Chat Tea Kathy

My new favorite tagline

2011-12-04T22:42:00.002-05:00

The dog days are over.

Love F&theM.

I know this is not a new song, but it is my new mantra.

Booo...Ahhhhh!

2011-11-15T01:49:00.004-05:00

Please tell me somebody besides moi is watching American Horror Story.

To bring back a 90s phrase, it is the bomb diggity!

I love me some scary movies, but most do not have a good plot. This show, folks, is mind blowing and nail biting all at the same time.

Just give it a lil' chance. You can thank me later.

A Bifsey from Elementary School Wears a White Gown

2011-11-10T11:56:00.005-05:00

Just a little preview of Steph and Nate's amazing wedding weekend.

Bride & Groom. Best cake smashing in the world because she shoved cake in both of his ears. Payback is a you know what. :)

Me & KK doing the cupid shuffle.

Me, Mr. W, & my Mama. The reception was on the most beautiful ranch, hence the cowboy hat.

The gorgeous bride getting her hair did.

Me & Steph at the rehearsal happy hour.

Mr. W, KK, & Me. Mr. W liked to jump in every photo :)

My legal-minded (shoe-loving) readers

2011-09-12T15:17:00.002-04:00

What do you think? Is a red sole trademark-able?

http://amlawdaily.typepad.com/amlawdaily/2011/08/louboutintrademark.html

2011-08-30T01:01:00.003-04:00

Self help books are not one of my interests on Facebook. And any modern day social-networker would know that is a bold statement. Howie ever, these days I have been glued to the following:

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It's funny, I have heard the same thought-provoking message before, but as a dear friend so brightly put it, sometimes the way it is packaged makes a difference. Well friends, I think I have found my favoritely wrapped way of looking at life. If you need a deep read, just give it a whirl. I could puppy ear the whole book. I really could.

Switch it, Change it, A-Rearrange it

2011-08-06T22:35:00.009-04:00

Judging strictly by facade, this blog appears as though nothing has changed, but behind the scenes, it's a regular DIY Network show. Simply put, there is a lot of renovating a-going on here.

I am not talking about new shoes, a new playlist, or even a new haircut (although, all true). I am talking temporarily, a new living situation, possibly, a new job, and certainly, a new attitude.

I am back in South Florida for the time being, soaking in the rays and pushing out the resumes. Well, I have actually only applied for one job so far (that I really, really want). In the meantime, I am trying to make contacts and keep the creativity flowing.

I don't have an air-tight plan exactly, but as my mom likes to say in her infinite mom wisdom, I have an outline. And the great thing about an outline is that it leaves room for change.

I know I get a big fat "F" for giving specifics, but I will iron out the wrinkles in detail when all is in order.

Have a great day, my bloggies.

What's 5'5", red-headed, and has Turquoise and Caicos fingernails?

2011-07-25T12:32:00.006-04:00

A bad blogger. A very bad blogger, formerly known as ChatTeaKathy.

I appreciate my peeps who stuck around as my blog fell as far down on the blog roll as Baha Men's "Who Let the Dogs Out" fell on the 2000 Billboard chart. Actually, I think I fell faster. Minor details.

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(Any)who, (someone) let this Kat (back) out. Bad parentheses joke, I know. But give me a little credit, I AM BACK, and that means, cheesy jokes and all.

Sooooooooooooooooo, how has everyone been?

[As if you need] My feelings on the Royal Wedding.

2011-04-29T21:20:00.003-04:00

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Word.

Inspiration- where you least expect it.

2011-04-19T22:40:00.011-04:00

Mine these days, adorns my wall. That's right, I said my wall.

I have been collecting photos and magazine clippings for years now with the hope of one day making an inspiration board. The reason I never started my board is because I made it out to be SUCH a project. Well, it is a project. I just had to remind myself that making an inspiration board is suppose to be...inspiring. A fun project, if you will.

So that's just what I did. I had fun. I buckled down one night and started cutting and pasting away. And... voila!

I have plane tickets, articles, people and places that inspire me. It reminds me that I want to write a book one day (see photo of Emily Giffin, former BIG LAW attorney turned author, who now, I might add, also has a movie coming out...that's right, Something Borrowed.) I have a gorgeous photo of Bora Bora because some day I WILL go there. I have a card from the flowers my family sent me when I passed the Bar (just a little reminder of the feeling of absolute relief). I have an old black and white photo of my grandparents. They look so happy. And you know what, it makes me so happy whenever I look at it.

So in true CTK fashion, I find myself asking a very familiar question when it comes to projects- just why didn't I do this earlier?

My First Easter Card

2011-04-14T23:36:00.002-04:00

Care of my hilarious Uncle.

BCL- Before Chelsea Lately

2011-04-04T23:02:00.003-04:00

It's no secret how much I love Chelsea Handler. I have been following this chica BCL when she hosted the Chelsea Handler show. I stumbled upon this video- a stand up routine when she was just starting up. It's funny, well, not because she is that funny in it (which by the way she still does the drinking and sleeping joke to this day on her tour), but it is funny to see how much she has changed over the years. One thing remains a constant though- her vodka drink in hand. Duh.

A Little Sunshine to Jumpstart the Week

2011-04-03T22:09:00.008-04:00

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Mondays are always tough, but tomorrow is an especially big day for me. I am channeling sunshiney thoughts, so I thought I would share some. Let's get through Monday. We can do this.

Grey's Anatomy- Weigh in

2011-03-31T23:03:00.006-04:00

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Soooo....Grey's- The Musical? My vote is ehhhh. In all fairness, I was impressed that many of the actors could sing (read: not Ellen Pompeo), and I did not know that a couple of the actors are actually professional singers as well (read here). BIG HOWEVER, I really thought it was distracting. Next season is suppose to get better, but right now I am definitely not singing the praises of the musical episode of the ER drama. What did you all think?

Just because it is Monday

2011-03-14T08:36:00.002-04:00

And we all need a happy song to start the day on a Monday. I love this Onerepublic song (yes, there is no space between one and republic). The message is it is going to be a good, good life. Who doesn't need that reminder at the start of the week?

Let me (re)introduce myself

2011-03-13T11:41:00.002-04:00

My name is Kathy. I have a blog. I have been really bad at keeping up with it. But, let's not dwell on the past.

Sometimes you just need a reset button. This is mine.

I forgot how much I love to write here at CTK, and I really forgot how much I enjoy reading all of your blog posts.

So, I am back. Ready to update you on my life. Also, ready to write about whatever frivolous things come to mind such as decorating, music, clothes, you get the point. And even if it is frivolous, you know what, I won't feel bad chatting about it. After all, that's what I do- CHAT.

Nice to (re)meet you. Let's get this party (re)started.

High Eight Us

2011-02-24T01:17:00.003-05:00

Yes, yet another blogging hiatus. Sometimes I cannot post enough, and my blog stays true to its name. Sometimes I would rather just read all of your blogs. Despite my posting infrequency as of late, I am still reading your posts. So hang tight until I find some more of this:

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AM or PM Person?

2011-01-23T22:49:00.003-05:00

I have a friend who is in bed by 9, who can jump up at 4:30 am to work out with a trainer (who happens to be her husband), shower, get dressed, and is ready to go by 6am. All of this with a smile on her face. By the time this bubbly blonde is bouncing out the door, I haven't even had the opportunity to hit my snooze button once.

I am soo not a morning person. In fact, I don't even like breakfast. I am always asking, "do you all serve lunch yet?"

However, I can get more work done between the hours of 12am and 3am than you could ever imagine. I have always been on "last call" hours. Maybe that is why I was a bartender in college.

Having an office job now, I am trying really hard to change my ways. I make personal training appointments early before work. So far, I am having a REALLLLL tough time. I try to go to bed earlier, but I end up staring at my ceiling fan. Does anyone else have this problem?

Still throwin' back

2011-01-20T23:21:00.005-05:00

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RKS and I had a discussion of all the things we remember from the early 90s. Like Trapper Keepers, Lisa Frank's purple, pink, and strange (now that I am looking back) graphics on everything, and Pogs. We spoke about how funny it would be if we rolled up in the middle of a decently populated area and started throwing slammers down and making pog trades. Then, RKS showed me this forum question, and I do not know why I found it so funny, but please tell me this person is joking- the person who actually answers this question even more so than the actual crazy that asked. And, this is coming from someone who shamefully admits that she was the proud owner of a million pogs and at least 4 slammers. Hilarious. Do you remember any of these three throw backs?

"Pogs" Value? How much would I get if I sold some pogs?

How much would I get as a rough estimate if i sold 600 pogs?

My sister gave me a ton of them a long time ago when I was like 5, she was gonna throw them out but I took them....I GOTTA HIDE THEM! she wants em back! So i've been wondering if I sold them, how much could I get?

2 years ago
Report Abuse

by oranges

Member since:: March 15, 2008
Total points:: 2,063 (Level 3)

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

You probably won't get more than a few bucks. There really isn't a market for them these days, the fad is long over...but you might find someone who grew up with them that's feeling nostalgic, if the price is low.

2 years ago
Report Abuse

Asker's Rating:
Asker's Comment:: I will wait 10 years and will hope they go up in price, heheheheh.

{via here}

Throw Back Photo

2011-01-17T14:27:00.001-05:00

KY Derby 2007. Pure bliss. Kim, Me, Megs. Wish I could go back.

