on currently...

Happenings// Well, I'm still ALIVE! The past month was a little crazy. Busy, stressful and a lot of hard work. We packed up all our belongings and moved out of the place we have call home for over five years now. Both Bobby and I work full time so it was a little rough having to pack & move with such a full schedule but in the end we did it and I can't be happier to have it all done! Leaving our place in the wonderful neighborhood we were at was sad but to think of the new adventure we are about embark on washes any of those feelings away. 
As of right now, we are living with my in laws. The house is full, loud and sometimes chaotic but all three of us are just thankful for the time we get to spend with our Schuler family before we move. Since all of our things are packed up in boxes, it makes our move to Seattle a breeze. All we will have to do is pack the moving truck up and set sail. My dad was awesome and bought a one way ticket out here to help Bobby drive the truck back. So, he is set to fly in on December 10th and then together they will leave for their journey on the 11th. Then after that Sebastian and I will be flying back over to the Northwest on the 12th! It's going to be a crazy week but I just can't believe it's finally happening. Even though it will be sad leaving Philadelphia and the life that we've lived for the past 7 years it's also very exciting to start new and have the chance to be around my family and friends.

Reading// I just finished the book Red Hill by Jamie McGuire. It's another one of those zombie apocalypse books yet so so good! It's written the views of three different characters. One, a women who just sent her two daughters off to spend the weekend at their dads. All hell brakes lose and her precious daughters are no where to be found. Day after day she doesn't know whether they are alive or shuffling around out there somewhere. Two, a single average joe father with a five year old daughter just trying to survive in the world with danger lurking all around. Three, a college girl who luckily was on the way to her dad's house in the country with her sister and both their boyfriends. A house that could potential save or doom them all. In the end, all their fates intertwine. Sounds good huh? Also I find that I should totally start writing synopsis for books. 

Excited about// My dad and step-mom just bought a house in Poulsbo, Washington. As much as I am happy for my dad for being able to find a home that he loves in a place that seems like a perfect fit for them, I'm just excited about being able to share a home with them for a little while. Until we find a house that we would like to buy we get to live with my dad, step mom and my little sister. Sebastian is going to flip when he realizes that we have to ride the ferry whenever we have get back over to Seattle. He absolutely loves the ferry and I can't wait to be surround by the beautiful water. 

Watching// Wow! So many awesome shows. At first, I was extremely overwhelmed with them all and a bit behind due to the move but now that I am all caught up it's thrilling to see where all these season are going. The Originals has been great and I'm curious about how this first season is going to pan out. On the other hand, Vampire Diaries has proved to still be an epic show. I was nervous since it is on it's fifth season and I wasn't sure what new twist they could come up with but they have and I love them for it. American Horror Story is totally wicked and outstanding and then there's Walking Dead which I thought was going to be just that..DEAD. But another show that restored my faith. The Witches of East Wick has caught my attention and urge you if you haven't to tune in on Sundays. And let's not forget that Dracula starts this week coming up!! Happy happy :)

Loving// How great I've been feeling. After hard work and determination I've lost twenty pounds! It's crazy to say that I'm back down to the weight that I was at when I was eighteen. I would love to lose ten more pounds to be at the weight that I've only every dreamed about being at. Last week Bobby and I joined the gym that is right down the street from my in laws house which makes it very easy for me to make time to spend there. I've become a smoothie loving fool and it's amazing how great my body and soul feels. Not to mention how invigorating it is to accomplish such a big goal! 

Looking forward to// Bobby and I are attending a wedding next weekend. It's one of Bobby's friend who I've only met a handful of times but we are excited about being able to have a night out. The wedding is in New Jersey and so we will be staying in the hotel that the wedding reception is going to be held at. I'm looking forward to be able to dress up fancy and have a late night and fun time. Amen to being able to have excuse to buy a pretty dress and chic shoes. 

xoxo.

on currently (seattle update)...

(my miley cyrus impression. what do you think?)

Thinking about// OUR MOVE! For all that haven't heard, we're taking a big leap across the country back to my home, Seattle. Our move is set to happen this December. With it only being three months away we are already packing boxes and selling things we don't want to haul out there. We actually took one step forward and already put in our notice with our landlord. So, by the end of September we are out of our apartment and will be living out of a suitcases at our in laws for the last few months. My in laws are nice enough to share their home with us so that we can save some money and with all our things already packed up ready to go it will make things go a little smoother! Of course, my heart swells with gratitude toward my in laws who already have a house full of people to welcome us into their busy lives. It's going to be an interesting couple of month but even so I am pretty excited for the memories that will be made!

