Crash. Into. Me.

Operation Cruise clothes shopping: COMPLETE!

2011-03-20T18:21:00.000-07:00

Did a little shopping today for some stuff to take on vacation. It's hard to pack for a cruise, I think. Day clothes.. when it could be hot, or could be chilly and then night clothes plus dressier clothes.. ahhhh, just so hard! We are officially in the teens.. 19 days to be exact. CANNOT WAIT.

Green nails were a must for today.

2011-03-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

This is one Canadian tuxedo I think I can get behind.

2011-03-13T18:51:00.000-07:00

Sidenote: I think I need these bangs asap. I know, I know. I've tried the blunt bangs before and I always complain about them... but I think I might be up for another go round.

heaven

2011-03-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe I have been missing out on the greatness that is Charming Charlie. Seriously. Sara has been telling me about it for awhile, and for some reason I never go over to that side of Friendly Center to go in... until yesterday. Amazed. I think I have store lust.

on packing...

2011-03-10T12:50:00.001-08:00

This will be me getting on the cruise. I mean.. 5 days of morning noon and night outfits?! C'mon on people.. a girls gotta have choices!

2011-03-10T08:51:00.001-08:00

Well, it doesn't look like much when you put it all in one glass :)

2011-03-10T08:15:00.000-08:00

tonight is date night. And I have a slight case of blind-date-itis. Not all that excited about it- not even all that pumped for my usual wine binge on Thursday nights. Blame it on the rain.

The tragedy of First Position.

2011-03-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

This is my brother-in-law.

2011-03-08T11:33:00.000-08:00

They made this for their faculty/student basketball game. Pretty creative! and I had no idea he was so good at shooting!

The football Coach Chronicles

2011-03-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

Seriously. Do I have a sign on me somewhere that says I like coaches? Let me give you the low down. College boyfriend? High school football coach. Best guy friend? High school football coach. Last two dates I went on? High school and college football coaches.

And today, I received another email from guess what..? ANOTHER high school football coach. Odd, I know. We'll see how this one plays out.

Creep

2011-03-04T12:55:00.001-08:00

2011-03-04T12:37:00.001-08:00

Would just like to point out that I have gone 5 days on my diet without cheating. Go me. and Yes, that involved not partaking in homemade chips during wine night.

2011-02-28T14:13:00.000-08:00

Hellooooo Bahamas! You will find me cruisin from Charleston on April 8th with four of my favorite ladies. This. could. be. dangerous.

I felt i NEEDED to post this.

2011-02-28T12:23:00.000-08:00

Meet Bill. He is 67 years old. and he winked at me on Match. Why would I have even shown up in Bill's search results? Oh, because he is currently seeking a lady friend between the ages of 18-26. OH and she must be beautiful and intelligent of course. Only the best for Bill!

THIS... this is what is wrong with society today. The Bills of the world are screwing everything up.

Date night.

2011-02-28T08:07:00.000-08:00

Had a date last night. With Ben. Yep, Ben & Jenn. It had a nice ring to it. No?

Well, apparently Ben also lived in the same world I did my whole life where I told everyone (and secretly believed it to be true) that I was 5'7". Ben said he was 5'8". Ben was not 5'8". That is kind of one of those details that you can't fake. Thank god I wore flats, cause standing at a whopping 5'5" was Ben... and Jenn.

The height wasn't the reason for my lack of interest. He is also 32. Which in theory didn't seem that much older than my 25, but lifestyle wise, we are VERY different. I have a feeling i'll get another date request out of him.. we'll see.

quarter, anyone?

2011-02-24T19:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, THIS was my night, indeed. 3 hours spent in Randleman are 3 hours that I will never get back. Although- where else can you get a "spritz of perfume" for just 25 cents??!

it gets better and better.

2011-02-24T19:33:00.001-08:00

It seems I might need to start updating my "this is me dating...online" blog again because these emails are just too funny not to share.

Hey sweetheart how are you doing?I never knew I'll see a cute thing like you on here,that has
beautiful eye's and a nice smile too.Maybe I can be that lucky guy who can get to know you????I
know it's alot of women out here dats single and good looking but who I wanna get to know is a
cute thang like you.

Judgy McJudgy

2011-02-24T08:44:00.000-08:00

Okay. First of all, what happened to punctuation? I can barely read some of these emails without any breaks in sentences. Secondly, the guy who sent this to me is a nerdy and white. Interesting.

"hey just found your profile i am a rapper :) i work with 102jamz and am abotu to have a single on the radio i think its phenomanal you work at radio please tell me more also you like rap/hiphop i have some stuff on youtube i woulds love to show you what high school did you go to i went to one in greensboro ragsdale :)"

I'm not trying to be picky. But a girl has GOT to have some standards, right? Right?! Chances are, if you use the word CHILLAX in your profile, it's not gonna look good.

an interested POV on textual relations

2011-02-23T08:24:00.001-08:00

“I was shooting a scene in my new film, No Strings Attached, in which I say to Natalie Portman,

‘If you miss me. you can’t text, you can’t email, you can’t post it on my Facebook wall. If you really miss me, you come and see me.’

