Confessions of a Gemini

Project of Goals Update 1

2012-01-10T07:58:00.000-05:00

It's now the 2nd week of January and I haven't quite got into my groove to do much. We are going out to do something *FUN* this weekend - we're going to a bonfire in West Newbury on Saturday night. It's through Tendercrop Farms - looks to be a lot of fun. Click here for more information, if you're interested!

Change?

2012-01-03T07:31:00.001-05:00

We're all capable of change. I'm not very good with personal "planned" change. This is something I struggle with every year as I choose to set new ~~resolutions~~ goals I'm likely to ~~forget~~ give up by the 2nd or 3rd week of the January! I know, my attitude is probably half of my battle. BUT, I go in with good intentions and that's counts for a good start. I'd like to work on the maintaining and sticking to my set/planned goals this year.

So without further ado, I declare my New Year Manifesto of Goals:

Twelve in Twenty-Twelve - A Project of Goals:

Lose at least twelve pounds

Bake 12 different things from a recipe

Make 12 projects

Post on my blog at least 12 times a month

Make a 2012 photo book

Try 12 new recipes for dinner

Read 12 books

Write 12 snail mail letters and send

Enjoy 12 fun things to do

Throw out 12 things I don’t need

Learn to quilt

Go to the gym at least 12 times a month

My goals are both fun and serious. Serious meaning losing at least 12 lbs and getting to the gym, fun is everything else. I went with the pick 12 things theme and I had been thinking about them for the last couple months. I really want to try to bake - something I guess. I like breads, cakes, cookies and by making them from scratch means I can make a small amount vs. a boxed recipe. I wanted to try 12 new recipes for dinner. Paul and I eat the SAME things over and over - I have a very bland diet and he is Italian. Enuf said! The rest is pretty much self-explanatory and for the most part = FUN!

I even made a desktop background for my computer to remind me of my goals - since I like cool looking backgrounds, I thought I'd try to make this look fun and stimulating, all the while piercing my brain with my goals staring at me in my face!

Welcome New Year!

2012-01-02T20:43:00.000-05:00

Hello Twenty-Twelve!

2011-12-31T15:17:00.000-05:00

Ahhh, the busy-ness of the season! I certainly dropped the ball on the blog posting this past month, BUT I was working on my December Daily book - keeping a daily running commentary in a word document and saving lots of stuff to put in the book. I have a huge pile of ephemera and cards, etc. and I just ordered my photos and will go pick them up here in a couple hours. I'll probably set aside a little time tomorrow to work on it.

What are your New Year's Eve plans? We'll be heading out to Stewart's for a bit and then over to our friends place to bring in the New Year.

2011 was a year I'll never forget for many reasons. But I always love the magic of a new year, too. Cheers to twenty-twelve! Pop Champagne Ohhhh-Oh!

Auld Lang Syne
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind ?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and old lang syne ?

CHORUS:

For auld lang syne, my dear,for auld lang syne,we'll take a cup of kindness yet,for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !
and surely I’ll buy mine !
And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have run about the slopes,
and picked the daisies fine ;
But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine^† ;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

And there’s a hand my trusty friend !
And give us a hand o’ thine !
And we’ll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

still working on it!

2011-12-06T08:20:00.000-05:00

Trying to be in the Christmas spirit, but for some weird reason it just doesn't "feel" like it! Might have something to do with the 60* temps we have for the past month! It feels more like spring! Anywhoo, I'm still working on my December Daily project, slowly but surely. I've written all of the journaling down in a word doc, and I've taken a lot of pictures. I'm collecting some small things for my book, too.

Not sure what I'm waiting for to put it all in my book, but this is typical of how I do some things, I wait until I have a large amount of things to put together and then I roll with it, rather than doing it day by day! (This is a HUGE reason why I never attempt Project Life, or 365 projects // I simply don't keep up with them!)

I saw this cool Handmade Holiday at ShopRuche.com - it has some super cute ideas. Cheggit out!

Are you into those big huge "letters" like I am? I saw a cool tutorial (from Pinterest, of course) and here is the link on how to make them: Letter Art - I really need to get on this project before our 60* weather loses steam!

hello december

2011-12-01T18:19:00.000-05:00

How are you, December? Long time no see ... I've missed you!

I started my December Daily Book, but I won't start to add things until the weekend, when I have a few days to work with and can print some pictures. Here is the base of my book. I printed Rhonna Farrer's Christmas Junque collection and made a bunch of pages as well as daily journaling pages that I made with Photoshop. I kept it simple, because I'll add so much more content to it like cards, pictures, memorabilia, etc.

This Week in Photos

2011-11-30T08:21:00.000-05:00

This Week in Photos - a little late, but nonetheless noted!

1. New perfume
2. My fave!
3. Empty!
4. Thanksgiving Party @ Stewart's
5. Dr. appt
6. Thanksgiving
7. Around the window
8. On the table
9. Outside

Thankful November 30

2011-11-30T06:56:00.000-05:00

Today I'm just thankful!

I'm excited to start on the December Daily project tomorrow! I pre-made my book and will share some pictures of the basic layout. All I have to do is a bit of journaling and picture taking! YAY!

Photograph your Christmas

2011-11-29T22:29:00.000-05:00

If you are participating in the December Daily this year, here is a 100+ photo ideas to add to your book!

