New Year's Eve: Traditions

Glitter, confetti, party hats, cheers, midnight kisses, resolutions and more...

It's that time of year again...

NEW YEARS EVE! 

 Out with the old, and in with the new.  

How do you celebrate?

I asked some of my favorite bloggers how they will be ringing in the new year,

and here is what they said!

Megan @ Mackey Madness said:

"To ring in the New Year, we always ALWAYS watch the countdowns on tv...and then we scream

loudly the final countdown when the ball drops! Our night includes fireworks, food, family,

friends and definitely a midnight kiss!! I love ringing in the new year by kissing the man

that I love!  The next day, my mom always cooks cabbage and black eyes peas for 

luck, wealth and health!"

***

Jenni @ Story of My Life said:

"I make a bunch of resolutions that typically crash and burn by February, but I always love the feeling of a fresh chance that New Year's brings.  It's great to reevaluate your life and see where you need to make improvements! :)"

***

Ashley @ Run With Me said:

"I've never done anything exciting or even the same from year to year but since this is my first New Years in Atlanta, I plan on spending it getting dressed up and going out with some girlfriends...at a place yet to be decided!"

***

McKenzie @ Basil said:

"This will be our second New Years as h&w. We decided that it would be a "splurge" night, so we went to the fanciest restaurant we knew, a tapas style restaurant that is in a 100+ year old mansion. We ordered all the food we wanted, with an emphasis on dessert! New Years Eve is a great time to do this, because a lot of restaurants decorate for the occasion, and its a good way to just chat and reflect on the past year, treat yourself with delicious food, and ring in the new year with your sweetheart, best friends, or family. This will probably be a tradition we'll be keeping!"

***

Bridget @ Tales of Me and the Husband said:

"hopefully some appetizers, chilled prosecco and lots of dancing in my parents' living room: to the likes of stevie wonder, jackson 5, and kool & the gang"

***

Carissa @ Rissy Blogs said:

"I drink lots of alcohol...Oh but on New Years day my mom makes pork and sauerkraut ; )"

***

Gentri @ Gentri Lee said:

"My dad built a cannon (yes, a cannon) a long time ago and every New Years we shoot it off at midnight. It's such a fun way to ring (boom?) in the new year."

she was serious!  here is the canon!!!

***

Taylor at Young, Fun & Still Learning said: 

"I always buy the funny party hats and glasses. Normally on a boat in lake Washington to watch the space needle shoot off fireworks. This year we're going to have to make a new tradition in Spokane" 

***

Michaela at Michaela Noelle Designs said: 

"Our whole family spends the night together eating a delicious meal and watching the older folks fall asleep or leave for home one by one, while my cousins, best friends, and I stay up playing games and drinking Martinelli's. This year, though, I'll be drinking some bubbly as I'm newly 21 (; We ring in the new year with style- Pajamas, goofy glasses, hats, and all!"

***

Chelsea @ Choose to Be Happy said:

"Celebrating is just in my nature, and so of course, we always make

sure to ring in the brand New Year in either a big, medium or small
way.   But I usually prefer big.  We drink champagne, get dressed up,
celebrate with the ones we love the most and cheers to what is, what
was and what will be!  It’s all so refreshing. I’m ready for you 2012!"

***

Stephanie @ Stephanie & Such said:

"How do I ring in the New Year? I don't kiss and tell people ;)

But I will tell you what I love most about celebrating the New Year, besides midnight of course, is setting goals! I usually try and set three realistic goals to complete throughout the year. One physical, spiritual and a random one of my choice! I write each goal on separate notecards and put it in a place where I will see them often. So a goal I set for this coming year? RUN A HALF MARATHON. My whole family is doing it and I'm lucky to have such an awesome support system. With hard work, I know I can do it. Cheers to a healthy life in 2012!!"

***

Raven @ A Momma's Desires and Pacifiers said:

"This New Years? We're having all our friends and family over for prime rib, twice-baked potatos, stuffed mushrooms and a special punch my mom is concocting. Oh, and sparklers!"

No matter how you celebrate, I hope everyone has a safe and fun evening!

Remember to swing by here tomorrow for a fantastic giveaway!

You won't want to miss this one!