I began to think of all of the billions of intimate exchanges sent daily via fingers and screens, bouncing between satellites and servers. With all this texting, emailing, and social networking, I started wondering, are we all becoming so in touch with one another that we are in danger of losing touch?

It used to be that boy met girl and they exchanged phone numbers. Anticipation built. They imagined the entire relationship before a call ever happened. The phone rang. Hearts pounded. “Hello?” Followed by a conversation that lasted two hours but felt like two minutes and would be examined with friends for two weeks. If all went well, a date was arranged. That was then.

Now we exchange numbers but text instead of calling because it mitigates the risks of early failure and eliminates those deafening moments of silence. Now anticipation builds. Bdoop. “It was NICE meeting u” Both sides overanalyze every word. We talk to a friend, an impromptu Cyrano: “He wrote nice in all caps. What does that mean? What do I write back?” Then we write a response and delete it 10 times before sending a message that will appear 2 care, but not 2 much. If all goes well, a date will be arranged.

Whether you like it or not, the digital age has produced a new format for modern romance, and natural selection may be favoring the quick-thumbed quip peddler over the confident, ice-breaking alpha male. Or maybe we are hiding behind the cloak of digital text and spell-check to present superior versions of ourselves while using these less intimate forms of communication to accelerate the courting process. So what’s it really good for?

There is some argument about who actually invented text messaging, but I think it’s safe to say it was a man. Multiple studies have shown that the average man uses about half as many words per day as women, thus text messaging. It eliminates hellos and goodbyes and cuts right to the chase. Now, if that’s not male behavior, I don’t know what is. It’s also great for passing notes. there is something fun about sharing secrets with your date while in the company of others. think of texting as a modern whisper in your lover’s ear.

Sending sweet nothings on Twitter or Facebook is also fun. In some ways, it’s no different than sending flowers to the office: You are declaring your love for everyone to see. Who doesn’t like to be publicly adored? Just remember that what you post is out there and there’s some stuff you can’t un-see. But the reality is that we communicate with every part of our being, and there are times when we must use it all. When someone needs us, he or she needs all of us. There’s no text that can replace a loving touch when someone we love is hurting.

We haven’t lost romance in the digital age, but we may be neglecting it. In doing so, antiquated art forms are taking on new importance. The power of a hand-written letter is greater than ever. It’s personal and deliberate means more than an email or text ever will. It has a unique scent. It requires deciphering. But, most important, it’s flawed There are errors in handwriting, punctuation, grammar, and spelling that show our vulnerability. And vulnerability is the essence of romance. It’s the art of being uncalculated, the willingness to look foolish, the courage to say,

‘This is me, and I’m interested in you enough to show you my flaws with the hope that you may embrace me for all that I am but, more importantly, all that I am not.’”

- Ashton Kutcher

grammar check

2011-02-23T08:11:00.001-08:00

Got this lovely email from a stupid dating site.. and all I have to say is... David, call the cops. Someone stole ALL of your punctuation.

well im david im 25 and i been on here for awhile no and still havent had any luck but im being patcient though im new to this thing and it ask me to tell yall a few tings about me but well here it goes i havent dated in a couple of years now and im just looking for a girl thats down to earth with everything ill tell you how it is but im a very nice person i love to impress the lady that i take out and show her the attention that she wants but dont get me wrong if you show to much i could run them off but i like to show her the world and of to my friends and family im kinda looking to settle down but not at the moment i wanna finish scool first and i wanna girl that has a good sence of humor dosent lie honest open minded outgoing and can act her self around anyone at any time

ouch.

2011-02-22T13:03:00.000-08:00

4 inches of hell.

Weekend in review

2011-02-22T12:48:00.000-08:00

Quick synopsis? Thursday night was wine night at our usual spot- Speakeasy. It's true, we have a "usual spot." So much so that when I walked in late, the bartender was on the way to my table with my wine bottle ready to go. Friday night, Sunny and I went out downtown and played "wingmams." The most action I got was a 21 year old inadvertently touching my boob and bragging about it to his friends and having my drinks bought by a 55 year old man. Saturday night, Meggan (one of my best friends from college) came in town and we went out to Johnny and Junes.. where we danced the night away to Colt Ford and drank our weight in gin and tonics. We got home at 5am that night.. so it must have been a good one!

Needless to say, my Monday off from work was spent recovering.

hangovers.

2011-02-18T10:46:00.000-08:00

J: you know.. bite of the beast...errrr.. hair of the dog REALLY works?
T: You mean like drinking what you drank last night?
J: Yeah!
T: I think that's how alcoholism starts.

Hmm. She may have a point.

O

2011-02-17T13:20:00.000-08:00

Meet Owen. Glad I got to take some cute pictures of this little bit last night. Love those lips!

Hey, Mumford and Sons

2011-02-14T08:58:00.001-08:00

On repeat. I think my coworkers are going to get annoyed soon. Oh well. Total Swoon.

