Miscellany Monday

Good morning all. I'm linking up with Carissa for Miscellany Monday.

{one} Sorry for being MIA last week. It was monthly close again - which equalled a 60+ hour work week and very little time for anything other than work or sleep. Here's hoping this week is a little less hectic!

{two} After an incredibly long week, this weekend was just what the doctor ordered. A whole bunch of nothing! I kept my little brother (age 8) for my parents this weekend. We played Super Mario Brothers on the Wii and went to see the new movie Big Miracle. Sometimes it's fun being a kid again. =)
{three} I used the downtime this weekend to file our taxes. I generally hate this task because 1) I crunch numbers all day at my job - so filing my taxes on the weekend really feels like work & 2) We usually owe just a little bit or get just a tiny return back. I'm always waiting on pins & needles for the final number to come in before I can breath. But this year, we are getting a pretty decent return back. I was shocked at the final number. And a happy dance may have ensued in my kitchen on Saturday morning as a result of the unexpected surprised!

{four} Valentine's Day is just around the corner. I may have dropped some not.so.subtle hints to the hubby yesterday about my desire for a Pandora charm bracelet. I have wanted one for quite some time now. I think I would like the cross charm as my starter charm. Symbolic of putting Christ first in all aspects of my life. Charm can be found here Hint Hint Hubby!

{five} I found these pretty cool daily calendar templates on Pinterest this weekend. I am going to spend some time printing them and creating a personal planner binder this week. If it turns out the way I envision, I promise to do a post.

{six} Thank-you to all who voted for my brother's Navy photo on facebook.  He won the contest!

{seven} Happy Monday! Here's hoping you all have a blessed, productive week!

Calling All Bloggers - A Little Help PLEASE!

It's been a while since I've written about it - but just in case you didn't know - I am a proud sister of a Navy sailor.

My lil brother (not so little anymore - he's 23!) is currently stationed in San Diego and will soon be underway on his first deployment. Le sigh - they grow up so fast. It feels like just yesterday I was all teary-eyed watching him graduate from bootcamp.......

Which leads me to the point of this post - I need a tinsy favor.

Paxston has been entered in a Facebook photo contest for his ship. Basically, the picture that gets the most "Likes" wins. So I'm asking pleading begging you click on this link & "Like" the picture. He's a pretty handsome kid and the picture is actually pretty cool.

Let's not talk about the fact that my baby bro plays with things that blow up and guns for his job...

He's currently is 2nd place by on 4 votes. The contest goes through January 31st - so please just take a quick second, follow the link & vote!

If you won't do it for me - do it for your country!

Ok - so maybe I'm being a little dramatic - but you get it. It would mean so much to my mom and his girlfriend if he won this contest - okay and maybe his big sister too. :)

Happy Friday! Cheers to the weekend!

When Good Dogs Go Bad

As I said before, this past weekend was spent primarily in bed trying to recover from sickness. (I'm still sick BTW - can I girl get a break?!)


Sunday evening, I fed the dogs and threw them outside for some evening exercise. While they were outside playing, I hoped in a warm bath hoping to sooth my aches & pains.

I got out the tub, put on my robe and went to the kitchen to make warm tea when Steven asked, "Where are they dogs?" My blissful, lavender filled bubble bath caused me to completely forget about the pups outside. I opened the back door, called their names and nothing happened.

This is highly unusual around our house. Dixie is usually beating down the back door insisting that she be let back into the house after about 3 minutes outside.

So I called their names again....Nothing.....

Slight panic began to creep into my mind.

I stepped out onto the back patio to find the back gate *wide* open. At which point full on panic ensued. People practically fly down the road in front of our home and I was terrified to think what might have happened.....

I screamed to Steven that the back gate was open & the dogs were gone. He bolted out the door without a single word.

I ran frantically to bedroom in search of clothes. Remember....I was sick....like fever sick. Sopping wet from my recent bath - and completely naked. Getting myself dressed & out the door turned out to be a very difficult process.

I couldn't find a single pair of sweatpants or yoga pants. Only shorts. I couldn't find a bra (I swear Dixie hides them from me) So I opted for an over sized sweatshirt and hoped it wouldn't be too obvious. I caught a quick glimpse of myself in the mirror confirmed that I was wearing bright teal shorts, brown Ugg boots, a ratty red sweatshirt with wild wet hair and zero makeup.

I said a silent prayer that I wouldn't encounter any neighbors and ran out the front door screaming for Dixie & Bauer.  As I was running out the door a list of thoughts passed through my mind: How exactly does one issue an "Amber Alert" for missing dogs?  What's the number to the National Guard because somebody needs to get over here ASAP?  If firefighters rescue stranded kittens - who the heck is supposed to find my precious pups?!?!

When I reached the front yard, Steven's truck was gone so I knew he was riding around the neighborhood looking for them.