Reading// Just got done with reading Losing Hope by Colleen Hoover. This is the second book to Hopeless by Hoover. The first book was amazing and once I found out she was coming out with a second book with Holder's point of view, I knew that it was a must read. Just to put this in perspective, Sebastian went down for a nap and I ended up reading Losing Hope (336 pages) in just about two hours. So, basically it's an amazing book. 
I just started a book called The Wild by Whitley Strieber. It's an older book that was gifted to me by one of my regular customers at work. It shows he knows me too well because it's a book about a man who goes to sleep at night and dreams about becoming a wolf. But it turns out it's a dream at all. Hooowwll! 

Eating// I am currently preparing my body for a juice cleanse that I'll start next week. I've been hearing and seeing many people say how great they feel during and after doing a cleanse. It's not going to be easy so I knew I'd have to give my body time to prepare. I started weaning myself off my usual cups of coffee at the beginning of the week. Not going to lie, I'm hurting but I think I can do it. Other than that I'm ready to start juicing!!

Watching// Right now all my beloved summer programs have ended and so right now I'm simply waiting for the fall schedule to start! Many of my favorite shows will be starting back up in September and a few in October. I'm most excited for The Originals to start which is a spin-off Vampire Diaries. However, right now, Bobby and I have been watching Breaking Bad whenever we find time during our evenings together and also Ray Donovan which isn't all that bad. What are you most anticipating? 

Learning// More and more about myself each and every day. Lately, I've learned that even though I have many fault (who doesn't) I am sure of one thing in this life and that is that I will always be my son's advocate. There are no boundaries when it comes to Sebastian. I've never fought for anything more. I will do whatever it takes, I will educate people, I will voice my opinion, I will not let people judge and I won't ever let anyone think my child is less of a person because he has a speech delay. I am judged on a daily basis and over the years it's been very apparent that people are quick to judge me and when it comes to myself it just rolls off of me but when it comes to Sebastian I can't help but feel a fire within me erupt. It's the one thing I know I'm doing right :) 

Loving// My banjo! I am enjoying my new banjo who I've named Norma (yes, I named my banjo) with all my heart. It's been fun learning and practicing and it helps a lot that Bobby already knows how to play the guitar. It's been cute having him teach me things. I think Bobby has secretively taken a liking to the banjo since I've gotten it, I catch him playing it when I'm in the other room. It's a really cool instrument though! I'm currently working on cords and trying to condition my fingers to do ungodly things. It's not as easy and it looks, I swear! No doubt it's going to take lots of practice but I hope to have a song down by the end of this year. Wish me luck!

xoxo.

on currently...

Reading// Still working on Game of Thrones book #1. I haven't really been reading much the past few weeks but hoping to finish it up soon. I'm very close to finishing and I still love it as much as I love the show. My last post was my reading list and I think I'll be starting on Neil Gailman's book next. It's not as long as some of the books I've been reading lately so that will be nice. 

Listening to// Pandora. It's really all I listen to now a days. God knows when the last time I bought music. I seriously want to make out with whoever it was that invented Pandora. I love the variety and I swear it always knows just what I want to hear. And when I get bored or want to mix it up all I have to do is change the station. Other than that Fleet Foxes has been my favorite thing to listen to lately. 

Thinking about// My dad. He's been on my mind ever since I left Seattle. He is due for surgery tomorrow. He will be staying one night at the hospital and home by Wednesday. It's hard to be so far and even with all my positive thoughts it still hurts to be so far away. But when I think of my dad I swell with pride. I am so incredible proud of him and can't but look up to his strong will. I can't wait until I can finally be back home and be able to hug him whenever I want. He's a great man. 

Watching// Teen Wolf. It my favorite show that is currently on. It even tops True Blood right now. Don't get me wrong True Blood with forever be on my list but something about Teen Wolf this season has been all giddy and excited. Every episode has had me on the edge of my seat and ending with lots of question to be answered. I love that! And after each episode I get all pouty about it being over! 
I saw World Ward Z with a couple of my girlfriends on Sunday. Two thumbs up from me! I loved every minute of it. I loved the zombies. They were creepy looking but the sound that let out took things to a whole new level. I thought Brad Pit was awesome in the role he played and even though I wished we learned some more about his past I still thought it was enough. Without giving away too much I will say all around the thing I was most pleased with was the ending. Many people would think that is weird because well, the ending didn't really end or give us closure at all but I liked that because it seemed more realistic to me. Worth seeing though! 
The next movie I'm counting down the days to is-- The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones. It comes out on my birthday! 