Love.

2011-02-14T07:57:00.001-08:00

Went and had a mani yesterday, and in honor of the big V day- my girl asked if I wanted pink. Yeah. This is what I went with. I think it signifies how I feel about today.

On a positive note, I did receive these GORGEOUS pink roses from the only man a girl can count on.. my dad :)

pod.

2011-02-09T14:00:00.000-08:00

Just ordered this cute little baby cocoon for an upcoming Newborn shoot!

The double Barrel

2011-02-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

Target had this little puppy on clearance yesterday, so I figured, why not! It's pretty neat actually, and only took like 5 minutes to "curl" my whole head.

Oh and please disregard my one arched eyebrow. It happens.

Textual Relations.

2011-02-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

I think Drew Barrymore said it best in "He's just Not that Into you."

"I had this guy leave me a voicemail at work, so I called him at home, and then he emailed me to my BlackBerry, and so I texted to his cell, and now you just have to go around checking all these different portals just to get rejected by seven different technologies. "

Seriously, though. When did it become appropriate to no longer be asked out over the phone, or in person. These days, you're lucky to get a FB chat with these lovely three words.... wanna go out? Is this what dating life is destined to be like? No more late night phone calls getting to know one another.. but rather a text here and there asking, "what's up?" No wonder the majority of the guys i've been out with over the past year have pulled disappearing acts. All it takes is simply not responding to a text.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed this isn't a permanent pattern.

Currently stuck in my head. LOVE this song.

2011-02-09T08:15:00.001-08:00

love love love this cover.

2011-02-07T13:07:00.000-08:00

just dance.

2011-02-07T05:38:00.000-08:00

I had a GREAT weekend. Date night on Friday night, and girls night on Saturday! Two of my best friends, Cory & Ashley came to town to visit- so we went out to a fun dinner and caught up on all the crazy things happening in our lives and then went out on the town with some of the girls from here. Let's just say.. 8 ladies, shots, dancing.. yeah, it was a funny night!

Boodywahhhhs

2011-02-02T09:51:00.000-08:00

I've had a lot of inquiries lately for Boudoir shoots- which I must say, at first, were not my favorite. However, after doing a few more, I'm starting to really like them. They have been turning out beautifully- and make the lovely ladies who book them feel great about themselves! Thank god my condo has numerous painted walls and a guest bedroom perfect for these kind of shoots!

1.2.3. SCREAAAM

2011-01-31T12:46:00.001-08:00

This was Friday night. The Dickens played at the Hams by my house, so our attendance was a must. My favorite kinds of pictures are the ones where you're caught doing something stupid in the backgrounds. This is a perfect example. Don't ask me what we were so surprised by.. i haven't a clue.

Tales of a re-decorator.

2011-01-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

Meet my new curtains and art above the fireplace. Makes it feel much more homey-er.. and not to mention, blocks out the peeping Tom's from across the way.

Radio

2011-01-27T12:01:00.000-08:00

Yes, I JUST heard this conversation through the wall from our IT department.

L: I don't know how i'm gonna get it in.
D: Well did you try jamming in the floppy?
L: Yeah, maybe if I jam it in harder.
D: It's gonna be a tight fit.

Inappropriate ? Completely. Hilarious? I think so.

Earrings

2011-01-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

I'm on the hunt for some new eclectic earrings. I've been lusting after Aria's (from pretty little Liars... don't hate) jewelry collection. She always manages to rock these HUGE earrings and not look like a hooker. Yep, that's definitely the look i'm going for, more bold, less streetwalker. Let me know if you know of anywhere I might find some that are not as cheap-o as forever 21 but quite less than these faboosh pair from Anthropologie ($158.)

Rollin' in the Deep

2011-01-26T08:24:00.000-08:00

I am like completely obsessed with Adele. The kind of obsessed where I play the same song over and over again. Can't wait for her new album at the end of February, because something tells me this one might be completely worn out by then.

To clog or not to clog?

2011-01-25T11:59:00.000-08:00

Is it weird that I find these totally cute? I never really thought i'd jump on board the clog-wagon, but I don't hate these. What do you think? Friend or foe?

When optimism outweighs caution

2011-01-21T11:50:00.000-08:00

There are times when Hindsight really is 20/20. And last night might just have been one of those nights. However, if you don't risk things sometimes, then you often miss out on some pretty exciting experiences. Now i'm not saying i'm holding my breath for a happy ending, but every now and then, it is okay to be optimistic rather than assume things are going to fall apart. Yep, We'll go with that.

Tomorrow might be another story. But today? Definite Optimism.

Another vent. Sorry.

2011-01-20T13:28:00.001-08:00

It has come to my attention that I must have a sign hidden somewhere on me that says "Please tell me lies and no matter what, DO NOT FOLLOW THROUGH ON ANYTHING." It's a long sign.. must be in small print.