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Friday's Letters {Sayonara Christmas 2011!}

from top left: bloodwork, my new watch, a shirt from themittenstate.com, baby B sleeping with a new christmas toy from grandma and grandpa gill, me:oh haiii!, bella sleeping in the mud room, favorite new watch from my husband! la mer!,  lovely tiny inital necklace from my in-laws, husband playing with toys on christmas day, all the boys in their annual christmas outfit, a new fossil satchel!, new wallet from my s-i-l etsy.com/shop/rockitbot, pioneer woman cookbook, husband's new fossil watch from me, all of our lovely christmas cards, lion king dvd!  heck yeah! 

Dear Husband,  I love you so  much more than I ever have this week.  Despite the awful circumstance we are in, you have more than risen to the occasion and proven how strong you are.  I don't know what I would do without you, and I appreciate you more than I ever have.  So proud and thankful to be doing this thing called life with YOU. Dear Bella, what a sweet girl you are. You have stuck to my side like glue these past few days.  I guess it is true that animals can tell when their owners are sad.  I have loved having you as my snuggle buddy.  You have made me feel So much better. Dear Christmas 2011, You came and went so fast!  What a great Christmas though.... we found out that my S-I-L is adding a little BOY to the Slater family! We are so excited to watch the family grow and grow!  Plus, all the wonderful presents and food didn't hurt either!  I can't wait to use my lovely wine decanter I got  from my mom & dad.  Thanks everyone for my lovely treasures!  Dear Love of My Life, Saturday, at midnight it is officially your birthday.  I can't wait to celebrate another year of your life and dream some big dreams for the year ahead with you. I know that no matter what happens, with you by my side things will be magical and wonderful.  I can't wait to see what God has up his sleeve for us in 2012.  Bring it on!

p.s.  Did you read my post on my reflections from the past year?

don't miss it!
p.p.s.: don't forget I have
 a really cool giveaway 
HERE (on this blog!) 
on New Year's Day! 

Now, be sure to link your letters today!
First, grab the button and add it to the post with your letters!

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{Year End Review}

Every year around this time I start to reflect on the year that will soon be behind me and the year ahead. It's hard to admit that the older I become, the faster time sees to slip through my fingers. As much as I try to hang on to moments, people, places and experiences, life just doesn't seem to slow down enough.   This year, in particular has been quite a whirlwind.  Looking back on the year, it hardly seems real.  I can't even begin to count how many miles we have covered driving state to state.  We have lived in Indiana (and endured snowpocalypse 2011 + built a fort) , Michigan (Lansing and Grand Rapids), Colorado (where we went to the top of pikes peak, swam in the punch bowls, saw the rocky mountains and did the dumbest thing I have ever done in my life) and South Carolina this year alone.

We visited Disney and I even saw my first ever space shuttle launch.  We saw a broadway show in the Big Apple and got to see the statue of liberty too!  We ran the Warrior Dash, went on our annual Traverse City vacation and visited some of my favorite michigan beach towns like south haven, holland and saugatuck. I even jumped into lake Michigan for the first time EVER.  (and possibly the last time!)  We entered Canada and saw Niagara Falls and Toronto to celebrate our one year wedding anniversary.  I got to attend my first U of M football game at the big house, and even though it was freezing cold it was so much fun!  Definitely want to do that again! We will be ending this year in Myrtle Beach, which has been pretty fun as well.  We have gotten to visit Charleston and run a Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot at the beach! Who knows where I will be writing to you from once we pack up and leave here on January 6th!

My marriage was tested and pushed and bent like a tree being tossed in a storm.  And once that storm cleared we were still standing, stronger and firmly rooted.  Diligent. Steadfast and unwavering. I have learned my husband more-- what he needs, and what makes him happy.  I have become a better wife and my husband a better partner to me as well.  As it should be.  But oh, how I appreciate him.  In this topsy turvy season of our lives, he is an anchor.  A tower. We have laughed together.  Cried together.  Prayed together.  Danced.  What an amazing thing God created when he gave each of us our spouse.

We were rocked with the news that I had lupus.  It was a scary and uncertain time and here, just six short months later I will be started the new year in the best health so far.  I have been able to manage my lupus as best as possible, and with great support from all sides.