Looking forward to// Sebastian's 5th birthday. I still can't believe my little boy is going to be five! Ahhh! The days have flown by and it's about that time. Since it's his big 5th birthday we plan on spoiling him and having a small birthday party at his favorite place, Happy Tymes, which is a family fun center. Huge jungle gym maze, rides, games, go carts and mini golf. Where a little boys wildest dreams come true. My little boy to be exact. I know he will have fun and it will be something he will talk about and relive for months after. Can't wait to see his face light up. 

Making me happy// A hardworking husband. He really is the moon of my life. My perfect fella. Books and their ability to sooth and relax me. I can get lost in a book and forget about anything on my mind. Thinking about Seattle and the future. It makes me happy knowing that all but good things are coming our way. I love to think I'll finally get to start on my dreams. Bobby and I have been talking about expanding our family and once we get completely settled out in Seattle we hope to work on turning our family of three into four. It exciting to think about! Over all at the end of the day even though some times life is tough and whether it's me or a loved one going through something the best way to take it on is with positive thoughts and a brave heart. 

xoxo.

on currently...

Reading// The Immortals Rule by Julie Kagawa. I'm seriously in love with this vampire novel. I swear I  always say I've read all the vampire stories ever made but alas I come across something new. I love this story because it's different. Vampires are my favorite but with having read tons of different versions it's hard to find things that have me interested. Well, if your in the same boat as me then you have got to read this book. Really, I'm not even half way through  it and can't put it down. In this story the world is ruined and the undead have taken over and the humans are their cattle. Allie hates the monsters and is trying her best to survive in this world by salvaging what she can and living day by day with her hatred of the vampires fueling her. That's until she has to make a choice to die or become one of the things she most hates in this world. A monster. A vampire. So yeah, obviously she chooses a vampire and now she has to go through the struggle of being something that she hates more than anything. Emotions are huge in this book and I love that because emotions are everything when getting to know a character. I'm excited to get through book number one and get to reading book two!

Thinking about// Seattle and our move. I am so excited about it all. I mean, why wouldn't I be! It's going to be a lot of work getting out there but it's really going to amazing. It's so surreal still. I've already started to put things in boxes and Bobby and I have already started to plan on what we want to sell off and what we want to keep. It's exhilarating to think that each day I am one step closer to my dreams, family and friends. Bliss! 

Looking forward to// May 21st. It's our 2 year anniversary and we are going up to NYC for the day. We plan to drop Sebastian off at school and take a bus. I love NYC. I've been there a handful of times since living in Philly and I thought it would be fun to adventure around with my fella by my side. It's just one of those small things that is so fun to look forward to. I plan on hitting the Anthropologie store and grab some of my favorite French macarons that I adore so much. 

Watching// I totally did a whole post on everything I've been watching but dear me I forgot a show to share with you. Surprised? Yeah, didn't think so... I've been watching Defiance. Have you seen this show? Oh. My. It's set in the future where aliens have come to Earth after their solar system has been destroyed causing a war. The war is over now but Jeb the main character stumbles into his hometown and now becomes part of a group of people. It's great! Action packed and did you know that it's originally a video game? I know, I totally can see it being one!

Thankful for// So many things! I am constantly in awe with how good this life can really be. I love that the weather is starting to get nicer and that we have the chance to be outside more. I love that Sebastian made a new friend at our local playground. We have been meeting up with Kevin and his granddad to play at least once a week. It's really funny to watch these two play together. I swear they don't even say a word to each other that's how much they are in sync. 
I'm thankful for my dad who is always there for me. No one in this world loves me more than my father and I will love and cherish everything he has done for me when others did not. It's funny because I never truly understood that until I became a parent and now I know how deep that love can just root right into your soul. Just calling and talking to him on the phone can make things all better. So thankful for that. 

xoxo.

on currently...