Let Go

2011-01-15T14:03:00.005-05:00

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I know my latest posts have been less about fashion, less about football, and more about feelings. I know that this recently-induced introspective blog theme may cause a few bloggers to "un"follow. Jay Z may be in an Empire State of Mind. I am just in a State of Mind. Again, a period of reflection with all that has happened as of late.

You all know that Frou Frou song right? Let Go. From Garden State. It seriously places me (delivers me/carries me and all other forms of transportation) to a new dimension. Because I am feeling generous, and I remember that my Kindergarten teacher Ms. Toups taught me to share, well, find it here:

Do you ever find you just need to let (it) go? Not specifically talking about people, nicknacks, or POGS (kidding, but I really did have a collection of them growing up), just need to let it go, generally speaking. Well, regardless if you agree (or disagree), at least I shared a pretty awesome sauce song and photo with you. That's fair, right?

I have a friend who would have given Charles Dickens a run for his money.

2011-01-13T11:58:00.003-05:00

It is kinda fitting that my last entry was about Charles Dickens and great literature. I mentioned a friend of mine passing away, a few entries ago. To be more specific, she was my House Mom while I was at UF. She was definitely more than "just" a House Mom to me and many of my friends. We were her first girls, and many of my friends kept in great touch with her over the years. Even to the point of attending her daughter's wedding. Even to the point of giving a eulogy at her funeral.

My dear friend Meg wrote the most amazing reflection on the life of Miss Ann. This is not just a eulogy, it is prose. It is absolutely beautiful, so I thought I would share. I told my friend that she may find herself with a fairly morbid job on her hands because I am pretty sure people are lining up already to secure her as their memorial speech writer. To be fair, she also had a pretty amazing client to work with. Trust me, it is that beautiful.

Writing a so-called eulogy for Miss Ann is either the hardest job in the world, or the easiest.

It's been more than a year since she first mentioned the E word and I still can't reason why, out of the scores of people who adored every blonde ounce of her Titusville-bred self, she deemed me worthy of this task. What I DO know, though, is that I can't imagine a greater honor.

It was the Sunday after a reunion disguised as a football tailgate--a tailgate orchestrated largely by Miss Ann--that she first mentioned the E word. In a tone as familiar as one fitting for "I'll take a glass of Yellow Tail chardonnay, please," Miss Ann summoned me into her suite, and with just a few words, anointed me the future author of her eulogy. She'd even told Stacy as such.

The statement was paralyzing. I was as much honored as I was horrified. Tebow had just secured us a win over LSU. Our two-day visit had been punctuated by game day endorphins, reminiscing about trouble we'd gotten into in the DZ house and her excitement over the bundle of joy growing in Stacy's tummy. At that time, 16 months ago, the thought of saying goodbye to Miss Ann for more than a football season was strictly out the question.

As she persisted about the E word, I agreed, under the pretense we'd table the conversation for 20 years, after she’d said a toast at my and Nicole’s weddings, after Brian had executed an engagement as colorful as Shaun's, after Stacy had a house full of bubbly little tinkers. God, it seems, had other plans. Maybe heaven was lacking in laughter. Maybe the angels needed someone to make them chicken noodle soup and seven layer bars. Most likely, though, I think He saw all the fun she was orchestrating on earth and wanted in on the action.

Because I'm pretty sure there aren't laws against plagiarizing oneself, here's a snippet from a letter written four years ago.

"Though us Delta Zeta sisters share varied faiths, we spiritually agree on one certainty: we know why God rested on the seventh day. He did so to create the woman whose homemade ice cream cakes and pepper roasts make Rachael Ray dishes taste like Chef Boyardee, the friend whose compassionate dialogue rivals the writers for Grey's Anatomy, the role model who stands taller than Macy Gray on stilts, the set of shoulders more supportive than Tim Tebow’s game day armor… Miss Ann Grenville.

Should the price of paper rise in the future, it'll be easy to pinpoint the culprit. It will take several forests of refined greenery to create the wedding invitations, birth announcements, thinking of you, change of address and Christmas cards directed Miss Ann's way in the future. To not include Miss Ann in the joys of life would be like not inviting the mother of the bride to her daughter's wedding. Graduation may close our days and nights with Miss Ann, but a little bit of her character is embedded in each of us as we follow in her footsteps."

These words were written in 2006, a time when I visualized addressing announcements to a Miss Ann at 903 S.W. 13th Street in Gainesville, Florida. Now that she'll know about engagements and babies long before a paper product could be stamped, she's taken "going green" to extremes. Leave it to Miss Ann to be hip and trendy from heaven.

I heard that Miss Ann was going to let us know it was her time by saying, "Well folks, the party's over."

Miss Ann, you know I'd never correct you, but I'd be remiss in not calling you out on this one. The pre-party may have run its course, but the band has just arrived.

While the next few weeks and months will leave us longing for one more hug, one more wild hair to leave her a voicemail to the tune of "You Are My Sunshine," one more notification that "Ann Grenville likes this," let us find comfort in the thought that we no longer have to share our Miss Ann.

From here on out, on any given fall Saturday, the DZ tailgate will boast one more attendee, no more panhellenic or fraternal laws to mind. Tables on the Front Lawn will sport an extra guest, one silently encouraging rounds of upside down pineapple cake shots. Sidelines throughout the SEC will staff an extra blonde cheerleader... when said cheerleader is not distracted by unannounced visits to the locker room. And when his mom and dad are distracted with singing "We are the Boys," Parker will have a built-in playdate, one that will continue to rival his youth.

There was nothing ordinary about Miss Ann during our precious time together. And there will be nothing ordinary about this Anngel - that's angel with two Ns. As much as this Anngel will be on hand to blanket us in her protective arms, she'll be just as much a silent antagonist encouraging us to follow her tireless pursuit of adventure.

So... Miss Ann, our Anngel, you're officially on the clock. I hope you're ready. Because, well folks, this party has just begun.

Re-reading the classics

2011-01-12T01:40:00.003-05:00

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One of my best friends just left her job as an attorney and became a high school English teacher. She is teaching the classics, so we had a long talk about our favorites. Every one always talks about how much they hate Charles Dickens. Well, being paid by the word certainly doesn't lend itself to short stories. However, I remember loving A Tale of Two Cities. I have never forgotten the first paragraph:

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way- in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only."

What is your favorite classic?

Delayed Bandwagon Jumper

2011-01-11T12:26:00.005-05:00

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That's me. I resisted the Grey's train for years (apparently 7 seasons), and here I am, with a purchased-for Hulu account. On season 3, episode 10. I have already watched season 7. I need help. I am seriously addicted. Like in a not-so-healthy-spend-a-perfectly-good-Saturday-at-home-watching-episodes-kinda way. What is my problem?

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Snow Day!

2011-01-10T10:04:00.003-05:00

Funny photo booth photos with law school friends from K8's wedding.

2011-01-09T23:19:00.006-05:00

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A Thought for a Thursday

2011-01-06T12:06:00.006-05:00

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Last weekend, I was at a wedding. This weekend, I may be attending a funeral. I do not say this for sympathy. I say this for reflection.

The woman who passed away was young, energetic, amazing. She was a mother and a new grandmother. She found out four months ago that she had a brain tumor. And just like that- she is gone.

I have been complaining about a lot of stuff in my life lately. Every once in awhile I need a wake up call. I think we all do.

I posted this quote awhile back, but I think it is OK to be reminded time after time.

"If you break your neck, if you have nothing to eat, if your house is on fire, then you’ve got a problem. Everything else is inconvenience." – Robert Fulghum

Going to Chapel (Hill) and

2010-12-30T08:30:00.005-05:00

...K8 is getting marrrriiiieeed. I can't believe the day is finally here. I am the Maid of Honor in my best friend K8's wedding tomorrow. (Read the super awesome engagement story here. Read about our dresses here.) I am leaving in a few to pick my parents up from the airport and head to North Carolina.

This is me and K8 our 1L year. Seems like decades ago.

And this is K8 and B. They are truly an awesome couple, and I could not be happier for them. I will post some photos when we get back. I hope everyone has a very Happy New Year.

New musician to love

2010-12-28T07:10:00.002-05:00

I was one lucky duck when a certain childhood friend of mine made a stop at my house on her way back to PA school. Living alone can be well... lonely, and it is always nice to have company. We ordered food, drank wine, and somehow got into a convo about music we currently love. She exposed me to this man-gem. You will love. I promise.

Why am I so obsessed?

2010-12-13T08:21:00.002-05:00

with their engagement. I just think she is the cutest thing in the world- an almost royal, has-it-more-together Katie Holmes. What do you think?

Taking criticism

2010-12-10T04:13:00.002-05:00

Is sometimes a tough thing. Taking it gracefully, well, that is a skill. I love the following quote because it is a reminder that criticism is not necessarily a bad thing. And sometimes it is the best when it comes from our peers.

"The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism." ~Norman Vincent Peale

Here's to learning how to take criticism with a nod, smile, and a little appreciation for the person willing to spend the time to give it to us.

Tomorrow I will be official...

2010-11-28T12:26:00.004-05:00

...ly a licensed attorney! Hard to believe this day is here because it seems like yesterday I was starting law school as a bright-eyed and bushy-tailed little 1L. My fam is in town so it is going to be extra special. I actually have my first court appearance on Wednesday- nothing like I am jumping into it, huh? And here we go...