We adopted our little yorkiepoo pup Bella....and dealt with an unexpected surgery when it came around.  I started Fetch & Co.  She has added so much to our lives...  it is amazing how much and animal can love you and comfort you and bring joy.  She has been a best friend and constant companion to me when I start to feel lonely on these three month job stints away from friends and family.

I met five bloggers! Jane in Denver, Lindsay in Lincoln Nebraska and Chelsea, Ashley & Ami in Atlanta...

We also will be ending this year with a very painful experience. Which is why I have been notably absent this week.  And I am choosing to keep that private (no, I don't tell you every single thing, blog friends).  But I do want to remain as honest and open as I can, which is why I mentioned it at all.  Sometimes very, very bad things happen and you question everything.  Including yourself.  And everything seems a little grayer like the color has been stripped out if it.  The devil tries to steal joy wherever he can.  It's true.  Thankfully, I serve a God that is bigger and greater and stronger than that.  He is faithful through tragedy and these circumstances have only made my husband and I cling to Him that much more.  And for that I am grateful.

For this New Year I am praying for health-- for my friends and my families, happiness and even more amazing experiences.  A nice trip to a beach wouldn't hurt either.  I am sure by the end of 2012 we will either be settled in-- or moving toward settling-- in Michigan among our families. But if I have learned anything this year it is that despite our plans, life usually has other things in mind.... so we will see where this year takes us, and I am so thankful for you, friends who are along for the ride with me.  I have met many of you in person, talk to several of you daily (group chat, anyone), and treasure you more than you know.

Truly, you have made this year one of the best ever.

Over & Out,
A

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A Winner!

Whew, I don't know about you guys but we are Christmas-ed OUT!

for real.

Food was eaten.

Presents were unwrapped.

More food was eaten.

News was shared.

More presents!

Hugs.

Laughter.

Toy assembly.

Joy.

Love.

Family.

so today?  I am relaxing and enjoying some cuddles with Baby Bella on the couch.

Reading a good book and enjoying the Christmas lights as long as I can.

I hope everyone of you had a wonderful day, and that you celebrated the true meaning of the season:

Jesus Christ, and the amazing story of his birth; amazing love that without we'd be doomed.

ALSO, I wan to congratulate Whitney @ Everything Happens for a Reason 

for winning my lil giveaway!  E-mail me so I can get your treasures in the mail! 

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On the 12th Day of Christmas...Ashley Gave To Me! [CLOSED]

It's Here, It's here!

Not only does SANTA come tonight, but today is MY day of the 12 days of

BLOGGER GIVEAWAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

These past 11 giveaways have been amazing, right?

Round of applause ladies.... you took the giveaways to a whole.new.level.

First, a congratulations goes out to Nicole at Running In Heels
for winning the giveaway yesterday!   CONGRATS!
E-mail Sabrina to claim your baking goodies! 

For my giveaway?  I couldn't choose one thing, so you get the chance to win an array 

of delightful goodies.... here is the swag:

A SAKROOTS Wristlet! ($30 value!)

I love this wristlet because it has a little key chain holder attached to the inside...so fun.

But, since I couldn't stop there here is the rest!

(sorry these are so crappy...I had to take them at night with the flash!)

Do you see what I see?

Yeah, that is 3 mini booze bottles.

(If you are underage, I can't send these to you...sorry)

ALSO?

Clinique's High Impact Mascara... It is one of my faves...so perfect for getting the tips

and the last few lashes that are stubborn so your lashes look super full and long! 

ALSO?

A bracelet from my etsy shop... the golden four leaf clover is like my favorite!

ALSO?

Victoria's Secret Very Sexy NOW Mist.  I love this stuff.

(I took a screen shot of this and was too lazy to fix it...FYI!)

also?

Sally Hansen Fast Dry Nail Polish in Mint Sorbet!

This is the perfect spring/summer color! 

and finally, some chocolates and treats for your tummy :)

OKAY SO LET'S REVIEW:  You could win-----> a wristlet, MINI Booze, high impact mascara, VS Very Sexy Now Mist, Mint Nail Polish, A Fetch & Co. Bracelet, and chocolate!   WAHOO!

Here is how you enter:

(Mandatory Entry: Follow me on this here bloggy blog!)

leave a comment saying you do so.

EXTRA ENTRIES!

(+1 ENTRY):  become an AON fan on facebook! 

(+1 ENTRY): become my friend on twitter so we can chat and stuff! 