No, seriously. I'm not that girl that complains about being single.. or has ever had a hard time with it. But I. Swear. it has been nothing but straight bull shit for the past year... scratch that.. 10 years of my dating life...ahem, lack thereof. But this is getting ridic. I know, I know. "Mr Right" is probably just around the corner. But honestly I'll take "Mr Right Now" over "Mr NO show" anyday.

Love some Etsy

2011-01-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

Just ordered this cute camera strap cover.. it even has a nifty little pocket to hold my lens cap! Yes, I could probably make this myself, but I'm not too handy on a sewing machine. Thanks, Etsy! Although- I am definitely going to put some old scrunchies to use and attempt these cute lens friends...

Please excuse me while I vent...

2011-01-14T08:13:00.002-08:00

You know what makes me sick to my stomach? Like, literally, want-to-vomit-on-someones-shoes sick? Liars. That's what.

I'd like to say that i'm completely shocked by some recent news- but to be honest, I'm not surprised. And I should have seen it coming. Once a D-bag, always a D-bag. But I am cringing at the thought that the last two years could have been REALLY different if it weren't for some story telling. You wanna see crazy? I'll give you crazy... in a very sophisticated way. I am a lady of course.. well, um... a lady who once fell for a jackass. Karma will get you. Just wait.

Who you are vs. who you used to be.

2011-01-12T17:48:00.000-08:00

As i'm embarking on four years out of college, it hit me. Somewhere along the way, in between job hopping, apartment hopping, guy hopping and even friend hopping, you kind of become, well, an adult.

In college, I couldn't wait to graduate.. to hit the ground running. Because, after all, I was headed to Chicago to be a big time designer. Now? I work in radio and signed my life away to a mortgage. Well, the next 30 years anyway.

I've always claimed to be a free spirit. I was the go-with-the-flow-up-for-anything friend. I didn't argue, and I certainly didn't stick up for myself. Now? I have to be in control. at. all. times. I am a worry wart and having a unorganized plan may as well be no plan at all.

I used to love being single. Who needed all that couple drama? Now? I loathe the single life. and I have come to the conclusion that I love, love. And most likely have imagined this fairy tale of what is to come for me- when in reality, it's quite possible i'm going end up single at 40.

I was the girl who walked up hill to class in 4 inch heels. I couldn't imagine going out with anything but. Now? You'll most likely find me in flats. Flats of any kind.. boots, ballets, sandals.. anything without a heel has my name written all over it.

At the end of the day... this is me at 25. and at 30? Who knows. Though, one thing i'm sure of....it can only get better from here.

Next Tuesday...

2011-01-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

I've decided it's a new year and I'm ready for a new 'do. These bangs are a must. Color? Not as much, however, I am going to add in some red. OH, and mosey my way back into blond territory. Get this mousy brown outta here!

2010 at a glance

2011-01-11T09:08:00.000-08:00

1/1/11 seemed like a good day to finally update my blog. 2010 was a good year. A HUGE year actually. This is where I'm going to jumble thoughts together to sum it all up. Here goes:

I got a camera for Christmas. I used that camera to start a photography business. Follow Your Bliss was born. I put an offer on a condo. I waited five months to finally close on that condo. I moved in. I painted every wall. I made it my own. I had a housewarming party. I turned 25. I attended 4 weddings. I was a maid of honor. I watched my best friend sing Journey in her wedding dress. My nephew turned two. I dated a douchebag. I went to my first fair. I ate a fried oreo. I stopped talking to said douchebag. My sister turned 30, my mom 50. I spent a week on the beach. I became a brunette. I paid off my credit cards. I paid off my camera. I bought a Mac. I became a Mac snob. I shot two weddings. I saw Dave Matthews in concert...again. I got my first speeding ticket. I got my first speeding ticket dropped. I got promoted. I started a cupcake business. I ended a cupcake business. I made friends and I lost friends. I spent New Years Eve in a basement. I got stood up. I lost hope in love. I lost a friend to cancer. I decided to try online dating. I went on blind dates. I decided I hate said online dating. I grew my hair out. I repainted walls. I moved furniture around on a monthly basis. I got on stage to intro a band..alone. I had to stop being on air. I was dubbed "Bliss the Bounty Hunter." I learned that my first love was becoming a dad. I met more famous people. I hit a wall in the Simon truck. I experienced a white Christmas. I got to play in the snow with my nephew. I realized that coworkers can be best friends and best friends from college can become acquaintances. I realized that I have it more together than most people give me credit for. I was late to work everyday but never missed the previews to a movie. I was put on adderall and realized that college could have been different had I been diagnosed earlier. I learned that I can do anything, just not everything.

Before & After: Float away edition.

2010-07-13T17:30:00.000-07:00

I used a Canon 50D and I edited in Photoshop CS5.

I'm in!

2010-06-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

I FINALLY closed on June 15th- after a five month long nightmare. I spent last week painting and replacing light fixtures, and then made the official move on Saturday. I'm just about all settled in- with the exception of a few more boxes of clothes to put away. It feels great to be a homeowner!