Thankful November 29

2011-11-29T19:11:00.000-05:00

Thankful for a sweet card I received today. ♥

Thankful November 28

2011-11-28T07:09:00.002-05:00

Thankful that I was able to get my car washed, cleaned and detailed one more time before it gets too cold to do it!

Thankful November 27

2011-11-27T18:16:00.000-05:00

Thankful to finish up the holiday lights so that it's ready to go and it was a beautiful day to do it, too! Now we just need some of the white stuff to make it enchanting!

Thankful November 26

2011-11-26T10:51:00.000-05:00

Thankful for leftovers of turkey, potatoes and stuffing! Thankful for warm weather so we can decorate outside for the holidays. Thankful this is the LAST weekend our bad tenants will live here (more on that later!)

Thankful November 25

2011-11-25T06:47:00.002-05:00

Thankful today that I don't leave my house on Black Friday to go shopping! I have no patience for crowded malls and stores.

On a happier note, today is our 1 year anniversary of adopting Wilameena! She has been a great addition to our family!

Thankful November 24

2011-11-24T06:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I am truly thankful and blessed for our family and friends, my husband, my kitties, a healthy life, my home, and my job. Oh, and turkey and stuffing and potatoes and pumpkin pie!

Thankful November 23

2011-11-23T07:17:00.000-05:00

Thankful that I don't get caught up in the Black Friday/Sales Events hoopla. I pretty much don't leave my house Black Friday. I buy and make special gifts throughout the year so I don't have to get caught up in all the madness.

Thankful November 22

2011-11-22T07:25:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful for RESPONSIBLE people who spay and neuter their pets, to prevent unwanted animals to be brought into the world.

Thankful November 21

2011-11-21T06:00:00.001-05:00

I cannot lie...thankful for a 3 day work week!

This Week in Photos

2011-11-20T18:14:00.000-05:00

OK, 3rd post today...This week in photos!

1. Stewart's
2. Pancakes!
3. Cool wine label
4. Be Grateful
5. Wreath I made
6. Fall has arrived!
7. GUINNESS!
8. Willy
9. Breaking Dawn at the movies!

Ahhhh-MAZING!

2011-11-20T17:36:00.000-05:00

Saw Breaking Dawn Part I - AMAZING! I even took a picture of the wedding scene to text to my friend, who quickly replied that it should be HER on the alter with Edward! HAHA! {love}

Thankful November 20

2011-11-20T07:59:00.000-05:00

Ahhh, thankful for something fun today! Breaking Dawn Part I - I can't WAIT!

Thanksgiving Wreath!

2011-11-19T08:56:00.001-05:00

I made this cute wreath from Rhonna Farrer's Grateful Glam line with a great tutorial from The Polkadot Chair, it's pretty easy and inexpensive to make! Be Grateful! {love}

Thankful November 19

2011-11-19T08:36:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful it's Saturday...Twilight's Breaking Dawn Part 1 is finally here, my fave LSS is having a sale, the sun is shining, what more could ya ask for!

Thankful November 18

2011-11-18T20:30:00.002-05:00

TGIF

Thankful November 17

2011-11-17T07:10:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful today for a super cool doctor that was part of my cancer treatment team 4 years ago. Dr. H was super cool, super funny and most of all a very very talented radiation oncologist! As medical director of the Winchester Radiation Oncology Center, I, along with 2 other friends were treated by one of the best. I'm thankful for him today because he has left us to visit the angels in heaven. I'll be thinking of him, and thanking him for being a gentle, caring, and wonderful doctor.

Radiation Oncology Center named after Dr. Richard Heidbreder
Giving Back; A one-time patient gives back to her doctor

Thankful November 16

2011-11-16T07:12:00.000-05:00

I am thankful for the men and women who serve our country through the armed forces. They fight for our freedoms and the freedoms of people around the world. I am thankful for the police, fire, and rescue personnel because they sacrifice a lot to keep us safe!

Thankful November 15

2011-11-15T08:31:00.000-05:00

Another very special THANKFUL today. It was 20 years ago today, that I met a special couple from MI that would honor my wishes to give my baby girl a better life than I could provide. I had chosen them, or maybe they chose me through answered prayers. Either way, when we met a few months ago for the first time in over 19+ years, they definitely held up their end of the bargain and are just the most awesome parents ever! I am definitely blessed to have been given a gift, of their family in my life. Thank you!

Thankful November 14

2011-11-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

Thankful today for another beautiful warm day. I know we'll be getting a cold spell soon, so I'm glad for these few warmer days we have left!

Thankful November 13

2011-11-13T11:14:00.000-05:00

Thankful today for great Fall foliage! We went to the Cape this weekend and the colors were pretty nice, although it's close to the end of the season down there. We still have beautiful color up here on the North Shore and I hope to have another week or so to enjoy!

Thankful November 12

2011-11-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Thankful today for my job. (Especially since it's Saturday!) On a more serious note, I just love my work and the people I work with. They are like an extended family. When I'm with them, I know the great things we do and that makes me truly happy!

11.11.11 @ 11:11 AM and 11:11 PM

2011-11-11T23:11:00.001-05:00

11:11AM, unfortunately I was in a meeting and couldn't exactly whip out a camera and take a picture of my life right then and there.