Watching// My new current obsession, Breaking Bad! Stumbled across it on Netflix with all four season and so now both Bobby and I have been plugging away episode after episode. At first I wasn't sure about the whole high school chemistry teacher goes meth cooker but in all seriousness it's awesome. It has become something that we watch when we have nothing else to watch. And boy is Bryan Cranston, who plays high school chemistry teacher/ meth cook, a great actor. Great show! Also I've still been keeping up with The Following which has turned into one of my favorite shows. I'm starting to become somewhat disappointed with how the current season of The Walking Dead is going. And last but not least, did you tune into Bates Motel last night? Oh. My. God. Can not wait for this story to unfold. 

I'll stop there because I can go on forever...

Reading// I just finished a book called Wait For You by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Okay, so after reading so many books I always have to throw in a contemporary romance. This book was good. Not great but I'd recommend it to anyone who is into that sort of thing. I mainly say it's not great because it's a story that has been told and at times was very predictable. The fact that it was a story that's been already told was not what bothered me because heck, stories are always retold but I think it lacked energy. But all in all in my mind a book is always good when the author get you all hot and bothered by the lead guy. I mean, helloooo, Cam is gorgeous and he's basically without a shirt the whole book :) 

Now I'm just waiting patiently (hurry up, hurry up!) for J.R Ward's newest book from the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series Lover at Last. Squeal!!! I've been waiting what seems like a million years. Highly recommend this series to anyone who loves sexy hardcore vampires.

Listening to// Passion Pit. It's been on repeat. I pretty much love everything from Passion Pit. It's so versatile, I can be dancing to it in my kitchen while making dinner or listening to it while in deep thought about my writing. Good stuff. 

Do any of you have the app Shazam? Love it! My favorite is when I'm watching a show or movie and a song comes up that I absolutely love but don't now what it is and SHAZAM! Now I do. 

Thinking about// the future. I'm huge on doing what you love in this life. I think a lot of people in this world take life for granted. We only have one and why not make the most of it. With that being said I also strongly believe that every accomplishment begins with the decision to try. If we don't try at what we want how do you know you can. I always try to inspire everyone to do anything and everything you want and even if the journey is great or hard to see now it becoming a reality. How will you know you can if you don't try? Fear is a big obstacle but get rid of that fear and what do you have? Freedom. This life if ours and we have the freedom to do what we want with it. Don't let life pass you by and be the one to cling on to what could of been. Get out there and do it! 

Loving// that Spring is almost here. Although it's hard to picture at times like today when the weather is beyond crappy but it's almost here and I can not wait. I crave to be outside more and excited to start a new garden. Having a four year old and being stuck inside can be challenging to say the least! Bring on the sunshine and bright happy evenings.

Sebastian is// amazing. The kids is growing like a weed. Sometimes he'll catch me looking at him with that crazy mommy gaze (you know, the one with tears in my eyes) and he'll just be like what mom! And I'll snap out of it and start spewing off how much I love him, how big he is, just stop growing will you!, and so on and so on and he'll be looking at me with a blank glazed over look and will simply say Alright mom... I swear my life can me a sitcom. The kid is a love muffin and I always want to eat him up. Wait, what. 

Wonderful things// Big love to you, my millions of readers | People who give me encouraging words | A husband who supports all my hopes, dreams and goals. It's truly a wonderful feeling knowing the person I'll spend the rest of my life with will be by my side no matter what | Good hair days | Co-worker friends and hanging out | Kid movies that don't disappoint | Italian hoagies | My kitchen aid | My French Press. 

ps: quick reminder that Google Reader is no long with us (boohoo) so don't forget to add me via Bloglovin'!

xoxo. 

on currently...

Watching// The Following. Staring Kevin Bacon. Woah! Love this show. Have you seen it? Dear lord it's good. I mean, the season premier was mind blowing. It was like wham bam thank you ma'am. Also holy cow there are so many movies coming out that I want to see. Warm Bodies is one and another is Beautiful Creatures. Both are coming out next week and both have books that I've read. Very interested on how they turn out. I usually come out of the theaters loving the movie even if it doesn't completely do justice. To me, no matter what it's thrilling to see a book come alive. Other movies I want to see are; Silver Linings Playbook, Mama, Identity Thief and Safe Haven (only because Julianne Hough is in it and I sort of have a major girl crush on her!) Anything you've seen that you recommend? 

Reading// I was in a super reading lull. I have a huge list of books I want to potentially read but nothing was jumping out screaming READ ME. The last book I read was Talisman by Stephan King. Now that book was daunting! It was great don't get me wrong. I really loved it but for me it's hard not to love Stephan King. The number of pages I think got to me and I blame that on my readers block. It's funny how I have a hand full of people that I go to when this situation washes over me a push in the right direction! People that know exactly what I am looking for. I ended up picking up a book called Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi. I love it so far and can't wait to start the second one. 