I turned the corner of our lot and there was Bauer prancing up and down in circles - obviously thrilled to be out of the back yard. Dixie was already in the back yard and sitting quietly on the back deck as if she had never left. It took a few minutes, but I was finally able to coral Bauer back into fence and lock the back gate again.

I waited for Steven to drive by the house and he was relieved to learn they had come home on their own.

Until we got into the house that is.

You see, our lot backs up to a wooded area. We love it because it provides a great deal of privacy. One tiny problem - on the other side of the wooded area is a pasture - full of cows. For the past three years, those cows have tortured my dogs. Every now and then the cows will start moo'ing like crazy and Dixie & Bauer growl & whine while patrolling the back yard begging to be let into the pasture.

So I guess when Dixie & Bauer gained their freedom from fence, they decided it was time to finally pay those cows a visit.

And when they came through the back door, they had the evidence to prove it.

Dixie was covered in cow poop. I mean completely covered. Her nose, paw, chest & legs. Poop everywhere. Bauer had a little on his paws and legs - but it looked like Dixie has found a huge patty and just rolled around in it. Make.Me.Gag.

Because of my sickness, I hadn't been able to smell anything for three days, but I could very clearly smell the stench coming off that dog. So I can only imagine how bad it really was for Steven. I tried to wipe Dixie down as best I could - but the all the commotion left me very light headed and exhausted. Steven finally had to just give Dixie a bath.

I'm so happy they came home on their own - at least I know that they will come back if they get out again. But you just never know what could happen. Of course I had to give Dixie & Bauer a little talking to. Warn them not to go visit those cows anymore. Tell them how much mommy loves them and how sad she would be if anything happened to them.

Having a little chat with the "bad" dogs.  Dixie seems to understand that she's in trouble.  Bauer is probably thinking that he really wants to visit those cows again.  :)

Pray For Kaitlyn's Korner

I think we all realize that the blogging community can be a very uplifting and encouraging community (despite those one-off instances I went off about yesterday!)

So today I'm asking you to show kindness and compassion and to pray for a special family over at Kaitlyn's Korner.

Chip, Kaitlyn's father, is a fraternity brother of my husband.  I cannot imagine the heartache and genuine pain this family must be feeling every second of each day.  Chip's love for his daughter is apparent in his writing and his anguish over her disease and pending passing is palpable. I cannot read this blog without being moved to tears.
So please keep them in your thoughts and prayers today.  Feel free to leave words of encouragement for the family.

On My Soap Box

Caveat: If you are easily offended or don't enjoy reading another person's rants - you might want to skip this post. Consider yourself warned. I acknowledge that I fully expect to see the number of people following my blog decrease today.....


Not quite sure where to start this post - so I'm just going to jump right into it.

I have noticed quite a few controversial comments from bloggers over the past few weeks. Not only on my own blog, but on the blogs of those who I follow. So I did a little digging. I blog stalked, if you will. I followed a trail of comments left by one blogger and noticed that not only did she leave judgmental comments on my blog, but also on that of others. Which got me to thinking - are some women just out to prove that every other woman in the world is wrong?

Which leads me to my point. If you don't like what you're reading - feel free to stop reading.

Blogging is a matter of personal expression. It's a forum where people express their opinions. Some comical - some serious - some aggressive - some emotional - but all content of a person's blog is either a retelling of their story or a matter of opinion. So if you don't agree with a person's opinion and you are highly offended by it, exercise your right to stop listening to them.

I will be the first to admit that I have read a blog post that flat out infuriated me. You know what I did? I stopped following that blogger. I didn't leave a comment chastizing the author and setting her straight. I didn't feel the need to roll off a list of reasons why she was politically incorrect or try to convince her to change her mind. I simply stopped reading what she had to say.

I understand that my blog is not for everyone. I understand that my sarcastic humor can easily be misinterpreted. I understand that I may keep things a little too real at times. But - that's me. You will always know where you stand with me - good or bad.

So if something that I say offends you, I completely understand if you decide never to return to my blog. That is your right and I would *never* want to force my opinions onto someone and cause them discomfort or frustration.

But please, don't feel the need to leave me (or any other blogger for that matter) a comment insinuating that I am inconsiderate, politically incorrect, or disrespectful to the greater population. I am well aware of what it means to be misjudged or misunderstood. I am a blonde haired, blue-eyed Southern Baptist pastor's daughter/sorority girl/Southerner. I am well aware of what it means to be misjudged or misunderstood.

Sometimes it just amazes me how some women can be very childish and bully-like in the social media ring. If you don't have to guts to say something to someone's actual face - then don't hide behind a computer screen and blast it on the internet.

Okay - I'm off my soap box. But seriously - spread a little love people - or at least keep your mouth shut if you can't. Please & Thanks!

When You're Sick & Bored.....

I've been sick with a head cold/congestion since last Thursday. Which means I spent most of my weekend in bed trying to rest. But one can only sleep so many hours during the day. After catching up on my girlie shows on the DVR, I found myself at a loss for bedridden entertainment.