11:11PM, unfortunately...sleeping

Typical and normal day. I'd say it was as magical as the rest!

Thankful November 11

2011-11-11T07:18:00.000-05:00

11.11.11 - if that isn't a magical number in itself, on a Friday, I don't know what is! However, I'm thankful today for all of our Veteran's who have served our country. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Thankful November 10

2011-11-10T06:00:00.003-05:00

♥Thankful today and always for this young lady in my life. We met 20 years ago today. Happy Birthday Sarah!♥

Thankful November 9

2011-11-09T06:50:00.002-05:00

Thankful for the past few days of warmer weather. Last week's crazy snowstorm was a reminder that winter is on it's way, but I'm glad to push it off a little bit if we can!

Thankful November 8

2011-11-08T07:00:00.004-05:00

Thankful for these 2 gals, my BS Sistah's. Together, we've celebrated 4 years cancer free this year, and we got many more to go! Love ya Deb and Penny!

Thankful November 7

2011-11-07T06:00:00.002-05:00

Thankful that I live close enough to the city, but can go just a bit North and be in the quiet country! I spent the weekend out at my friends' new place. I loved the "quiet" and the clean, crisp air. No sirens, no neighbors nearby, no traffic...love love love the countryside!

Thankful November 6

2011-11-06T20:30:00.000-05:00

Thankful for the time change! I really dislike getting up in the dark and I appreciate a little sunlight in the AM!

Thankful November 5

2011-11-05T06:53:00.000-05:00

Thankful for great friends, when we spend the weekends together; at the Cape, crafting at each others house, photography trips, Vermont trips, NYC trips, dinner nights, movie nights, haunted housing, beer drinking, good food, Thai take-out....the list never ends because it's always such a fun time! Love you guys!

Thankful November 4

2011-11-04T14:00:00.002-05:00

Thankful for these 2 little ~~Pretties~~ CrAzY CaTs that we love so much! Abigael and Wilameena - they snuggle, and meow for food, and chase each other around. So glad they have each other, too!

Thankful November 3

2011-11-03T07:00:00.006-05:00

Today I am thankful for having a wonderful job and working with the coolest people ever! I work with individuals with Developmental Disabilities and they are like my extended family, too! I work hard everyday because they inspire me to make a difference!

Thankful November 2

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Today I am thankful for good health. Despite surviving breast cancer 4 years ago, I'm relatively healthy. Overweight, but healthy. I feel good, I feel young and I think attitude plays a LARGE part in your overall well-being!

Thankful November 1

2011-11-01T07:51:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for a wonderful family - our family is defined by those that we love the most and those that are in our lives. In-laws, extended families, friends...I {heart} family.

3 more months have passed. I'm not surprised!

2011-11-01T07:27:00.015-05:00

Blogging is work, if you don't have a plan. Even my best laid out plans to have a topic and project, I get sidetracked. It is what it is, I'm moving forward to start fresh again. WELCOME NOVEMBER! I {heart} YOU!
Next up: 30 Days of Thankful!

HAWT!

2011-07-21T07:09:00.000-05:00

Yeah...it's July! BLECH!

This Week's Menu

2011-07-18T06:26:00.000-05:00

Monday: Baked Chicken and Roasted asparagus
Tuesday: Pork Chops & Salad
Wednesday: Lasagna Cupcakes (We didn't get to them last week!)
Thursday: Roasted veggies and Penne
Friday: Baked Fish + Roasted Veggies
Saturday: FREE DAY
Sunday: Taco's

The Knowing: Exercise + Moving More

2011-07-17T08:38:00.000-05:00

The Knowing, is a mini-series in my weight-loss journey - it's a way for me to say out loud, what I know and find a way to change because of it.

Exercise and Moving More - this one is a toughy. Being overweight, and finding extra energy in the day is hard. Yes, I know this is considered an excuse, too. I'm tired by the end of the day because I have a job that not only is emotionally + mentally straining, I'm on the go all of the time. I didn't say I was physically strained, I'm just on the go.

I belong to 2 gyms! Crazy, I know! I belong to Planet Fitness right next to my house because it's $10/month and 4 of us belong to that gym, so we can go together. I also belong to the YMCA in Reading, MA. I love their pool and aqua instructor. I pay a hefty monthly membership fee, but in my opinion, it's worth it. WHEN I GO, THAT IS!

Planet Fitness offers weights, bikes, treadmills, ellipticals and strength training. The YMCA offers the same, plus the pool. I've gone to the YMCA for about 3 years now. I did really well when I used to go swimming before work (my optimal time of day), I went to aqua aerobics Tues + Thurs from 9am-10am, then headed to work. It was nice and I loved it. It didn't last because I usually ended up getting called in to work before 9am most mornings. Again, an excuse.

I now go to the YMCA on Sunday's from 12-12:45 for an aqua fitness class, but I can find every excuse to stay home, too. (Like I did today!) I also signed up to go to an evening swim class on Tues + Thurs nights, but I'm usually dead tired when I get home those nights to drive 17 miles back to the gym. It's a 730-815pm class. I rarely make it.

COMING NEXT: "Knowing: I'm not full, so I keep eating"

Photos + Words

2011-07-08T06:56:00.000-05:00

This Week's Menu

2011-07-05T19:26:00.001-05:00

Monday: Sushi
Tuesday: Corn Tortilla Pizza's (baked flat corn tortilla, refried beans with green chilies (add chili powder to beans before heating, lettuce, tomatoes, low-fat cheddar cheese, sour cream)
Wednesday: BLT's + Salad (Center-cut bacon is best - less calories!)
Thursday: Ground Chicken Burgers with Blue Cheese and Grilled Romaine Hearts
Friday: Baked Fish + Roasted Veggies
Saturday: FREE DAY
Sunday: Lasagna Cupcakes

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY AMERICA!

2011-07-04T12:03:00.001-05:00

Happy Independence Day America! It's a hot and muggy one out here in New England. We spent yesterday with friends celebrating, eating great food, hanging out, sweating in the humid, muggy air. It rained on us about 3 different times, but we hung in there anyway! Our friends' kids were so excited for the fireworks. I sat back and watched as they lit a bunch off and then we went home and crashed! Today, we're laying low, getting caught up on some housework and laundry and headed out for sushi later tonight with some friends. The Boston Pops is tonight with fireworks in the Boston Harbor. We usually can see them from home!

Tim Holtz Rocks!

2011-07-04T11:40:00.000-05:00

Seriously, is this not the coolest project EVER? I'm a little behind the times here, because Tim Holtz introduced this project a year ago, but I resisted the urge to jump in. I was up at my LSS a few weeks ago and got to see the actual project he taught in a class there last year. I was in heaven!

I did a little research on the project and found a couple videos that he did, teaching you how to get the project up and going. Check here for Video 1 and Video 2. I think the most fun part of this whole project is finding little things to put in it! I have a couple already things already, but I didn't photograph them in the picture.

The Knowing: Food + Planning

2011-07-03T12:41:00.000-05:00

Knowing where failure comes from, I think is the easy part. Making the change because of it is the challenge.

In my efforts to be truthful to myself about weight loss, I'm putting it all out there for people to see. I know my audience listens and offers support (if there is anyone left, that is, considering I've fallen off the blog wagon quite some time ago! I'm making a comeback!)

My biggest reasons I fail is I don't embrace my time wisely enough to plan ahead, throw in that I work an average 55+ hours a week, and if left to my husband, we'd eat cold cuts, white bread, popsicles, pizza and chinese every night for the most part! I'm not saying he can't cook. He's in the same boat as me, but fails to have a take charge attitude. I find that I feel like I am the one that holds the weight of the problem on my shoulders, sometimes. Planning, shopping and cooking. My husband is a fantastic man, but he does in fact lack in the planning ahead department. (PS: I'm in quite a funk today, I'm quite aware that it is indeed shining through in my writing - it's OK)

Simply put, planning ahead means we utilize a menu to follow, then go shopping for needed items. Not that hard to do, right!?! It's the one thing that causes me the most grief. I like grocery shopping, but carrying groceries up 3 flights of stairs is my biggest complaint. I just hate doing it. So, I shop for a few days at a time, which in the end costs more money and then when I don't want to go shopping, it doesn't get done and I will most likely fall off the wagon by eating something in the house or we order out.

Listen, I've written the book on excuses. I have more excuses than I care to admit. What I have here are excuses, really. I need to find a way to ditch the excuse and find a way to just do it. Make the time to plan, shop and prepare for the week and find the motivation to keep moving forward.

My plan of attack this week is to make a menu, make a grocery list, go shopping, and plan ahead. ALSO, blog about it!

COMING NEXT: "Knowing: Exercise + Moving More"

39 to 40

2011-07-02T21:52:00.001-05:00

I made a promise to myself that I would embrace the last year of my 30's and work on myself more. I've been a work in progress all of my life, just like everyone else. I've done the best I can to be a happy, well balanced person. I've achieved many things, I've lived through a multitude of changes and challenges, but I've failed miserably in the eat less and move more department.

This year, I promised myself to lose 39 lbs. before I turn 40. So on my 39th birthday, I joined Weight Watchers again (for like the 4th time, now!) and promised to get back up on the horse and get myself back in check.

Week 1 - 5/30-6/2 was the introductory period of just getting back in the groove and writing down everything I ate even if it meant I went over in points. I failed after a couple days because I let myself get too busy to stop and take time to document what I ate.

Week 2 - 6/3-6/9 I continued the quest of getting back in the groove of writing down what I ate. I failed again.

Week 3 - 6/10-6/16 another failed week

Week 4 - 6/17-6/23 FAIL

Week 5 - 6/24-6/30 FAIL

Week 6 - 7/1-7/7 so far = fail

I am so absolutely disappointed in myself. By now I could have literally lost 10 lbs. if I'd have just given a partial effort. I know my triggers and weaknesses, I know where I fail, and I know that if I can't get those things in check, I'm destined to be in the same old routine.

Yikes! 5 Months!

2011-04-26T19:52:00.000-05:00

Last post: December 1, 2010.
Blog updated: December to reflect holiday background, 1 post
Updated in January to reflect a New Year background, no posts
Updated in February to reflect a new background, no posts
Updated in March to update new background, no posts
Not updated in April, until today.

So sad. I know.