Listening to// The Joy Formidable. Specifically the album that just came out last month,          Wolf's Law. I simply adore the album cover too! Swoon. Other than that Tegan And Sara's new album has been on repeat. At first I wasn't sure how I felt about it but then it grew on me. Although, So Jealous will forever be my favorite. 

Thinking about// How much being apart from the people you know best can be so hard. Just recently had a conversation with someone who found out that their best friend is moving to another state. I know all too well what she is going through. Even though I wasn't the one watching someone go but the one that was moving across the country, the feelings are one in the same. It's tough stuff  and I always sympathize with people that go through it. Whenever I talk about it I get the same sick feeling like it's happening all over again! It doesn't get easier which is an awful thing to say to someone who is going through a move or watching someone leave but I tend to not sugar coat things (well, unless I'm baking). You just take it one day at a time. For me some days are worse than others. I'm famous for slipping into a day of depression when I get nostalgic for home. Most the time when I'm feeling the blues I usually just call my dad or sister. All I know is you have to hold on to the people you love, you never know what comes next. Have you ever gone through someone close to you moving or even yourself moving away from friends and family? 

Excited for// This weekend! I've only got a four day work week and I'm super excited about that! Bobby and I are heading up to the Poconos on Friday morning right after we drop our little boy off at preschool. Sebastian will be spending the weekend with his grandparent where he will be loved and of course spoiled. I've collected quite a bit of gear. We bought all the necessary things like; snowboarding jacket & pants, gloves, helmet and all the other little things to keep me warm. However, I'm only just renting a snowboard & boots. We found a place that has kick butt equipment for a reasonable price on our way to the mountains. I'm pretty excited to get on the a board and shred. Best of all my sister in law, Brittany is joining us. She lives in Baltimore so we don't get to see her all that often. It will be nice to spend time with her and have a gal pal to hang out with! 

Random// My new Smitten Kitchen Cookbook that I love oh so much. It's really inspiring seeing an ordinary women turn food blogger all because she loves to cook and then put out her own cookbook. I was flipping through the book again last night and admiring the photos. Also loving a new ring, big comfy infinity scarves, my minnetonka boots, slouchy beanies, pretty manicure nails and beautiful nature light.

ps: my "currently" posts have been inspired by Danielle! 

xoxo.

on currently...

Watching// okay so I started watching two new (well, new to me) shows that I've absolutely fallen in love with. First, Son of Anarchy. Oh. My. God. This show was made for me! Sexy biker dudes in a motorcycle club that's involved in lots of crazy stuff. Totally not a show for everybody but I love it and so does my husband. We watch it together. Isn't that cute?! It's really just a badass show and I got so attached to all the different characters. I've got two favorite character. One actually dead in season three and I may or may not have shed some major tears. Second is a lady played by Katey Sagal! She is the shiz. Now, have you heard of Smash? I heard about it a while back but never really knew what it was about until one of my friends explained that it's a show about a group of characters who are creating a new Broadway Show! Love it. Singing. Drama. I'm there. What shows are you watching lately? 

Listening to// Lana Del Ray. I seriously came across her on Pandora when her song "Blue Jeans" randomly started playing and I got all starry eyed by her voice. It's different and edgy. So now that's been on repeat. 

Sebastian is// growing, learning and I'm so dang proud of him. I've got so much love for that kids it's amazing. Currently we are starting to work on homework assignments right after we get home. Homework right now consists of first tracing and then writing the alphabet. He is pretty good at doing both. We come home from preschool and sit down together with a snack and a drink and do whatever it is that the teacher has given. Some days are better than other. I mean, he is four and doing pages in his workbook isn't as appealing as watching cartoons or playing with his toys. But for the most part he understands that it has to be done in order to be able to play. It's pretty amazing and so rewarding to see him sit there with his tiny hands and write the letter "M" with a one of mommy's ball point pens (because that's the cool thing to do) and hold that pen with his itty bitty pincher fingers. That's really all it take for me to drip into a puddle of pure admiration. 