Happy Birthday to meeee

2010-05-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

This would be my office- decorated in all things birthday by my amazing coworkers/friends.
The flowers were a special delivery from my dad! I love birthdays!

What An Amazin' emLittle/em Little Monster!!!

2010-05-12T06:56:00.000-07:00

What An Amazin' emLittle/em Little Monster!!!

What. a. weekend.

2010-05-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

We headed down to Lake Lure, NC for Holly and Josh's wedding on Friday. Bonus points for a day off work! We stayed in an old Inn- where Patrick Swayze stayed during the filming of Dirty Dancing- and the view was breathtaking! It was one of the most fun wedding's I've been to- from the fact that they danced back down the aisle to "forever," by Chris Brown or that the entire wedding party jumped in the pool (gowns and all) after the reception was over.

Things I learned NOT to do at a friends wedding:

-Bust a move so hard core that you pop your knee out of place and fall on the dancefloor.
-Drink your weight in wine.
-Sign up to rap Gin and Juice by Snoop Dogg at the afterparty.
-Forget to turn the mic on during said rap.
-Neglect to remember how its going to feel driving down a windy mountain hung over.
-Plan a birthday celebration the next night after partying like a baller.

This was the birthday celebration Saturday night. LOVE that I have friends who will travel from all over the state for a night out!

Kathryn's first communion

2010-05-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

Took the new canon 50d for a test drive on Sunday for Kathryn's first communion photo shoot. Clearly, i'm still working out the kinks with the SOOC shot- Thank goodness for exposure and contrast! Link up over at Pixel Perfect to join in!

Hello new chair

2010-05-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my mom's wicked negotiating skills, this Sigourney Chair
will be making it's debut in my new living room!

Before and After Amelia and Lexie

2010-04-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

I used a Nikon P90 and I used Picnik for the edits. Hoping for better quality pictures next week, as I finally got a Canon 50d! Can't wait to try it out :)

ugh

2010-04-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

Just a suggestion. At any given point in time you decide that life is going really well- Dont, i repeat, DO NOT let on that you believe things are grand. It will be in that very moment that universe will shift, recognize your happiness and throw you a curve ball..i.e. push your condo closing back a week, three weeks, three months? Instead, keep just a half smile on your face and pretend like you’re miserable with the rest of ‘em… just to be safe.

positivity.

2010-04-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

This morning I was sent a very inspirational email and it totally got me thinking about how grateful I am that things in my life are going so well. I will close on my condo before I turn 25. The thought of home buying has always seemed like something so far away- so i'm proud of myself that I'm doing it now- and while i'm still single. I have a job in radio that allows me to meet some of the most interesting people on the planet- AND get to share my days with the best coworkers ever- most of whom have become like family. This new found photography business is booming. If you would have asked me a year ago if I ever thought this would have happened, I wouldn't have had a clue. What a whim it was to try it out- and get such positive feedback. Three months later- I've managed to book 9 shoots and my first wedding at the end of May! I have a great family- who have become more than just parents and a sister, but more like a rock of support that i'm not sure I could get by without. Life is amazing. Sometimes it's nice to just step back and realize that all of a sudden, out of nowhere, and maybe even totally unexpected- you're living a life that is almost, the best possible scenario of you.

As quoted from the forward from the lovely miss Sabrina- "Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear."

Blog Hop

2010-04-15T07:56:00.000-07:00

This is Miranda and her cute little family from our photoshoot on Sunday. I used Picnik to edit. Boosted the colors and rotated. Link up and show off your edits!

Before and After

2010-04-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

These are my before and after's of Kyle and Jenny.
I used Picnik to edit, as usual! Link up over at Monica's blog to play along :)

Ikea= heaven

2010-04-06T08:20:00.000-07:00

So- the lighting in the condo is less than desirable. I decided a trip to Ikea in Concord was a MUST! And boy, was I right! Talk about some good deals- I got all three of these light fixtures for under $100. The track light will be replacing a HUGE ugly light over the bar seperating the kitchen from dining room. The middle chandelier will be taking an outdated ceiling fan's place in my master bedroom and then the last fixture will be going up in the dining room. *disclaimer- the light bulbs will NOT look like that in the last picture!

Easter

2010-04-02T07:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to you and yours! I have a busy weekend ahead of me- A photoshoot this afternoon with sweet little Amelia, and a very anticipated trip to IKEA tomorrow and an engagement shoot in the evening. We will be celebrating the holiday next weekend with my sister, brother-in-law and nephew in town. Things are progressing well with the condo- only 25 more days until move-in! Keep your fingers crossed for me that the last few steps go through without a hitch :)

B/A

2010-04-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

It's Blog Hop Thursday- link up over at Pixel Perfect and show off your B and A's!
I used Picnik for my edits.

Moi

2010-03-24T09:04:00.001-07:00

My sister told me yesterday that I haven't been keeping up with blog lately. So, heres the quick synopsis of my life.