That's when I realized that Time Warner Cable offers a service called "Entertainment On Demand" - which basically has all the reality TV shows from Oxygen, VH1, WE & Bravo on demand. As in - you can watch an entire season if you'd like.

So my entire day yesterday was wasted spent enthralled in two new shows: Mob Wives & Toddlers & Tiaras.

Umm......

I'm literally at a loss for words on both accounts.

On Mob Wives: You must understand - I'm from the South. Women are bred to be proper, polite & well spoken. We are taught to be caddy in passive-aggressive manner. We are taught to tan so that it looks natural. I'm not saying we don't have our fair share of fake women around here - but we do our best not make to it so *obvious*. So who are these women with horrendous fake tans, fake boobs & filthy mouths? Where are they from exactly? Do they really exist, or is the drama & make-up all for the cameras? And how do they have so much money? Are their husbands really in jail? I'm utterly perplexed by this lifestyle. And I'm not gonna lie - a tiny piece of me thinks I may have missed my calling somewhere. Just once I would love to get into a fight in the club and pull a hair piece out of some chicks head. Baller......

On Toddlers & Tiaras: This is a culture I can relate to. Umm yes, I was in pageants. Don't believe me? Here's the proof....

I went to charm school. I learned to stand and turn in a complete circle without every lifting my feet from the floor. I had a lady named Mrs. Sylvia who "jacked my hair to Jesus", as they put it. I will say - my mother was never like the women on this show. I enjoyed pageants. And we didn't spend thousands upon thousands of dollars on routines, outfits & travel. It was more like a rite of passage that all little girls from Alabama partook in during their elementary school years. I was amazed at the extremes these mothers will go to for their daughters to win. And some of the girls are such brats. I burst into hysteria when a 3 year-old said, "I'm a beauty queen!" then immediately picked her nose. Now that's good TV.

I'm still feeling like poo this morning - but at least I'm well rested and was thoroughly entertained yesterday. Sometimes watching crazy shows like that makes me feel a little better about my incredibly "normal" life. It may be a bit stressful or boring at times - but at least my husband's not in jail and at least I don't have a 4-year-old telling me to shut-up because I'm ugly!

Thank God It's Friday

Thank God It's Friday because it's almost the freakin' weekend baby!


Thank God It's Friday because I'm not feeling so well (took a sick day yesterday, actually) and I think some additional R&R this weekend may help me kick this crud that's lingering in my system.

Thank God It's Friday because one of my best gal pals is having a baby shower this Saturday. I'm so exciting to watch her open presents for Baby Boy and to see some friends that I haven't seen in a while. It's always so much fun to celebrate your friends and the big milestones in their lives.

Thank God It's Friday because hubby and I have lots of good TV on the DVR and I'm looking forward to curling up on the couch and being lazy with him this weekend.

Thank God It's Friday because today marks the official end of the 2011 year end audit at my office. I know I'm speaking accounting lingo here and that makes me a dork. But this is a big deal - my work life may return to normal very soon. Can I get an AMEN!?!

Hope you all have a lovely Friday! :)

Morning Inspiration

As I have shared here on the blog, I've been going through some difficult struggles over the past two years. Thankfully, God has placed women in my life who I can speak honestly with about these struggles. I received this text message this morning out of the blue - and it reminds me of how abundantly blessed I am.


"You were in my big prayer this morning.... I pray that you're praying big and believing big. Don't cease. You're a strong woman of God and His promises will be kept.... I want you to try something when you get home. Literally strand on your front porch and look into your home. Look at who God's given you to love: Steven and two beautiful, happy boxers. You have a fulfilling life. Look at the shelter he's provided for you every day and night. Feel the love and peace it brings to look at these things, person & pets. Soak it in and breathe thanksgiving. Your blessings bring me happiness too. You are loved and you are blessed..... God bless you today and I hope you'll feel good all day and smile a lot. I love you!"

These words brought tears to my eyes. I know this dear friend meant every word of her prayer. That she loves me, prays for me and has BIG faith that I will be blessed. But most importantly - she reminded me of my current blessings. Of all the reasons I have to be grateful today - no matter what may happen in the future.

Have you ever thought about the power your friends have in your life? Power for good or for evil? Have you ever thought about the importance of surrounding yourself with friends and family who encourage and support you - who actively breathe words of inspiration and strength into your life?

Or more importantly - have you thought about the influence you have in the life of others? What words of encouragement and inspiration do you offer to those you love the most?

This morning I'm so grateful for my friends. For the women who lift me up even when I don't ask for it. For the women who challenge me to become a better woman. For the women who set an example of peace, respect & faith in my life.

Thank-you Lord for strong, faithful women! It's my prayer that I am one of those women to others....

Joint Account Chaos

With the new year in full force, it seems as if many people are focused on their finances and financial goals for 2012. I would be lying if I didn't say that Steven and I have goals of our own. Through emails and private conversations with many blog readers, I have noticed that many couples may struggle with managing a joint account together.