(+1 ENTRY): Tell me one thing you have done for someone else this holiday season!

(+1 ENTRY): SING "FRA-RA-RA-RA-RA as loud as you can RIGHT NOW.)

Leave a SEPARATE comment for everything you did,

and then ---BAM--- you are entered! That is five chances! 

Giveaway is open through tonight, 12 PST.

Winner will be announced tomorrow morning!

Open to all U.S./Canada Bloggers!

so get to gettin' and have a very MERRY Christmas Eve!

Santa Clause Is Comin..... TONIGHT!

p.s. keep your eyes peeled for a second fantastic giveaway on this here blog, NEW YEARS DAY! 

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My Bad..

In all this excitement, would you believe that I forgot to post today?  I did.  I FAIL.  But don't worry, I will make it up to you because tomorrow is my giveaway that wraps up the 12 days of blogger christmas!

You should really be excited, I know I am!

AND, I get to see my husband tomorrow night!  

I have been missing him...

here is the little peanut after her birthday party yesterday...

she got a tutu and hairbow, got to blow out a candle and eat a whole entire

dish of vanilla ice cream! Her first birthday was a success!!

you guys.... santa comes tomorrow night!

and also, did you enter the 11th day of blogger giveaways?!?

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Happy 1st Birthday Bella Louise!!!!!!!!

I think this picture speaks for itself.

and yes, I dress my baby peanut in a tutu to celebrate her first birthday.

Don't judge me. (It just means I will be a good momma one day, right?!)

Go ahead, you can wish bella a happy birthday !!!!!!!!

(I will be reading ALL the comments to her!)

Today is the 10th day of blogger Christmas giveaways! 

so head over to see the amazing giveaway at RAVEN'S! 

Also, you can find me over at MACKEY MADNESS today!

check it out...

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7 States, 16 Hours

To say Monday was crazy is an understatement. Here, I am going to give you a list of things not to do when you are preparing to drive 16 hours, across 16 states starting out at three AM.

get. in. my. mouth.

First, you should not wait to pack everything the day before you are leaving, like I did.  In doing so, you might pull a muscle, like I did.  You see, the morning started out great.  I was getting things done (like making my husband a week's worth of dinners so he wouldn't starve while I was away--- can you say WIFE POINTS?!), I had gotten most of the house cleaned up and all the items that we don't want to take with us to the next job assignment boxed up-- like all of our Christmas decor.  In a moment of way too much can-do attitude I tried to lift a box that weighed about as much as me.  That didn't go so well and as soon as the box was 12 inches off the floor, I went DOWN steve Urkel style.

1 emergency phone call to my husband, an ice pack, and 4 aleve later...  I landed in bed and couldn't move for the better part of three hours.  My laptop even died so I didn't have anything to do but watch episodes of divorce court (which I LOVE, by the way)....  at least Bella kept me company.

Yes, this is the scary monster that my husband wakes up to every morning.  Me=makeupless.  THE HORROR!

So, after my husband came home and fixed me enough to where I could stand upright he helped me get my car all packed up and then, instead of going to bed, I decided that it sounded like a pretty good idea to go to barnes and noble, get starbucks and have a date.

still no makeup.  scary, I know. (also, the top picture is from starbucks too!)

So, are taking notes?  Don't pull a muscle, and then, DON'T drink coffee.  Because you won't be able to get to sleep.  Just like me.  That's right... I got a total of maybe ONE hour of sleep before my alarm sounded at 3am.  I drug myself out of bed, got even MORE coffee going and hit the road by 3:15.
16 hours=7 states:  south carolina, north carolina, kentucky, tennessee, ohio (wait, WHAT?  my gps took me on a crazy route through Lima, OH.), Indiana and finally Michigan!

left: creepy windmills in ohio/indiana  right:miss bella sleeping the ride away....LUCKY.