I'm always busy. I talk on the radio on Saturday nights. I'm buying a condo that closes on April 28th. I have a new photography biz- www.fybphotography.com- check it. I decided to become an ordained minister on the internet yesterday, don't ask me why. I am looking for a curvy camelback couch, currently. My life has lived in an 8x10 box for over a year and is yearning to be unpacked. I met Blaine Larsen this morning who wrote George Straits current #1 hit. I wore my shirt inside out for a good two hours today before anyone told me. I am terrible at time management and will overbook myself excessively. I'm going to be 25 in 49 days and it scares the crap out of me. I've recently been told that i'm a free spirit- and to think, this whole time I thought I was a worry wart. That's the long and short of it. It's hard to keep current when my life goals change daily, I know.

Sean

2010-03-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

I CANNOT wait to see this little guy this weekend. I am the worst auntie ever and have not been able to see him since Christmas. He's hardly going to remember me! :( Looking forward to some Sean time in a major way!

2010-03-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

I used Picnik for the edits. Link up over on Monica's Blog and show off your edits.

ouch.

2010-03-11T09:26:00.000-08:00

For two days I have felt like an elephant was sitting on my chest. The culprit? Anxiety. Apparently, my commitment phobia is rearing it's ugly head. Though I'm very excited/nervous/proud that I am buying a condo- the idea of it scares the heck out of me. I can't wait to just be done with the loan process/inspections/closing and just be moved in. I think then i'll be able to breath a sigh of relief.

Randy Houser

2010-03-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

Oh, just kickin' it with Randy Houser. :)

Hip Hops

2010-03-08T11:49:00.000-08:00

Yep. This was Saturday night. The work girls decided to throw down for Tish's big Three-One. We clearly thought we were still in college and could hang with the best of them. We started drinking at 7pm. First mistake. Went to the Venue and then Heaven downtown. By midnight, not one of us was able to make a good decision. There are now two broken windows, 5 hangovers still recovering, and not a lick of spinach dip- don't ask.

2010-03-05T07:28:00.000-08:00

Well, Sara might be right when she said I'm a bit obsessed with this Guy. I just can't help it! Jarrod Neiman is his name, and he came in to perform a few of his new songs for the staff- we just added his newest, "Lover, Lover" and I LOVVVVVVVVE it. Here's a link to listen- oh and the fact that he's not hard on the eyes helps too!

yay!

2010-03-05T07:26:00.001-08:00

They accepted my offer! I will close on the condo the end of next month!! wahoo!

I think today is the day

2010-03-03T06:38:00.000-08:00

I have been in negotiations for the condo for FIVE days! And when you're this nervous/anxious about something, five days can feel like an eternity! I've submitted my last offer today, and i'm 98% positive it will be accepted!! Here's some photos- I'll update when it's accepted!-

2010-02-27T17:35:00.000-08:00

I'm waiting, waiting, waiting. I put an offer on the condo this morning.. and basically feel like I could break out in hives at any given moment! Huge step. Like HUGE. Let's just hope they accept the offer :)

The One with The Rocker Baby

2010-02-27T15:18:00.001-08:00

Before and After

2010-02-25T14:24:00.000-08:00

It's Thursday- which mean's a blog hop over at Monica's Page. Check out everyone's work!

I used Picnik and Photoshop cs4.

house hunting

2010-02-24T12:03:00.000-08:00

I have an appointment tonight with my realtor to see a condo. I know, I know. I said a few months ago that I decided I wasn't ready to buy something as I am in my early twenties and still single. It seemed like too much of a responsibility. However, I think i've had a change of heart. I went through a stage last year where I felt like I "had to keep up with the Jones." All of my friends were settling down, getting married, having kids. And here I am, still living like i'm 19- focused only on my career rather than who i'm going to spend my days with. Surely, buying a house would make me feel accomplished, right?! Wrong. I was doing it for all the wrong reasons. To keep up. But now, I feel like it's actually the right time for me to start looking again. Things in my life are just taking a turn for the positive, and I think this is the next natural stage in my life. We will see. Keep your fingers crossed that I just absolutely LOVE this place! :)

Downtown Charlie Browns

2010-02-21T17:44:00.000-08:00

More from the downtown photo shoot with Sara and Krista here.

Bridal Shoot

2010-02-20T21:45:00.000-08:00

More from Sara's Bridal shoot at: http://jblissphotography.blogspot.com/

2010-02-17T11:28:00.000-08:00

So after the AMAZING praise I've been given for Tish and Tim's engagement pictures- everyone has encouraged me to start taking pictures professionally. I'm a bit nervous- but I figure if the first shoot turned out so well- the next ones should be a breeze! Saturday, I'm doing a bridal shoot- so be on the lookout for those pictures! My new Photography blog: http://jblissphotography.blogspot.com/

2010-02-17T10:49:00.000-08:00

So, I came back to my office after lunch and it was like Christmas! I had a box sitting in chair with FOUR pairs of Jeans and a cute top. Wrangler has decided to sponsor the Wolf staff- and is now outfitting us for all of our concerts/events. SWEET! Free jeans? I'm there. And apparently this is just the first shipment. Ahhmazing.