I thought I would share a financial tool that has saved Steven and I a great deal of heartache over the past few years.

In preparation for our marriage, Steven and I opened a joint account and began depositing all income into that account. We established a budget and intended to have only one checking account that all bills and personal spending would flow through.

After about two months, it became very clear that method was not going to work. You see, I'm an accountant. I like to know where every single penny goes. I check my bank balance every morning and I know exactly how much should be there. So if Steven stopped at the gas station on the way home and spent $5 from the joint account, I became annoyed. If that happened numerous times over the course of the month, I became a little more than irritated. It was too easy to overspend on eating out and entertainment because we didn't have a clear way to track our spending.

It felt like joint account chaos.

In my opinion, it's very hard to create and stick to a budget when both people have full access of the joint account and have the ability to overspend without consequence.

So we discussed our options.

I wasn't comfortable with each person having their own checking account and us "splitting" the bills. To me, that felt more like roommates than partners.

I suggested we each get a weekly cash allowance for personal shopping. I could hand Steven cash and if he wanted to grab something from the gas station or lunch with a buddy, he could use his allowance. That would make budgeting for entertainment and personal spending much easier because I knew that each Monday a certain amount would be withdrawn from the account.

Steven was weary of receiving cash because it's too easy to spend. I also realized that this "cash method" would require me to go the bank once a week to withdraw funds. So we quickly decided against it.

Thankfully, we came up with a solution that works perfectly for us.

We maintain our joint account to which all earnings are deposited and from which all bills/living expenses are paid. But we each have an individual account that is tied to the joint account. At the beginning of each week I transfer our weekly allowance into our personal accounts and we are free to spend that money as we please. If we don't spend all of our weekly allowance one week, it stays in our personal accounts as extra to be used later.

I truly believe this has saved numerous arguments over finances. If one of us needs a little extra cash for whatever reason, we just discuss it. Or if we mutually decide to spend additional funds from the joint account for something that we both want or for something for our home, we discuss it.

This method has not only saved my sanity, but more importantly has allowed us to stick to our budget by forcing us to keep our personal spending within the amount we have agreed upon. It holds us both accountable to treat funds in the joint account as "family" money that we cannot just spend without discussing it with the other person.

I would highly suggest this method for any couple who struggles with overspending or tracking your expenses when both spouses have access to the joint account and spend at will.

What about you - any budgeting or money managing tips that have proven to be very successful for you over the years?

WAIT

I've already explained that I refuse to make New Year's resolutions this year. And I'm whole heartedly sticking to that claim.

But this past week, I listened to the sermon from New Year's Day on Vimeo since I was unable to attend service. Pastor Greg suggested the idea of choosing one word to focus on throughout the year. The idea is to think about the type of person you want to be at the end of 2012 and ask the Lord to place a word on your heart that will encourage you to live your life in a way that will make becoming that person a reality.

While listening to the sermon, my word became abundantly clear, WAIT.

You see, if I'm being perfectly honest, the past 18-24 months have not gone exactly how I would have wanted. My 27th birthday is quickly approaching and I feel like I'm kind of behind on Amber's Life To-Do List.

And for the past 18-24 months I have been fighting with the Lord at every turn. Instead of meeting obstacles with grace and faith, I pitch a fit and become angry with the Lord for handing me a challenge that I feel is unfair. Instead of trusting that God will work "all things for good", I have convinced myself that my plan is the right plan and God just needs to get with the program. And I'm realizing - that mentality is very dangerous.

I believe that I have many virtues - but patience, faith, & trust are NOT in my basket. Pretty sure the Lord brushed right past me when he was handing those out.

So I'm looking to December 2012. There are many things that I would like accomplish this year spiritually, financially & with my family. And yes, I will continue to pray that the Lord will give me the desires of my heart and truly work these trials for my benefit.

But my desire to be a woman of complete faith is slowly becoming greater than my desire to become a woman who gets everything she wants out of life. And when I say slowly, I mean slowly. But I'm getting there.

So this year, my spiritual mantra is WAIT. I'm not exactly sure what the next 12 months will bring for Steven and I. But I know, that if yield to Christ's will in my life and earnestly seek His direction, I will be much better off than I could every be by following Amber's Life To-Do List.

Do any of you have a spiritual mantra or life verse? Something to keep you focused in difficult times? I'd love to hear about them!

Thank God It's Friday

Thank God It's Friday because I've put in another 60 hour work week and I'm spent. Seriously. Mentally, physically, emotionally - I'm done. I may have had a tiny *meltdown* last night to prove it. Something about not having enough hours in the day, not wanting to cook dinner, not going to gym in over two weeks, not feeling like myself. Ya know - poor me stuff. Let's just say The Year of Amber wasn't exactly in full force last night.


Thank God It's Friday because it's a casual jeans day at the office. And I may be taking slight advantage of it by wearing jeans, tennis shoes and a bright pink Minnie Mouse sweatshirt. Don't judge me - because my husband already has.