I finally made it...and it only took 5 coffees, a red bull, a mcdonalds happy meal (GASP!) and a 6 inch sub, plus 6 potty breaks for Bella, give or take.  And I called almost everyone I know to get me through those rough patches where I felt like I was going to fall asleep.  The last two hours of the drive I swear I lost my depth perception and I couldn't tell how close I was to the cars in front of me.  That is kind of scary. My husband and I linked up via google latitude and it was so neat that he could track where I was driving from his phone and computer.  I highly recommend it for anyone traveling...  of course, me being the morbid thinker that I am, I was thinking how nice it would be in case I got kidnapped and then the cops would be able to tell the last place I was in my vehicle and with my phone.  Yes, I am a weirdo. But, thankfully I wasn't shanghaied by anyone and arrived safely.  Now, I am going to sleep/rest the ENTIRE day.  And eat lots of food...because that is what Christmas is alll about.

It is the 9th day of blogger giveaways!

head over to rissy's blog to enter!

and another small note:

Lately is has become overwhelming to try and answer all of your sweet comments.

From now on I won't be answering every single one, but please know that I read 

EVERY SINGLE WORD and  I LOVE hearing from you. 

My husband and I  laugh and smile and get so much encouragement from you all...

I would rather spend that time browsing your blogs and keeping up with you all too!

I will still always, always answer e-mails!

Over &  Out,

A

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2012 Sponsorships!

I am now accepting sponsorships for January 2012!

I have some exciting things up my sleeve for this New Year,

so I hope you will consider joining me!

For pricing, e-mail: ashley@adventuresofnewlyweds.com

(*If you are a new blogger and can't afford the expensive spots, e-mail me,

I LOVE promoting new bloggers and would love to work something out with you!)

p.s. today is the 8th day of blogger giveaways!

enter now!

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Weekend Snapshots

From top left to right--
1. It was in the 70's here this weekend.  Amazing?  I think so!!
2. Tired husband at mellow mushroom
3. A custom mug from the Fetch & Co. Shop!
4. A new bracelet I put up in the shop this weekend...
5. We watched Santa Clause Is Coming To Town!
6. Sunday naps are taken pretty seriously around here!
7. Churchin' it up at Beach Church
8. I got my new Bondi Band in the mail!  I can't wait to give one away during my health series!
9. "Genie" bracelet I added to the shop this weekend!
10.  Our awesome nativity our friend got is in Bethlehem, Israel for our wedding gift. We LOVE it.
11. Bella getting her nap on.
12. Chik-fil-a peppermint chocolate chip milkshake! MMMM.


So that's what we were doing this weekend.  I leave tomorrow for Michigan!  I am going to ATTEMPT to drive the entire way, but we will see.  Hopefully, if I leave early enough tomorrow morning (like 3am) I will be pulling into Michigan by the time the sun starts going down.  Fingers crossed.  Husband doesn't fly in until Christmas Eve, and I am going up early because I have an appointment with my rheumatologist to do another check-up and make sure everything is going well and the lupus is still "quiet" in my body.  I have been feeling really great so I hope she gives me really good news about how I am doing.  I also get to visit all of my sister-in-laws at some point, take maternity pictures of my gorgeous friend, have a sleepover with my niece and have Christmas with my family--- all before my husband even lands in the state!  I guess I better go and get my life organized (ie: car packed, laundry done, kitchen cleaned (and stocked so husband doesn't starve while I am away), carpets vaccummed, clothes packed, christmas gifts packed, bella's travel bag packed, homework finished, posts scheduled.......AH!!!!!!!!)

Have you entered the SEVENTH day of Christmas giveaway?

Hope on over to Katie's to enter to win!!!

Over & Out,

A

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Your Spiritual Health, Part 4

We are continuing on with the Sunday Series, again these books are called The Homebuilder Couples Series (click to order).  They are meant to be led devotional style together or in a group of couples.  My husband and I choose to do them together once a week.  It helps us understand each other and improve our communication.  Marriage is something that should always be changing and growing stronger.  This takes actual work.  It doesn't just magically happen.  Couples have to decide that complacency isn't okay and strive to become everything God intended for them.  This is just one way to start and continue that process in your own relationship or marriage.    


Today we are going to discuss:  
Planting Positive Words
so grab some coffee, grab your bible, and grab your honey to participate with you!


warm-up: Guess Who
discuss this question between yourselves or your group.  Yes, this is an icebreaker!  Go with it!

• In what way do words have the power to paint pictures in our mind?

Blueprints: The Power of Words
1. "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." As you look at that childhood statement from an adult perspective, how do you feel about it?

2.Think about the power of words in your life.  What were some statements you heard about yourself growing up--either positive or negative--that you still remember?

3. What is easier for you to recall---positive or negative words?  Why?

4. Words can be compared to seeds.  Read aloud the following verses from Proverbs about the power of words.

• Proverbs 11:9
• Proverbs 12:25
• Proverbs 15:4
• Proverbs 16:24
• Proverbs 24:26
• Proverbs 25:11

Of these verses, which stands out to you and why?

The Power of Praise 

Since words should be used carefully and constructively, let's consider how best to speak to your spouse.

5. What is one of the best compliments or words of encouragement you have received? 

6. Why do you think some people find it hard to give or to receive praise? Which is harder for you to do?

7. Read Ruth 2:2-17.  The pleasant exchange of words between Boaz and Ruth occurred in ordinary, daily circumstances as they both went about their work.  In what way does their interaction challenge you in how you relate to your spouse, particularly in the words you use daily? 

8. It is important to be specific in praising your spouse.  Complete the following statements about your spouse:

• Thank you for...
• You made me feel loved when...
• I like being with you because...
• I appreciate you because...
• I admire you for...
• I feel confident you can...
• One thing you are really good at is...

Answer these questions on  your own.

1. During these readings what insight, discovery, or reminder did you find most helpful?

2. Why do you think there is a tendency for couples to become callous or insensitive to the effect their words have on each other after they have been married awhile? How can understanding the power of words begin to change the vocabulary you use with your spouse?

3. What are some words from your spouse that encourages you and lifts your spirit?

4. What are some words from your spouse that bring you down and discourage you?

5. How can you regularly communicate praise to your spouse?

okay, now you two can come back together to answer the final questions together!

1. See if you can compliment each other all the way through the alphabet.  For example, taking turns start with the letter "a" and say something to your spouse like "you are the Apple of my eye" or "You're Athletic", or "I Admire you".  Then go to the letter be and try and make it all the way through.  

2. Share your answers to the questions you answered individually. Be open, kind, and understanding toward each other .

3. Agree  on any action steps you should take and how you should implement them.

4. Finish by praying for each other in the areas that you noted above.  Thank God for your spouse. 

Next Sunday is Christmas , so
Part 4 will post the  following Sunday!

Stay Tuned!

p.s. today is the 6th day of Christmas giveaways!
Hop on over to Shalyn's blog to  enter her giveaway! 

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On the 5th day of Christmas....

Today's giveaway is over at this smokeshow's blog

Head over that way to enter! 

giveaways go everyday through the 24th(that's MY day!)

Happy Saturday! 

Only 8 days until Christmas!

I am singing: Fra-ra-ra-ra-ra!!!

Over & Out,

A

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Friday's Letters

Dear Baby Bella,  I love our serious talks... sometimes I think you really understand what I am saying. Dear Readers, Oh yeah!  You get a letter today!  I would love to fill my grandma's mailbox with lots of christmas cheer in the form of christmas cards.  If you would be willing to add her to your christmas card list, please e-mail me. She is relatively alone during the week and gets pretty lonely.  It would mean so much to me!  Dear Husband, Last night I woke up to you leaned out of the side of the bed, hacking.  I asked you whats wrong. You replied "I thought I was throwing up" I said "You are not throwing up, lay back down, you're fine". So you did. That's kind of weird.  Dear Bella,  Why have you started pooping in the house?!? I know you are mad that I have left you home alone a little more than often but that has got to stop.  Don't you want lots of birthday presents next Thursday on your ONE YEAR birthday?! Dear Husband (who always gets two letters), Next week I leave for Michigan and you can't fly up until Christmas Eve.  I am kind of sad I have to leave you alone the week before Christmas, but I know that in the end it will all be worth it.

P.S. Did you enter the FOURTH day of 

blogger giveaways over at

 SWEETBEF's?

 ENTER NOW!

Now, be sure to link your letters today!
First, grab the button and add it to the post with your letters!

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Reflection

First Things FIRST! It is day three of the 12 days of blogger giveaways.

Today Chelsea has amazing thingS (yes, more than one!) to give away!

Go there now and enter!

***

So, last week before I visited my grandma in Alabama I made a few pit stops along the way.  You already know I got to meet some great girls in hotlanta, my old stompin' grounds. Afterwards I continued south to my old hometown where I spent my middle school, high school and beginning college years.