I've been so neglectful. Not because I wanted to be, because I've been busy. I know, I know - busy is an excuse.

In November last year, I left my job of 5 years, went to a new employer who had grand things to offer, and never came through. I sought out new employment and took my career to a new level. My new job is rewarding and challenging and I love it. My only regret is that I wish I'd have done it sooner.

So, I'm back and I hope to make this a better run than last year!

Wilamena & December!

2010-12-01T23:29:00.000-05:00

What a good girl Wilamena is! She is just so sweet and friendly! Here is a new picture of her being a cute! She is settling in well and Abigail is finally coming around. They still play the "hissing" game once in awhile...but I pretend that it's Wilamena telling Abigail to go *F* herself and to quit acting like a witch! More pics soon. I changed up the blog a bit to make things more festive around here! WELCOME DECEMBER!

As promised!

2010-11-27T19:52:00.000-05:00

Visit HERE if you would like to see all of our wedding photos and the ceremony (not sure if the sound is working yet or not - the reason I am late posting this!) - I like Shutterfly's share sites because I can use THEIR storage space for photos rather than mine! It's a nice little design space! Check it out and join as a member if you already have a Shutterfly account. ALSO, you can order pics from there if you like as well.

If you click on pictures and videos, it will take you to the different photo albums I put together for different aspects of the wedding process. One cool thing is on the right hand side, you can see 2 photo books I made with photos.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving - we spent the day with Paul's family and we made a ton of food, ate a ton of food and felt like 2 tons afterwards! It was great though and I loved every minute of it!

I also want to share that Paul and I adopted a new cat. I had been looking for a Persian cat that was adoptable through a shelter and I had been looking for a few weeks now. I found Wilamena, our new addition to our family this past week. It truly was a great Thanksgiving to me and I am ever so thankful that I found her. She is the sweetest little girl! Here is a good picture I got of her yesterday. I'll have more, for sure!

Playing catch up!

2010-11-23T07:58:00.000-05:00

I hate when I start a post with "It's been awhile", Yeah, I know...it's been awhile. I did get our wedding photos all set up along with a video on another site - I'll share it later today or in the morning. Paul is uploading the wedding video as we speak.

I started a new job this past week with another organization. Leaving behind (almost) 5 years of service with my other employer. I just felt it was time to move on. I also wanted more $$, to be closer to home, and be in less traffic. So far, everything is going well.

Our tenants finally moved out, leaving behind quite a mess. I spent all day yesterday cleaning and it looks almost brand new. Our tenants were hoarders - though we didn't really find that out until they had lived here 6 months or so when Paul had to go in and look at some plumbing issues. I got to check out their obsession about 3 weeks ago when I demanded a pre-move out inspection - I was curious to see what it was going to take to get this apartment rented again. I also wanted to see potential damage.

They may have been hoarders, but I can at least say they were clean hoarders. The fridge/freezer was the worst, but a ~~good~~ helluva scrubbing, and miraculously it still works! It appeared that they had set the temperature so low, it wouldn't cool or freeze and we considered it a loss. They never hung anything on the walls so the walls which were painted 2 years ago look brand new!

So a little scrubbing and cleaning and the place looks grand! Thank god because Paul and I need to catch a break somewhere in this whole scenario. Paul will install a new vanity/sink this weekend and we should be able to start looking for potential renters by Monday.

I can't believe how Thanksgiving is in 3 days, already! This year seriously has just flown by! I'll be back later today with the wedding pics/video link and other fun holiday stuff I have going on!

XOXO

I know, I know!

2010-10-15T09:13:00.000-05:00

Been decompressing a bit after this long past month of putting everything together for our wedding, not to mention the past year of planning it. Photo editing in process. I will post pics and details soon, I promise!

XOXO

So much to do and time is running out fast!

2010-10-03T19:53:00.001-05:00

6 days and counting to Mr & Mrs Amato! I have a long list of things to do this week and it seems like a lot, until I think back to all of the things I have already got done! I had fallen behind in blog updates, but I promise you that what's left is boring and un-interesting!

Let's see, I have to wash the vases, the pen cups, spray paint the centerpiece twigs, get my hair done, wax my eyebrows, pick up a few things at the store, finish a little bit of last minute printing, make the programs, the rehearsal, the flowers and get a mani/pedi with the girls. We have to decorate the hall on Friday, too.

I took 4 days off prior to the wedding so that I didn't feel rushed and cramped for time. Then I took another 9 days off afterward so that I didn't feel like I had to rush back to the daily grind.

The weather is looking pretty good so far, but if it rains, I don't care. Everything is inside anyway.

We had a huge blip this week when our priest called and admitted to a huge church "woopsie" when they booked OUR WEDDING and a Quinceanera (no worries, I didn't know what it was either!) for 2pm - I was quite taken back that I was asked to reschedule our wedding to 1pm-130pm. I was mortified, actually. I stood my ground, we agreed to start on time at 2pm as originally planned. I also put in there that I didn't want people waiting to get in to the church or people trying to rush us out. I cried, I told that priest that their failure to plan properly had ruined my day. I'm still mad, but I'll deal with it.

Paul and I attended "A Fabulous Night for Penney" - a first annual fundraiser event that was held for PJ Richards. It was a very moving event and I was glad to be a part of it. I did a little uplifting speech - I was really insecure about it, as my emotions were not in check, but I pulled through and did a fine job. They raised about $6,800 for her scholarship fund through a silent auction.

Handmade Thank You's

2010-09-06T16:12:00.000-05:00

I totally just made the cutest Thank-You cards ever! Inspired by Leslie Lewis Sigler via www.lushlee.com I decided to attempt these cute bridesmaid cards today. Sometimes I hop from one blog to another and I find total inspiration. I promised myself I'd stop looking at wedding websites (and I have) but this site wasn't about weddings and I think the site that brought me there wasn't either. Anywhoo, I'm glad I stumbled across it!

My bridesmaids are gonna love these!

Oh my dear...

2010-09-04T10:07:00.001-05:00

...how I have neglected you so! Bloggie, I'm so sorry! Life's been busy!

A lot has been happening with Team Amato for the last month, So much in fact, that I have not had a lot of spare time (well, I have a ton of spare time really. It's what I do with that spare time that makes me feel busy!) to post here on all the exciting wedding planning! I'm also trying to leave a lot of surprises!

I've accomplished a lot since my last Wedding Wednesday post, today is actually Saturday. 5 weeks to be exact, to our wedding - 35 days! WOAH!

We've had a couple minor changes with the wedding party. Two of my bridesmaids could not commit to being here due to being in school. Things came up, I understand school and the commitment it requires. But it all worked out when I talked to 2 other friends who were more than welcome to step in, even though it's late in the game. So welcome Amber and Kathy! YEAH!!!!

Let's see, what else is new? Well, we're ready! Photographer comes this Tuesday to meet with Paul and I about pictures, and we're visiting the church and the venue to look at lighting. Paul and I will also get a last glance at the venue to see what we need to be prepared for as well.

My dress is altered (it was still too big and we had to take it in, in a few places) and I get it back in 2 weeks. Paul has his suit. Ties are here.

I made our Unity Candles, we ordered Paul's ring, decor for the church is ready. 2 of my bridesmaids are doing readings at the ceremony and I made each of them a pretty folder to carry up to do their reading. I'm finishing up the reception decor and the ceremony programs here in the next couple of weeks. We'll have pre-printed cards on the tables for guests to write us messages and a blessing.

We each have a date with our friends for little get-together's. Paul and his groomsman and friends are going out on Sept. 25th to Boston for a guy's night out. The girls and I are hanging in at my house on the same night with a get-together of our own. (I prefer NOT to go out for a Bachelorette party - I don't like that kind of thing) I plan to make cupcakes, rent a couple chicky flicks, take lots of pictures and I have special presents for the girls.

Paul got engraved flasks for the guys, I got purses, jewelry and a mani/pedi night for the girls.

We can't wait for our special day - I'm already emotional. I don't want to cry, although I will. I want to capture every essence of the wedding. I have done well with capturing all of the pre-wedding planning and stuff, I have pictures of almost everything and a story to tell with it.

Here are some sneak peaks of what's to come!

5

2010-07-29T07:21:00.000-05:00

I love to think about the future, A LOT! The problem is, I sometimes am a dreamer and not a doer! I have grand intentions, I don't always follow through with them. (Is this a Gemini trait? DEFINITELY!)

I've always been like that, really. Maybe I don't try, because I fear failure? If I don't have a plan in place from beginning to end, with all the details spelled out, it's likely I won't try.

I purchased this book last year and it's been sitting on my bookshelf since then, staring me in the face saying "START ME!"

I always have long term excuses as to why I don't do things, too. I've been wanting to get back into playing piano, I found an instructor, but with the wedding, I've put it off until January.

I finished school to be a paralegal, I spent a long time looking for a job; didn't get one and settled back into another manager job in human services, until after the wedding. I convince myself that I have to fulfill my verbal 1 year commitment to the position - if you've worked in human services, especially with people who live in a residential setting, stability is positive for these people. Now that I committed to a year (at least) I feel obligated to stay. Not sure that I will though. I have to shake off the feeling that "I'm obligated", however I'm really not.

The wedding has value, this is why I haven't made any big changes until at least after. If you've planned a DIY wedding, you'll understand the massive amounts of time this consumes.

I am a pretty good photographer,though I have much room for improvement. I paid for an online SLR class 2 years ago, and I still haven't watched the videos! Thankfully I have access to the class forever!

There are many more things that I would like to do; start a savings, get a better paying and meaningful job, buy a house, find time to be more creative, write a book, open a little shop and sell fun little things (mini books, journals, photos, etc.)...and so much more.

What are your intentions?

Wedding Wednesdays

2010-07-28T07:17:00.000-05:00

I don't have much new information to report. We are 74 days from the wedding. WOW! I can't believe it's just around the corner. I remember saying that this would be the fastest summer on record and I'll be honest - I don't mind! It's been very hot and muggy and I'm ready for Fall weather!

I have hit a brick wall with the wedding planning/preparing as of late. I have been working a lot these past few weeks due to some unplanned scheduling - no worries though - I needed the "wedding brain" break!