Thank God It's Friday because hubby has plans all night which means I have the house to myself! I plan to relax and renew with a bubble bath, good book and bottle of red. I may even treat myself to an at home mani/pedi if the urge hits me. Even catch up on some of my favorite shows. All I know is I have a date with myself and the possibilities are endless.

Thank God It's Friday because we are OUT of groceries. Cupboards are practically bare. Obviously I haven't had time for grocery shopping the past two weeks - so Saturday morning will be spent stocking the shelves with healthy, Zone friendly choices.

Thank God It's Friday because that means tomorrow is date night with hubs. It feels like it's been forever since we've spent quality time together. For the past two weeks I have crawled home and practically crawled in the bed each night. I'm looking forward to dinner and a movie with the Mr.

Why are you happy it's Friday??

Shopping Auto Insurance - Frustrating or Fabulous?

For those of you who may not know, I'm an accountant. Not only that, I'm an accountant who *loves* to save money.

I have read multiple books by Suze Orman and Dave Ramsey regarding managing your finances, and I have learned quite a few helpful tools over the years.

I figure it's time to share the wealth. So from time to time you may see a budget-friendly PSA on the blog. I mean, who couldn't use more money in their wallets and a little financial freedom?

About six months ago I took a hard look at our finances and monthly budget. I felt like Steven and I brought home decent salaries - but couldn't understand why we didn't have more left over each month.

I decided it was time to trim the financial fat. But I wasn't sure where to start. So many of our bills were set in stone: mortgage payment, car payments, student loans. Not much "wiggle room" there.

So I started with our auto insurance policy.

I think there is a stigma associated with shopping your insurance policy: time consuming, frustrating, pointless. To say I was hesitant to start the task would be an understatement.

But I did - and I was shocked to learn that we could keep our exact same coverages and pay $45 less a month. That's a savings of $540 a year! I'd say that's time well spent. Fabulous even!

If you haven't shopped your insurance policies in a while - I suggest you give it a try. You might be shocked to see how much you have been overpaying.

A few helpful pointers:
- Get a copy of your current policy with deductibles & coverages. Be sure to request the exact same deductible & coverage to be sure that you are saving money by switching to a new carrier.
- Bundle all insurances policies with the same carrier. Most insurance companies offer you discounts for having multiple policies - so if you are a home owner or have a boat, be sure to bundle those policies with your auto insurance.
- Review your coverages with an agent. There is a chance that you may have more coverage than you need (this is common with home owner's policies). If so, you may be paying more than necessary.

Feel free to leave a comment or send me an email if you have any questions!

Happy Savings Blogger Friends! :)

ROLL TIDE ROLL

I fully acknowledge that this post is a day late. But little 'ole me is still in full blown year-end close at the office - just indulge me and pretend like this is new news....

THE CRIMSON TIDE IS THE 2012 BCS NATIONAL CHAMPION!!!

To all those haters who said we didn't deserve to play in the championship game, I say, GOOD DAY!

I think the utter mauling, as Brent Musburger put it, more than proves that Alabama deserved a shot at the title. And they took it: 21-0!

So the fans around my house are pretty pleased. :)

I apologize to any of you who follow me on Twitter or Facebook. I realize that my tweets and status updates were *beyond* obnoxious. But I just couldn't help myself.

Can't wait till next season to see what Saban & The Tide have up their sleeves!

And for those of you who have requested a picture of my new hair do - here you go.  Not the best picture - but you get the point.  ROLL TIDE!

Thank God It's Friday

Thank God It's Friday because I need a break from work like whoa. And I mean like whoa. When I left the office at 6pm yesterday, I had already put in over 50 hours. That's right - 50 hours in 4 days. I still have a full 9-10 hours of work on the agenda today as well - but at least I get a break this weekend. Gotta love the life an accountant at year-end.


Thank God It's Friday because my house is a hot mess and needs a thorough cleaning. This 60+ hour work week has left little room for clearning/cooking. Not to mention, all my Christmas décor is still up. Not off to the best start on the domestic front for 2012, am I? Like I said...Year of Amber means it's ok if my house is a disaster during close at the office. But I'm looking forward to getting this mess cleaned up! Anyone want to volunteer their domestic services at my place this weekend? I've got a good bottle of wine I'm willing to share!

Thank God It's Friday because my in-laws are coming for a visit Friday. That's right - I'm actually excited about a visit from the in-laws. I puffy heart super adore my MIL. We weren't able to see them at Christmas because we traveled to MS to be with the hub's extended family - so this weekend will serve as our post holiday get together. *I'm pumped*

Thank God It's Friday because I will actually get to get a few workouts in this weekend. Umm...it's been a full 6 days since I've even thought about the gym. Again with The Year of Amber and grace during difficult times - but honestly, this booty needs to do a little sweating. If only I could get my knee to stop hurting I might actually get back into Crossfit full force. But at this point I will take what I can get.