My New Youtube Obsession

2010-11-14T16:03:00.003-05:00

I am a sucker for finding talented musicians on Youtube. Not that I have any experience in the music industry, but I love a good cover of a good song. What I love even more is finding an artist who has great original work as well.

I had a few friends over recently, and I searched for karaoke versions of songs on Youtube. What I stumbled upon was this amazing young artist who deserves all the PR she can get. Here is her cover of The Fray- Look After You.

But what I love most about this musical prodigy is the fact that she goes out on the streets of England and plays to random people walking about because she wants a real audience.

I think she is awesome. Visit her here.

The Bar

2010-11-04T07:26:00.001-04:00

I actually passed the Bar. I found out Friday, but I am still in shock. Absolute shock.

Just in case you were having a case of the Mondays....

2010-10-25T07:08:00.002-04:00

I think Jessica has got it right. I may try saying this to myself in the mirror in the morning. Only I think I am too tall to stand on my bathroom counter. I also think my landlord wouldn't appreciate it.

I saw this at first at Sweet, Southern, Sassy, and Classy. Thanks girl!

& voila! My room unveiling...

2010-10-12T12:50:00.001-04:00

You all probably remember awhile back when I wrote a post about redecorating my room. Well, finally, (probably more appropriately named) Slacker Kathy has time to unveil the photos:

My duvet is from Urban Outfitters. My mother made my bedskirt and some of my pillows. The rest of the pillows and my sheets are from HomeGoods.

This nightstand is from HomeGoods, and we replaced the knobs with fun colorful ones (also from HomeGoods. You all- they were $7.99!) Notice a theme?

I really love the pillows my Mom made, jobs so well done that I think she is fit for an Etsy shop (but then again I have been telling the seamstress this for a long time now). This is the front of the pillows:

And the back. She used the same three materials for both sides and the piping.

I wanted bright, happy, different, mix and match, and I think we achieved just that. What do you think peeps?

I swear I made it back from Europe alive.

2010-09-30T00:30:00.003-04:00

I just thought I should tell you because you would have no idea by my post frequency. I am super busy at work right now, and when I get home, the only thing I feel like doing is pouring a glass of wine and watching Chelsea Lately. Is it sad to say that I barely have the brain capacity left after a long day to even do that? I am outta "work shape." That and "wearing-heels-all-day shape." Oh yeah, and just outta "shape" in general-I learned that when I participated in this Marine Core Mud Run last weekend. It was nuts, people. I should dedicate a post to that run alone sometime later.

So anywho...stay tuned because I am going to show you all pics of my new room decor this weekend. I glittery pink heart the way it turned out. Until next post...

Gelato

2010-08-28T01:19:00.003-04:00

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Tomorrow at this time I will be eating authentic gelato...in Italy. Fingers crossed that flying standby works out for me (meaning not only do I make it to Rome but that there is an empty seat in first class with my name on it- the benefits of flying on a buddy pass.) I will be spending a total of 10 days in Europa- a few solo days in Italy and a few days in Paris and Nice with my aunt. As my mom so accurately described my trip to the lady ringing us up at a used book store today, I am doing the Eat part of Eat.Pray.Love. Her inaccuracy is in what she failed to report-that I am also doing the Drink Wine part as well. I will be sure to upload some photos. Until then,

Ciao mi amici!

A Change is in the Air

2010-08-22T22:03:00.025-04:00

Well, actually, a bunch of changes. Besides what I have already blogged about-moving into a new house and being just weeks away from starting my career-a ton of other things are changing in my personal life. With all the big things happening in CTKland, I decided I needed a fresh start. I wanted a fun project in line with the change theme, so I am doing a little redecorating in my bedroom. Right now, my room is what you would probably classify as "shabby chic." Antique furniture, lots of paisley, and a mixture of pastel blues, greens, and yellows.

I have spent a few days looking for inspiration. Most of the rooms I am loving have bold colors and mixed prints. Lots of bright blue, green, yellow, and orange. Mixtures of floral prints, bird prints, and other fun patterns.

Room design by Kendall Wilkinson.

Same room as above by KW.

I found both of these photos on Apartment Therapy, designs by Kelly Van Patter.

I found this photo at Beautiful Habitat.

modern bedroom design by san francisco interior designer Niche Interiors

And this gem of a bedroom is Jessica's of Front Porch Studios. My fabulous blog designer.

I also keep finding myself at the website of one of my favorite designers, Jonathan Adler.

JA wallpaper

JA rugs

JA pillows

I also found some great duvets at Urban Outfitters.

Find it here.

It is hard to see but there are yellow and blue birds amongst the green. Love this one. Find it here.

Find it here.

And of course I perused trusty ol' Etsy for some bedroom decor. I love these pillows.

Find it here.

Find them at this Etsy store.

Find it here.

I also bought a ton of different pillows and shams at Homegoods that I am still deciding whether I am keeping them or returning them.

The colors are a lot brighter than the photo makes them seem, but this was taken on a not-so-great Blackberry camera.

Clearly, right now I am all over the place with my color palette and style, but I will let you know what I decide. Have a great week!

The Exclamation Mark

2010-08-10T00:12:00.003-04:00

A legitimate form of punctuation or a grammatical faux pas?

I have mixed feelings about the familiar dot and hovering straight line. I can compartmentalize my exclamation mark emotions into the professional and social settings.

In a social setting: I have a gender bias. When a guy uses an exclamation mark, I raise an eyebrow. When a girl doesn't use one, I think "wow, she is having a bad day." I try to use them sparingly, but with twitter, I find myself using a "!" at least once per 140 characters. Am I that excited? Am I really exclaiming something? Likely not, but sometimes a sentence just falls flat without a good ol' "!". Plus, everyone uses them so I don't want to be the girl that sounds angry, right? Apparently, I cave to exclamation mark pressure.

In a professional setting: This should go without say- No way Jose. As a newbie professional about to enter the workforce, I am fully aware that "!"s are a no-go. The only thing worse is a smiley face. I take that back. Use a winky face, and you might as well pack up your belongings and expect service of a sexual harassment complaint.

So just what is it about the "!"? (how is that for punctuation?) Are we texters/bloggers/tweeters/email & letter drafters just that much more excited than our predecessors or are we abusing the *shift + 1* key on our keyboards? Are you a victim of exclamation mark pressure?

Tomorrow's project

2010-08-07T22:54:00.004-04:00

I am attempting to stain a piece furniture. This is my first time, so I am trying it out on a bookshelf that a friend of mine made and sold to me for $10. It is just made of 2X4s, nothing glam, but I figure if I can stain it, and then cover the back with a fun fabric (so that you cannot see right through it), it will work great for a year until I splurge on some real furniture of my own.

I'll let you know how it turns out. Have you ever stained a piece of furniture?

Done and DONE

2010-08-01T15:55:00.006-04:00

I am happy to report that the Bar is finally history. Well, I say that knowing that I could very possibly have to re-do the whole thing in Feb. Yes- It seemed THAT bad.

However, for the moment, I do not have to wake up to study. THAT is something worth celebrating. (ching ching on the champagne glasses)

I moved into my new house. This is the first time I have ever lived without roommates. I feel like a real-life grown up now. What is a real-life grown up (?) you ask. Well it is one very different from a fake one that graduated college and took a year "off" (I call that year my hiatus year because I did nothing but lay at the beach and work part time. Tough life, huh?)

It feels kinda weird. It feels kinda good. I have a month off, and I think I may attempt a 2 week version of "Eat.Pray.Love." Translation: I am going to try to standby to Europe, quite possibly by myself, for a vacay with myself- this is all contingent on whether my friend PJ can come as well (and I really hope she can). I will keep the blogosphere posted.

I know this post is a bit of rambling (wo)man kinda post but my mind is going a million miles an hour right now. Unfortunately, my body is going about 1 mile an hour. After taking the Bar (it is 3 days in SC) and moving out of one house, then into another, and then on to attend a 3 day seminar type thing for the Bar, I am a bit of a zombie. I will collect myself soon. I promise.

In the interim, I hope all is well, dear friends.

3 Days

2010-07-23T01:39:00.002-04:00

One of my absolute favorite songs is Pat Green's Three Days. Well, friends, that's what I've got. I am past the freaking out stage (that I think I entered for a day or two) and now in the I-don't-care-anymore-so-can-we-just-do-the-dance-and-greet-the-crowd stage. I am not ready, but I am soooo READY. In order to make sure this doesn't happen again in Feb (no warranties here), I am saying Ciao per tre giorni!
Catch you on the other side.

The Barely Blogger

2010-07-18T01:57:00.003-04:00

I have been on study M.I.A. status (Well, for Blogger, but it seems my tweeting has significantly increased in a last ditch effort for procrastination. Let's call them study breaks for sanity purposes.) I just wanted to check in with the Blogosphere again. See, still alive, even despite the fact that after studying all day for a certain subject, I couldn't tell you 80% of what I studied. I feel as though none of this is really getting into my head. Everyone says, "It does, I promise." But here we are, July 18, and I still can not yet say it is sticking. (Le sigh.) Well, in positive news, all of this will be done in 10 days. Yay, for that tidbit! An IRL friend tweeted this link today, and it hit the nail on the head and pinned the tail on the donkey. Both. At one time.

We know that the loved ones (and tweeps) in our lives are so sick about the negative Bar study chatter, but this explains how we feel right now. (click here to read)

I would like to incorporate this post by reference. Thanks to Thanks But No Thanks who posted this.

