Southern Newlywed

Nothing Bundt

2012-01-30T16:25:00.005-05:00

I'm obsessed with these little cakes! They are called Nothing Bundt Cakes. They are so tasty and have just the right amount of icing and let me tell you the icing is AMAZING!!

I had them a baby shower this weekend and they had the bundtini's! (about the size of a cupcake)
So cute and so good!!

Highly recommend trying this place!

The red velvet was my favorite, yes that does mean I ate two at the shower!

Mr. Doug

2012-01-17T22:40:00.009-05:00

My bubs, sweet angel, snuggle buddy....just love this little guy!
It's sooo hard to say no to this face!

or this one

and especially the underbite look...can't get enough!

The Best Banana Pudding

2012-01-15T18:39:00.008-05:00

Hands Down!

We had a engagement party last night and they had this in cute little individual cups. AMAZING!! I had to get the recipe and what do you know the one and only Paula Deen is behind this.

Here it goes:

2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies

6 to 8 bananas, sliced

2 cups milk

1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping thawed

Line the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch dish with 1 bag of cookies and layer bananas on top.In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer. Using another bowl, combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together and mix until smooth. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until well blended. Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas and cover with the remaining cookies. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Five Months

2012-01-10T21:59:00.011-05:00

Has it really been five months since I last blogged?? Where in the world has the time gone!! Since Ak and I have moved home we have been busy busy, but in such a good way!

Here is a recap of the past five months:

1. First and foremost...i'm obsessed with pinterest and etsy
(can't get enough!!)

2. Ak's lil sis got married!

3. Of course we made a couple trips to k-town...that didn't really go so well, but we still had a great time!

4. We celebrated mom's 60th in Chicago!

5. One word...Bubba!

Halloween 2011

6. Fell in love with San Francisco!

7. and best of all...found out i'm going to be an AUNT!!!!

I don't set new years resolutions because let's be honest...i always fail! But I'm really going to try to do blog more! I know, I know I said that back in August but I really will!!

Perfect Summer Cole Slaw

2011-08-01T21:31:00.011-04:00

I can't believe it's August 1st! I must say since we have moved home life has been busy and crazy, but it is so nice to be home. Needless to say I have neglected my blog.

I have been wanting to share this recipe for some time now. My aunt made it for us when she was in town and I find myself craving it all the time! It's so tasty and very refreshing. It's the perfect side dish for a summer cookout.

Ingredients:
1 head cabbage (green) small to medium, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1 red, yellow, and orange bell peppers
5 green onions
3 grated carrots
3/4 finely chopped dry roasted peanuts

Dressing:
1/3 cup white vinegar
1/3 cup canola oil
3 cloves garlic
1 cup freshly grated cilantro
2 T sugar
3 T soy sauce

Mix all salad ingredients together. Mix dressing separately and put on right before serving. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Two Years Ago....

2011-07-18T12:47:00.002-04:00

I was having my first dance with my handsome husband.

Finished.

2011-06-26T21:08:00.006-04:00

The bedroom is now complete and i love it.

It feels very peaceful and i love it. Did i mention i love it?

Like a Man

2011-06-20T21:09:00.010-04:00

On Saturday we had Doug's first doc appointment and he did so good. AK kept on saying "he took his shot like a man." Haha! He did not cry at all and the doc said he is very healthy. He has gained two pounds since we got him so he is now up to 4 pounds. He is a growing boy! We are such proud parents.

How can you say "no" to this face?!

Meet Doug

2011-06-20T20:58:00.006-04:00

We picked up our sweet angel on May 30th and were instantly in L.O.V.E with the little guy. He is so sweet, cuddly and makes us smile. We are learning a lot but so glad we decided to get a pup. He is just perfect.

Home. Sweet. Home

2011-06-01T19:11:00.003-04:00

I was the first one to arrive at our condo and this is what I saw.
Ak's sweet cousin made us this sign. It brought tears to my eyes! We are officially home!

We have been here almost two weeks and it's flying by. It's great being home with friends and family. We are loving it.

Plan B

2011-05-17T11:33:00.025-04:00

I just finished this book:

and it was amazing.

I ordered it last Tuesday, got it Friday and was finished with it last night. I couldn't put it down.

I can tell you in person about this book, but it's hard for me to write about it. My description will not give it justice, so all I'm going to say is I highly recommend you picking this up. I thought by 28 I would own a home with a backyard, have at least one child, a dog (we are working on that), but you get my point. I thought I had it all figured and planned out, but it hasn't turned out that way. So, Plan B comes into action. This book doesn't exactly tell you how to deal with Plan B situations but to trust God and be patient. He (God) will finish what he has started. Pete Wilson writes in a way that is easy to understand and he is also very easy to relate too.

Here is a good review that you should check out.

So Long, Farewell...

2011-05-16T16:56:00.011-04:00

You may have heard this song lately as The Oprah Show is coming to a close, only 8 episodes left! I'm sad to say I don't have tickets to one of those 8 shows, but darn-it I tried! The final three shows will begin airing on Monday, May 23rd.

At least i have the OWN channel to go to and still get my fix and i still have my 20th anniversary Oprah DVD collection that i can pop in. i'm hoping she will continue to do some interviews. I must say this is the first show that is going off air that I'm really sad about. It didn't bother me when Friends or Seinfeld came to close, but this one does.

I chose the above picture, because it's one of my favorite quotes by Oprah,
"Live your best Life"

Less than a week

2011-05-14T10:04:00.015-04:00

It's really beginning to sink in our time here is coming to close. We have less than a week left and it actually was today as we were packing that it hit me, We are moving back HOME! Don't get me wrong i've been saying to myself we are moving, but I guess with all the packing its becoming real. It's definitely bittersweet (more sweet than bitter!) but Ak and I have enjoyed our first two years of marriage being away, just me and him. Last night we were talking about things that we will miss...

Cool summers - no humidity (ladies you know this makes for great hair days)

Jenni's Ice Cream - best ice cream

Huntington Park & The Clippers
Minor League baseball team, their stadium is right downtown in the middle of everything.

Thurman's - best Burger

Matt the Miller's - best Ahi Tuna flat bread EVER

Brazenhead - Best Fish & Chips, one of Ak's favorite places

Downtown Dublin in Columbus each suburb has their own little downtown

These guys

The Barn - our neighborhood hang out

As i'm looking over my list, i see one thing that's for sure, we are going to miss eating in Columbus! We were talking last night, that almost every weekend here is "date night" for us. We both said we have to make sure when we get back to Nashville that we still make time for just us.

As for AK, I'm so proud of him for all that he has accomplished while he was here. People are eating a lot more pizza than they were 4 years ago.

Paying It Forward

2011-05-13T13:31:00.009-04:00

I know the tornado in T-town and Birmingham happened a couple weeks ago, but wanted to share this amazing email Mich's mom sent. She and some friends went two weeks ago...talk about paying if forward. Not only was Mich's house hit in the Nashville flood but her mom's was too. When she saw all of the destruction, she immediately sent out an email that said
FILL KELLY'S VAN and that people did. Now with the flooding in Memphis, T-town and Bham have been swept aside, as did Nashville with the oil spill. Just wanted to say we are all still praying for you.

Here is a recap of her trip....

Well, we made it, and had quite the adventure.  The first church that
we had communicated with was empty of staff when we arrived, so we
quickly found a church taking donations, Meadow Brook Baptist in
Birmingham.  They were busy in the field, and at their church taking
donations.  On top of all that, they were helping a girl who was to be
married that Saturday fix the church up for her wedding, because her
church was demolished by the storm.

We took sack lunches and bottled water and after being given
directions by the church, headed out to feed people.  We got on the
wrong interstate, but while lost, a man called the radio asking for
help in Leeds, AL, that their power was out, etc.  Well, as he gave
directions, low and behold, we were just a few exits away.  So we went
to the trailer park where this man lived, and gave out sack lunches,
fruit and water.

We talked to a lady who survived even though her trailer looked like
it just collapsed.  She said the couch where she was sleeping rolled
over on top of her and the dog.  Her husband, who was sucked into the
woods, survived too.  One man, who hot and tired, coming home from
work, happily said, as we offered him sandwiches and food, that even
though their bedroom was gone, they still had water; and declined our
offer.  We pushed and he walked away with cold water and food.  He was
very grateful.  Others had also heard the call on the radio and were
arriving to help; but, to beat all, on the radio after we left,
callers called in and said they, too, were headed to the trailer park,
and Outback Steakhouse was preparing them steak dinners.

After that, we got lost again, turned around to the right direction,
then headed back home. Before doing so, we stopped in Fultondale, and
took more bottled water and a bucket to their distribution center-then
headed home.

The need in all the states affected by this storm is incredible.  All
day long, we listened, as caller after caller recounted their horrific
story, or begged for the radio station to send the semis they were
filling to their town.  And, Alabama, like Tennessee was responding.
Pray for the people in all these states affected by these storms.