Thank God It's Friday because Steven and I will finally be at church on Sunday! Holiday travels have kept us from FiveStones the past three Sundays. I'm deeply missing the time of worship and challenging messages from our pastor. Looking forward to some Jesus this weekend! And for my more conservative readers, I am not being sacrilegious. Jesus is my friend - I need some time with him just like I do my husband or one of my girlfriends. He really is my homeboy.

So happy Friday ya'll! Is anyone else as happy as I am that it's almost the weekend!?!

Here's To The Year Of Amber

Happy New Year! Only 5 days late right? Oh and since I completely missed the holidays around the Blog World - Happy Thanksgiving, Happy Hanukkah & Merry Christmas ya'll!

I'm not doing New Year's Resolutions this year. Too much pressure. After looking back on 2011, I see a recurring theme. Stress. Stress. Stress. And you know what's the cause of that stress?

ME!

I put too much pressure on myself to be the perfect wife, perfect accountant, perfect Christian, perfect person.

I set WAY too many goals and I am super upset when I don't accomplish them.

Don't get me wrong. I think it is admirable to strive for self improvement. It is honorable to want to be a loving spouse, valuable employee & quality world citizen. However, I tend to set significantly higher expectations for myself than I ever do for anyone else.

So this year is The Year Of Amber. (Yes, I'm stealing this from Happy Endings - but it seemed appropriate.)

The year of giving myself a little grace. The year of developing hobbies that I enjoy. The year of traveling to visit friends. The year of being grateful in all things and trusting the Lord to handle those circumstances that are out of my control.

I did something kind of drastic in honor of The Year of Amber. I chopped 6 inches off my hair. I think my hair is becoming an expression of what I feel emotionally. Last winter I died it dark brown. This year I chopped 6 inches off. My hair dresser asked if I was sure I wanted to cut that much off. I responded, "Umm....2011 has pretty much been a horrible year for me. I'm convinced the bad mojo is stuck in my hair. So get rid of that crap please!" :)

With that being said, I plan to come back to blogging again. She's my long lost friend. My escape. My happy place. We've had an on again, off again relationship for quite some time now. And I'm actually committed to making this thing last.

Hope your 2012 is off to a fabulous start!

I Need A Home Ec Class

The housewife in me is filled with *shame* as I type these words.

Your eyes are not playing a trick on you. That is my husband sewing a button back onto his pants. Why, you might ask? Because I don't know how to sew. Not even a silly button.

I think I'm missing that gene. The crafty, skilled with your hands, woman can make anything gene. My mom has it. Lord knows my Mema had it. My sister is even pretty good with domestic affairs such as sewing - but not me.

I think it's time I enrolled myself into a Home Ec class. Maybe a "Domestic For Dummies" tutorial of some sort might do the trick.

I watched last night as Steven skillfully sewed a button back onto his pants and my womanhood cracked just a tiny bit. Even Bauer wondered what was going on! I swear he shot me a look that said, "This is woman's work mom!"

To make matters worse, Steven kindly offered to iron my dress pants after finishing up with his pants. He wasn't being a jerk. He simply offered to iron my pants because he knows how much I hate ironing and he was willing to do this chore for me.

Needless to say I went to bed feeling like a fraud. I'm a wife, and I own a house. But I'm nowhere near the housewife my Mema trained me to be.

I woke this morning with the urge to bake a pie or crochet a blanket. I'm pretty sure I dreamed about becoming a domestic goddess last night......

PS - Those aren't Steven's glasses. They are mine - he was just trying to thread the needle and needed a little help.  :)

So I've Been Thinking....

If I have some important news that I want to share, I like to start the conversation with, "So - I've been thinking." This statement is an indication that what I am about to say is of the utmost importance and I expect hubby to drop whatever he is doing and listen intently. I don't like to just come out and say what's on my mind. I make my intro statement, pause and wait for hubby's full attention.

Unfortunately, the phrase, "So - I've been thinking" is generally met with an immediate, "Here we go again." I swear Steven eagerly waits for me to announce my latest revelation just so that he can mock me.

It really is quite annoying. I don't understand why he won't take me seriously. For example......

Me: So I've been thinking.
Steven: Here we go again - what have you been thinking?
Me: I want to live in a place with mountains in the background. Not actually in the mountains - just where I can turn around and see the mountains. You know, like how you see snapshots of all those college stadiums with mountains as a backdrop. Let's sell the house and move some place like that.
Steven: You realize that you are physically, deathly afraid of the mountains right?
Me: Yes - I *hate* being in the mountains. But I like to look at them - they are pretty.
Steven: Do you think that if you lived that close to the mountains there is a really good chance you will have to go into the mountains often?
Me: I just said we should consider it....