Catch you all later alligators.

2010-07-15T00:17:00.002-04:00

Gratuitous Puppy Pic Post

2010-07-12T16:49:00.003-04:00

Little man Herbie is 13 pounds now. This pic is from his first day at the lake. Having a puppy around during Bar study is very good for maintaining sanity. I highly recommend it.

I am

2010-07-09T00:42:00.003-04:00

I am still alive. I have not yet had a major breakdown. I am still going to my personal trainer in the morning. I am still taking breaks from studying to act like a normal human being. I have my days when I stress out for an hour. I have my days when I am fine. I wish I was more productive in June. I am ready for August. I would like to pass this stupid test. I know that I have to study hard to do so. I know there are way worse things happening to people in the world than studying for the Bar. I am grateful that this is my toughest challenge right now. But with all that said, I am ready for this to be over.

Still keep those fingers crossed, pretty please.

It is time to get down and boogie

2010-07-01T23:58:00.003-04:00

This blog title is a misnomer. Despite my frequent tweets about Barbri, the urgency just really hadn't shown its ugly, little urgency face yet. Then, a classmate today announced that we had just 3 weeks to cram this stuff into our little heads. Heart beat. Heart beat. Wait for it..... ok and go...ahhhhhh. I must say, this panic was well deserved and needed. Let's just call it a constructive panic attack. So, I am not professing desertion (which did you know was a fault-based ground for divorce in SC according to my domestic relations outline. I didn't. See, there I go.) of this blog. But, my posts may be a few weeks apart. In fact, I can predict the titles. Number one: "Tomorrow is the big day." Number two: "I am on vacation. Peace out." I kid, I kid, but really I am going to try and spend less time on the internet. So until then, my friends, peace, love, and crossed fingers for me passing the Bar.

Congrats Gamecocks!

2010-06-30T01:03:00.006-04:00

{Image credit}

I will always be a Gators fan first. I only mention this just in case my fellow orange and blue-sporting friends are cursing me right now b/c of this post (which I am probably being paranoid about because we all heart the SEC.) OK, OK, I bleed orange and blue and Gatorade, and I digress.

Anyway, the point of this post is to congratulate the Gamecocks on a fantastic performance that led to a first win of the College Baseball World Series for the Garnet and Black. If you are a friend of a Gamecock fan or follow any Gamecock fan on Twitter you probably saw them (say?) that this game was for Bayler. Read the sweet story here. Great job Gamecocks. I hope you are partying and playing Queen on REPEAT. I know everyone is celebrating here because 10 cars keep driving up and down my street honking. Honk on, champions.

Just because it made me smile

2010-06-28T19:50:00.005-04:00

...and I thought it might make you smile too. I bought this shirt from woot.com last night. I am not usually one to buy funny t-shirts, but every once in blue moon, I see one that I can't pass up. Can you guess the name of this guy?

{Image credit}
{Designer credit}

Knock, Knock. Ha! OK, enough with the cheese.

My brother's latest purchase

2010-06-27T23:57:00.004-04:00

His lease is up on his truck, and THIS is what he decided was a practical car purchase. It is a 1969. Did I mention it has a houndstooth interior? The reason I posted this is to show my parents how much more responsible of a child I am. That, and I can use this as ammo when I make a similarly impracticable car purchase (albeit, a much newer model) once I start working. Hiii Mom!!

P.S. I am just kidding, bro! xxoo

A post about a great dietary find (almost exclusively in parentheses.)

2010-06-24T01:32:00.007-04:00

First of all, if you are an anti-parentheses person, please reference the title. This post is NOT for you. I almost made a Budweiser commercial reference here, but then I realized it sounded like I was referencing NON-RX drugs- with which, I am not cool.

OK, so despite the fact that I have a pretty good excuse for not blogging- READ: Bar study (Yes, uppercase "B." I did the other kind of bar study last summer)- I find blogging way too much of an enjoyment and a release to quit outright. That, and also I knew I couldn't milk a new blog design post for too much longer. No matter how much I love the new layout.

The only three things that (should) be on my mind right now- besides that the 100th episode of The Hills airs next week- is exercise, diet, and the Bar.

So, I just have to tell you about my new favorite dietary item. Before you see the picture of this item and judge me, realize that I know NO food item should ever be packaged this way. Especially, if the company actually expects people to buy it. But, I learned from Hungry Girl that this Tofu-based spaghetti substitute is only 20 calories per (legitimate) serving size. It is also vegan and gluten free. It is also pretty good. I mean, usually when I eat spaghetti, I do not think: wow this spaghetti is soooo tasty (unless it is homemade pasta- thanks, Mom.) Usually, I am WAY more impressed with the sauce. But, that being said, it tasted like any other spaghetti to me. (Did I mention that I am Italian?)

Word(s) of warning: It also smells like a litter box when you open the bag. (Am I convincing you yet?) But the bag DOES acknowledge this (in a lot more euphemistic way.)

Despite the negative attributes (which I clearly gave you a warning about), this stuff is good, cheap, healthy, and satisfying. I honestly recommend it as long as you promise to plug your nose before you microwave it for one minute. (After that one minute, I swear it transforms itself into a scentless food item. ) End parentheses. Also, end big hips. Cheers to 20 cal. pasta!

I Spy Something Different

2010-06-18T19:38:00.003-04:00

Notice anything new? A-he-he! Thanks to Jessica for the makeover! It is soooooo me.

I Took the Plunge for the Lunge

2010-06-17T01:29:00.004-04:00

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I have talked about getting a personal trainer for years. But I just couldn't justify the cost. Most people hate working out. I actually like it, but I HAVE to get into a routine to enjoy it. As soon as I stop working out for a significant period of time, I become a gym ghost. For instance, I was on a regular running kick, training for my first half marathon with my brother and some of my friends, and I hurt my knee just a few weeks before the race. Bummer. Ever since then my running routine is...well, a dream opportunity for Cher Horowitz and Tai's exercise of using the daily vocabulary word in a sentence. My Clueless loving friends, let's just call my routine "sporadic" at best.

So... I decided it was time to stop complaining about my new(ish)ly found antigravity with my running shoes. I signed up for a new gym membership. AND, get this, signed my life away with a personal trainer- a 12 month, 2/3 times a week contract. I was ecstatic to hear that I could sign with a blue ballpoint instead of blood, but I still can't believe I actually agreed to it. I have worked out with my trainer, Patrick, 3 times now, and I am excited to find how much better I will look and feel after weeks at this. I think it will be worth the money. My friends, I guess sometimes you just have to take the plunge, grab those weights, and start with a good ol' lunge.

Presenting...Herbie

2010-05-26T14:15:00.003-04:00

Yes! K8 just got the word that this is officially our new furry friend. Little man Herbie will be here Friday! Woot!!

In just one week

2010-05-20T14:03:00.003-04:00

My roommate's puppy can come home with us! I am so excited to have a little furry guy running around our house. We still do not know which one of the two cute boys we will be taking home, but I know that either way, little Herbie is going to get a lot of love. K8 already set up his Carolina-blue bed.

Now, all that's missing is the little man Herbie himself. Rest assured, I will post photos as soon as he steps foot (paw?) in our door.

The Calm Before the Storm

2010-05-19T15:41:00.003-04:00

Everyone I know who studied for the Bar compared it with a marathon. The reason for the comparison? Well, I was told that just like sprinting the first 5 miles of a 26.2 mile race, psycho study for the first weeks will not get you ahead, only burn you out. Translation: Enjoy the weekends in May and early June, and don't spend the first few weeks staying up late and reading through outlines. Ok, I will happily heed that advice. In fact, this weekend I am flying home for my Uncle's 50th birthday party. The next weekend, I am going to K8's engagement party. And the 2nd weekend in June, I am going to Nashville for CMA Country Music Festival. First things first- tonight, I am going to happy hour.

I know that I may eat my words later, but right now, I do not think Bar Review is all that bad. Meanwhile, I am fully aware that this thought is probably bolstered by above travel and happy hour plans. However, I am going to enjoy this feeling while it lasts. Per the advice of several friends (and readers), I decided I would leisurely make notecards in the beginning for later review, which I must say, makes me feel like a 4th grader learning "times tables" all over again.

But hey, if it works, it works. I guess we will find out come Octoberish. I need to go freshen up before meeting up with friends, but I hope everyone has a great evening!

The New Cast for Dancing With the Stars?

2010-05-17T23:03:00.005-04:00

K8 and I had a great time watching DWTS and coming up with what we thought would be an all-star cast for next season. It's tough to come up with this list because it cannot be anyone too currently A list. Also, you have to mix child stars with modern day stars. So, I am asking my dear readers to cast their votes- the way you do every week for you fave reality TV show- for your top ten DWTS cast members. We tried to pick people from a variety of cinematic (or wanna-be cinematic) disciplines. Pick your top ten from the list:

Victoria Beckham
Bobby Bowden
Terry Bradshaw
Jim Cramer
Paula Dean
Jared Fogle (the Subway guy)
Matthew Fox
Whoopie Goldberg
Nancy Grace
Mark Paul Gosselaar (Zack Morris)
Elizabeth Hasselback
Nikki Hilton
Brody Jenner
Matt Lauer
George Lopez
Tinsely Mortimer
Rachel Ray
Molly Ringwald
Kelly Ripa
William Shatner
Martha Stewart
Jonathon Taylor Thomas
Donald Trump
Betty White

Weigh in, fellow bloggers...