2010-02-15T07:38:00.000-08:00

Tish and Tim decided to be my guinea pigs for a downtown engagement shoot. I've been wanting to try out my new camera- so this was the perfect opportunity. Here's some shots- I think they turned out okay!

BBA

2010-02-12T06:39:00.000-08:00

The instructions that go along with this award are as follows:

- Thank the person who nominated you for this award.

- Copy the award and place it in your blog.

- Link the person who nominated you for this award.

- Tell us 7 interesting things about you.

- Nominate 7 bloggers

- Post the links to the 7 bloggers you nominate.

Thanks, Sara, for the nomination!

1.) I have moved 13 times- not including moves while in college- and I'm only 24. I could be considered professional if only I were better at packing.

2.) When I was little I used to sit in a clothes basket and read in the closet with a flashlight. Hey- you call it weird, I call it eccentric.

3.) I have a degree in interior design but the only thing that has come of it is I have an office that resembles a living room more and more every day. Zebra print lounge? Check.

4.) I have a phobia of unfinished wood. Popsicles, corn dogs, and wooden stirring spoons give me the chilly willies. Actually just thinking about these things gives me the chilly willies. eek.

5.) I don't eat meat on a bone. It seems primal. and I dislike even more to be sitting across from someone eating meat on a bone. You order ribs? Check, please.

6.) I used to dance competitively- despite my obvious current lack of rhythm for anything other than the perculator.

7.) I hit the snooze button ever morning 9 times- in increments of 8 minutes. My body knows this and I even roll over and stare at the clock every morning one minute before the first alarm goes off- hand ready to attack that button. It's almost a game I play with myself. A very very lazy game.

Seven bloggers I nominate (in no specific order):

Erin- http://therettigs.blogspot.com/
Miss Jody- http://truefancypants.blogspot.com/
Monica- http://www.pixelperfectblog.com/
Julie- http://peanutgalleryexithere.blogspot.com/
Jackie- http://www.lymib.com/
Paris- http://atravelingtumbleweed.blogspot.com/
Myrna- http://peerintomywindow.tumblr.com/

2010-02-11T06:50:00.000-08:00

Today, I have a funeral to attend. I have been very fortunate that in my 24 years that i've only had to attend one other funeral: my Great Grandmother. She was 94. She lived a full life. This funeral, however, is for a man who was taken from his family too soon. Being only in his fifties, his life was still beginning. While I did not know this man personally, I do know his son. And he has now been robbed of his father all too soon. Life is short. It's unfair. Grab a hold of your loved ones and cherish them.

2010-02-11T06:48:00.001-08:00

Seriously. Just about my least favorite thing to do- check voicemails. I know it’s lazy. and only takes about 3 mins. but that is 3 minutes too long.

2010-02-10T17:52:00.000-08:00

Blog Hop Thursday. I used cs4 and picnik.

2010-02-04T08:09:00.000-08:00

It's a Blog Hop kinda Thursday! Monica over at Pixel Perfect is hosting again- head over and share your photo edits!

I use Picnik for most of my editing with the occasional use of Paint.net. I made the picture b&w- adjusted the exposure and contrast and then in the "advanced" section- adjusted the curve.

2010-02-03T08:57:00.001-08:00

Those of you who know me well- know that I am absolutely obsessed with planning. Planning anything- dinner, a get-together, a vacation. ANYTHING. Call it a control issue, if you must. Usually every January/February I get into vacation mode. I dream of tropical destinations, cruise ships, an escape from reality. And every year, my vacation turns into a trip to Myrtle Beach. While MB proves to usually be a fun time- it’s no white sandy beach. This year I made it a resolution. Take a vacation somewhere tropical.

So cruise planning is full speed ahead. I want everyone I know to invite everyone they know. I’m thinking June. and I’m thinking Western Caribbean. Group rate? check

No Snow!

2010-01-29T06:34:00.000-08:00

Why is it that it only snows when you don’t want it to? I have plans to head to Charlotte tomorrow night for P’s going away party. But, by the looks of things- she’s going to be heading to Costa Rica without a proper send off from me. 5-10 inches?! Are you kidding me? It was 60 degrees yesterday. And in NC, that’s practically flip flop weather. Okay. That's it for me. I must make a mad dash for bread and milk.

2010-01-28T08:59:00.000-08:00

Pixel Perfect is doing a blog hop to show off photograph edits.
Here is a picture of my nephew I edited with Picnik. Head over and upload your own before and afters!

2010-01-27T07:04:00.001-08:00

Okay. I admit it. I’m an infomercial junkie. While i’ve never actually purchased, it doesn’t stop me from lusting after these ridiculous amazing products. Give me a sham-wow any day. Oh and Oxi-clean sounds like a win for sure. My latest craze? The In styler. I need it. Well, no, I don’t have curly hair. and No, I don’t have much frizz. But it looks like fun. And that’s what really matters.