Me: So I've been thinking.
Steven: Here we go again.....
Me: I think I know what I want to do with my life!
Steven: What's that? (With an 'I can't wait for this grin on his face)
Me: I want to make designer, orthopedic shoes for women with knee/foot problems. You know, shoes that are fabulously trendy but supportive. I could make a fortune!
Steven: How do you know those don't already exist?
Me: Because I went to Southpark Mall and couldn't find anything like it!
Steven: Well honey shoes exist in places other than Southpark Mall. Have you googled designer orthopedic shoes?
Me: No.
Steven: Okay. Well do you know how to design shoes.
Me: Of course I don't! I'll pay someone to design them for me.
Steven: Where will you sell them?
Me: Umm...at the mall??
Steven: Where will you get the start-up money?
Me: I don't know.
Steven: Haven't thought this one through have you?
Me: You're always brining me down.....

Conversations such as the above are a weekly occurrence. Obviously I am talking about life changing important issues and hubby should get on my page!

Perhaps if I spent my energy thinking about more practical things such as meal planning, scheduling workouts and chores I might be much more productive and the hubby might take me a little more seriously.

Oye.....

True Life: I'm Bipolar

One thing has become blaring apparent to me over the past three weeks. I am bipolar.

For some of my closest friends, this comes as no surprise.

But I have been quite surprised to discover that I have two distinct personalities.

Allow me to introduce Skinny Amber. She's a no excuses, eat well and train hard kind of girl. She likes to try new Zone/Paleo recipes and keeps a fridge stocked full of fresh fruits, vegetables & lean proteins. She thrives off the endorphine high she gets from an early morning workout and has no problem rising at 5:00 am every morning to hit the gym before work. She lives for calloused hands and sore muscles. She can stare a Snickers bar straight in the face without blinking. She's got conviction. She's got guts. She's a size 4 with six pack abs and a smokin' hot booty.

Fat Amber is a different story. She's a sit on your butt wearing sweatpants while stuffing your face with double stuffed oreos kind of girl. Her favorite foods include salt-n-vinegar chips, Snickers candy bars, McDonald's Big Macs and peanut butter fudge milkshakes. Her idea of a good workout is a leisurely stroll through Target while sipping on a Pumpkin Spice Latte. Her favorite past time is sleeping and she will stay in the bed until the latest second possible every morning in order to avoid starting her workday. She is lazy. She is a whiner. She's 300 pounds with bad skin and cankles.

Every morning there is an epic battle between Skinny Amber & Fat Amber. The alarm clock goes off at 5:00 am jolting me from a deep sleep, and suddenly I hear two distinct voices in my head begging me to make a decision:

Skinny Amber: (In a confident, optimistic voice that sounds something like Monica from Friends) Good morning! Get up girl! It's a new day. It's time to meet our goals. Time to rehab that knee. Time to better yourself. Let's do this!
Fat Amber: (In a deep, dreary voice that sounds something like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh) Don't do this to me! It's too early! Unplug that God awful contraption and let's go back to sleep. Rehab is for losers!
Skinny Amber: Don't listen to her. She's fat and sad. She wants you to be just like her. You need to get out of bed. You need to start your day right. Do this for your health. Do this for yourself. Do this for your skinny jeans!
Fat Amber: Why do you allow her hang out with us?? She's obnoxious! Being skinny is overrated! And who honestly cares about their health these days? Go back to sleep and I'll treat you to a sausage biscuit on the way to work. Now that's a way to start your day!
Skinny Amber: Allow me to hang out with you? Listen here fatty - if it weren't for me there would be no going to work each day. Amber would be so big that it would take a crane and crew of six men to get her out of the bed if you got your way! Amber...for the love of all things holy....Get.Out.Of.The.Bed!
Fat Amber: Oh no she didn't! Are you going to let her talk to us this way? What's the point of being skinny if you're too exhausted to enjoy it? Skinny people are angry people. You need to give Skinny Amber a cheeseburger.
Skinny Amber: Okay - I really didn't want to have to do this. But I can see that you aren't getting out of this bed. So here it is....here's the truth. And I only say this because I care about you.
Fat Amber: This should be interesting. She "cares" about you. I care about sleep!
Skinny Amber: Your husband looks better than you do naked!!!

And just like that.....I'm up! I can't believe Skinny Amber dropped a truth bomb like that at 5 in the morning. Fat Amber's got a point. Skinny Amber really can be such a........

Miscellany Monday

{one} I survived my first close at the new job by myself. For those of you who don't know - I'm an accountant for an international company headquartered in Charlotte. And month end close is always a very busy time of the month for me. Last month was my first time closing my portion of the books by myself. It wasn't pretty - but I survived. :)

{two} I'm on my second cup of coffee already this morning. I feel utterly exhausted this morning. I'm not quite sure why. I have glaring bags under my eyes and my skin just look sullen. Am I possibly catching an early case of the winter blues? Maybe I need a power nap.

{three} I really want to see Footloose this weekend. Does that make me a total teeny bopper? Footloose was one of my favorite 80's movies and I'm so *pumped* that they have remade it with a modern day spin. I may be planning a girl's night to see this one....