The Detox

2010-05-15T21:06:00.004-04:00

(Image credit)

After a fairly unsuccessful attempt at a detox earlier this year, I decided I would give it another shot. Bar Review is just in the beginning stages, so I thought that if I wanted to try one that required a lot of prep work, now was the time. Most detoxes do not interest me. I do not see how a week of eating nothing and drinking nothing but water with lemon and cayenne pepper can be even remotely healthy. I wanted one that did not involve a week long fast, one that allowed me to eat an adequate amount of calories and one that pumped me with vitamins and nutrients. Awhile back, I read in Goop, a newletter that Gwyneth Paltrow authors, about a detox that caught my attention. This detox is from detox specialist, Dr. Alejandro Junger's, book Clean. I bookmarked this detox, but I had completely forgotten about it until TheShopTart mentioned that she was doing this detox.

I decided on a modified version. In fact, I am only doing the detox for 4 days, instead of 7. This detox involves a significant amount of prep work (well, for me, the undomestic gal who will be at school all day), and the ingredients can be rather pricey. However, after day 1, I am already loving it. Day 1 seems to have the least amount of substance, but it wasn't too bad. The next days are a little more calorie-packed, including chicken and salmon dishes along with all the veggies and fruits. This was my day 1 menu, taken directly from Goop, which you can find here.

7am (or upon rising): Glass of room temperature lemon water

8am: Herbal tea

10am (breakfast): Blueberry and Almond Smoothie

11:30am: Coconut water*

1:30pm (lunch): Salad with Carrot and Ginger Dressing

4pm (snack): A handful of mixed pumpkin and sunflower seeds (I had blueberries instead)

6pm (dinner): Broccoli and Arugula Soup

I followed the provided recipes for the items in bold and made everything the night before. You all, detox qualities aside, the Carrot and Ginger Dressing is phenom. It is the first dressing I found that tastes just like the delish ones you get at your favorite sushi restaurant. And, it is easy peasy to make. Find the recipe here.

As for the coconut water, well, I am hoping that grows on me. But, this is a detox, not a 5 course meal from my favorite restaurant, so it may take a little sacrifice. I will report back as next week progresses. I hope you are having a fantastic weekend!

I need a plan

2010-05-11T13:44:00.004-04:00

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Sooooooooooo I graduated and spent some time with my family- which I must say was amazing (pictures to come as soon as I can get them off my Mom's camera). But now, here I am, just starting Bar Review. I looked at the schedule of classes and realized that I NEED A PLAN. I spent last night questioning several attorneys at an event about their study plans. We started Barbri so early that we have most Fridays off (which is awesome!). I know it is early in the game-day two of Bar Review to be specific- but I would love to have a plan of action for peace of mind purposes. To all my dear current and future lawyer readers: do you have any suggestions?

This is it!

2010-05-06T19:48:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is the big day. I am finally graduating from law school. I cannot believe it. My whole family drove up from FL to SC today. Tomorrow night we are having a big cookout to celebrate with family and friends. My brother smoked some pork for us and made his special BBQ sauce. I am excited to show the South Carolinians that even people from South Florida can make good BBQ. :) I also made a mustard-based sauce that is more SC style for the locals. I will post the recipe later for everyone because I think it actually turned out pretty good (if I may say so myself). I hope everyone has a great weekend. I will be back next week when I officially have my J.D. Yay!

Puppy!

2010-04-29T13:42:00.004-04:00

My roommate K8 is getting a puppy, so that means I am kinda getting one too! I am so excited. K8's aunt breeds both mini and standard Labradoodles. You can find her website here (Davis Doodles). The pups in the litter that K8 gets to pick out of just opened their little mini Labrodoodle eyes this week. K8's aunt sent her the new photos today. K8 is getting a boy mini and naming him Herbie. This photo above is a potential Herbie. I think he is the one! What do you think?

So you had a bad day...

2010-04-27T17:44:00.008-04:00

I was having a Daniel Powter kind of a day yesterday. I couldn't find the Toshiba piece to my universal power cord (sound familiar?) I thought I was going to have to drive all the way to Augusta so I could get my outline off my computer because the battery lasts one hot second. Then, I received a package in the mail from my mother, the best care package sender I know. When I unwrapped the beautiful pink and green little package, look what I found! Two martini glass (one for me and one for K8). But these aren't just ANY martini glasses. They say "order in the court" and "trust me I am a lawyer." They have a shark, a gavel, a book, and the scales of justice.

I am talking major motivation to get me through exams so that I can indeed be one step closer to becoming a lawyer. They made me smile. Oh it is so the little things!

Work Hard, Play Hard

2010-04-26T08:47:00.006-04:00

I have an exam tomorrow. Kinda a hard one, and I am kinda scared about it. This is what I will look like all day (and night).

But the good news is, after that exam, we are going out to celebrate K8's birthday. One of my favorite places in Charleston, Pearlz Oyster Bar, just opened up here. I am really excited about it. So while tonight I will have my freshly-created Federal Practice outline in front of me, tomorrow night, I will hopefully have an oyster shot there instead. Wish me luck...

An Attempt to Inspire REMIX

2010-04-24T02:54:00.008-04:00

A couple of months ago, I started posting some of my favorite quotes. I named these posts, "An Attempt to Inspire," and I tried to post them weekly. I have a library of some of my favorite inspirational quotes, most of them serious, but in light of the graduation parties that I will be attending in the next few weeks, I decided to leave you with a funny (but oh so true) pearl of wisdom:

Never be the first to arrive at a party or the last to go home, and never, ever be both. ~David Brown, quoted in Reader's Digest "Quotable Quotes," April 2004

(No, this is not an actual picture of me, but I do look similar to this when I am performing my standard dance moves, red hair and all.)

My fault is that I am usually the last one to leave. Most likely because well, some may say I am a bit of a ChatTea Kathy. SURPRISE! I am working on this. You?

The Dresses

2010-04-20T00:37:00.014-04:00

I told K8 that I am going to blog about her wedding planning like it is my own (since I am her MOH and my own is not in the Google calendar any time soon.) Two of her other bridesmaids, K8's mom, and I all drove to Charlotte to take advantage of the fab dress boutiques. I am in L-O-V-E with the dresses. K8's wedding is on New Year's Eve so we were looking for formal, floor length, black gowns. She also mentioned that it would be awesome if we had a few different styles. Those were really her only requirements. She has been the complete anti-bridezilla.

We went to 3 different stores and came back empty handed (and full wallet-ed). K8's wonderful mom suggested a beverage break. Here is what ensued:

Needless to say, we ended up finding the perfect dresses in the next store. I would say I think it was the wine, but holy moly, I still LOVE these choices. Each girl found a dress that was perfect for her. This is what I will be wearing:

The back is to die for. It sold me on this black beauty.

Two gals are going to wear this fantastic one shoulder piece:

This is where we tie in the ruffles on my dress. Imagine this in all black:

And another mention of a bow, but this time in an A-line dress. This picture doesn't do this dress justice:

These choices are so great, especially for girls with all different body types. I have been lucky lately with the weddings I have been in. Contrary to popular belief, a girl can really like a bridesmaid dress. :)

Just say No!

2010-04-17T15:18:00.005-04:00

No. I used to think it was a dirty word, but I have learned that sometimes you just have to say it. These last 3 years I have found that it is really easy to spread yourself too thin. There is always something. There will always be something. So dear friends, don't be afraid to give a good old fashioned N-O. You will be a better person because of it.

And then it just hit me

2010-04-08T09:25:00.005-04:00

I only have one more week of law school classes EVER. Well, that statement is assuming I pass all of my exams, but for the sake of this blog post, let's just assume passing grades. We graduate May 7th (a Friday) and start Bar review that Monday. I cannot believe it. People have asked me if I feel like the last 3 years have just flown by. You know, sometimes it feels like I have been a law student forever, and sometimes it feels like I started just yesterday. I am so grateful for the friends I have made here. They say you make your life long friends in undergrad. I do agree with that statement, but I have also made amazing life long friends in law school. For instance, I am the Maid of Honor in my roommate (K8)'s wedding this year. I would have never have met my sweet friend if I did not pursue a Juris Doctor here in good ol' SC. Ok, enough of the cheesy rambling. Suffice it to say that I am grateful for all I have learned, done, experienced while in school. God, just please get me through Bar prep!

High Society- Minimal Morals

2010-04-06T01:38:00.008-04:00

Is anyone else watching High Society? I am embarrassed to admit that I do. My initial fascination with the show stemmed from my intrigue with socialite Tinsely Mortimer. The social scene poster girl recently turned handbag designer/reality TV show star's life is a constant page 6 (or Who Wore It Best) feature. Despite her controversial fame, I do respect that she makes frequent philanthropic efforts. BUT some of her co-stars are (how do I say this...) ridiculous amounts of awful! Especially Jules Kirby. The infamous New Yorker must have given her publicist the day off when she decided to lash out in a discriminatory diatribe. It was pretty disgusting. Regardless of my critique, I still find myself watching. However, I am beginning to think it is just because I love the opening OneRepublic song so much (which I embedded in this post below). Can we say, guilty pleasure?