2010-01-24T15:29:00.001-08:00

George and Reba consumed my life this weekend. Not that I’m complaining.

Friday night was spent giving away tickets to the show every ten minutes. That’s right- every ten minutes. We were definite crowd pleasers.

Saturday, The Wolf invaded the Greensboro Coliseum wearing bright orange wolf t-shirts. The game? People had to ask to have their pictures taken with staff in hopes that they’d pick the right people with Meet n Greet passes. Saturday was NOT a day to not enjoy being hugged by the masses.

The aftermath? Well, we dominated the coliseum.. annnnnnnnd realized just how unflattering traffic cone Orange really is.

2010-01-24T15:27:00.000-08:00

It’s become a tradition for me to ruin my dad’s birthday cake. I either burn it, add too much oil, or drop it. What can I say? But this year- Oh, sweet satisfaction. While I'm no Martha Freakin Stewart- I nailed it.

Fist pump like a champion

2010-01-17T17:19:00.000-08:00

This was my Saturday night. Spent with three great friends from college. It was the best kind of reunion because it was unplanned and last minute- and very much needed! I hate that we are all spread out over the state now, but it makes it that much sweeter when we are able to get together. We decided that it was a "balls to the wall" kind of night. And now that I have woken up with a splitting headache, a sore right arm from fist pumping (thank you Jersey Shore), and tight abs from laughing more than I have in months I realize that "balls to the wall" is an understatement.

2010-01-15T05:56:00.000-08:00

Today, my morning drive to work which typically takes me about 12 minutes took me a mere 7 today thanks to EVERY traffic light being green on my way through. Which means I was only 13 minutes late instead of my usual 20! SCORE! Today could be a good day....

2010-01-14T12:54:00.001-08:00

How do you wake up one day and say, "hmm.. I'm going to make myself completely unrecognizable."

This has clearly become an addiction. Lay off the silicone, H- you're gonna topple over.

25!

2010-01-13T06:57:00.000-08:00

GPOYW- making Zoolander faces with Sara edition.

Oh, this is also in honor of her birthday today. Happy Birthday Sayrah.

ay ai ai

2010-01-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

Yep. That is exactly how I've felt ALL DAY! It's been one of those completely hellacious I'm-going-to-crawl-under-my-desk kind of Tuesdays. Catch ya'll on the flip side- hopefully with a better attitude in tow.

2010-01-08T06:01:00.000-08:00

I have been in a Dawson's Creek coma for like two weeks now. No, seriously- like hours upon hours every chance I can get. I got the entire series on DVD for Christmas, and now there's no going back. 127 episodes here I come.

New Years resolutions:

2010-01-06T06:48:00.001-08:00

- It's officially get out of debt 2010. Budget in motion.
- Stop gossiping. Even though this isn't a big problem for me- i'd prefer to be know as someone "who never has anything bad to say about someone else."
- Start standing up for myself more. And in a way that when I do, people don't just think i'm in a pissy mood.
- Start saying "no." Just in general- I don't have to please everyone all the time.
- Stop online shopping- refer to first resolution.
-Have a yard sale and get rid of stuff that is collecting dust. Clothes included. I do NOT need 42 pairs of jeans.
- Figure out exactly what my goals are instead of spending everyday effortlessly just to get to the next.
- Start making important decisions completely on my own and not count on other people to tell me if something is a good idea or not.
- and last but not least- Take a vacation to somewhere tropical!

New Years

2010-01-06T06:19:00.000-08:00

How can you not have a good time when there's a free sit down dinner, open bar, and Bucky Covington. Okay, kidding about Bucky. But it was a really good night! Some highlights: inappropriate groping of coworkers, crazy boobs-hanging-out lady, having a random stranger coming in the hotel room to tell you how dangerous it is to keep the door open, staying up until 5 am, calling Jimmy Johns more times than I can count- and much more. Here's some pics from the night!

Just call me Malibu Barbie

2009-12-30T06:52:00.001-08:00

So, no one should have to view the paleness that is me in a New Years dress. With this in mind, I decided that a spray tan would be the perfect solution (being that I'm making a serious effort these days to NOT get skin cancer.) So, I make the appointment for after work yesterday and headed over there well aware of the uncomfortableness ahead of me. Not only is it not fun to stand half naked in front of a stranger, but it's even worse when it's someone you used to work with. I told her I was going for a pretty natural tan- considering i'm blond and pretty fair skinned to begin with. After she finished the application she had me stand in a standup bed for 3 mins to dry. While in there, I held onto the poles to keep my arms away from my sides. Unknown to me, these poles were covered in spray tan solution from other people. Today my hands look like i've been playing in clay. As for the rest of my body? I just got back from Brazil.

Yea, Santa!

2009-12-29T07:30:00.000-08:00

So, as I blogged a few months ago- I've been wanting a new fancy camera. and Santa was good to me!! I got the Nikon 24x zoon P90. I.LOVE.IT! I took Sean to the park to snap some shots of him- here's a few: