It's getting down to crazy time! Yesterday, I had my final dress fitting and brought it home with me. Today, we got the invitations weighed, stamped, stuffed, and sent! We bought our wedding shoes and a guest book of sorts. I also went with Tracy to her first dress fitting today after running an assortment of wedding errands with her yesterday! Thursday we'll go to her final fitting--pray that they get EVERYTHING perfectly altered.
Friday, Tracy and I embark on Tracy's Wedding Week Travels- we'll head toward Columbia, SC so we can have a bachelorette partay for her on Saturday night with her delightfully funny and sweet college pals (Celia and Sarah, respectively, to be specific)! Sunday, at our leisure, we'll make it to Topsail Island, NC. Monday and Tuesday, Tracy will deal with military movers shenanigans while I bask in the sun on the beach across the street from their house :)
Wednesday, we pack up and head towards Fredericksburg, VA. I'm not sure how long we'll be there--passing through, I think-- and sometime shortly after that, we'll move to Vienna, VA where I'll be baking the cakes in Alex's aunt's oven. Thursday, we head back to Fredericksburg and the wedding weekend hoopla commences!
I'm extremely excited for every bit of this trip and adventure! I am more than happy for my seester to be marrying such a wonderful and kind man and I am grateful for one last unmarried road trip together. I've had a great summer with Tracy around, so I'll be sad that she'll once again be far away, but it's been a summer for the books and I'm sure this adventure will be too!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
When the Texas Heat Gets Me Down
I take to the books! In the past few months, I have tackled a number of books and have had a wonderful time doing just that! Over serveral months, I've been working on A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket. My sweet fiance gifted me the collectors set for my birthday after declaring my love of the movie! Of course, the books are better and of the thirteen books in all, I am currently on the tenth book, The Slippery Slope. Yes, I realize that these are children's books, but they are skillfully written and really quite amusing! The Baudelaire children have such miserable luck but I am dedicated to these books: I must know how they fare in the end!
In between books in the series, I have slipped in some others: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein for one. I thuroughly enjoyed that book, although I will say that much of it was sad and frustrating. All signs of good writting though; the book overall was excellent and brought me to tears a number of times. I'll admit that I can be quite the sap when it comes to the written word (and movies) but this one was particularly tearful for me. Between the love I have for Tripp and the intense adoration I have for Akira, our dog, this book kept me thinking about the two of them and how grateful I am for my life just the way it is.
Most recently, I picked up The Allergen-Free Baker's Handbook by Cybele Pascal. I am most excited about this book!
{A quick aside, indirectly related to the book} To be completely candid and honest, I'll confess that for the past few months, I've been doing some serious soul searching to find the answer to these questions: what do I really want to make my career? What am I sincerely passionate about? What could I wake up in the morning and be excited about going to work for? I thought that earning my degree in Baking and Pastries would be suitable for me, at least for a little bit, but after obtaining said certification, I have come to realize that it is not enough to be truly satisfying for me. Don't get me wrong, I have a terrific time making cakes on the side for friends and family; my skill has improved drastically, if I may say so myself. For that reason, I am grateful for my formal education in the area as well as my experience, albeit short lived, working in bakeries. I have come to the conclusion that I will need to find a job that I can enjoy for sometime, save up money, and continue my education to feel satisfied. I would like start by pursuing my bachelors in food science/health & nutrition, or something of the sort.
Such has been my thought for some time, however the excitement and passion that literally (regardless of the cheese factor) sprung up in me upon finding this book is undeniable. I love food science. I want to be able to understand the chemistry of food, of ingredients and how to make food more available for those who have to go without often because of disease or disorder! I want to teach others about food, how they interact, why they interact, and what is good for us.
After reading the first two chapers of this book, all about the ingredients, substitutions, ratios, whatnot, I could not wait to experiment! And my first recipe attempted- SunButter Greenies- was a smashing success! I care soo much about bringing happiness and content to others and I feel that I can do that best through food. This book is already revolutionizing my thoughts and understanding of baked goods and I look forward to more experimentation soon.
In between books in the series, I have slipped in some others: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein for one. I thuroughly enjoyed that book, although I will say that much of it was sad and frustrating. All signs of good writting though; the book overall was excellent and brought me to tears a number of times. I'll admit that I can be quite the sap when it comes to the written word (and movies) but this one was particularly tearful for me. Between the love I have for Tripp and the intense adoration I have for Akira, our dog, this book kept me thinking about the two of them and how grateful I am for my life just the way it is.
Most recently, I picked up The Allergen-Free Baker's Handbook by Cybele Pascal. I am most excited about this book!
{A quick aside, indirectly related to the book} To be completely candid and honest, I'll confess that for the past few months, I've been doing some serious soul searching to find the answer to these questions: what do I really want to make my career? What am I sincerely passionate about? What could I wake up in the morning and be excited about going to work for? I thought that earning my degree in Baking and Pastries would be suitable for me, at least for a little bit, but after obtaining said certification, I have come to realize that it is not enough to be truly satisfying for me. Don't get me wrong, I have a terrific time making cakes on the side for friends and family; my skill has improved drastically, if I may say so myself. For that reason, I am grateful for my formal education in the area as well as my experience, albeit short lived, working in bakeries. I have come to the conclusion that I will need to find a job that I can enjoy for sometime, save up money, and continue my education to feel satisfied. I would like start by pursuing my bachelors in food science/health & nutrition, or something of the sort.
Such has been my thought for some time, however the excitement and passion that literally (regardless of the cheese factor) sprung up in me upon finding this book is undeniable. I love food science. I want to be able to understand the chemistry of food, of ingredients and how to make food more available for those who have to go without often because of disease or disorder! I want to teach others about food, how they interact, why they interact, and what is good for us.
After reading the first two chapers of this book, all about the ingredients, substitutions, ratios, whatnot, I could not wait to experiment! And my first recipe attempted- SunButter Greenies- was a smashing success! I care soo much about bringing happiness and content to others and I feel that I can do that best through food. This book is already revolutionizing my thoughts and understanding of baked goods and I look forward to more experimentation soon.
Monday, June 28, 2010
WHOA! SPAIN?
So Tripp's parents called us earlier this week to discuss the honeymoon plans before they booked them (a HUGE courtesy, btw- I anticipated not having any information until at an airport!). They wanted to run this idea past us:
October 3/October 4- Fly to Madrid, Spain!
October 5- make way to the Canary Islands!!
October 13- head back to Madrid
October 15- come back to the States!
That's almost two whole weeks in Spain! SPAIN! I am more than excited!
I can guarantee that I'll be doing all sorts of research on Spain and Spanish for many days to come!
October 3/October 4- Fly to Madrid, Spain!
October 5- make way to the Canary Islands!!
October 13- head back to Madrid
October 15- come back to the States!
That's almost two whole weeks in Spain! SPAIN! I am more than excited!
I can guarantee that I'll be doing all sorts of research on Spain and Spanish for many days to come!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Four Years!
At 12:36am four years ago today, I recieved a text reading, "I was going to wait until morning, but I don't want to. Will you go out with me?" from a SUPER nerdy boy that had only recently started talking to me (four days previous, to be exact. He has successfully remained elusive even through the many attempts I had made over the seven years prior to get him to say something more than one syllable grunts that I had become accustomed to. I didn't realize at the time how much that text would change my life.
As it turns out quiet and observant are areas that I struggle with, areas that I've needed some help with. Accountability, discipline, contentedness, confidence, and patience too. Fortunately, my nerdy boy has helped me grow in each of these areas, either by being proficient in the area or by desperately struggling toward it with me. He encourages me, he comforts me, he loves me. He's the only person that can completely calm me down when I get too wound up or upset, and it's only with a listening ear, a hug, and a kiss.
He is a gift, a blessing. I know there's no way that I could have deserved to be paired with a man as incredible and patient as Grady but I am more than grateful that God has put a love for me in his heart and lets me love him in return. My life is nothing like I would have imagined at this point and I am so glad for that!
As it turns out quiet and observant are areas that I struggle with, areas that I've needed some help with. Accountability, discipline, contentedness, confidence, and patience too. Fortunately, my nerdy boy has helped me grow in each of these areas, either by being proficient in the area or by desperately struggling toward it with me. He encourages me, he comforts me, he loves me. He's the only person that can completely calm me down when I get too wound up or upset, and it's only with a listening ear, a hug, and a kiss.
He is a gift, a blessing. I know there's no way that I could have deserved to be paired with a man as incredible and patient as Grady but I am more than grateful that God has put a love for me in his heart and lets me love him in return. My life is nothing like I would have imagined at this point and I am so glad for that!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Wedding-tastic Week!
Due to health (back) problems, I've had a lot more time this week than normal and have made use of this time for wedding planning! This week we have worked on finding music and scriptures for the ceremony as well as going through play lists for the reception, shopping for wedding bands, deciding on wedding party accessories, updating our guest list with email and mailing addresses, and rounding out our gift registry. Oh- don't forget our engagement pictures (round one) this morning!
Because of scheduling issues, we're doing mini sessions on a few mornings at a handful of locations! Megan Edison is new to professional photography and we're happy to be her guinea pigs- she wants to try so many different things to give her practice and expand her portfolio and that is excellent for us because we get many many more pictures and time than we otherwise would have had we chosen another photographer! And may I mention again that we're getting Megan's photography services for a steal compared to any other wedding photographer!?!
Anyways, we started at Bob Woodruff Park in a nicely wooded area early this morning and the reconvened at Memorial Park after a quick beverage stop; all three elements of the session were great! Tripp was SUCH the natural at this whole photo shoot which BLEW me out of the water! I was seriously surprised--the kid is sooo meek and reserved that I never would have guessed that he'd be the one cracking jokes to make ME smile! It was simply amazing how playful and affectionate he was willing to be in front of that camera... My mind is still pleasantly boggled by the whole thing. And the coffee/tea chat was great to for getting to know Megan even better!
Now, for the much adored countdowns/tallie counts:
1449: days Tripp and I have been together
157: days Tripp and I have been engaged
113: days until Tripp and I become Mr. and Mrs. Grady Price III
20: days of sugar freedom! I feel great and am getting to where it feels normal!
12: days until Tripp and I celebrate four great years of dating
Because of scheduling issues, we're doing mini sessions on a few mornings at a handful of locations! Megan Edison is new to professional photography and we're happy to be her guinea pigs- she wants to try so many different things to give her practice and expand her portfolio and that is excellent for us because we get many many more pictures and time than we otherwise would have had we chosen another photographer! And may I mention again that we're getting Megan's photography services for a steal compared to any other wedding photographer!?!
Anyways, we started at Bob Woodruff Park in a nicely wooded area early this morning and the reconvened at Memorial Park after a quick beverage stop; all three elements of the session were great! Tripp was SUCH the natural at this whole photo shoot which BLEW me out of the water! I was seriously surprised--the kid is sooo meek and reserved that I never would have guessed that he'd be the one cracking jokes to make ME smile! It was simply amazing how playful and affectionate he was willing to be in front of that camera... My mind is still pleasantly boggled by the whole thing. And the coffee/tea chat was great to for getting to know Megan even better!
Now, for the much adored countdowns/tallie counts:
1449: days Tripp and I have been together
157: days Tripp and I have been engaged
113: days until Tripp and I become Mr. and Mrs. Grady Price III
20: days of sugar freedom! I feel great and am getting to where it feels normal!
12: days until Tripp and I celebrate four great years of dating
Friday, May 28, 2010
Sunshine and Good Days!
I love long walks!
I love sunshine and warmth!
I love having a well-behaved (mostly) and groomed pup!
I love spending time with my magnificent fiance!
I love reorganizing furniture and discovering more space in a room!
I love hanging with the pup for a lazy afternoon!
I love visiting with sisters!
I love making wedding planning progress!
I don't really love the laundry folding/hanging that I'm putting off...
Actually, I don't even like it, but heeeeeeeeere we gooooooo!
I love sunshine and warmth!
I love having a well-behaved (mostly) and groomed pup!
I love spending time with my magnificent fiance!
I love reorganizing furniture and discovering more space in a room!
I love hanging with the pup for a lazy afternoon!
I love visiting with sisters!
I love making wedding planning progress!
I don't really love the laundry folding/hanging that I'm putting off...
Actually, I don't even like it, but heeeeeeeeere we gooooooo!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
A Productive Week!
I am absolutely estactic! We have picked out and created our invitations, had a meeting with our photographer and scheduled our engagement photos (finally!), and I have picked my wedding dress! I couldn't be happier!
In other areas of my life:
I can say that I have lost at least some weight recently because things are starting to fit differently and I am seeing a change in my shape!
Similarly, but also seperately, I have been SUGAR FREE for five whole days! It has been a hard battle since I realized I was addicted to sugar on Easter. The fight started by expunging all sweets from our apartment and getting used to not ordering or picking up desserts at restaurants and stores, then I had to move on to convincing myself that I do not need to eat a finger-swipe's worth of buttercream every hour nor cake scraps when they become available. I have completely resisted every sugary temptation since Saturday, many they have been, and am SO proud of myself!
And best of all, big changes are happening at work and while the exact changes are unsure at best, I am being given more responsibility and being considered for upcoming advancements and promotions. :D
God is good and I am blessed.
In other areas of my life:
I can say that I have lost at least some weight recently because things are starting to fit differently and I am seeing a change in my shape!
Similarly, but also seperately, I have been SUGAR FREE for five whole days! It has been a hard battle since I realized I was addicted to sugar on Easter. The fight started by expunging all sweets from our apartment and getting used to not ordering or picking up desserts at restaurants and stores, then I had to move on to convincing myself that I do not need to eat a finger-swipe's worth of buttercream every hour nor cake scraps when they become available. I have completely resisted every sugary temptation since Saturday, many they have been, and am SO proud of myself!