The church was just tickled
of all the items we gave, and the things we thought of.  Our love will
make it to those who need it.

My new best friend...

2011-05-09T22:26:00.006-04:00

is some good ole Melatonin.

Lately I was having a hard time falling asleep and would toss and turn for a couple of hours before actually dosing off. My dear friend Ash, suggested I take the supplement Melatonin and let me tell you it's been AMAZING!

I take one about 30 minutes before I would like to go to sleep and it works like a charm. If your one that has a hard time sleeping, you should definitely look into this. You can get the supplement on the vitamin aisle, I bought mine at Trader Joe's.

Sweet Dreams!

Brie & Bacon Quiche

2011-05-09T16:55:00.004-04:00

I haven't had the chance to make this yet, (pans are all packed up!) but found the recipe last Friday and my mouth has been watering for it ever since. If I was a mom, I would have definitely wanted this served to me yesterday! Hope all of you mom's had a great day!!

1 package Deep Dish Pie Crust, Pre-baked If Instructed
4 ounces, weight Brie Cheese (rind Removed If Preferred)
4 ounces, weight Swiss Cheese, Diced
10 slices Bacon, Cooked Crisp, Drained, Crumbled
6 whole Large Eggs
½ cups Whipping Cream
½ cups Sour Cream
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1 dash Each Nutmeg, Salt, Pepper

Crumble cheeses in the bottom of the pie. Spread crumbled bacon on top. Mix all remaining ingredients thoroughly and pour into pie pan. Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 45 minutes, until a pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool slightly before serving.

HaPpy BiRthDay...

2011-05-06T11:27:00.004-04:00

to the best HUBBY!!!! I love you THIS MUCH!

29 and still looking fine!!!

The Box

2011-05-04T09:10:00.002-04:00

That's the bota box, I'm talking about.

Haven't heard of it? Hands down best boxed wine.

AK and I were buying $2 buck chuck from Trader Joe's but we were tending to waste the last part of the bottle. So we have made the switch to the boxed wine and I'm loving it!

So if you enjoy having a glass of wine every now and then or everyday, ha! Then this is the wine for you!

One Year Later

2011-05-03T17:22:00.015-04:00

It's hard to believe it's been a year since the Nashville flood. I remember driving down to Nashville a year ago today and stopping in Franklin, KY to pick up bottled water because a lot of the grocery stores in Nashville were out. I had a few friends lose everything, but looking back they have said the experience made them stronger and in a way it was a good thing.

Here are a few before/after shots from my bestie Mich's home. I don't have any complete shots, but her home is absolutely beautiful. She was able to move in December, just in time for Christmas.

Mich's bedroom before...

After...well during! It's a beautiful blue and she has gray accents in the room. Very calming

Kitchen before...

During....imagine beautiful granite, def the new hang out spot of the house.

I was so proud I was from this city during the flood. There were people in Mich's home that she didn't know ripping out walls, etc. It was like that everywhere, people just out to help others! Such a wonderful thing to witness.

MIA

2011-05-01T10:42:00.004-04:00

I have been in Nashville since April 13th and got back to C-bus late yesterday. It's been a busy couple weeks and I can't believe it's May 1st, which means 20 more days til the move!!! :)

We are packing today and treating ourselves to one last Thurman burger this afternoon before we move back home.

YUM!!!!

It's Your Birthday...

2011-04-09T08:52:00.007-04:00

and tonight we're gonna celebrate like it's your birthday!

It's days like today that I'm looking forward to living in Nashville with the fam.

Doug

2011-04-07T12:31:00.008-04:00

We found our breeder for Doug!!! We hope to get him at the beginning of June, but just depends on when the pups are born. We have finally decided on a Shi-Con. Which is a shitzu/bichon mix. They are also called teddy bears. He will be about 10 - 14 pounds and best part no shedding!! Above pic is the current litter she has, but they are already 11 weeks and are ready to go to good home. So we have to wait patiently (SO HARD!!) for the next round.

our favorite pup from the current litter! me and ak are in love!!

The Headboard

2011-04-06T18:02:00.005-04:00

We found it! We found it!

Just what we were looking for...an upholstered headboard.
Sorry again for the picture, another camera phone classic. (my camera is dead and ive been really lazy about charging it) and no that is not an angel or ghost in the corner, it's our bedroom light.

It looks soo much better in person and with our new bedding it really pops! add a little silver sage or atmosphere blue paint and it will be great! So over as my mom says "apartment white" paint.

I'm so happy with our purchase. I love the fact of how tall it is. Our mattress is pretty thick and we were running into finding headboards that once you put your pillows up you wouldn't see the headboard, which completely defeats the purpose of a headboard.

So bedroom is finished!!

Lost in the Hallway {Part 2}

2011-04-05T17:51:00.005-04:00

Ikea was a huge success this past weekend. My favorite purchase were the frames I bought for our "lost in the hallway" experience at the condo.

Unfortunately, I took this with my phone because i forgot my camera so it's not the best pic and I was literally laying everything out in the store. I got a few stares but wanted to make sure i was creating a good wall! We ended up adding a few more 5x7s and another 4x6. I have a few pictures in mind but excited to go through some really old ones and get some "classics" framed.

I can't wait to share with you what we found at Pottery Barn ! I bet you can guess it...

Master Class

2011-04-03T22:02:00.008-04:00

"What is real, what is lasting, is who you are and what you were meant to bring. What is the gift you were meant to give? And nobody can take that away from you."

- Oprah

I sure do love me some Oprah! Tonight I watched Master Class: Life Lessons Oprah Winfrey on the new OWN channel and was so inspired I had to share. This show was so uplifting and I thought quite powerful. It makes you think but in a good and postivie way. with so much negativity these days this is just what i needed to hear to start my week. I highly recommend you check it out. If you don't have cable you can watch a few segments here.

Lost in the Hallway

2011-04-01T18:42:00.017-04:00

Ak's Godparents have my favorite hallway. I feel like I always "get lost" in their hallway. It is a long hallway filled with family photos and I LOVE IT! The way AK's Godmother designed it and the pictures that she chose to hang are just perfect. So as part of our checklist for a house I would love to have a hallway or designated area for pictures. (not sure if the bungalow has one, ha!) However, the condo does have a hallway to the bedrooms but doesn't have a ton of wall space, there are a couple of doors and a lovely breaker box, but i'm going to attempt to make my own little picture gallery. AK and I are making the trip tomorrow to IKEA and they have some great frames. So I'm hoping to load up! I will keep you posted on the progress...

Bungalow

2011-03-29T20:27:00.013-04:00

I have confession to make. I am obsessed with looking at houses, houses that we may could buy one day, houses that we may could buy in year, houses that we will probably never buy. You get the point. I check realtracs everyday to see what's new on the market. It's crazy, but i love love looking at homes. i guess i shouldn't feel like it's crazy because my father was the exact same way! We went and looked at open houses almost every Sunday growing up, just for the heck of it! well, my parents really were looking to buy a home it just took them a couple years to find the one! I know I should be a real estate agent, maybe in my next life... At least once a month i think i have found the ONE, the one that me and ak could buy tomorrow and be completely content with as our first home. So for the moment, this is the ONE:

I am in L.O.V.E Well, actually ak and I both are. It's small, but bigger than our condo and completely renovated, i'm talking new plumbing, hvac, etc. not just a "band-aid" It has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths and has a sweet little back yard (perfect for Doug) and best part is location, location, location. me and ak are all about location we would both rather live in a smaller home and be close to everything then live in a bigger home and have a long commute to work, friends, etc. I'm sure in a month there will be another one that IS IT. but for now i'm really liking this sweet bungalow. maybe i just like the word bungalow.

Chicken and Mushroom Marsala

2011-03-29T19:49:00.016-04:00

I find myself cooking the same things over and over. So Sunday, I looked through my cookbooks to come up with some new options for the week. Dinner tonight was a success! I made chicken marsala and it was really good and best part...easy!

photo from here

Ingredients:
2 skinless chicken breast
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt (i only used a couple shakes, the marsala has a lot of sodium in it and trying to cut that out as much as possible)
1/2 tsp. pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 8oz package sliced mushrooms
2 cups marsala Angel hair wheat pasta (you can use regular, but we like wheat)

Directions

1. Place chicken between 2 sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap, and flatten to 1/4 inch thickness, using a meat mallet or rolling pin

2. Combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge chicken in mixture

3. Cook chicken and garlic in 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat 3 to 4 minutes on each side until done. Remove chicken, keep warm. 4. Add sliced mushrooms to skillet, and saute 4 minutes. Stir in marsala, cook, stirring occasionally, 8 minutes or until liquid is reduced by 1/2.

5. Return chicken to skillet and cook until thoroughly heated. Serve over pasta.

Mmmm...good.

Bedroom...complete!

2011-03-28T21:51:00.014-04:00

Well almost!

So happy! I found the quilt this weekend at the Pottery Barn Outlet that I have been eyeing to complete our master bedroom.

Not only did I find the quilt (only one left, i might add) but they also had two shams too and the best part of it all, it was marked down 65%!!

We are still looking for a headboard...it's so hard to find a king headboard!! Every place has tons of options for a queen, but a lot of places don't make kings. It's crazy, I didn't think it would be this difficult. We are going to keep on looking until we find something we love.

But other than that all we have to do is paint and the bedroom is complete!!!

oh and we still have to move! ha... less than 8 weeks!

Dublin

2011-03-17T12:49:00.004-04:00

Happy St. Pat's Day from Dublin...Ohio!

It's kinda a big deal here in Dublin. This pic is from the st.patty's day parade they had on Saturday. Today most of the bars/restaurants in downtown Dublin opened up super early for kegs and eggs!

Best part of today...the weather!! It's going to be 65 today!!!
Woo hoo!!

Perfect Potato

2011-03-14T19:26:00.006-04:00

I heart baked potatoes. (although lately I have been on sweet potato kick.)BUT, they have to be cooked just right. You may be thinking I know how to cook a baked potato but to have one that makes you go mmmm.... is the best! It's pretty simple to get a perfect potato but takes some time, so here it goes:

Wash potato. Poke holes in potato with fork. Mic potato for 5 minutes. Put in aluminium foil with butter and crazy jane salt (or you can use salt and pepper) Bake for 1 hour at 350 and I promise you it will be the best potato EVER.

Mouth watering now.
(i know over a potato!)

Super Doug

2011-03-10T10:47:00.005-05:00

Now if only we can get Doug to learn these tricks, we will be set!

Fat Boozeday!

2011-03-08T11:58:00.005-05:00

In honor of Fat Tuesday, I had to share this picture...

Ak's little cousin's (3 years old) first experience on bourbon street.
His face says it all!

Atmosphere Blue

2011-03-01T15:46:00.021-05:00

Not only did I find Doug's bed last weekend while in Nashville but I also found bedding for our master bedroom!

I have been eying this...

It's from Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn also sells a similar duvet. I love getting a deal, but last time we got a "deal" on our bedding we haven't been 100% happy with it. So AK and I decided to spend the extra money and buy what we REALLY like and want.

But then...I went to my beloved TJ Maxx/Home Goods and found this!
Did I mention, I love TJ?

The only difference, 3 stripes instead of 2, for a 1/3 of the price, I'll take an extra line! I called AK and told him of my great find but he wanted to make sure that it was good quality, etc. We got it out last weekend and it feels AMAZING and looks great. Just a little ironing is all it needs.

Now to the quilt...

We both are in love with this one from Pottery Barn. We have an outlet about 45 minutes away that we are going to this weekend to make sure it will match the duvet. We are also going to look at a upholstered headboard there too. I'm excited!

Finally, the paint...

It's between Atmosphere Blue
(Restoration Hardware)

And Silver Sage, (also from Restoration Hardware)

We want a really light color, because our bedroom only has one window and a tree in front of it so we don't get a lot of natural light, which we both love! I've learned my lesson with choosing wrong paint colors in the past so this time we are going to test these two babies out before we commit.

Can you tell I'm ready to get started! :)

Stay Tuned...Living Room post is up next, but really simple changes!

Just Perfect!

2011-02-25T16:01:00.005-05:00

I found Doug's bed while I was in Nashville....

It's just perfect!

It's Official!

2011-02-16T17:27:00.009-05:00

I'm leaving for Nashville in the morning for work for the next week. However, I'm excited to say that I only have two more trips to Nashville by myself!

Yep, that's right! It's official, the moving truck will be here MAY 21st!!!! Ak and I are packing our bags and heading home! So there will be more posts like the kitchen post, because we are going to be sprucing up the condo! I lived there right after college so I want to change it a bit so that it will be Our Place.

We are so excited about this new chapter in our lives.

Oysters and More...

2011-02-16T15:50:00.028-05:00

Ak and I had the best time in NOLA with the fam!

We enjoyed a beautiful day in Jackson Square

The Fam

It was the first time AK has been with both his bro and sis since our wedding.
It was nice seeing them catching up!

Saturday night while the runners were getting rest before the big day, AK and I celebrated
V-day at ACME and had drinks afterwards at the carousel bar. So fun!!

Race Day!!
Ak's 2nd cousin thought he was the coolest ever!

The Runners!

The Cheerleaders
(please excuse my arm, I have a double jointed arm so it looks CRAZY!)

and of course it wouldn't be a trip to NOLA without a hurricane!

A Sweet for your Sweetie!

2011-02-10T17:21:00.013-05:00

Isn't' this the cutest packaging for cookies and better yet homemade organic chocolate chip cookies!

My friend Lauren has started her own business baking these great cookies out of her home. Let me tell you, everything I have ever had from Lauren has been to die for!! I often dream about her chocolate chip pound cake, banana bread muffins, and holiday bark. I highly recommend you try some of these cookies! Instead of the traditional boxed chocolates, why not order some all natural, organic cookies for your sweetie!!

Here's the info on how to order straight from Lauren:

these irresistible handmade, preservative free cookies are made with the best ingredients.

1/2 dozen - $5.00

1 dozen - $10.00

i 'm glad to make much larger orders too! local deliveries are free. shipping fees will apply outside of nashville. all orders will be sent usps priority mail which takes 2 to 3 days.

for orders email me at lauren.c.hester@gmail.com.

The 1/2

2011-02-09T21:05:00.009-05:00

Well, well, well…

Remember when I posted about the ½ marathon in New Orleans?? Let’s just say it didn’t go as planned. I got up to a mile, (yes a mile, I know) and thought I’m going to die right here on this street. There is no way I can do 13!! So AK and I are going to New Orleans as cheerleaders! There are about 20 of us going and I think there are 6 of us that aren’t running. So we will have our own little cheerleading squad.

I’m so excited to go back to one of my favorite cities. We have dinner planned at Dickie Brennan’s. Ak and I are also going to ACME for some chargrilled oysters and we have to go to Port of Call for their yummy cheeseburger and fabulous drinks!

I’m looking forward to 60 degree temps, it's going to feel like swimsuit weather!!

Stupid Tax

2011-02-02T17:23:00.010-05:00

So excited! This weekend AK and I are traveling to Nashville to see Dave Ramsey Live! My bro and his wife got us tickets for Christmas. Ak and I have been using bits and pieces of his program for almost a year but need a little bit more motivation! We have been using the envelope system since January 1st and it's working very well!!! Looking forward to walking away with some great information on Saturday.

Phil

2011-02-02T17:11:00.005-05:00

Dear Phil,

I can not tell you how happy I am that you did not see your shadow today!! Your a lot cuter when there's not two of you. Come on SPRING!!!

Ice Ice Baby

2011-02-01T17:01:00.013-05:00

We have about a 1/2 inch of ice here in C-bus. It's all over everything! AK was trying to make the best out of a messy situation...

Please excuse my whiny voice at the end, it's pretty awful.

Black Eyed Pea Dip

2011-01-31T17:35:00.007-05:00

Hands down my favorite dip...for the moment!
It's my friend Meredith's recipe and it's soo tasty! Perfect for the upcoming Superbowl on Sunday. I couldn't find a picture, but the next time I make it I will be sure to post one.

Here it goes...

Ingredients:
3 cans black eyed peas
1 Red Onion chopped
2 cups shredded cheese
1 can green chilies
3 fresh jalapenos chopped without the seeds (or if you like it hot, you can leave the seeds)
1/2 stick of salted butter
garlic powder to taste

Mix everything except butter. Pour in casserole dish. Melt butter and pour over mixture. Cook on 350 until cheese is melted and dip is bubbly, check at 25 minutes
Serve with fritos or tortilla chips

My mouth is watering...

Best part, It's low fat and has no calories! I wish!

Free

2011-01-26T18:12:00.004-05:00

Me and AK are loving this song right now. It's on replay a lot here in the Kelly household and our singing is just beautiful! We think we may both try out for American Idol!

Chicken Tortilla Soup

2011-01-20T13:12:00.004-05:00

The pioneer woman has done it again! This is my second go at tortilla soup, I made one a couple weeks ago but it was too creamy, this is much better!

Ingredients:

2 whole Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
1-½ teaspoon Cumin
1 teaspoon Chili Powder
½ teaspoons Garlic Powder
½ teaspoons Salt
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
1 cup Diced Onion
¼ cups Diced Green Bell Pepper
¼ cups Red Bell Pepper
3 cloves Garlic, Minced
1 can Rotel Tomatoes And Green Chilies
32 ounces, fluid Low Sodium Chicken Stock
3 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
2 cans Black Beans, Drained
3 Tablespoons Cornmeal Or Masa - I didn't add this ingredient and the soup was still fab!
5 whole Corn Tortillas, Cut Into Uniform Strips Around 2 To 3 Inches - I just used tortilla chips

Garnishes:
Sour Cream
Diced Avocado
Diced Red Onion
Salsa Or Pico De Gallo
Grated Monterey Jack Cheese
Cilantro

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix cumin, chili pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil on chicken breasts, then sprinkle a small amount of spice mix on both sides. Set aside the rest of the spice mix.

Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until chicken is done. Use two forks to shred chicken. Set aside.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pot over medium high heat. Add onions, red pepper, green pepper, and minced garlic. Stir and begin cooking, then add the rest of the spice mix. Stir to combine, then add shredded chicken and stir.

Pour in Rotel, chicken stock, tomato paste, water, and black beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for 45 minutes, uncovered.

Mix cornmeal with a small amount of water. Pour into the soup, then simmer for an additional 30 minutes. Check seasonings, adding more if needed—add more chili powder if it needs more spice, and be sure not to undersalt. Turn off heat and allow to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Five minutes before serving, gently stir in tortilla strips.

Ladle into bowls, then top with sour cream, diced red onion, diced avocado, pico de gallo, and grated cheese, if you have it! (The garnishes really make the soup delicious.)

Enjoy!

Too Many Options!

2011-01-18T17:46:00.017-05:00

The week of Christmas AK got a call from his sister who lives in our condo (soo thankful for her!) saying that the water heater was leaking and that the hallway was wet. We weren't sure of the damage, it was worse than we had hoped but A LOT better than it could have been.

We had to replace the hardwood in the kitchen, water heater, padding in the hallway and poor L&T had to listen to loud fans for 5 days to dry the place out.

bye bye hardwood!

We couldn't match the hardwood exactly with what is in the entryway and with my type A personality I had to have it match, so we went with tile which I'm really excited about. I haven't seen a picture yet, but L tells me it looks really good!

Since this happened, I told AK we should just completely renovate the kitchen! Ha! Little did I know what we were getting ourselves into! We met with a consultant at Home Depot and I could feel both of our blood pressures rising as they were explaining the million things that we could do, the choices, what we had in mind, etc. After a lot of thinking, we have decided to just do backsplash, new dishwasher and change the knobs on the cabinets.

There are soooo many options it's overwhelming!
Home Depot offers like 1600 different knobs, Really??

This is the color of the new tile floor

Backsplash 1

Backsplash 2

Backsplash 3 - I'm really like this one!

I wasn't sure about this color knob on white cabinets, until I saw this kitchen

Or I could stay safe with the stainless.

Here goes nothing! I will keep you updated on the progress!

Casey & Doug

2011-01-16T19:04:00.007-05:00

Meet Casey.
Isn't she sooo sweet! I'm officially a aunt and my mom is so excited that she has a granddoggy! Clearly, we need a baby in the family since both me and mom are so excited about our new names! ha! She is a Belgian malinois, which is pretty much a miniature German Shepard.

So, now that my bro has a new pup it has AK and I back into the conversation of getting one. The last time I posted, we were having a discussion between a maltipoo and a basset hound. We talked some more and AK agreed that we could get a maltipoo only if he could pick out the name. I thought that was fair, then he told me the name...Doug. We were both hysterically laughing and I thought he was joking, but he wasn't. ha! I told some friends at dinner last week and they thought it was hilarous and that it was perfect, seriously??!

I guess before I worry about this we actually need to have the dog!
I will keep you posted about Doug!

2011...Let it Rock.

2011-01-01T15:55:00.012-05:00

This new year is already off to a great start, it's 4pm and I'm still in my pj's!!!

Football is on, black eye peas are on the stove and cornbread is in the oven. Yum!

I am not one for making new year's resolutions because the eating better, working out thing, just never really seem to go in my favor. But this year I am going to try my hardest to live for today and not worry so much about tomorrow and the future.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34

God has a plan and I'm ready for him to lead me the way.

Wishing you a happy, healthy and blessed 2011!!

Let it Rock.

Tender TN Christmas

2010-12-30T18:57:00.012-05:00

AK and I had a wonderful white Christmas in Nashville!!

I didn't take as many pictures as I would have liked, but did get a few.

Celebrating Grandma's 85th Birthday on Christmas Eve!

AK's UT fabric brick
(my brother and nikki gave ak a fabric brick, that says "the referee makes a call too quick, it's time to bring out the "bad call brick" Throw it at the set with an aim so steady, Now don't you feel better all ready!) This was a very thoughtful and awesome gift! (now I don't have to hide cell phones! ha!)

Saving the best for last - our Santa D gift. Last year I said that AK and I would keep up the tradition of carrying on the gag/funny gift from my dad. So this year everyone got Elliott Sadler HBP racin' shirts! We all had a good laugh for sure. Wonder what Santa D will bring next year?? maybe a shakeweight?!

Chirstmas Truffles

2010-12-29T18:59:00.009-05:00

I feel like I have been blogging lately about holiday things after they happen! I have not been prepared this year for Christmas or Thanksgiving, they came and went too fast!

Before we left for Nashville I was able to make some treats for the fam. My good friend, Ash told me about these awesome red velvet truffles she was making. I had to try them!

So here it goes...

Ingredients:

1 box red velvet cake mix
1 can cream cheese icing
sprinkles
4 packs Bakers White Chocolate

Bake cake according to regular directions on the box.

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, crumble the whole thing into a bowl. Don't leave any big pieces, smash the whole thing up. Then dump the whole can of cream cheese icing into the crumbled cake and mix together extremely well. Put the mix into the fridge for an hour or so, until it is cool throughout.

After it is cool, roll the cake mix into balls. It should make about 40 balls. After you have rolled them all, put them in the freezer for at least an hour. (it is ok to even wait until the next day if you need to wait, an hour is just the minimum time)

Melt 4 squares at a time of the white chocolate in a plastic bowl and roll the cake balls in the chocolate, using a spoon to roll them around. Sprinkle immediately and place on wax paper. (the chocolate hardens fast)After they are all rolled in chocolate and sprinkled, they are done and ready to be stored in the refrigerator.

So tasty!

Holiday Cards...what to do??

2010-12-19T15:05:00.007-05:00

You know I love getting holiday cards and today I was searching for a cute way to display them! Right now we have them on top of our armourie and on the fridge, I would love to have them all in one place!

Check out these cute ideas...

Hang ribbon from a door

lovin' this one

Make a holiday card tree!

Less than a week til Chirstmas!!! AHAH!
Remember how long this last week was as a child?? It seemed like FOREVER!
Here's hoping our week will seem like forever and we get our shopping, baking and cooking all finsihed.

Fun & Flashy Holiday Cards

2010-12-09T12:40:00.028-05:00

It's Christmas Card season again! I love love getting Christmas cards in the mail. Checking the mail is the highlight of my day during the holiday season! There are so many varieties and types of holiday cards and I love seeing all the different styles.

I'll be honest I have been searching for the perfect card for sometime now and I always come back to the Christmas cards at Shutterfly. I'm super pumped this year though, because shutterfly is offering 50 FREE photo cards if you blog about their great holiday cards!

They have such a broad range and selection of cards with bright and bold colors and the best part - the cards are so user friendly to personalize! My personal favorites are their Christmas photo cards.

After searching and searching I have finally narrowed my selection down to four!

Shutterfly is also a great site to buy invitations for holiday parties, baby/bridal showers, birth announcements and the list goes on! If you haven't already bought your holiday card, I would definitely check them out! Hope you find your perfect holiday card!

If you are a blogger you should apply for this special offer! It's a great deal!

Going to the chapel!

2010-12-01T12:44:00.003-05:00

I am so excited!!! AK's little sister got engaged on Saturday!!!!

We just love Tray and are so excited he is going to be part of the Kelly Klan!

Congratulations!

Award Winning Chili

2010-11-28T19:03:00.006-05:00

My dad used to make the best chili and Ak absolutely loved it. I never had a chance to get the recipe so I have been trying to make my own, but have never been that pleased.

My mom and her friends entered a chili cook off contest in the neighborhood and out of 25 entries they won!! I test-tasted it the night they were making it and was very impressed.

So here it goes....

2 pounds ground chuck
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound ground sweet Italian sausage
1-2 onions
2-3 green bell peppers
Saute all together

Add:
4 cans red/black beans
4 cans fire roasted tomatoes
2 cans tomato paste
1 can diced green chilies
2 bottles brown ale
2 tb chili powder
4 cloves garlic
4 bay leaves
2 tb cumin
2 tb Wooster
1 tb brown sugar
salt and pepper to taste

Now as you can tell this makes a ton of chili, so split in half for a smaller group or cook it at your next shindig!

A few days late

2010-11-28T18:25:00.007-05:00

I hope everyone had a wondeful Thanksgiving!! Ak and I had such a great weekend together and it was so nice to spend some time with him! The past three weeks have been harder than I expected, but only 2 more to go!!

I know this is a few days late, but before our dinner Ak's grandpa pulled out a old piece of newspaper and read us a Dear Abby. I think it's not only good for Thanksgiving but is something we should think about all of the time.

DEAR READERS: By popular demand, here is my traditional Thanksgiving column:
Today is Thanksgiving Day, so take a few minutes to reflect upon all the things for which you are thankful.
How's your health? Not so good? Well, thank God you've lived this long. A lot of people haven't.

You're hurting? Thousands -- maybe millions -- are hurting even more. (Have you ever visited a veterans hospital? Or a rehabilitation clinic for crippled children?)

If you awakened this morning and were able to hear the birds sing, use your vocal cords to utter human sounds, walk to the breakfast table on two good legs, and read the newspaper with two good eyes, praise the Lord! A lot of people couldn't.

How's your pocketbook? Thin? Well, most of the world is a lot poorer. No pensions. No welfare. No food stamps. No Social Security. In fact, one-third of the people in the world will go to bed hungry tonight.

Are you lonely? The way to have a friend is to be one. If nobody calls you, pick up the phone and call someone.

Are you concerned about your country's future? Hooray! Our system has been saved by such concern. Your country may not be a rose garden, but neither is it a patch of weeds.

Freedom rings! Look and listen. You can still worship at the church of your choice, cast a secret ballot, and even criticize your government without fearing a knock on the head or a knock on the door at midnight. And if you want to live under a different system, you are free to go. There are no walls or fences -- nothing to keep you here.

As a final thought, I'll repeat my Thanksgiving prayer; perhaps you will want to use it at your table today:

O heavenly Father:
We thank thee for food and remember the hungry.
We thank thee for health and remember the sick.
We thank thee for friends and remember the friendless.
We thank thee for freedom and remember the enslaved.
May these remembrances stir us to service
That thy gifts to us may be used for others. Amen.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and may God bless you and yours. -- LOVE, ABBY

Strokin'

2010-11-13T13:16:00.007-05:00

I had the best 28th birthday! My girlfriends and I had a fun evening of wine, laughs and a step by step guide to painting a picture at sips n strokes. I have been dying to go and see what the buzz was all about! I was hesitant at first, because I am no artist, but everyone assured me that anyone could do it.

So the wine pouring began and we started painting!!

The finished product!

Six Week Adventure Begins

2010-10-31T18:38:00.009-04:00

Well I just finished packing my last bag. Tomorrow I'm on my way to Nashville for the next six weeks. It's going to be a busy time for sure.

Over the next weeks, I will be traveling to Vegas and Denver for work, will celebrate Thanksgiving and the great Black Friday with mom, attend a friend's wedding, AK's Christmas Party weekend, try to finish my Christmas shopping, oh and did I mention possibly training for a 1/2 marathon that's in February in New Orleans. I have started training here in Columbus, but I'm not signing up or making any promises until I see that I may be able to actually run the whole thing. (It's not looking too good! ha!)

Do you know how hard it was to pack for all of these festivites?? Needless to say, I have several bags and loads of hang ups traveling with me.

I'm going to try my hardest to keep up with my blog, stay tuned!

It's Football Time in TN!!!!

2010-10-28T17:54:00.014-04:00

AK and I went to our last football game on Saturday. The third weekend in October is a big deal for a TN fan, TN plays Alabama!!! Unfortunately this year it was more like a stomp fest then a game, but we still had a great time tailgaiting!

Us girls hanging out!

Born and Raised TN fans!!
(the brown brick building in the back was my dorm my freshman year)

The Crew, yes we let a couple AL fans tailgate with us (AK's friends)

Isn't that the prettiest thang you ever seen?

Until next Year....

Check out this write up about a UT football weekend.

Crazy Busy!

2010-10-26T17:16:00.012-04:00

It has been a crazy past couple weeks, but a lot of fun! AK and I had a fabulous time in Miami and Key West!

Yummy Mojito at the Clevelander!

I had to get my picture in front of The Kardisians Store - Dash.

On Duval Street, first night in Key West!

Sunset Cruise

Our picture of the southern most point! - It rained all day!!!

And lastly, our favorite bartender at Sloppy Joes....Sylvia from Norway

5 o'clock somewhere...

2010-10-08T17:24:00.005-04:00

I am so excited I can hardly stand it!! AK and I leave on Monday for Key West!!!

914

2010-10-06T17:45:00.007-04:00

Last week I was wasting time before I had to meet my family for dinner and I was really close to the house where AK grew up. His parents sold it a few years back and I was curious to see what the house looked like now. The house was built by AK’s great grandfather so it was always in the family until a few years ago.

I turned down the street and there was a car in front of me, well what do you know they turned into the driveway! I thought well, shoot I cant just take a picture because this lady is going to think I’m crazy! So I got out and introduced myself and told her that AK had grown up there. She was the most delightful person! She insisted that I come inside and see what they had done. The house has been renovated inside and out, they had knocked down walls, added a bathroom and additional bedroom. It looks great! She kept some of the originals, like the dining room chandelier, flooring and mantle in the living room. For the outside they painted the brick a pretty cream color, when AK lived there it was a red brick home.

The best part of the story though is that there was a door knocker that still said Kelly on the side door. She insisted that I take it, so there we were unscrewing the door knocker and chatting about her children and future plans for their home like we had know each other for years. I’m so excited about the door knocker, it needs some polishing but so glad to have it. AK and I plan to use it on our front door on our first home. We are so fortunate that such a wonderful family lives there. She invited us back when we are in town again so that AK could take a look.

AK always says that we will buy that house back someday and now with all of these renovations he is determined!

Tres

2010-10-05T19:11:00.009-04:00

Meet Trey!

Doesn't this picture just make you smile!

Trey is my dear friends first son and my first nephew!! I could just look at him and hold him all day everyday! He always brightens my day when I get to hang with him and his awesome moma!

Love y'all!

Outdoor Rooms

2010-10-04T17:56:00.006-04:00

I absolutely love fall, right now the pumpkin spice candle is burning and it smells wonderful! I also love being outdoors and when it comes to fall/winter sometimes it gets too chilly to enjoy, but if you had an outdoor room it would make it a lot easier! AK’s Godparents have a similar room and I love it! It is so great for entertaining and makes another nice room to host more people. I love the outdoors and what a perfect way to enjoy it with a fireplace and friends.

Here are some of my favorites...all from Southern Living

Saving Sites

2010-10-02T17:48:00.008-04:00

I love websites that offer great deals and steals! I wanted to share with you my favorites:

Southern Savers - http://www.southernsavers.com/
Learn how to REALLY coupon, print coupons, find out discount codes, free samples, etc.

Restaurant.com http://www.restaurant.com/
Buy $25 gift cards for $10. But usually there is a code on southernsavers.com where you can get them for $2!!!

Groupon - http://www.groupon.com/
Everyday groupon offers a deal usually half off for restaurants, spas, car services, etc. Another great site!!

Living Social - http://livingsocial.com/
Very similar to groupon, just a different site.

Craigslist - http://www.craiglist.org/
I know we all know about craiglist but you can find the best stuff on here!! I know it can seem a bit creepy but I have never met a weird/creepy person before when I have used craigslist. Everyone has been so delightful! Just make sure you meet at a public place or if they must come to your home, don't be alone! You know, just use common sense!

Hope you enjoy these sites as much as I do! Please let me know if you know of any other great sites!

PB Classes

2010-09-28T19:20:00.009-04:00

Did you know that Pottery Barn offers free decorating classes??? I didn't but my mom told me about them and we went to one on Sunday and had the best time!

We went to the class on how to design your dream living room. We learned about picking the right color, using different textures, what window treatments are best, the best place to display furniture and the list goes on! The class was an hour long and was packed with great information!

To see what upcoming classes they have click here. I really want to go to the class on entertaining with style, especially with the holidays coming up!

Happy Decorating!!!

Lil' Monsters

2010-09-25T10:59:00.009-04:00

Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah Roma, roma, ma Gaga ooh la la!!

That's right! Me and 7 other lil' monsters (girlfriends) are going to see Lady GAGA on Aprili 19th!!!!!

Taco Soup

2010-09-25T09:37:00.005-04:00

It's fall y'all, which means soup season is right around the corner!! On Thursday night some girlfriends and I got together and my friend Kristi made this soup! So good and is also served well with margaritas!!

Ingredients:

1 lb of lean hamburger meat
half white onion chopped - brown together
2 cans of black beans
1 can of kidney beans
1 can of spicy chili beans
1 can of petite diced tomatoes
1 can of original rotel
1 can of white shoepeg corn
1 pkg of dry ranch seasoning & 1 pkg of taco seasoning
1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder to taste
Salt n pepper to taste
2 cups of water

Stir all together in crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hrs. Serve with chz n sour cream. (Serves approx 8, so for only 4 servings you can always cut back on beans and leave out the diced tomatoes can). Enjoy!

Nash

2010-09-21T16:52:00.005-04:00

I have been packing today, because I am leaving for Nashville tomorrow for the next 10 days! We have our big conference in Nashville next week, so it’s going to be a busy trip! I am going to have dinner one night with some girlfriends and hopefully make it to BUNCO!! Oh, how I miss me some bunco!

Deep Thought at Bunco

Oh and I have to get some bbq while in town....it's a MUST! Ohio doesn't have anything on some TN BBQ!!

Mich Mich

2010-09-21T16:39:00.010-04:00

Whew, what FUN weekend! AK went to K-town for a guys weekend and while he was away my dear friend Michelle came up for a visit. We had so much fun that we only took TWO pictures the entire time she was here! :( and they are both on Michelle's camera! I hope to post later!

Some highlights of our trip included:

Jenni's Ice Cream - The craziest flavors, but made with local products and organic!!

We ate at Jenni’s ice cream, not once but twice – best ice cream ever!This is the type of thing you can do with your girlfriend and not feel guilty about! It reminded me of a time when me and mom went to Phoenix for a girls getaway and literally ate gelato everyday!!!

Cheered on the Vols at our local pub - definitely had some stares as we were surrounded by Ohio State fans, but we didn't mind!

We went out downtown one night and were told by college students that we were old, but looked good for our age, I guess that's a compliment.

Ate Sushi in C-bus for the first time

Had a full day of shopping at the outlets. Mich got a new pillow and some plates for her new/restored home at the Pottery Barn Outlet! She should be moving in in about 4 more weeks!!! :)

Listened to a live John Mayer – well, not really, but he looked and sounded just like him!

Plenty of good laughs and just plain ‘ole good girl time

and last but not least, we enjoyed some good ole $2 buck Chuck from Trader Joes.

.86

2010-09-13T20:06:00.006-04:00

I heart CVS! I must admit I used to be a Walgreens girl, but I have officially made the switch! CVS offers extra care bucks on some items each week and 2% back on all purchases. The extra care bucks offer you money of an item and then you can use that money on future purchases. I went to CVS last week and got the best deal yet.

I got all of this for .86!! Yes that is right! I combined extra care bucks and coupons to score this great deal!!

Y'all vs. You all

2010-09-02T19:12:00.007-04:00

Football officially starts tonight!!

I found this comparing Northern and Southern football. It's pretty good and funny. Although we live in Columbus where THE Ohio State is, the fans here are crazy and love them some football! But of course the traditions are different. On some of the categories I have added in what I have experienced in the midwest. GO VOLS!

Women's Accessories
NORTH: Chap Stick in back pocket and a $20 bill in the front pocket.

MIDWEST: Jerseys, shorts, and tennis shoes
SOUTH: Louis Vuitton duffel with two lipsticks, water proof mascara,and
a fifth of bourbon. Money not necessary - that's why we have boyfriends.

Stadium Size:
NORTH: College football stadiums hold 20,000 people.
SOUTH: High school football stadiums hold 20,000 people.

Fathers:
NORTH: Expect their daughters to understand Sylvia Plath.
SOUTH: Expect their daughters to understand pass interference.

Mothers:
NORTH: Don't care if their daughters know what a football is.
SOUTH: Expect their daughters to buy a new outfit for Homecoming each year and marry a football player.

Campus Decor:
NORTH: Statues of founding fathers.
SOUTH: Statues of Heisman trophy winners.

Homecoming Queen:
NORTH: Also a physics major.
SOUTH: Also Miss America.

Heroes:
NORTH: Rudy Guliani

MIDWEST: Jim Tressel
SOUTH: Paul "Bear" Bryant

Getting Tickets:
NORTH: 5 days before the game you walk into the ticket office on campus
and purchase tickets.
SOUTH: 5 months before the game you walk into the ticket office on
campus, put name on waiting list for tickets, then still have to camp out.

Friday Classes After a Thursday Night Game:
NORTH: Students and teachers not sure they're going to the game, because
they have classes on Friday.
SOUTH: Teachers cancel Friday classes because they don't want to see the
few hungover students that might actually make it to class.

Parking:
NORTH: An hour before game time, the University opens the campus for
game parking.
SOUTH: RVs sporting their school flags begin arriving on Wednesday for
the weekend festivities. The really faithful arrive on Tuesday.

Week of Big Game:
NORTH: Don't even know who they are playing on Saturday.
SOUTH: Make sure clothes are color coordinated, make signs to support the home team, get shakers ready, pray for a victory, and bow down to football players when students see them.
This is too funny, I actually got out our tailgate bin today, loaded it up with cups, koozies, trash bags and counted chairs for next weekend!! I'm soo pumped!

Game Day:
NORTH: A few students party in the dorm and watch ESPN on TV. Wonder why Game Day Live is never broadcast from their campus.
SOUTH: Every student wakes up, has a beer for breakfast, and rushes over
to where ESPN is broadcasting "Game Day Live" to get on camera, cheer tirelessly, and wave banners.

Tailgating:
NORTH: Raw meat on a grill, beer with lime in it, listening to
local radio station with truck tailgate down.

MIDWEST: Brats and Sauerkraut!
SOUTH: 30-foot custom pig-shaped smoker fires up at dawn. Cooking
accompanied by live performance by "Hootie and the Blowfish," who come
over during breaks and ask for a hit off bottle of bourbon. Televisions set up with satellite dishes so that we don’t miss any football games shown before and after ours.

Getting to the Stadium:
NORTH: You ask "Where's the stadium?" When you find it, you walk right
in.
SOUTH: When you're near it, you'll hear it. On game day it becomes the
state's third largest city.

AK once told a Cal fan that he needed to buy ear plugs. The guy then asked if he could buy some, I felt soo bad for him!

Concessions:
NORTH: Drinks served in a paper cup filled to the top with soda.
SOUTH: Drinks served in a plastic cup, with the home team's mascot on
it, filled less than half way with soda, to ensure enough room for
bourbon.

When National Anthem is Played:
NORTH: Stands are less than half full, and less than half of them stand up.
SOUTH: 100,000 fans, all standing, sing along in perfect four-part harmony.

The Smell in the Air After the First Score:
NORTH: Nothing changes.

MIDWEST: chants of OH-IO
SOUTH: Fireworks, with a touch of bourbon.

Commentary {Male Fan}:
NORTH: "Nice play."
SOUTH: "Dammit, you slow sumbitch -tackle him and break his legs."
The guy behind us at our games at UT, who is in his 70s always says "Oh Lordy, come on boys"

Commentary {Female Fan}:
NORTH: "My, this certainly is a violent sport."
SOUTH: "Dammit, you slow sumbitch - tackle him and break his legs."

After the Game:
NORTH: The stadium is empty way before the game ends.
SOUTH: Another rack of ribs goes on the smoker. While somebody goes to
the nearest package store for more bourbon, planning begins for next
week's game....SO TRUE! We always go back to our tailgate spot, eat food, and relax while the traffic is bad!

Happy Football and Labor Day Weekend!

Heaven on a Plate

2010-08-30T17:25:00.006-04:00

This is one of those recipes where I was literally licking the bowl when I finished making it!! So good!! My friend Lauren, posted it on her blog on Friday and I made it yesterday! It is absolutely AMAZING and super easy to make! It's great for breakfast or a nice dessert.

Here it is...

Soapapilla Cheesecake

2 cans Pillsbury Crescent rolls
2-8oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
1 1/2 cups Sugar
1 tsp. Vanilla extract
1 tsp Cinnamon
1 stick butter

Spray a 9 x 13 pan with cooking spray. Unroll and press 1 can crescent rolls into the bottom of your baking dish press the seams together. In a separate bowl blend the cream cheese, 1 cup sugar and 1 tsp vanilla then spread over top of dough. Unroll the second can of crescent rolls and place on top of the cream cheese mixture pressing seams together again. Melt butter and pour over top layer of crescents. Mix the reaming 1/2 cup of sugar & cinnamon together. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top. If you don't think that's enough cinnamon sugar on top add more its really up to you there's no rules on this part of the recipe.Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until bubbly and bottom crust is slightly brown. Cool, slice and enjoy!

Alum Creek

2010-08-29T18:08:00.004-04:00

Today AK and I ventured out to a state park for some hiking. Well, it wasn't so much hiking because it is pretty flat here, but it was a really nice trail. Along with trails, we also discovered they have a huge beach area complete with sand, lounge chairs and boats on the water. We definitely will go back for a longer hike and probably take a nice long walk on the beach.

Tailgate Time

2010-08-23T17:42:00.007-04:00

I can't believe the title of this post! It's almost here!! Our first football game is next Saturday, next Saturday??!! Can you believe it!

I am excited, but also really nervous! We are not going to be the best and I'm okay with that, I'm just worried about ole AK. Not sure how he is going to hold up! After all, he did change his name as a child from Andrew to Andy when Andy Kelly was the quarterback at UT.

We have several home games this year and I'm already racking my brain on what to make for the tailgate. I am always open for suggestions for quick and easy food. It's hard making great stuff in a hotel room.

Go Vols!

Grilled Salmon Tacos

2010-08-15T16:12:00.012-04:00

Yummy!! AK and I went to the cooking class on Saturday and had a blast! The food was amazing and we learned so many neat tips. I highly recommend looking into cooking classes in your area.

We made several things, but my favorite was the Grilled Salmon Tacos - AMAZING!!

Here is the recipe:

Ingredients: (this is based on a recipe for 6 people, 2 tacos per person)

1 salmon fillet, (1 1/2 pounds) skin on, pin bones removed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 Blackening Spice - (recipe follows)

Vegetable oil for the grill

12 corn tortillas

1/2 head cabbage (8 ounces) finely shredded

3 green onions, thinly slices on the bias (only use the green part)

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 1/2 limes)

2 ripe tomatoes - cut into 1/4 inch dice

Chipotle Sauce - (recipe follows)

Prepare a medium fire in a charcoal grill or preheat a gas grill to meadium. Arrange the salmon, skin side up. Oil the skin generously with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Turn the salmon over and rub the flesh side all over with the blackening spice. Using your fingertips lightly dab the remaining olive oil over the blackening spice.

When ready to grill, brush the grill grate generously with vegetable oil. Grill the salmon, skin side up, directly over fire. Cover the grill and cook on one side for 4 minutes. Turn and cover again. Cook until almost opaque throughout - thermometer will read 125 - 130, cook for 5 mintues more. Transfer to cutting board, let cool slightly.

Meanwhile, warm the tortillas on the grill or in the oven on 250.

In a medium serving bowl, toss together the cabbage, green onions and lime juice. Place the tomatoes in a small serving bowl. Serve with cabbage mixture, tomatoes, and chiptole sauce.

Chiptole Sauce:

1 cup mayo

3 tablespoons buttermilk or sour cream

2 minced canned chipotle chilies in adobo sauce

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt

Mix ingedients together.

Blakening Spice: (this is great, would be good on chicken too)

2 tablespoons kosher salt

2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 tablespoons paprika

1 tablespoon dried thyme

1 tablespoon dried oregano

Combine all ingrediens ina small bowl. Stire well to blend. Store in an airtight jar in a coll, dark place for up to 6 months.

Enjoy!

15 minutes

2010-08-10T19:42:00.007-04:00

If you have 15 minutes to spare a day, I recommend this great AB workout!! I found it on Real Simple and I have truly enjoyed it.

Check out the exercises here

For Sale

2010-08-09T20:55:00.008-04:00

Well, we put our condo on the market this weekend! EEKK!!!

It's definitely bittersweet, I have sooo many great memories there and really thought that AK and I would live there at some point, but everything works out for a reason.

Now, if only my phone would ring and say that we already have a contract!

Wishful thinking, I know.

Everyday

2010-08-03T19:01:00.012-04:00

I have been looking at buying some new everyday dinnerware and have fallen in love with a couple patters - I loved this Lenox pattern

and also really liked this from World Market

Since I really didn't NEED it, I was planning on asking it for my birthday or Christmas but then...

I went to TJ Maxx!

I love love love this store! I scored a huge find this weekend and I am super excited about my purchase.

Take a Look... It's actually my favorite out of the three and I got dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and coffee cups for 1/2 the price of the two above!

Rubbins Racin'

2010-07-29T17:12:00.009-04:00

I had my very first Nascar experience last weekend at the Brickyard
400. I must say, I had a blast!!! Hands down best place to people watch!
We were very lucky and had garage and pit passes and we
also got to meet “The King” Richard Petty and the driver of the HBP
car – Elliott Sadler. He was very personable and nice. I never
realized how loud the cars were and how fast they went! Elliott told us
he would go about 203mph!!

If you haven’t ever been to a race, I highly recomend it!

Orange Dream

2010-07-27T17:28:00.004-04:00

I have found my new favorite summer drink! On July 4th weekend AK’s mom and her friends made Orange Dreamsicles and I couldn’t get enough of them! They are super easy and already come pre-made with vodka already in it! Friday’s makes them and you can find them at your local liquor store. All you need is a blender and some ice and you have a refreshing summer drink!!

A Year ago..

2010-07-18T17:06:00.009-04:00

A year ago today I walked down the aisle to find my prince charming with a big smile on his face! I can't believe we have been married for a year! What a fun and exciting year it has been. :)

I'm looking forward to all of the memories we will make in the years ahead!

P.S. - He is really excited about the cooking class!

A Nation of Fun!!

2010-07-12T17:11:00.017-04:00

We had the BEST time in D.C. I absolutely loved everything about this town! The food was amazing, the people were all extremely nice, and the town has so much to offer!

We ate and walked, and ate, walked some more, went to a museum, walked, ate, etc.
A perfect mix!

We visited many areas of the city, capitol hill, downtown, Chinatown, and Georgetown. We went to the Holocaust Museum - very interesting, but somewhat disturbing, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, WWII Memorial - we found AK's grandpas information, very neat!, White House, the National Museum of American History - also very interesting!

Barrack row - all the top generals in the U.S. live here

Now to the restaurants...

WOW! DC has soo many to choose from, but we had the best list from a local!!

Mac and cheese from Ted's Bulletin - HANDS down best I've ever had!

The second night we ate at the Old Ebbitt Grill, also very tasty!!

Finally, we ate at 1789 in Georgetown, dessert was fantastic!!

We went and had after dinner drinks at a cool place in Georgetown, called Billy Martin's. It is supposedly were JFK asked Jackie to marry him. A very chill place with fantastic bartenders!

If you have not been to D.C. since your 8th grade trip, I highly recommend you go back! The town is thriving and there is something for everyone!!

D.C.

2010-07-06T20:21:00.007-04:00

SO PUMPED!! AK and I are off to D.C. for a mini vacation on Thursday.

I am so excited to visit our Nation’s capital!
(I sound like such a dork)

We have a lot planned, and thanks to Lauren we have some great places to eat! I’ll post pictures next week when we get back! Off to pack and finish the laundry!!

Hope everyone has a great week!

Fourth of July

2010-06-30T19:01:00.008-04:00

Isn't this the cutest table setting!
photo from here

I can’t believe it’s already time for the fourth of July! Where has the time gone? AK and I are loading up and heading to Nashville on Friday for the weekend. We have a family cookout on Friday, Saturday we get to meet sweet Baby Trey!!! (Really Excited), and Sunday we will enjoy the fireworks downtown on AK’s parents boat.

Some Random but Interesting Facts about Fireworks from Real Simple:

Fireworks first appeared around 1000 A.D., in Chinese religious ceremonies.
Various metal salts are used to create the colored explosions. Barium makes green, copper makes blue, and aluminum is responsible for the sparkle.

Smiley faces, words, and logos. Fireworks have expanded far beyond the classic palm tree. To make different shapes, a chemical mixture is glued to wax paper in the form that it will take when it explodes. Next, the paper is put inside a spherical shell made of cardboard or some other paper. Several are fired off at the same time to give the appearance of three dimensions, says John Steinberg, a vice president of the Pyrotechnics Guild International.
The United States imported around $217 million worth of fireworks in 2007, with $207 million of that coming from China, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Be Safe and Have a Happy 4th!!

The Fam

2010-06-29T17:43:00.007-04:00

We had such a nice weekend! AK’s older brother and his girlfriend, mom and dad came up for a visit. This was the first time we have had family come for a visit so it was great to have them in town. We had a lot of fun showing them around Columbus and visited the neighborhoods of German Village, downtown Dublin and the Short North.

We ate and ate until we just couldn’t eat anymore!

The Rock Filet at The Elevator -
you grill it yourself on a 375 degree rock

Group Shot at The Elevator

AK and I in German Village being silly!

The Help

2010-06-29T17:40:00.001-04:00

I sooo recommend reading this book!! Best book I have read in a long time. I couldn’t put it down and was kinda sad when the book came to a end. It tells the story of African American women working as maids for white families in Jackson, MS, but also tells so much more! If you want a quick summer read, this is your book!

Baby Trey is on the Way!

2010-06-24T17:12:00.006-04:00

SO EXCITED!!!

