.2012: Today I am grateful for crafts---the scrapbook picture and blanket came out really well and were fun!

08.28.2012: Today I am grateful for hubs cooking yummy meatballs!

08.29.2012: Today I am grateful for Mary helping out with close. She's making my week a little more bearable.

08.30.2012: Today I am grateful that I am not working tomorrow. I'm also grateful that Nicole heard the baby's heartbeat!!!

08.31.2012: Today I am grateful for vacation! Four days off and in the Keys----perfection!

09.01.2012: Today I am grateful for the ability to relax. This trip is going great. Also grateful that Fitzy was able to join, he's hilarious on vacation.

09.02.2012: Today I am grateful for living somewhere so gorgeous.

09.03.2012: Today I am grateful for home. No matter how awesome vacation is, coming home always feels awesome. I missed my Snoogle!

09.04.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy. God Gave Me You!

09.05.2012: Today I am grateful for 23 weeks. This pregnancy is flying by.

09.06.2012: Today I am grateful for six days off!

09.07.2012: Today I am grateful for Kiley and old friendships. I love that we can spend a whole day together after not spending much time and pick up where we left off.

09.08.2012: Today I am grateful for nursery crafts. It was fun having my mom over to help with baby stuff.

09.09.2012: Today I am grateful for cooking with Teddy, it's probably my most favorite thing to do with him.

09.10.2012: Today I am grateful for Henley's heartbeat. I never tire of hearing it beat so strongly.

09.11.2012: Today I am grateful for the 6 days I've had off. It was great having time to just relax and work on the nursery.

09.12.2012: Today I am grateful for short weeks. I wish all weeks were three days.

09.13.2012: Today I am grateful for dinners at home. This week has been full of yummy home cooking.

09.14.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday and crafts!

09.15.2012: Today I am grateful for all of the time I have to spend on the nursery crafts. It's so fun planning for Henley and making special things she will use.

09.16.2012: Today I am grateful for my mom cooking me Thanksgiving dinner in September. Also thankful that it's officially fall in the Gadoury house.

09.17.2012: Today I am grateful for country music! Loved listening to my favorites on the CMA special tonight.

09.18.2012: Today I am grateful for crazy kicking Henley. She was moving around so much. Love it.

09.19.2012: Today I am grateful for 25 weeks! Only two more weeks left in the second trimester.

09.20.2012: Today I am grateful for the nursery. It's almost done.

09.21.2012: Today I am grateful it's Friday and I got a good understanding of the budgeting today.

09.22.2012: Today I am grateful for time with Allie. It was nice to hang out and spend time with her. I also enjoyed our long walk.

09.23.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband. I love that he spent so much time helping me with the nursery.

09.24.2012: Today I am grateful for my mom--Happy Birthday!

09.25.2012: Today I am grateful for the finishing touches coming together on the nursery, almost done.

09.26.2012: Today I am grateful for actually understanding the budget process now.

09.27.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy and the support system he provides. My grandfather is choosing to end care and this plus Henley's lack if movement lately had me really upset. He knows exactly how to calm me down and make me see the big picture.

09.28.2012: Today I am grateful for Henley finally back to normal kicking. I missed it.

09.29.2012: Today I am grateful for a fun and successful Pinterest Party. I'm also grateful for my group of awesome friends.

09.30.2012: Today I am grateful for my current circle of family and friends.

10.01.2012: Today I am grateful for sleep! So tired today.

10.02.2012: Today I am grateful for today not being Monday.

10.03.2012: Today I am grateful for a country where we can vote and express our opinions.

10.04.2012: Today I am grateful for FaceTime. Love chatting with my sister and seeing her--it's fun!

10.05.2012: Today I am grateful for Friday. 'Nuff said.

10.06.2012: Today I am grateful for family and new friends. Alaina turned two today and her little b-day party was so cute. We also went to an Oktoberfest at Aida and Brad's house. There were a lot of new friends there and it was great getting to know everyone a little better.

10.07.2012: Today I am grateful for simple days. Today just hanging out with Teddy, getting breakfast and enjoying the day was perfect.

10.08.2012: Today I am grateful for hearing Henley's heartbeat----I never tire of that.

10.09.2012: Today I am grateful for my attitude towards work. After 6 years in the business world, I can finally say I have mastered the "eff it" attitude. Family and personal life is number one---work a distant number two. That's how it should be.

10.10.2012: Today I am grateful for 28 weeks. Well on our way to the third trimester. I'm also grateful for days full of busy meetings, makes the day fly!

10.11.2012: Today I am great for books that are entertaining. Gone Girl was a gripping read, even though I was totally frustrated the whole time.

10.12.2012: Today I am grateful for half days!

10.13.2012: Today was my first shower from Nicole and Shanna and this make me so grateful for my friends. Spending time with everyone was great and the shower was perfect. I'm so lucky.

10.14.2012: Today I am grateful for lazy Sundays and old friends. Catching up with Donnie and Tabitha was great.

10.15.2012: Today I am grateful for Heather. I can always count on her for uplifting Monday emails.

10.16.2012: Today I am grateful for it not being Monday.

10.17.2012: Today I am grateful for 29 weeks. We are getting so close.

10.18.2012: Today I am grateful for the ideas and prospect of my Etsy store.

10.19.2012: Today I am grateful for impromptu half days!

10.20.2012: Today I am grateful for fun nights with friends. Pumpkin carving and chili dinner with Nicole and Tobby was fun.

10.21.2012: Today I am grateful for Tijuana Flats and romping with hubs in great weather.

10.22.2012: Today I am grateful that despite walking down 22 flights of stairs I was still able to function most of the day. Also grateful for an awesome appointment.

10.23.2012: Today I am grateful for great walks and talks with my sister. Nice to get out and grab time with her.

10.24.2012: Today I am grateful for making it to 30 weeks. Keep cooking Henley---see you in 9-10 weeks!

10.25.2012: Today I am grateful for long walks with hubs and Fitz. I love spending that time catching up and getting a little exercise.

10.26.2012: Today I am grateful for completed CPE. Even though is was a painful two days I am 16 credit hours closer.

10.27.2012: Today I am grateful for my dad and Toni. They threw me a nice shower and I'm very thankful.

10.28.2012: Today I am grateful for crafts!

10.29.2012: Today I am grateful for a good start to quarter end, hopefully it continues.

10.30.2012: Today I am grateful for potato soup, seriously the best thing ever!!

10.31.2012: Today I am grateful that quarter end is technically close and the havoc is no mas.

11.01.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband's perspective. Sometimes I get lost in the mess of the details and worry and I love that he keeps me grounded and gives me a realistic perspective.

11.02.2012: Today I am grateful for friends! Dinner/date night with Mary as Joe was great. Loved just catching up.

11.03.2012: Today I am grateful for two baby showers that I have to attend because that means that two more healthy babies are on their way to joining us.

11.04.2012: Today I am grateful for the past 15 years. I have been able to spend them with the best man that's ever lived. I'm also grateful for the 30 years I got to spend with Papa. He was the best grandparent anyone could ask for. I know he's in a better place now!

11.05.2012: Today I am grateful for great memories I have had with my papa. I will miss him!

11.06.2012: Today I am grateful for the ability to vote! I'm also grateful that Obama won!

11.07.2012: Today I am grateful for baby care class and the fact that my husband is so funny and loves learning about Henley as much as I do.

11.08.2012: Today I am grateful for 15 years together with Teddy.

11.09.2012: Today I am grateful for the service for Papa and a chance to say goodbye. I love remembering how great he was and seeing how important family was to him. I hope to keep that tradition going strong.

11.10.2012: Today I am grateful for my shower and seeing how great my family and friends really are. I feel so special! I also loved seeing Henley on the ultrasound. Love her fat little cheeks and cute pouty lips---can't wait to give her a huge kiss.

11.11.2012: Today I am grateful for my mother-in-law hooking us up with some great things for the baby.

11.12.2012: Today I am grateful for quality time with Teddy. We took a long walk downtown and then just enjoyed a little Starbucks and some good conversation. Love him.

11.13.2012: Today I am grateful that my grandfather was such a great man to model after. More families will have turkeys thanks to Nations Association & Gen Acct. in memory of Papa.

11.14.2012: Today I am grateful for the awesome class about breast feeding we took tonight. I'm grateful to have the resources to learn and I'm also grateful my husband was right there with me the whole time.

11.15.2012: Today I am grateful for the giving from my team that allowed us to purchase turkeys and other food for six families in need. I'm also grateful for my mom and that she went with me to get the last of things for Henley!

11.16.2012: Today I am grateful for nesting. I love seeing all of Henley's things coming together and I can't wait for her to use them.

11.17.2012: Today I am grateful for the great instructors at Health Park. All of the classes have been so informative and I feel better prepared for Henley's arrival.

11.18.2012: Today I am grateful for productive days: got a cabinet for Henley's room, organized everything, tried the new Mexican place downtown, and got a walk in.

11.19.2012: Today I am grateful for a short work week. I'm also grateful Teddy and Jerry flew safely and landed home perfectly.

11.20.2012: Today I am grateful for the times when things don't work because it makes me appreciate when they do. Tonight felt like nothing went right so hoping everything functions properly tomorrow.

11.21.2012: Today I am grateful for my family. Fun prepping for Thanksgiving with everyone and hanging out.

11.22.2012: Today I am grateful for family. Thanksgiving is always a fun time and I love spending with our crazy families.

11.23.2012: Today I am grateful for crafts. A whole day of relaxing and crafting---perfect!

11.24.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband. Not only did he go with me to see the new Twilight movie but he also bought a carpet cleaner and cleaned the carpets for me. He's so awesome.

11.25.2012: Today I am grateful for Christmas. The tree is up and the lights are lit. I love this time of year! Crazy to think this time next year will be totally different.

11.26.2012: Today I am grateful that I am prepared for Henley for the most part. I'm grateful that my hubs is so good at helping me prepare.

11.27.2012: Today I am grateful for baths. It was nice to just float and relax peacefully.

11.28.2012: Today I am grateful for 35 weeks. I'm grateful Henley will be here in 35 days, give or take a few.

11.29.2012: Today I am grateful for my husband that keeps me grounded and a reality check. Work is only work and I have so much more waiting for me at home.

11.30.2012: Today I am grateful for finally Friday!!! Thank god close week is over. Hopefully this was my last close for a few months --- come on Henley!

12.01.2012: Today I am grateful for the Christmas season, I love December.

12.02.2012: Today I am grateful for being a month away from my due date. Come on Henley!

12.03.2012: Today I am grateful that the placenta previa resolved itself. I'm grateful Henley is a healthy weight and is growing big and strong.

12.04.2012: Today I am grateful for my hubs. It was fun playing with the cupcake decorating tools I got.

12.05.2012: Today I am grateful for all of the things we got for Henley. I packed the diaper bag tonight and it was fun to see all of the clothes and cute things for her.

12.06.2012: Today I am grateful for the end of the week. Finally.

12.07.2012: Today I am grateful that Henley is coming soon. Hospital and diaper bags are packed!

12.08.2012: Today I am grateful for spa days--my prenatal massage and facial were amazing.

12.09.2012: Today I am grateful that I was able to paint my nails today! I actually reached my toes, no easy task!

12.10.2012: Today I am grateful for creative juices. Making fondant penguins was so fun!

12.11.2012: Today I am grateful for the bad nights sleep because they make me appreciate the good ones. Let's hope tonight is a good one.

12.12.12: Today I am grateful for the holidays which bring holiday parties. JLW party was fun and Teddy won an Honor Award. :-)

12.13.2012: Today I am grateful that we have made it to 37 weeks and all is healthy so far. Just need to limit my walks to help with swelling.

12.14.2012: Today I am grateful for holiday baking. Cake competition at work was fun and the Andes Mint cupcakes Teddy and I made tonight were amazing. Best cupcake ever.

12.15.2012: Today I am grateful for friends and family. Had a great day at Mary and Joe's then spent the night catching up with Allie. Fun fun.

12.16.2012: Today I am grateful for Christmas shopping that is complete. Yay.

12.17.2012: Today I am grateful for homemade presents. All of the things I've made this year have really been fun (if only my printer cooperated).

12.18.2012: Today I am grateful for Henley Nicole. I'm grateful for a great labor experience. I'm grateful for a great support in Teddy and I'm grateful that we are all healthy.

12.19.2012: Today I am grateful for this amazing gift of life. Totally insane how great life is.

12.20.2012: Today I am grateful that we are taking Henley home with us.

12.21.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy. Visitors and the newness of Henley was a little overwhelming and he kept me sane. Also grateful for a great night with Henley. First night home.

12.22.2012: Today I am grateful for such awesome family and friends. It's definitely a blessing that Teddy and I have to turn so many generous offerings from friends away because there are so many. We are so lucky to be supported by such awesome people.

12.23.2012: Today I am grateful for some downtime. It was nice to be just Teddy and I for the most part today.

12.24.2012: Today I am grateful for our first Christmas Eve as a family of three. Dinner at Corey's was great and we got to spend some time with family.

12.25.2012: Today I am grateful for my most perfect Christmas present ever---Henley Nicole! I'm also grateful for a quiet Christmas Day alone with my new perfect family.

12.26.2012: Today I am grateful for Teddy and how much he cares for me. I'm grateful he was concerned about Henley and I on his first day back to work.

12.27.2012: Today I am grateful for romping successfully with Henley. We didn't take her out of the car but it felt good to mingle with normal people even if just for a bit.

12.28.2012: Today I am grateful for a good Friday night---hanging out with Ted, watching a funny movie while Henley snuggles. Priceless.

12.29.2012: Today I am grateful for my family. Having Teddy and Henley and Fitz is perfect! I love my family!

12.30.2012: Today I am grateful for NetFlix! Watching old shows is a great way to pass the time while snuggling with Hens!

12.31.2012: Today I am grateful that I stuck with this and I now have 365 things I am grateful for. This year was awesome and I have so many great memories to look back on.

This list is long and I doubt all of you even made it through but this is a great way for me to remind myself that no matter how rough my day/week/month is going, I have tons to be thankful for! Life is good!

Happy New Year and here's to a healthy and prosperous 2013!

Mere :-)

::Me:: I Got A Tattoo!

I haven't always wanted a tattoo. I've been one of those people that loved how they looked on others but never could decide on what I would pick. I thought I'd never be able to pick something I'd still love in 30 years. My mindset has changed over the last year, not just about tattoos but about life in general. I've always been a "No Regrets" kind of person as I believe this quote to a "T"

...and I feel tattoos fall into this category. I feel I will look back at this time and remember all of the great things that were happening in my life when I got this tattoo.

I decided on my ribs as this is my favorite place when I see others with tattoos. I was really nervous about the pain but turns out, I have a high pain tolerance---I'd say a 4 on a scale of 1 to 10. Without for ado, here it is!

I am so absolutely in love with it. I am thinking about adding sparrows to it sometime soon.

Do you guys have any awesome tattoos to share? I feel a tad bit obsessed with them now. Hope your Monday ROCKS!

:-) Mere

Welcome to Paradise!

Welcome to my little corner of the blogosphere. I just wanted to give you a little “about me” introduction and tell you I am so happy and thankful you have decided to stop by. I am an (almost) 30-something living and loving life. I am married to my high school sweetheart and we are both Florida born and raised which means we love anything having to do with sunshine and summertime. I am an accountant at a fashion retailer and my husband, Ted, is a project manager for a general commercial contractor. We have a Boston Terrier named Fitzgerald who, at the moment, is the only child in our family and acts accordingly. I have a large family and I love spending time with my siblings and their kids!

I like to think I am a jack of all trades (master of none) when it comes to hobbies and interests. I love running and am currently training for my second half marathon. I love cooking and baking and have hopes of one day opening my own bakery or café. I love crafting, scrapbooking, and DIY-ing as much as possible. I am addicted to TV and love my Tivo more than any other electronic device in our home---I will always entertain talk about tv shows. I love to read and I am constantly looking for new and exciting reads.

I hope you will stick around and follow me on this adventure I call life.