Planning// A trip up to the mountains to snowboard just the husband and I. We plan to go the weekend before Valentine's Day and so that will be our little Valentine's getaway. First of all I've never snowboarded in all my life so that should be interesting. I feel like I can handle it and I'm pretty good with picking up on new things. Secondly, I'm not a huge fan of snow/cold and I already told Bobby that there might be some whining on my part about how cold it is or that snow touch me, like touch a body part! Because that is just not cool with me. He said he would deal with it and I love him for that. Honestly he is pretty excited about it. He bought me a pretty awesome snowboarding outfit that I can't wait to wear. Oh and you will most likely see some video of this experience because husband dearest just bought a Go Pro. And if you don't know what that is, well, it's a small video camera that can be mounted anywhere and in our case record while you snowboard.  Yeah. Hooray. And I'm saying that in the most sarcastic way I can! 

Loving// TEA! Wow. Tea has been all that I've been drinking. Okay, that's a lie because coffee is number one but tea is totally second up. I stumbled across this wonderful tea company called David's Tea from Canada. Oh Canada! All loose leaf teas and dang good too! They have such a vast variety that I get giddy every time I go online to order some more. It's like I want to stick with the kinds I've tried because I love them but then I want to experience all the other teas they have to offer. I've tried a handful and liked every single one. Also when you order they put three one serving samples in your box to try! How cool is that? My last order I splurged and bought a fun travel mug. Do you like loose leaf tea? Any other sweet places I should know about? 

Random// Aren't my new social media buttons darling? I think so :) If you haven't already-- add me. The lovely Sarah put those up for me since I just couldn't figure that one thing out. And now for a list-- new discoveries, a collection of Iphone case to match every outfit, future plans, new readers (Hi!), lovely blogs I read & instagramers I follow who always inspire me, pinterest frenzy, knitted cardigans, my dad, a clean house and all the positive whole-hearted people in my life. 

xoxo.

on currently...

I'm back here with a quick "currently" post. I feel like these posts are always my fall back when I am gone for a short while and when, let's face it, there's really nothing else to write about. It's been pretty crazy around here for me. Although the storm has settled (literally) I still feel like it hasn't. The East coast got hit pretty hard with Hurricane Sandy and let's just say that I've never experienced anything like it. I wasn't really nervous up until the storm was at it's worst. Since we live in a sweet Victorian home that is split up into three apartments, us being on the top, it was quite scary at the peak of it all. Most of all I was just  freaked out about all the trees around us. But alas, thank the heavens nothing major occurred and all is good. Our power did cut out on us and was out for about a week but other than that we survived. I'm thankful for what I have and the people I have! Enough of that though...

Watching// I am totally hyped up on Nashville. GASP. I know, me watching a show based on country music! The world is coming to an end. I assure it's not. No, in all seriousness I started watching this show all because both Connie Britton from my beloved American Horror Story and Hayden Panettiere from Hero's are in it. I love them both especially Connie who is gorgeous! The storyline is spot on and the music is not all that bad (as my eye twitches slightly). 

Listening to// I've been listening to the Modest Mouse station on Pandora non-stop. It's really just been exactly what my soul has needed this past week. So I've been listening to that along with Tegan and Sara's new single Closer. So amazing!! Shake your boody good!

Reading// So many books. The past week I've read the following: Crash by Nicole Williams and it's second book Crush by Nicole Williams. The Sea of Tranquility by Katj Millay. Fall From Grace by Christine Zolendz and now I'm on it's second book Saving Grace.
Phew! What? I've had no power for a week! All these books are amazing. They are all stories about love but aren't the typical girl meets boy. Some really crazy stuff goes down that had me flipping pages like a mad man. Plus if you haven't already snagged your copy of JingleBelle Jackson's Christmas adventure called The Search for South Pole Santa, then get on it! Click the book link on the side of my blog :) You won't regret it.

Thinking about// A lot. Thinking about life and how precious it is. Things are always popping up in life that have me reeling with how thankful I am for everything I have. With this Hurricane we just had and also with nearing getting into a serious accident yesterday. I was lucky to have avoided a lady ramming into the right side of my car. Normally I wouldn't be so freaked out about all this however  I had a sweet little boy sitting in his car seat on the right side of my car. Not good. And yes, the women got an ear full about her not stopping or looking before coming out of the side street. I will not be one of those parents who loses their child because of stupid people on the road. No sir not me.
Moving on, I've been thinking about the importance of time. About how much time we spend with one another. Are we spending too much time working? Or on our electronics? I know people that have quiet their corporate jobs and in order to be there more for their family. I think sometimes it's easy to get so caught up with work and other things that we don't notice the finer things in life. So lately I've been pushing myself to do just that since right now with the Holidays and short staff at work it's super easy to drown myself in stress. Make sure we all appreciate it all!