I am Bat Woman

2010-04-05T04:24:00.004-04:00

Actually, I am no where close to a super hero. The only thing I have in common with this lady are her sleeping habits. I have frequently woken up (like tonight) to these sights:

Well, in theory. I do not own an alarm clock because I rely on my Blackberry, but still. Being nocturnal is pretty frustrating, especially when you have to get up early for class. I need to try this whole 8-hrs-of-sleep-starting-at-11pm thing.

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T01:22:00.003-04:00

It's a day early, but I hope you all have a very happy Easter. Immediately after I saw this photo, I found myself at petfinder. How cute is this bunny? Then, Kyle reminded me that bunnies aren't necessarily cuddly pets, and they stink. Guess I am going to hold off for a puppy after the Bar.

Hope everyone has a great holiday with their loved ones!

Sprinter

2010-03-30T23:34:00.000-04:00

Not a person who runs fast or receives a Sprint phone bill every month. I mean this in between Winter & Spring season we are experiencing right now. Jackets and tights or tank tops and bare legs? Soup or salad? Snow angel or Sandcastle?

When the girls and I went to Atlanta this weekend for Chelsea, we all packed dresses and no jackets. It was pretty warm when we left SC. As soon as we got out of the car, we knew we were going to have to rely on the internal heater that kicks on when you have a glass of wine. Looks like Mother Nature is having heat flashes! Let's make a decision Mom Nature.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang I Know Karate

2010-03-26T14:23:00.004-04:00

Ok, not really, and we are not really talking Chitty here. We are talking Chelsea. I am going to Atlanta to see a show of the blonde gal and small person comedic variety. You guessed it: I am going to see Chelsea Handler and Chuy Bravo (and Heather McDonald) this weekend. I am extremely excited. Can I get a good-old-fashioned-Jay Z what what (I would ask for an "Amen" but I think that may be sacrilegious when posting about Chelsea Handler).

My New Favorite Adult Beverage

2010-03-21T11:47:00.005-04:00

The girls & I recently planned a birthday party for one of our dear friends. PJ decided that this friend's celebration required a signature drink. She actually lifted this recipe from Cosmo (the magazine, I know it is confusing when I am talking about a drink.) Anywho, it was absolutely delicious. I am not usually a fan of super fruity drinks, mostly because my poison is a good ol' glass of wine, and fruity drinks are usually too sweet for my taste. But this fruity indulgence isn't of the too-sweet-to-stomach variety. It is amazing. In fact, I am trying to convince K8 to incorporate it into her engagement party. Try it. I would not fail you!

(Thanks K8 for the photog skills!)

Berri Breeze

Absolut Berri Acai

Grapefruit juice

pomegranate juice

slice of grapefruit to garnish
*mix in two ounces of each ingredient

Cruisin' Photos

2010-03-16T15:15:00.010-04:00

As promised, I have finally uploaded some cruise photos. Let me just tell you, looking at these gems made me REALLY want to go back. I had never been on a cruise before so I had a picture in my mind of what our week would look like. Boy, was I wrong. My inner dialog did a 360 just after an hour. My transition went something like this:

[Setting: Immediately after boarding and setting sail.]

Me: Wow, this is a lot cheesier than I expected. I didn't realize it was going to be one big MC (or is it emcee)ed dance party with neon lights and Mardi Gras beads. It's kinda like a combo Wedding/Sweet Sixteen/Bar Mitzvah. I mean, it's not that I dislike any of those events. In fact, I love them because I love celebrations, a big dance floor, loud music, and random props like noise makers and streamers. This just isn't what I thought I had signed up for.

[Setting: 1 hour after boarding and setting sail until the time we got off the ship and said our goodbyes]

Me: This is FANTASTIC. Lay by the pool during the day. Maybe play some Blackjack in the early evening. A big fancy dinner. Then, a dance club. Just the perfect combination of relaxation and having an Alan Jackson G with an O, O with a D, T with an I and an M and an E.

It was a spring break cruise so there were crazy college peeps galore. I honestly think this made it even more fun. We met some great people, and I really hope that we keep in touch. A little warning about the photos: Kyle & I went on this cruise by ourselves so I apologize in advance that the photos are mostly just the two of us. I swear we made friends! So, without further ado, I give you the photos.

Before embarkment. I definitely went down that water slide a time or two or three.

Bye Bye Ft. Lauderdale!

And hello Grand Cayman. Me & Kyle on the boat to Stingray City. Please excuse the rat's nest. It was PRETTY windy.

Look what I found! Fun fact: Starfish can live out of the water for up to eight hours. We let this big guy go though right after this photo.

Kyle & I went swimming with the stingrays. At first, I was terrified, but they are seriously the most docile creatures. I actually got to hold one, feed it, and kiss it (see below). Apparently, island legend is that kissing a stingray will give you seven years good luck. Looks like we have to book a cruise back to Grand Cayman in 2017.

So... we got the days of the week confused (can you blame us?), and we dressed up in formal gear on the wrong night. We had to improvise on the real formal night so here is me & Kyle in our semi-formal gear.

Semi-formal night close up. When you are on a cruise by yourselves, you become a big fan of the hold-the-camera-out picture.

This was one of our couple friends that we met. H & K are from Colorado, & they were our favorites. We moved to their dinner table on the last night (per their invite, of course) so that we could dine together.

In Jamaica, we were getting sorta harassed to go on tours. I also had a braid in my hair so many of the women wanted to braid all my hair. I don't blame them. They are smart business women. Anyway, we just wanted to hang out so we posted up at Margaritaville. Kyle found this guy walking around. I think the name of this photo should be, "Be cool."

And for the grand finale, someone lent this girl (me) a microphone. If you know me IRL, you know that a microphone is my favorite prop. Although, I usually prefer the kind that do not work. Well, needless to say, I toted this sucker around all night. That means I fake karoked and fake interviewed fellow dance clubers a lot. I also may or may not have put my hands up, their playin my song.....

I'm baaaaaaack!

2010-03-14T20:33:00.003-04:00

I just got back into town from a fabulous cruise. I am all relaxed and tan and ready to start school (ok, that last part is a big fat lie, but at least I am relaxed and tan). I thought I would just check in to say hello and promise that I will post cruise pics ASAP. I am charging my camera now so that I can upload them. I hope everyone had a great weekend!

The Passport: the Final Chapter

2010-03-04T20:30:00.005-05:00

I GOT MY PASSPORT exclamation mark. Ok, so now that the news is out there, wait until you hear how it arrived- with a misspelled first name. After all of that. Oh well. My first name is always misspelled. That is what happens when your name's spelling is the product of a typo on your birth certificate.

I am just grateful to have a passport. Although we are no longer going to Japan due to the huge-o expense of last minute flights, Kyle and I are headed for a 6 day cruise to Jamaica & the Caymans. I will be hanging out on this:

And drinking plenty of these:

I am actually bringing my workout clothes. That is probably one huge joke (see above photo of a frozen beverage). I have never been on a cruise, so I am reallllly excited. Does anyone have any cruisin' advice?

Photos courtesy of Virtual Tourist and Diets in Review respectively.

Le Passport Drama Continued

2010-02-27T00:16:00.004-05:00

Sooooo.... If you read my last post, you know about the passport sitch. Well, a fabulous little birdie that works on The Hill (not to be confused with The Hills) is helping me get an expedited passport. I overnighted the thing. I messed something up on the application. So, they overnighted it back. I had to stand in line at the post office for two hours, only to find that I needed a copy of the back of my driver's license. I sprinted a few blocks to the local library to make a copy, and I sprinted back. No one wanted to let me back in line b/c the passport station closed in 10 minutes. I begged. I almost cried. The guy working the station let me give him my application. I overnighted it back with another overnighted slip so they can mail it back. I realized that I didn't answer two questions. I seriously think I am not suppose to go to Japan. You all, this is seriously just a Cliff Notes version of my dia de la passport. I think I need anxiety meds. And will Chat Tea make it to Japan? Stay tuned....

Konnichiwa FAIL

2010-02-20T12:16:00.007-05:00

Have you ever been really mad at yourself? (I raise hand).

[Setting: Friday morning. I am walking to school. After 3 days of discussing a spontaneous trip to Japan (I know, crazy), Kyle finally found the perfect flights.]

As Kyle was about to hit the "confirm" button on the two plane tickets for my last spring break, he asks, "This may be a stupid question, but before I confirm, is your passport up-to-date?"

Me: "Ummmmm." (I suddenly remember that I have not seen my passport since my post-graduation trip. over.three.years.ago.)

I realize this makes me look like a huge airhead. I don't know what I was thinking (or better yet, not thinking). I came home and immediately searched my room file folder by file folder, paper, by paper. I stayed up till 4am last night checking every nook and cranny in my room. I came up empty handed.

I contemplated paying for one of those rush passport services. Then, the plane ticket prices went up. I AM SO MAD AT MYSELF. How did I misplace my passport? Maybe this is a sign that I need to support the American economy during spring break.

Cough. Cough. Sneeze.

2010-02-16T11:04:00.004-05:00

That's pretty much what I look like right now. Well, switch the head board color to my hair color and make the moon blanket a Gator snuggie. I am actually feeling better after 80 hours of sleep yesterday- part of it due to a car that wouldn't start. Oh the joys. I have to act in a skit tonight at a big lawyerly thing. Wish me luck!

Photo courtesy of http://s259.photobucket.com/albums/hh297/kbroglio/?action=view&current=sick-girl_032909.jpg&newest=1

What is my problem?