I have to come to the realization that I'll need to have a flower plan. The only flowers I'll need are for myself and the bridesmaid's. I didn't want to make something for the men to have to wear because they are not wearing suit coats. I'm not sure if a boutonniere would look good on a dress shirt; with or without a pocket. I have funky ties for them and I want to leave it at that for them. They are wearing black shoes, black pants, black belts, gray dress shirts and a really awesome tie.

I've been on the lookout for Unity Candle Sets. One word that comes to mind when I see these is C.H.E.E.S.Y! I have decided to do our own Unity Candle set. Today I was out and about looking for pillar candles, but I couldn't find matching taper candles to go with. Some were too small, some were not tall enough, etc. I know where I want to go, to get the set. I'll grab everything tomorrow and then when I decorate them, I will share pictures!

Dollar Tree has been a great go-to for supplies. I found all of the vases for the tables that I want, and they are only $1 a piece! I got all of the flame less candles from there, too!

I put together a mini book about Paul and I at Shutterfly. I just finished and ordered the 8 x 8 book, which should be here in a few more days. I called it *p & t // a love story* - it's the story of how we met and our journey to engagement. I intend to do our *p & t // a wedding story* the same way, in a 12 x 12 book.

I wish I had more pictures to share, but I don't. There are a lot of things I really want to keep as a surprise.

Hi again!

2010-07-25T19:41:00.000-05:00

Been busy, but will catch up soon!

Is it October, yet?

2010-07-19T05:03:00.000-05:00

...because I'm in desperate need of cooler days and Shipyard Pumpkin Spiced Ale

Wedding Wednesdays

2010-07-14T05:14:00.000-05:00

I have received so many awesome comments on our invitations! It makes me feel so good to hear them! You know, the invites were one of the things that I used to set the tone for the wedding. I wanted a homemade look and feel, not too formal, but elegant and shabby!

I am customizing a small program that Paul's nieces Ashley and Kristen will hand out as guests come in the front door of the church

I am customizing a small menu card that will be tucked into the napkins at the tables - so guests know what is available on the buffet

I am customizing note cards for guests to write us a blessing, advise, or a congrats - in lieu of a guest book. I will leave the note cards on the tables and ask the guests to write on them and put them in a special place at the reception - I'll make a special kind of box for these to go in!

We are starting to get some RSVP's back in the mail, already. This is so exciting! We love getting the mail everyday to see who's coming. I have a special little spot tucked away on my shelf with all of the RSVP's. Yes, I intend to make them a part of our wedding scrapbook!

Speaking of scrapbook...I started one right away and have saved all of the little details from engagement cards from friends and family, to picking colors for the wedding, blog addresses of the favorite spots I've visited that helped inspire our wedding theme. I'll print off my blog posts and add pictures of everything to make a complete memory book of everything. That's what a scrap booker does! We preserve memories and tell our story!

A pretty dress in a window!

2010-07-08T20:55:00.000-05:00

A group of us went to Burlington, VT back in April and I saw this dress in a little boutique shop window. I deemed it one of the prettiest dresses, ever! I was flipping through some photos and I found this one. I just had to share!

Wedding Wednesdays

2010-07-07T09:00:00.006-05:00

I swear, this will be the LAST post about invites if I can help it! I took pictures all along the way and put together some collage pictures to show my process.
The first picture are the original wedding colors, these are the bridesmaids cards, asking them to be a bridesmaid for our wedding. (The guys got an invite to the bar, Paul asked them, they said yes, they drank over celebratory decision making!) Original bridesmaid card design inspired by Elise Blaha. The rest of the pictures are self explanatory. Click on the picture to make them bigger!

Next up: , a wedding scrapbook, programs, menu's, a twist on wedding favors...and whatever else I can remember!

Hi Mocha!

2010-07-06T20:15:00.000-05:00

I think Abigail is depressed. She's much more vocal than she used to be, she chews on things all the time - as if to rebel, she doesn't eat very much lately (though I did change her cat food) and she hides a lot. I've considered getting another family member (I know you would approve), but the timing is not right. She lays on my desk when I am at home working on the computer, too.

Can you visit with her and tell her she will be OK? I know she misses you. I give her a lot of attention and love and I'm not sure she understands. Visit her, Smokie. Please...for Mama. I want her to know it'll be OK!

XOXO
Mama

Wedding Wednesdays

2010-06-30T10:04:00.001-05:00

Little Details

Invites are out! I have a few left to hand deliver and that's it. I decided to go the route of personally delivering the local invites to friends and family to give them one last added personal touch. The other, quite frankly...to save a little on postage. Once I get all of the invites out, I will share my process for making them. I have collage pictures all made up that show the details put into the invites.

I ordered a new pair of eyeglasses last week. Right now, I'm wearing my big old plastic purple frames (YES! A Twilight induced decision!) and I could never wear them at our wedding because they are not suitable! They should be in tomorrow and I intend to start wearing them right away, actually. I ordered a pair of semi-rimless frames that have a tiny bit of bling on the side. The goal was to still be able to wear glasses, but wear a pair that seemed to barely be there, and a pair that would blend in with the wedding theme a bit more. I could never wear contacts, and I won't even try. I actually love wearing glasses and I own a lot of frames. Me and Danny Gokey are tight!