{four} I'm so ready for the holidays. I think I'm mainly just excited to have a few days off from work. This year has been pretty tough on me. Three different jobs in one year is a little overwhelming. I haven't had a day off since June and I'm kind of beat. A tiny part of me wishes Steven and I could just lock ourselves away for the holidays and not go anywhere or see anyone. Just light a fire and curl up watching holiday movies for an entire week with nothing to do and nowhere to go. But I know that's never going to happen. Maybe one of these years we will sneak away to Jamaica for the holidays. We keep saying that we are going to do it before we have kids - but it hasn't happened yet!

{five} I've mentioned this a few times on Twitter - but seriously, what's all this buzz about Pinterest? I have received multiple invitations, but haven't joined yet. I'm not sure if I have time for another social media distraction in my life. But apparently it's all the rage!

Gospel Of Blogging - According To Amber

Can I start today's post by saying - HAPPY FRIDAY!!! Whew...I feel like I've been waiting on this day all week. I'm very much looking forward to relaxing and watching football this weekend. I also have plans (fingers crossed) to clean my mess of a house - but we shall see how much success I have.


As promised, I thought I would share a few more tips that I have found useful in my experience as a blogger. Again, these are my personal opinions and I am sure many bloggers would disagree - this isn't the Gospel of Blogging - just the Gospel of Blogging According to Amber.

Choose pictures carefully.

I think this is a sensitive subject. Some bloggers post 10+ pictures a day. Other bloggers rarely post pictures at all. I try to land somewhere in the middle. If I am writing a post about a particular event, I will include a few pictures of the event. If I am writing a post about a product that I love, I will include a picture of the product and possibly a link to the product. However, there are many days that I do not include pictures at all. It's important to keep your readers engaged visually and to keep your blog appealing to the eye - so fun pictures & cute artwork are definitely a positive. I believe it's better to use your own pictures rather than "borrowed" pictures from other sites. When I stumble across a blog that is 80% motivational pictures from WeHeartIt or nothing but fashion shots from Vogue, Elle, etc., I move on. I need more content than that. Like I said yesterday, most people want to see your real life - not what you wish your life was.

Shake things up a bit.

Try to write varied posts each week. Product reviews are great. Sharing recipes - awesome. Tips on budgeting and couponing are extremely helpful. Hysterical stories about mishaps as a newlywed, new mommy or career woman are always a plus. But writing about the same thing every day can make you and your blog somewhat predictable and people may be less likely to visit you every day. There are a few blogs that I love for fashion do's & don'ts, recipes & budgeting tips. But I only visit them when I want advice on fashion, food & budgeting - because I know that is all that I will find.

Take advantage of social media.

Twitter people! Twitter - Twitter - Twitter! Many women who blog - also tweet. And we tweet to each other - all day long. :) Developing those friendships outside of the blogland creates a true interest in your life among your readers. Sharing links to your blog on Twitter and Facebook is also a great way to draw new people to your blog. I've also found that many bloggers will actually share a link to your blog on their Twitter page - which draws their own followers to your blog. I'm telling you - if you want to get the word about your little old blog - then tweet it.

Be a considerate member of the blogging community.

This is a pet peeve of mine. If you want others to read and comment on your blog - then do the same. I know that life gets busy - hello I took a 6 month sabbatical! But make time to keep up with other bloggers. If you see that new readers are visiting your blog and leaving comments, be courteous and do the same to them. I am not saying that you have to visit every single person who comes to your blog. That's not possible. I'm also not saying that have to follow everyone who follows your blog. I'm just saying that if you see a blogger visiting your site time after time and genuinely enjoying what you have to say - then at least make the effort to do the same. If you visit their blog and truly don't like what you see - no harm no foul. You certainly don't have to love everyone - but you can at least try.

Live your life.

This is probably the biggest struggle I have as a blogger. Balance. I swear to you I could spend hours a day blogging. I could visit 100+ blogs a day and leave comments. And when I do spend a great deal of time visiting other blogs and commenting on other blogs - that is when I see the most traffic to my blog. It's like a drug. I love sharing with other bloggers and I want them to share with me. But I work full time. I have a husband who would like to eat dinner with me every night. I go to church and help out with our youth group. It's difficult to devote hours upon hours to blogging. This is the main reason that I took a 6 month break recently - I just became too wrapped up in blogging. I felt guilty if I couldn't comment on every one's blog. I felt bad if I didn't respond to the 50+ emails I got a day. So I just quit blogging completely. That obviously wasn't the answer. The answer is balance. If you need to take a day or two off to focus on things at home or work - do it. You will be missed. If you can't respond to every email or visit all your favorite blogs each day - it's okay. Catch up when you can. Most active bloggers share the same time restrictions that you have and they will understand. Like I said - it's all about being a considerate member of this community.

Okay - I think I have shared enough for now. I hope this helps to all of you who are trying to get your blog up and running. Thanks for following along with me. And if you're thinking about joining Twitter - feel free to find me HERE.