2010-02-14T21:02:00.003-05:00

I cannot seem to get it together blogwise. I have like 5 posts in the hopper, all saved as drafts, and I cannot commit. I am getting a super duper blog makeover soon from Jessica at The Love List so I am hoping that will keep me motivated. I mean it's not like Miss Chatty over here ever runs out of things to say. I think I am experiencing a general lack of motivation. I blame 2nd semester of 3L year.

Photo courtesy of http://woldfitness.com

A Friend in Need

2010-02-03T23:56:00.012-05:00

A sorority sister and friend of mine needs your help. Her name is Jessica. She is an absolutely fantastic person-beautiful on the inside and out. I preface this next statement by using the transition, "unfortunately," but this is no reflection of Jessica's attitude: she is extremely sun-shinin' positive. Unfortunately, Jessica has Cystic Fibrosis.

She has been nothing but optimistic through this whole journey, and I want to do something to help. She is raising money because she needs a double lung transplant. I know right now is a tough time for a lot of people. However, if you find yourself in a place where you can help, please visit her website. That's all I ask. Thank you all so much.

http://www.cotaforjessicam.com/

Better Late Than...

2010-02-01T14:58:00.017-05:00

Well, you know the saying. I promised some photos from my last Christmas break (ever). I had a lot of fun in my almost 4 weeks off from school. I was a little too spoiled because it was incredibly hard to come back. Oh well, here I am a month later, finishing my.last.semester.of.law.school (!!!) I also included some pictures from the fun, fabulous wedding I was in two weekends ago. Have a great week.

Gabe's Graduation. I love this photo in the Swamp.

Out at Gator City after the grad festivities. Kyle and I ran into our friend from Jax.

Me and Pop Pop at Gabe's delish grad dinner.

Watching the bowl game on our front lawn. My bro set up the projector and screen.

New Year's Eve in Ft. Lauderdale with high school friends.

Me & MG at the Phins/Steelers game. MG as a Steelers fan. Me as a Phins fan (embarrassingly so).

Some of my dearest friends and sorority sisters at M's rehearsal dinner.

Me and Kyle @ M and D's wedding. Such a fun time. I even danced out at the reception to Miley Cyrus, Party in the USA! Lawnmower/sprinkler much?

Ciao for Now!

2010-01-25T12:59:00.008-05:00

I am taking the work week off. No, no, not for vacation, unfortunately. I am taking a blogcation for the week. There is tons going on here in CTKland so I figure it is best for me to focus for a few days. I will be back in action this weekend, and hopefully, with some fun pictures. I will also be ready (and excited) to read all of your blogs again. Hope you all have a great week in the meantime.

Ciao Ciao!

*Photo courtesy of The TelecomBlog.com

What's Better Than Receiving a Snuggie for a Christmas Gift?

2010-01-18T13:35:00.009-05:00

A: The opportunity to wear it at a Snuggie Pub Crawl, of course!

If you follow me on Twitter, you know that I stumbled upon one of the best.pubcrawls.ever this weekend in Charleston. Kyle and I spotted this fantastic little poster at a bar the night before the event.

We decided that there was no better place in the world to be at 12:30 the next day than at Wild Wings to witness the fantasticness. Let me just tell you, even I, world class Snuggie lover, completely underestimated the Snuggie wonders. I am talking belted Snuggies, people! And the best part? These blanket-with-sleeves-wearing folks were raising money for charity.

Behaving like a journalist at the scene of a miracle, I questioned several participants. My investigative journalism tactics revealed that a group of gals got together the night before to decorate their Snuggies and increase their pub crawling ability-you know, sewing ribbons to the back for support and such.

Apparently, Snuggie Pub Crawls are pretty popular all over. A Google search revealed many similar crawls in many major cities. The lady in charge of the Charleston crawl mentioned that they are going to make it an annual event and try to break the Guinness Book of World Records. Yes, there is a record for most people at a Snuggie Pub Crawl. I am seriously considering attempting this challenge. Is anyone in the Columbia area interested in a Snuggie Pub Crawl?

(Photo from Metromix Chicago)

Tory Burch & Speedy Gonzales

2010-01-15T18:25:00.006-05:00

My dear friend PJ is an instiGATOR. (No lie, she went to UF too). For instance, I will go out to dinner with all intentions that it will be an early night. 2 hours (and glasses of wine) later, I am performing my standard dance moves. Well, in true PJ fashion, she sent me a short email that read: "Andale! Andale! A Reva! A Reva!". Said email included a link to the Tory Burch web site. What this Mexican cartoon loving friend did was unthinkable. Knowing I was in the market for Revas, she directed me to the TB sale page. See below for my mail today & have a great weekend!

Turn on the Pointer Sisters, and JUMP for Joy!

2010-01-09T01:23:00.008-05:00

My Bar Application is (FINALLY!) safely resting its little Bar App head on a State Supreme Court pillow. The only hiccup? Well, apparently my notary forgot to grace my application with her Jane Hancock. She only stamped the dang thing. Fortunately for me, the women at the courthouse must have just gotten back from a nice lunch because she gave me a week to get it to her without charging me the extra moolah (read: almost $400). WOOT! I would celebrate, but I am shoulder deep in a project for the journal. Oh well- I DID just have a long, relaxing break. I will post pics from my fantastic Christmas break shortly. What are you all up to this weekend?

New Year's Eve Plans & Resolutions

2009-12-30T14:21:00.010-05:00

Break out the bubbly and my new stemless champagne glasses...

because we are going to party like it's 2010 (side note: 2010 still sounds so futuristic to me, like we should all be celebrating the new year in space suits).

This New Year's Eve, I will be kicking it poolside during the day in downtown Ft. Lauderdale with high school friends. That night, we plan on having a small gathering at my friend BGS's condo, and then hitting the Riverfront bars.

Being from South Florida, we usually try to avoid Ft. Lauderdale. It can be an overpriced circus on New Yr's. However, we have a place to stay, and that means no one will be driving. Plus, when you are with friends, you can make any place great. Right?

This year my New Year's resolutions have an overarching theme. I am adopting an "everything in moderation" attitude. In CTK terms: I do not need to drink a 12 pack of diet coke a day. 2 sodas should suffice.

The moderation theme will also help me with another problem I have: I am one of those people that when I do something, I jump in head first. If I do not have time to dedicate 100% of my energy, it is not happening. For example, when I decide I am going to start running, I train for a half marathon. While this may sound like a good thing, it actually has had a detrimental affect on my life. If I do not have the time to train for a half marathon, I am not running. Therefore, I think realizing moderation is a good thing can help me in a few aspects of my life (1) cutting back on the bad, and (2) realizing that something does not need to have the max amount of good for it to be good for me. If I have time for a 2 mile run, but not a 5, do the 2! I do not have to run 5 miles every time I want to exercise.

My mom informed me that the problem with having a general resolution is that they are easy to forget or break. So, I am taking my moderation theme and making these goals:

1. I will not drink more than 3 diet cokes a day (a 12oz bottle counts as 2).
2. I will exercise (for whatever time, distance I have time for) at least 3 days a week.
3. I will do at least one nice thing a week for myself. This nice thing can even be just laying in the sun or reading a good book.
4. I will do something charitable every month, despite the size of the donation (of time or money). I will donate what I can.
5. I will contact at east one friend every month whom I haven't spoken with in awhile. Contact can be a text, voice mail, email, whatever. It doesn't have to mean finding time in my day for a 3 hour phone call.

I feel good about this. What are your resolutions?

I wish everyone a wonderful New Year. I hope 2010 brings you a wealth of happiness.

An Attempt to Inspire: To those who feel overwhelmed

2009-12-28T02:04:00.008-05:00

It has been a few weeks since I have posted An Attempt to Inspire and quote of the week, and I really want to get back on track. This week, this post is dedicated to a few friends of mine who have recently found themselves grabbing at straws (and to anyone else who feels they have a lot to handle).

I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much. ~Mother Teresa

It is amazing how in tough times we think we are at a point where we have been given more than we can take, only to find out later that we are much stronger than we originally thought. You can ALWAYS push through. A similarly themed quote to the one above that I love is by Winston Churchill (and more recently incorporated into a Rodney Atkins song): "If you are going through hell, keep going." So to anyone who feels or has felt this way, in the words of a famous Pixar fish named Dory, "Just keep swimming."

Keep on keepin' on. You can do it. Have a great week.

Thank You Coach Meyer

2009-12-27T00:50:00.004-05:00

I think I speak on behalf of the Gator Nation when I say, we'll miss you Urban Meyer. Thanks for all you have done for our team, the SEC, and the community as a whole.

Merry Christmas to all!

2009-12-25T14:47:00.004-05:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas filled with lots of love, laughter, and of course, presents! I know presents is not all that this holiday is about, but I am thankful to be the wide-smiling recipient of several wonderful gifts. I must have been on someone's "good list" because this year Kyle gave me something in a certain little blue box. :) I am a lucky gal. Have a fantastic day!

It's December, and I am still thankful.

2009-12-23T13:00:00.001-05:00

November found a blogsphere filled with thankfulness posts, and I definitely contributed by documenting my own appreciation. So while running the risk of annoying you with my continuing thankful spirit, I would like to say I am so grateful for two awards:

The three blogs that so sweetly tagged me for one of these are my regular reads. Dooley & Me, as mentioned before, is one of my IRL law school friends. She is awesome and so is her co-star, Dooley. She may be a Georgia fan, but being a big fan of hers, I am willing to accept her black and redness with open arms :) Pink Tights and Pigskin is one of my latest favorites reads and tweet pal. A former fellow dweller of the law school halls, this girl is not only the sweetest, but she also keeps it real. Miss L.A. at Life, Lilly, and L.A. writes such a fun blog to read. I love her sense of style, and when I first saw the Barbie heels on her sidebar, I thought, I really like this girl!