Looking forward to// Next Thursday. I know this is the most geekest thing ever but on November 15th I'll be at my local movie theater at 11am starting a Twilight Saga marathon with my gal pal Ashley. Yes indeed, we will be watching all the movies all the way up until midnight when Breaking Dawn Part 2 is released. I am beyond giddy about this and for those of you that don't understand, that's fine. I took off work and it shall be bittersweet. Yup, I think that is the best word ever to describe what this day will mean to me! I'm super excited to see the final movie yet devastated that it will be the end. I remember starting this series when I was pregnant with Sebastian. I truly think that is why I am so emotionally involved in this story. I don't care if they aren't the best vampire novels ever written (I've read a lot of them-- I know!!) but I fell in love. Totally looking forward to spending all day with teeny boppers who equally can't contain their excitement :)

Making me happy// Shedding some pounds. It's funny how when I'm not even trying to loose weight is when I really do! I haven't been on a diet per say but I have been super self conscience about what I put into my mouth. And that's mainly because I have been wanting to just feel good. There's really no secret to it,  I've been getting rid of some unwanted pounds. High Five! For the first time since Sebastian's birth I actually almost feel 100% about my body. It's a great feeling which I'm sure all you ladies can relate to.
Simple things make me happy like coming home to dishes being washed and hubby taking time to tidy up our house knowing it will cause that twinkle in my eye to come alive. A sweet boy who doesn't shy away from saying I love you about a dozen times a day. Of course I react like it's the first time those words were ever spoken to me and  then I melt right into a messy puddle. That's all I need in this life are those words because even on the hardest of hard days that will lift me up and help me conquer everything. Other than that I'm happy for good music, pipping hot tea on cold nights, cozy sweatshirts, inspiring people and my family and friends.

xoxo. 

on currently...

Watching: Vampire Diaries. I am freaking out that the new season starts today. There's going to be a whirl wind of things happening this new season with the main character Elena turning into a vampire! Plus I've been aware that there's some new characters joining too. I have been hooked to this show since before it even aired. I couldn't get into the books but am in absolute love with this show. Plus it helps that Ian Somerhalder is a complete babe. 

Reading: The Breathing Series by Rebecca Donovan. Book one is called Reason to Breathe and the second is Barely Breathing, which I am currently half way through. This series is a serious page turner about a young girl in high schooled named Emma who is living with a terrible secret. It's super gut wrenching and of course a sweet love story. You fall for the characters as well as feel terrified about the things that go on in Emma's life. Highly recommend it if you want a quick easy read that will have you investing a lot of emotion. I can't wait to finish the second book! I'm hoping my next book will be The Search for South Pole Santa :D

Thinking about: How much I want to be the best mother, wife, daughter, friend and person that I can be! I'm always challenging myself to do more and be more for all my loved ones. It can be stressful business but I wouldn't change that about me. For me it's what gives my life meaning and I'm not talking about the big things in life but the little things as well.  A text sent to say I miss you. Or a extra hug to a little boy who had a rough day. Or just thanking my husband for doing the dishes last night. I know so many people that don't do the small things and for me it feels so alien. I always think about how different I would be if I was showed more affection or if there was more love in my household. But honestly I think the lack of it growing up is why I am so passionate about love now. I know it sounds corny but really love is such an important thing for all of us to have and feel. Hurrah for love, showing love and feeling love. 

Looking forward to: SEATTLE! This time next week I will touch Seattle and I am jumping in glee about it all. I will be seeing my papa bear and little sister who I've miss more than anyone can really fathom. Seeing all my friends and celebrating a very important person becoming an author! This I can't wait for but other than that I'm just looking forward to just soak up as much time as I can with people that I miss. It is what my soul needs! 

Something new: I've starting to open earlier at work so most of the week I'm getting up at 5am and starting work at 6:30am. It's funny how people take pity on me when they find out that I have to wake up so early but in reality I actually think it's the greatest thing! I know...I'm not normal. I've always been a morning person so this is actually a bonus for me and because I start early I also get out earlier which is super sweet. I have a few hours to myself before I have to pick Sebastian up and it's been a treat to get some much needed errands done or slip in a manicure! Joy. 