But, it's weird, isn't it...  going "home" after being gone from a place so long.  

My family moved from Georgia in 2006 to a state that I couldn't have picked out on a map at the time... Michigan.

My Georgia Days.... Awkward, I know. 

When we arrived I was depressed, lonely and miserable.  I had left everyone I had known at age 20 and I just wasn't sure where I fit in.  Everyone, welcoming as they were, had a distinct group of friends....great friends.  Lifelong friends.  I didn't see where I belonged and when the summer turned to fall and the cold set it things didn't get any better.

Now, I knew what snow was and had experienced it here and there (in Georgia we had snow once, for twenty minutes and I am pretty sure school was cancelled for the entire week)-- but not in the quantity that it came in, and most certainly not for the amount of time it STAYED on the ground.  The joke was that Michigan has four seasons:  Winter, Freezing, bitter, COLD winter, ICY DEATH and "construction".  The ice, salt and snow damage the roads all winter, so usually all summer that state is repairing them.  Vicious cycle, but thats a whole 'nother post.

winter in michigan looks like this:

this is ice and snow in the water near the pier. It looks like another planet out there....

So there I was, knee deep in snow, no friends and mis-er-able.  I tell a story which I wish wasn't true but it definitely is:  my first winter there I bought a white puffer jacket from Hollister.  The kind with the furry hood and furry insides.  Every time it would snow, or I would be cold (which was every 5 seconds) I would cry and the bottom of the sleeves got all stained black from my bleeding mascara and eyeliner while I hid my face.  Yep.  That is a true story.  I was a wuss.

For a few years, I hated the winters and didn't appreciate anything.  I didn't visit the lakes, or explore the northern part of the state or anything.  I refused to call Michigan my home and made it very clear to anyone who met me that Georgia was my home and the only place I belonged.

Fast forward several years and I meet some friends who start showing me the beauties of the state.  Wide open beautiful lakes, boating and charming lake towns.  Up North wineries, eateries and unique art.  Fast forward again and I meet my now husband.  I visit even more beautiful places, and start to appreciate my surroundings.  We even end up getting married in one of the most beautiful places I have yet to see in America... Traverse City.

Somewhere along the way, Michigan became a part of me.

And as much as I would still prefer the winters be a whole heckuva lot shorter, I also kind of love the snow.  Sometimes. My husband sure loves it, and I really love seeing how excited he gets about it all. I love the distinctness of the seasons, and how much more I appreciate the sweet beauty of the spring, and the warmth that the summer brings.  You soak up every bit of it, and you are thankful because you know the winter will surely come with its bitter cold.  But that cold, that I spent so many years despising, is also the season that brings change.  It sweeps out the old, and makes room for the new that will arrive in the coming season.  It's cathartic.  Metaphoric.  A gift.

So when I was "home" in Georgia last week something happened.

For the first time since I moved, "home" didn't feel like home.  I felt more outside looking in and it was bizarre.  I know you are probably expecting me to tell you that now Michigan feels like home, and that isn't necessarily true either.  Sure, if I had to pick a geographic location it would be somewhere in the mitten state, but no...  that is not what I felt sitting amongst old friends last week.

I remember distinctly realizing that "home" has become wherever my husband is...  anywhere we have lived and moved. Wherever he is, whatever crappy apartment, snazzy condo, city or state, he has become my home.  Entirely.  And I know that is kind of cheesy.  But it's something isn't it?  Something amazing and unexplainable and wonderful.

Who knew I would fall in love with this little guy? (yes, the one with his hands in his pants).

let's pretend he isn't wearing crocs, okay?

So I know that today's post was supposed to wrap up Charleston pictures but I have just been thinking about this and wanted to share while it was on my mind.  It's my blog, I can do what I want, right? RIGHT!

[SEGWAY!]

Last night husband and I wrapped the rest of our presents, drank hot chocolate and listened to lots of Christmas music....and of course, took our annual Christmas photo.  Which sort of turned into a make-out session. (Just because your married doesn't mean you can't make out anymore).  Bella made sure it didn't last to long though, she sort of HATES when husband and I hug or kiss each other too long.  She starts barking, biting and making awful noises like we are killing each other.  It's pretty hilarious.  Here are some shots from our night....

Happy Thursday!

Over & Out,

A

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