We met with the church coordinator on Monday. We picked the ceremony details and the music. We also set the wedding rehearsal date. Paul and I asked two of his nieces to help pass out wedding programs and then we're waiting on 2 friends of ours to do readings during the ceremony. We also need to ask 1 person to help us with the wireless video feed through our laptop that will stream online as our wedding is broadcasted LIVE! to our out-of-town friends! Super fun, right!

I've looked for Unity candles. Everything looks so cheesy! I think I'm going to attempt to personalize our candles. If it doesn't work out, no stress. We buy a set and call it good.

Speaking of stress...I'm dealing with a little bit of drama surrounding what I/we should and shouldn't do with our wedding, reception and other facets of whole process. I'm getting it from different angles and different people. I'm not a person to do what others do, because I am me and I like things different and I like to personalize everything I do. Those who know me, know that I have a vision for just about everything - whether it be home, work, weddings, parties, birthdays, etc. I am sentimental, yet not very traditional. I've said it all along. I want people to come to our wedding and say "Wow! This is so Tanya & Paul" - no rules - no stress!

I have 4 goals for our wedding day.

Have all financial obligations taken care of the week before the wedding
Decorate the reception hall the day before
Do nothing on our wedding day except, get dolled up, get married and celebrate!
Start on time and NO CRYING!

*I'm wearing flip-flops under my dress! HA!
*We do not have a maid of honor nor do we have a best man. As far as I am concerned, all of the *bridesmaids are maids of honors and all of the groomsmen are best men!
*All of the men will be dressed alike, with matching ties! I love it!
*All of the bridesmaids are wearing black and will not match! I love it!
*I've stopped looking at wedding blogs, websites and magazines. I am on wedding overload and every time I see something I like, I want to use the concept. This pattern could go on and on, so I have stopped looking. I already have a plan, I'm going with it.
*We are live streaming our wedding ceremony via UStream for our out-of-town friends! (We will share the link later when we get it set up)
*Did you know I don't really care for real flowers? I'm still trying to figure out whether or not to get some for bouquets and boutonnieres...Stay tuned for that one!
*Did you know that I purchased 35 pumpkins, 12 gourds, a bunch of table topper/candle holders and 120 stems of Gerber daisies last year after Halloween for the wedding? Well, we're not using any of it, now! We've changed the theme of the wedding a couple different times since then. I'm hoping to find a bride in the area that needs that kind of decor and sell everything.

It's a beautiful day. I'm going to go out and enjoy it! Have a great day! Thanks for stopping by!

XOXO
Tanya

Awwww, my little old man!

2010-06-28T20:08:00.000-05:00

Smokie has been back home with us since last Wednesday June 23. I was running late getting home from work and I called Paul to drive over to the vet office to get him before they closed. I needed him back home with us in the worst say. I felt a considerable amount of inner peace when I got home. The inner peace I had been needing since June 11th.

Today is the first day I opened up the picture folder, to look at all of the pictures I took of Smokie in the last few months. I even made it through a couple of videos! Smokie wasn't much of a camera fan and because of that, I've probably got less than 20 or so kick-ass-prize-winning pictures of him. The rest I love too, because I embrace imperfection and love the imperfect ones anyway!

The pictures below are mostly from 2010. Smokie was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer in February. He's also lived with kidney failure for the past year and a half.

1. Smokie chillin' with Aunty Natasha
2. Chillin' in the living room
3. Chillin' in the living room
4. Hoggin' the bed
5. Peek-a-Boo!
6. In his own Island Oasis
7. Bed Hog
8. In the warm sun
9. In the warm sun, again!
10. Eating treats while getting his Sub-Q treatments 2x/week
11. June 10 - Mr. cranky pants!
12. June 10 - hating the camera!
13. June 10
14. With Mama June 11, kisses and hugs
15. With Mama June 11, kisses and hugs
16. With Mama June 11, kisses and hugs
17. Remembering Smokie, everyday.
18. Rest In Peace, Smokie. You are so missed! June 23

Rest in Peace my little old man! Abigail misses you, so does Paul. You will never be forgotten. We had a grand life together, yes we did!

Arithmetic

2010-06-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

Good Day

2010-06-22T08:09:00.000-05:00

Oompa Loompa...

2010-06-19T13:19:00.001-05:00

I need to find a new cat food for Abigail as I don't like to feed her the cheap stuff with a ton of preservatives and other junk in it, and I wanted to look and see what Petco and Petsmart carried before I ran over to the specialty store in Wakefield. She probably doesn't prefer your special diet food, it's just about gone anyways.

Paul and I got this great idea to also check out fish tanks (thinking of getting back in the saltwater hobby) and we stopped at Petco first. Being at Petco didn't phase me one bit, we looked at the fish tank kits and then walked out. I forgot to look at the cat food. DUH!

Got to Petsmart, walked over to the fish tanks, checked them out and on our way to the cat food section, there was the adoption center for cats. There were 4 cats, cute as can be. One was there because she had been burned by something on her neck and the owner could no longer care for her. I started to tear up and knew I needed to walk away. I know they will get good homes, that wasn't the point. I don't even know what the point was, I just got super emotional.

I made it to the cat food aisle and we looked at some cat foods and before I knew it, I needed to just get out of the store. I bawled the whole way out.

I recovered. I'm fine. Something just got the best of me. That's ok because you can get the best of me anytime you want!

♥
Mama