Excited about: writting my first article on Living with Picky Eater on Mom.me. A while back I was confronted by a lady that I met a BlogHer who got me in touch with Mom.me and here I am with my first article published on the world wide web. Eeeek! Totally amazing and super rewarding. If you are a momma you have to go and check this website out, so many fun things to read. Whenever I visit I get lost in all the article and best of all there's recipes! Like them on Facebook and Twitter. 

xoxo. 

on currently...

Reading\\ I finished Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter a few weeks ago and that was good. Curious as to how the movie is going to turn out. Just the other day I started my first book from my summer reading list The Little Coffee Shop in Kabul. I am loving it already. I'm enjoying the characters as well as understanding more about the culture and religions that are present in Afghanistan. Although I'm not one to be super interested in religion, the way this book touches on it and more so within the characters makes this to be a great read for me. 


Watching\\Teen Wolf. I love this show! Since I don't have cable and that means no MTV my good friend Ashley (girl on the far left above) is a doll and actually records it and then lets me come over and watch with her :) Cue Kristen Wiig's voice as Annie in Bridesmaids-- help me I'm poor...But anyways, now that Vampire Diaries and Glee are no longer, I switch to Teen Wolf and True Blood. Love love love. The best part is when I meet someone via work or wherever and find out they like the shows that I watch. Oh golly. My voice gets all high pitched and the giggling happens. It's a mess. 
Also went to see Snow White and the Huntsman with the girls above a few weekends ago. It was a great night and I give the movie a 4 out of 5. I fancied how dark and haunting the story was and yet it had that mystical forest in it to make it feel like a fairytale. For some reason I was expecting more of a love interest happen between Snow White (Kristen Stewart) and the Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth). For me that was a let down. Action was good and of course Charlize Theron was amazing. It's worth seeing in the movie theater!


Anticipating\\Sebastian's birthday day. This year he has really came to understand the significance of birthdays...presents!! Yep, that is of course what makes it special and let's not forget that soon I'll have myself a four year old! That's still crazy for me to say and even think about. These four years have gone unbelievably fast which is quite scary and also sad. I want to savor every waking moment with this little guy because soon he will want to be locked in his room listening to loud music instead of cuddling on the couch while watching Disney movies. Tear. Although sometimes I get weepy just seeing him get bigger and the digits going higher it's still just a glorious feeling knowing how much he has accomplished this past year and how much more he will in the next. Proud Momma right here!


Listening to\\ Lately these songs have been on repeat...

Wishing\\ that I could teleport back to Seattle and give my dad a hug. It was his birthday yesterday and I couldn't help but feel a little down in the dumps.  It was a sad day until Sebastian called him up and said happy burffday to him and in effect made him shed happy tears. Which in turn made my heart melt into a oozing puddle! Distance is hard. Isn't that the truth?! I wish it got easier with time but it doesn't. 


Random\\ so last Friday we went to Dorney Park which is an amusement park with half water rides and the other roller coasters. We got there around 11am and started on the water rides. On our last ride we chose to go on a tube water slide, it's were you sit on a inflated tube and ride down the slide. I didn't really think much of it but towards the end of the slide it got really steep. Now, since I was going like a million mile per hour I flew up into the air as I hit the top of the steep part and my eye glasses slipped off my face and were literally floating in midair. No joke.  I had two options. One, take my hand off the tubes handle and grab my now hovering glasses and risk flying off the tube myself (since I was going so fast) or just let them fall to their doom. I chose to save my glasses. So to speak...because as I took my hand off the handle and went to quickly grab my glasses I heard a crunccchh. I got to the bottom safe and sound but I can't say the same for my glasses. I crushed them with my bare hands. Talk about a Hulk moment. I cracked the framed right in half. This happened some time in the afternoon so the rest of the day I was walking around the park basically blind. I held onto Bobby's hand for dear life making sure I didn't loose him in the crowds. I laughed and the day was in no way ruined. And don't worry I have a older pair that I am currently using but now this gives me an excuse to get my butt out to buy myself a brand new pair of frames or two!


Eating\\ salads. Fresh green salads with lots of yummy veggies! That's all I've even wanted to eat lately especially with this humid heat. I can hardly ever eat heavy dishes in the summer. Bobby feels the same way so we've been putting off making dinners and just putting together different sorts of salads. Monday night we made chicken taco salads. So yummy!

♥A.