And best of all, big changes are happening at work and while the exact changes are unsure at best, I am being given more responsibility and being considered for upcoming advancements and promotions. :D
God is good and I am blessed.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Dear Puppy of Mine,
The last few days, even perhaps weeks, have been particularly good for you and I; I just wanted to let you know that you make me ohh so very happy. I know that we have our off moments, sometimes off days and sometimes you annoy the poop out of me. You may not be a perfectly trained puppy and others might find you to be too obnoxious, but I think you're the perfect puppy.
I love the way you listen when we tell you to sit or tell you no. I don't always like the way you jump on me, but it does make me feel soo loved and so missed after a day away. You're hyperactivity can make me a little crazy sometimes, but it can also make me laugh like nothing else. For instance, last night, when Tia Tracy called and you got soo excited that you launched your self directly into my lap and plopped your behind down in my plate of coconut rice! Please don't do that again, but as for last night that was hilarious!
I also love watching you romp with your red puppy and pull its stuffing out. Nothing makes me smile more than when Tripp jumps, rolls, and runs around with you. That is nothing besides how incredibly cuddly you are. Sometimes you walk or jump yourself straight into my lap and demand to be loved on, other times you inch your way further and further on--either way is equally entertaining and I adore spending my time rubbing your ears and tummy.
Thank you for being such a wonderful puppy and making Tripp and I so happy! You're the perfect Kiki for us and I'm glad that we got you instead of ice cream that day a year and a half ago.
Love always,
Your mommy
I love the way you listen when we tell you to sit or tell you no. I don't always like the way you jump on me, but it does make me feel soo loved and so missed after a day away. You're hyperactivity can make me a little crazy sometimes, but it can also make me laugh like nothing else. For instance, last night, when Tia Tracy called and you got soo excited that you launched your self directly into my lap and plopped your behind down in my plate of coconut rice! Please don't do that again, but as for last night that was hilarious!
I also love watching you romp with your red puppy and pull its stuffing out. Nothing makes me smile more than when Tripp jumps, rolls, and runs around with you. That is nothing besides how incredibly cuddly you are. Sometimes you walk or jump yourself straight into my lap and demand to be loved on, other times you inch your way further and further on--either way is equally entertaining and I adore spending my time rubbing your ears and tummy.
Thank you for being such a wonderful puppy and making Tripp and I so happy! You're the perfect Kiki for us and I'm glad that we got you instead of ice cream that day a year and a half ago.
Love always,
Your mommy
Friday, March 26, 2010
Your Newest AID Graduate!
Hello! It's nice to meet you. I AM the newest Art Institute of Dallas graduate, Patricia E. Hagenbuck.
Today, I got to stick my head into an oven, scrub quarter inch thick grease off of racks and pots, and deck scrub the floors for one last time before getting all dolled up and heading over to Go Fish to enjoy the company of my classmates that I will likely never see ever again. Okay, Kathryn and Ashley are the exception, but I will gladly do without the rest. :P
Now I can move on to wedding planning! I'm so much more than happy!
Stay tuned for potential photos of my ceremonial trashing of all things AID related scheduled to occur tomorrow promptly after waking!
Today, I got to stick my head into an oven, scrub quarter inch thick grease off of racks and pots, and deck scrub the floors for one last time before getting all dolled up and heading over to Go Fish to enjoy the company of my classmates that I will likely never see ever again. Okay, Kathryn and Ashley are the exception, but I will gladly do without the rest. :P
Now I can move on to wedding planning! I'm so much more than happy!
Stay tuned for potential photos of my ceremonial trashing of all things AID related scheduled to occur tomorrow promptly after waking!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
The Birds and the Bees-
-have a completely different significance in Grady and my relationship: Our apartment is apparently in their airspace. Often on sunny days, whole flocks of birds will fly around out over the field below us and periodically come to rest on our windowsill... Same with wasps! And our window does not have a screen, unfortunately!
Today, the weather is beautiful and I'd give anything to be able to bask in the glory of the sun but I have a lot of household chores and homework to conquer... The window would be a perfect option if only there was some protection from the curious creatures outside, specifically the massive hawk that has made a handful of passes by the window today and anything that is attracted to the sweet smell of the peach room fragrance stuff we just plugged in! Bummer.
Today, the weather is beautiful and I'd give anything to be able to bask in the glory of the sun but I have a lot of household chores and homework to conquer... The window would be a perfect option if only there was some protection from the curious creatures outside, specifically the massive hawk that has made a handful of passes by the window today and anything that is attracted to the sweet smell of the peach room fragrance stuff we just plugged in! Bummer.
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