To start, for the Sugar Doll, I list 10 facts about me. For the sake of saving you all from repetition, they will not be the strangest facts about me as I listed those in this award post.
And...GO!

1. I am not naturally a red head, but I swear I am going to have a red-headed daughter.

2. I really really want to rescue a dog.

3. I twirled baton from age 6 to age 11. Apparently, it is a skill you never lose b/c as a joke I have been ask to try again. I can still do it. Moral of the story: don't hand me a glass of wine and a baton.

4. My grandfather (Pop-Pop) is an identical twin. He and his brother were married a month apart to women with the same birthday. They both have five kids, all the same ages. They live in the town homes that they both built together, both on opposite ends. They drove the same car. They are too darn cute!

5. My first name Kathrine is missing the traditional "e" in the middle. It was pretty much a typo on my birth certificate, and my parentals decided to keep it. My name is "Kath" (no pause) "Rine" not "Kath" "A" Rine."

6. I am not a pink girl. I know I may lose readers over this (just kidding I hope). I think it looks great on other people, but I would rather grab for green, blue, or purple, any day.

7. My boyfriend has the same initials as me (including the middle), and our mom's have the same names. This is just 2 of the strange similarities between us.

8. At some point in my life, I would love to live in Texas. Preferably Dallas or Austin. I love the Big State.

9. I sleep walk sometimes. I think at this point most of my friends have experienced this. For that, I am sorry!

10. I LOVE scary movies. I think I have seen all the recent ones.
_________________________________________________________________

And for the Happy 101 award, I list 10 things I am that make me happy. (*disclaimer: my list ranges from the serious to the frivolous for the sake of not boring my readers.)

1. As mentioned during Thanksgiving I am thankful for my family and my BF, Kyle. It is rough living so far away, but just knowing I have them for support brings a smile to my face.

(Me & Kyle)

2. My friends. I know this cliche, but if you knew them, you would post this too!

(LD, Me & JS- childhood friends)

3. Pandora. I cannot get enough music. My life definitely has a soundtrack.

4. Reality TV. The more classless, the better!

5. Law school. It is a huge pain sometimes. But at the end of the day, I would never have met these fantastic people and have had these wonderful experiences without it.

6. Cheese. I know, weird. But it is one of my favorite foods, only second to soup :)

7. College Football. If you read my blog before, you probably know this already.

8. Swedish Fish & Sour Patch Kids. How else would I get through studying?

9. Diet Coke. I mean I have a problem. I am just waiting for the day they officially announce it causes all kinds of health problems. I hope it is long after I am gone.

10. The movies. Going to the movies is my favorite date night or night out with the girls (my movie night with the girls usually includes juice box wine. Classy.)

I tag the following fabulous bloggers:

1. Sweet Caroline
2. My Blonde Ambition
3. MWM
4. My Blonde Reality
5. The Dishy Decorator
6. The Cowgirl Lawyer
7. Pink Lace & Cupcakes

The Shakespearean Q- In Modern Form

2009-12-16T00:40:00.004-05:00

To view or not to view...

Sooooo my Mom wants me to go see Avatar. She just told me. I smiled. On the inside, I was doing what two-year-olds do when they are told they have to take a nap.

But then, the adult in me read the reviews. Ok, James Cameron. I may or may not have seen The Titanic 4 times in theaters. But then again, I may or may not have been 13.

Regardless, I may have to see this movie, friends. Is anyone else intrigued?

K8 is ENGAGED!

2009-12-14T12:19:00.004-05:00

My amazing roommate K8 and her equally amazing boyfriend B got engaged on Saturday morning. The two were headed to Jacksonville, FL to leave for a cruise on Saturday. B was intent on taking Kate by surprise. So...we all went out to a nice dinner on Friday to celebrate the end of the semester. B was driving into town from NC, and I left him a key under the mat so he could drop off the pieces of his plan. That night, we all packed so we stayed up pretty late. Well, B never went to bed. As soon as K8 was fast asleep, B covered the room in rose petals. He put a huge foam sign on her mirror that said "Marry me K8." (You all this sign was my favorite part: it was covered in glitter, ribbons, and stenciled. It also had a huge red glitter foam heart on it. B made it himself!)

Then, B spent one hour slipping the ring on her finger without waking her up. Her alarm went off at 5:30 am, and she looked through sleepy eyes up to see a glittery something. She turned on the light, and she saw her sign. Brandon got down on one knee, and that is when K8 saw the ring on her finger. And of course, the answer was YES!! I just love this engagement story. Congrats K8 and B. I hope you are living it up on your cruise!

The End is Near

2009-12-07T13:06:00.003-05:00

[Before I start with the main subject of this post, I want to congratulate all the college football teams on their Bowl Games. Even though my team is not a participant, I am extremely excited to watch the "Hook 'em" Horns take on the "Rollin' Tide" in the Nat Champ. I am putting animosity aside. And it must be said- great game Nebraska. I enjoyed watching the Big 12 championship way more than ours! ]

I just finished my second final and now 3 take home assignments are all that is left till I can cross the finish line (aka the state lines from SC to GA to FL-home!) During finals I avoid Christmas music, decorations, and treats like the plague. I cannot fully appreciate the happiness of the holiday until I am done with le law school. I haven't decided yet if I am going to fly or drive home, but I do know one thing about my mode of transportation: It will include blasting my old time fave, Mariah Carey's Christmas Album (of course in headphones if on a plane).

I am also looking for suggestions for some new holiday CDs. Any ideas?

Hope everyone had a great day, despite the Mondayness of it!

You Love Him, You Hate Him, You Love to Hate Him

2009-12-05T21:33:00.003-05:00

I had my college football heart broken tonight when Bama defeated (um seriously defeated) my Gators. Bama deserved that game. We didn't hand it to them- they came in with vengeance and snatched it right up. I respect that (minus Ingram's Gator chomp in the last few min of the game, but we won't impute that on the whole team).

I know that probably 99% of my readers are sick of hearing about Tebow. I understand. He is all over the TV/mags/newspapers etc. It is probably annoying when you are not a Gator fan. BUT that being said, he really is a great person and football player. Thanks for a great season Tebow. I am looking forward to watching you play in a bowl game.

An Attempt to Inspire- Fifth Edition

2009-12-04T15:57:00.004-05:00

"Some people are born on third base and go through life thinking they hit a triple." - Barry Switzer

There is absolutely nothing wrong with being born on third base. I just like this quote because I feel that people who get a little extra push (be it whatever that push is) should be appreciative of it and appreciative of others who have to get to third base, beginning from the batter's box.

Have a great weekend.

One Down!

2009-12-03T00:25:00.008-05:00

One exam down, one take-home, one paper, one confidentiality agreement draft, and one in-class exam to go. Talk about variety. I am plowing through but also having fun along the way. Hey, I'm a 3L. Also, (in reference to my last blog post), I decided to pick these bad boys back up.

Time to start running (like more than once a month) again. I have been pretty pathetic- I was training for a half marathon (A YR AGO!), hurt my knee near the end of training, and have just not been able to get it together since. I am good for an occasional run, but this time of year there are so many fun local runs (in good weather), I would be really missing out if I didn't commit. Please keep your fingers crossed for me. Have a great evening!

Avoidance

2009-11-27T00:38:00.001-05:00

I am avoiding any fashion posts after that meal! Happy Thanksgiving again!

Giving Thanks

2009-11-26T00:31:00.007-05:00

Because it is 12:30am, EST, I thought I would be one of the firsts to wish you a Happy Turkey Day! I am thankful for so many things it would take 1 million blog posts to list them all. Don't worry, I will spare you the tiresome reading and focus on one thing- I am so grateful for my family.

It's funny because even as a child, I remember thinking this holiday was amazing for many reasons, mostly mashed potatoes, turkey, and getting to sit next to my Pop Pop at the dinner table (a privilege of being the first grandchild!) As an adult living about 9 hours away from my family, I realize that even my little 6-year-old brain was right on one point- this holiday IS about sitting next to your family at the table.

I am extremely fortunate that this year my family picked my brother up in Gainesville and brought the Thanksgiving dinner table to me.

(Me and my brother watching a Gator game)

I will get to spend the holiday with them for the first time in 3 years. This is just about the best Thanksgiving a girl can ask for.

I hope that whatever you are doing for Thanksgiving, you have a wonderful day filled with good food and the people you love!

New CDs

2009-11-24T16:32:00.004-05:00

There is just something about downloading music for a new CD that brings a huge smile to my face. This warm fuzzy feeling is always in full effect during the exam period. The one thing that keeps me near my computer (which houses what I need to study) is new music (well, ok, & twitter, blogging, google reader, gchat, gmail, woot.com, etc....but who is keeping track?) I am currently in a playlist bliss of the old (e.g. The Beatles), the teenage memories (e.g. LLCoolJ, Alanis Morisette), and the modern dance party (Lady Gaga & Cascada). Wait...Do you hear that? That's my foot a-thumpin! What are you are listening to?