I can hardly stand it!! Baby Trey will be making his debut in about 4 hours!! I can’t wait to meet the lil' guy and spoil him rotten!! Here are a couple pics of his cute nursery!

Congrats Van and Caison, y’all are going to be the best parents!!

DMB

2010-06-23T19:26:00.015-04:00

Last night we went to The Dave Matthews Concert. We had such a great time and it was a beautiful night! We had never seen him live before, but I think he is much better in person than on the radio. Here are few pics that recap our night....

Group Shot

Shane, Kristen, AK

Dave!

At the end of the night, we couldn't get a cab, so this guy offered us a ride home....
Pretty much sums up our night!! :)

Thankfully Shane and Kristen live downtown and he didn't have to peddle all four of us too far...it was defintely a adventure!!

Cheeseburger in Paradise...Really

2010-06-23T19:00:00.009-04:00

Yum Yum!! AK and I made these burgers last weekend and they were so tasty. We used the Pioneer woman’s recipe and she has not let me down yet!

Are you ready to drool?

Ingredients:
2 pounds 80/20 Ground Beef
1 teaspoon Salt
½ teaspoons Black Pepper
Tabasco Sauce, To Taste
2 Tablespoons Butter
1 whole Red Onion, Sliced
2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
Kaiser Rolls
Blue Cheese, I used Colby Jack because I'm not big on Blue Cheese
Your Favorite Lettuce

Instructions:

Place the ground beef into a medium mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Add a few dashes of Tabasco sauce. With your hands, mix the meat and seasoning well. Set aside.

If you like onions, these are the BEST!!! Heat a medium skillet over low heat. Add in 2 tablespoons butter. Dump in the sliced red onions. Now add 2 generous tablespoons brown sugar. Give it a toss to combine the ingredients, and then allow the onions to caramelize over low heat for about twenty minutes, tossing occasionally.

Form the meat into two patties and place on a grill pan or skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Allow each to cook about 3 minutes, then using a spatula, rotate 45 degrees, leaving it on the same side.

Flip the burger and cook it for a couple of minutes, rotating it 45 degrees again to get the nice grill marks.

Now add a large helping of caramelized onions over top of that glorious patty

New Haircut

2010-06-17T19:58:00.016-04:00

Harley before his haircut... Relaxed...

Harley after his haircut... Let's just say he is not a happy camper with my mom and is pretty much giving her the cold shoulder

My mom has quickly learned how people in the "country" groom Persian cats! I do feel kinda bad for the little guy, but I must be honest, AK and I had a great laugh!!

Found It!

2010-06-15T17:59:00.016-04:00

I am so excited, I have purchased AK's anniversary gift! Yes, I'm about a month ahead of schedule, but hey that's the planner in me!

I don't know about you but in the summer, I love to grill out... well really have someone grill out (AK) and I prepare the sides . I love grilled cheeseburgers, steaks, veggies, and grilled bbq chicken (although growing up my father used to grill barbecue chicken until it was BLACK and crunchy, I'm talking burnt to a crisp!)

this actually is not as burnt as my dad's famous chicken...

So since the summer has begun we have have grilled out a few times, and two out of three times, let's just say it hasn't gone so well.

So on Sunday, AK mentioned that he would love to take grilling lessons or a class on the techniques of grilling. I thought perfect, I could get him a gift certificate to a grilling class, (and this could be my paper thing) I found the perfect place, Sur La Table. They are in 13 states and provide all sorts cooking classes and also have stores filled with kitchen stuff! I have signed him up for the 5 grill recipes every cook should know. In this class he will learn how to cook, Grilled Chicken with Citrus and Cilantro - Perfect Grilled New York Steak - Grilled Swordfish Kebabs with Mixed Herb Pesto - Salmon Tacos with Chipotle Sauce - Grilled Peaches with Balsamic Glaze and Vanilla Ice Cream. Sounds Fabulous!!

My heart will go on...

2010-06-14T17:31:00.014-04:00

Oh Yes! AK and I went to the Titanic exhibit this weekend at Cosi here in Columbus. We had the best time! We may have been the only people there without children, but we didn't mind, we pretended we were kids ourselves!

Here's a sneak preview of the exhibit

They had unopened champagne bottles, plates, cups, clothes, glasses, and china from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd classes. They also had on display what a 1st class room would like look. To book first class it cost $2500 what would cost $40,000 today! This exhibit travels all across the country, I highly recommend you check it out!

Must Haves

2010-06-05T21:16:00.019-04:00

Wedding season has officially begun for AK and I! This week in the mail we received a save the date, wedding invitation and shower invitation for three different weddings. Such a exciting time for all of the brides and grooms! I began to look up their registries and wanted to share some of items that I think every bride and groom should consider registering for.

Here are a few of my favorites:

A nice set of bakeware

China/Everyday - I just registered for China and I love it!

Dutch Oven - This is one of those that my mother was like you have to register for
and I am so glad I did!! I love it!

A great set of knives

Everyday Silverware - Use it everyday and we love it!

Nice set of towels, I had my towels still from college and it's amazing what a good towel feels like!

Serveware, I love to entertain so these platters comes in handy!!

Finally, AK's favorite gift...the pilsner!

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-02T20:21:00.005-04:00

I can't believe Memorial Day has come and gone!

AK and I had a great weekend. We relaxed at the pool on Saturday

and celebrated my brother's 30th birthday on Saturday night!
Man, do I feel old!

We ended the perfect weekend with a day/night out on the river.
It was just what I needed.

Frame the Date

2010-05-24T19:01:00.010-04:00

I can't believe that AK and I have been married almost a year!! Needless to say, I am starting to look for a gift for AK. The first year anniversary is paper. I found this really cute idea, it's called Frame the Date.

You can choose really rustic or traditional numbers and frames.

I'm thinking of doing this, but want to get something else too...

I'll let you know what I come up with!

Menchie's

2010-05-17T17:54:00.013-04:00

Many of you know how much I LOVE Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt! Well this weekend I found my new favorite place for frozen yogurt, Menchie's.

What is so great about this place is you pay by weight and not by how many toppings you have. So you can put 5 different types of toppings or mix two different frozen yogurts and not have to pay additional! It's really reasonably priced too, 44 cents a ounce. So for AK and I to get two cups of frozen yogurt with any toppings we wanted it was $6.50!!

They have several different flavors, usually about 8 everyday. I went with the New York Cheesecake and mixed it with chocolate and topped it with reeses pieces, chocolate chips, cookie dough AND chocolate syrup. Needless to say, this may have not been a good find for me, I may have a slight addiction on my hands!

Between you and me, I went back the next day and got another frozen yogurt before I went to the grocery!! I felt like I just couldn't resist, it's right next to the grocery!! So here's my warning to you, if you are a frozen yogurt person, BEWARE!!

To find a location near you, visit

What Horse?

2010-05-11T17:13:00.011-04:00

Steeplechase came and went again this year. We had a lot of fun and the weather was perfect! This is the first year we have ever bet on a race and we actually went and watched it! Our horse didn't win, but so glad we saw a race!

Here are a few pics...

Ashley and Me enjoying the Sun!

Chris, AK, Cody and Will

Shrimp Boil - SO Tasty!

Looking forward to the races next year!

Three Hours

2010-05-10T21:23:00.007-04:00

I wanted to share these pictures so you could see just how fast the water came up. These were taken from my dear friend while she was on her roof waiting to be rescued.

8:41 am

9:15 a.m.

9:45 a.m.

11 a.m

11:30 a.m.

So thankful that she and A.Z. are safe!

This Is My Town

2010-05-10T21:01:00.008-04:00

What a week last week was in Nashville! I am so proud that I am from this city. I saw strangers helping strangers, handing out food, giving out bottled water, ripping out dry wall, bleaching the inside of homes, and the list goes on. My friends and I held a donation drive last week, for my friends that were effected. The response was overwhelming that I had to tell people that I couldn't take anymore items. Thanks to all of you that contributed. You'll never know how much this meant to me and the friends you helped. I couldn't see out of my SUV I had so much stuff! It was so amazing, I had people calling me that I hadn't talked to in years wanting to donate stuff.

It was truly a wonderful experience.

Prayers for Nashville

2010-05-03T10:13:00.009-04:00

The Publix on Hwy 100.

I am at a loss for words this morning. I feel completely helpless. The flooding that happened in Nashville over the weekend, hit the worst in Bellevue, where I grew up. So many of my friends have lost everything. My dear friend, Michelle was rescued from her roof yesterday morning. The water rose in her neighborhood extremely fast.

Michelle's house after the water has receded, taken this morning.
Water line was at the top of her windows.

The neighborhood I grew up in is like a island, several areas are underwater. Our house is up on a hill so it has not been affected, but so many others have.

Main street to get into my parents neighborhood in Bellevue

If you have a minute, please say a prayer for everyone in Nashville.