Southern Somedays

Hold On For One More Day...

2012-02-15T18:30:00.003-06:00

Today was a Wednesday from H E double hockey sticks. pardon my french.
Everything that could possibly go wrong seemed to.
Work is for the birds....wouldn't life be so much easier if you could just be a personal shopper or even a clown for that matter? Yes, I just mentioned the idea of being a clown as a career. Don't judge. I felt like part of the circus today at work anyways.

All this was said for this one reason. Not to have a pity party but to mention this fabulous song.
Around 4 I was on the phone with Kroger (the most random thing ever...I was on hold for the bakery department because of an event we are catering at work) and this song came on.
It totally changed my perspective on the day.

Don't worry I immediately downloaded it on iTunes and blared it in my car on the drive home from work. I had forgot how much I loved this one!

Just hold on for one more day.

The next big thing since sliced bread...well since Elizabeth McKay

2012-02-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

Remember yesterday when I gushed over my love for high collars and Elizabeth McKay?
Somehow, I was looking on another blogger's sponsors and saw an Etsy shop that crossed my eye.
It's Etsy's Devon Haire and her shop can be found here.

Her dresses (well all of her pieces for that matter) are timeless and classic.
They look like the perfect go to outfit for a spring bridal brunch. (Obvi someone has wedding showers on their mind ;) )

I may have just found my place to look for spring dresses! Do you have any other favorite brands that have this timeless look?

Lusting over Lilly Part 2

2012-02-09T09:22:00.000-06:00

I've mentioned before that in years past I have rarely found anything worth splurging on at Lilly Pulitzer.

That was before this print called Siesta Coral stole my eye.

I'm beyond obsessed.

I love anything coral and turquoise. Not to "toot my own horn" but I look darn good in these colors. Well, better than I do in something drab like white.

Do I foresee myself shelling out the $300 for this dress anytime soon? No way sista. I can think of a million other things that I could better spend that on.

Am I going to keep lusting over it in hopes that I find it for 75% off soon? Abso-freaking-lutely.

What is your favorite Lilly print?

My obsession with high collars and today's sale

2012-02-08T19:04:00.005-06:00

One of my favorite brands is Elizabeth McKay.

It's no secret that I'm a sucker for high collars. I'm obsessed.

Some of my favorite outfits have a high collar and Elizabeth McKay is notorious for having high collared pieces.

Some of my favorite outfits:

This one is Elizabeth McKay.

When I found out that Elizabeth McKay was a featured sale on Rue La La today I'm not going to lie I freaked out a little bit. I even set my alarm to go off at work to be on the site at 10 am sharp. By the time I looked at all the sales (honestly I was so shocked by how great the prices were...a $350 cape on sale for $100!) and tried to add some pieces to my cart I realized that I hadn't came away with the pieces I really wanted.
In case you don't use Rue La La, you have to make your selected purchase within so many minutes or it goes back out for sale.
I did come away with one piece.
Last Friday when trying to dress for National Wear Red Day, I realized that I only own two tops that are red and both of them are cardigans. I happily decided to change that today during the sale.

Elizabeth McKay "McKay" Silk Blouse.
(Mine is in bright red)

If you want to become a member of Rue La La to get daily sales just check it out here.

Q&A Monday

2012-02-06T19:14:00.005-06:00

This weekend was wonderful!

Friday night we did absolutely nothing but watch tv.

Saturday, we did some shopping.

I got this little cutie in coral.

My new favorite shoe! I really wish they were in gold instead of silver, but I can do with buying them at a great price!

Sunday, we worked out like crazy fitness freaks. Seriously, my love handles(gross!) and my abs are so sore today that it hurts to cough or even laugh. Oh well, pain is just weakness leaving the body!

Tomorrow I will be guest posting about some wedding stuff, so make sure to check back and find out where you can find the post!

Monday's Q&A-

Favorite place you’ve traveled?

I’m definitely a “beach vacationer.” I love beach vacations but also love a good weekend in the mountains. I’d have to say that my favorite place so far has been NYC. It has so many endless opportunities for fun things to do, places to see and restaurants to eat at that it boggles my mind!

Where would you want to go if you had a paid ticket and hotel?

This is too easy for me. Bora Bora, without a doubt.

If you have a trip planned, where is it to?

We have planned to spend almost a week in St Lucia, I’m so excited!

Were you an honor roll student in school?

No. I hated math and really was sadly careless about my grades. I didn’t really start being concerned with my grades until late college and graduate school. I remember the day I found out I had a 4.0 one semester and about cried haha.

What was your major in college?

Pretty much the most useless thing ever-Organizational Communication with Marketing minor.

Ever go to camp?

Actually, I did when I was younger and stayed for like two nights. I called and my grandfather came got me because I was homesick. Funny thing is that the camp was in the city where I live now.

Favorite tv of all time?

Probably Law and Order.

What was the last thing you got grounded for?

I’m sure it has something to do with my idiot boyfriend from high school. Gosh, I had horrible taste back then!

What was your childhood nickname?

I never really had one, but I recall being called Court abunch and I think my dad(or someone) used to call me pumpkin.

What would your dream job be?

To be honest I’m not really sure. It would definitely have to be something that I enjoy and get rewarded for the extra work I put in. I’m a type A, overachiever so when I do anything I put 110% in.

And for a little bit of Monday inspiration, this week's motto

Fill In The Blank Friday

2012-02-03T23:49:00.002-06:00

Finally a weekend to just relax and do whatever my heart desires.
I have a few exciting things to share coming up including the delivery of my "club dress" I talked about here, two new purchases, a recipe and my Photo A Day Challenge.
This weekend I plan on: cleaning and organizing(well this one done when I got home from work so I can relax the rest of the weekend), cooking, a short shopping excursion tomorrow and actually figuring out how to use my sewing machine.

For now, I'll just give you my answers to Fill In The Blank Friday.

1. If money wasn't an issue, the first thing I'd cross of my life list would be several things(yes I know that's not the question) but I'd start off by purchasing a new car or buying a Louis Vuitton. Let's be honest, it sounds selfish of me to say either of these because of our economy but a girl can dream. In reality, I'd probably save the money.

2. Blogging is something I like to do that other people think is weird. My other friends (outside of blog world) do not understand how I can spend hours a day reading other people's blogs.

3. If my life were a movie right now, the title would be "Blessed, stressed and tested..the three attitudes of a bridezilla."

4. Three things I am looking forward to this month are seeing The Vow( I hate movies most of the time, but I'm really looking forward to this one, my shopping trip tomorrow, and the last day of the month(it means we are one day closer to June 23!

5. My favorite song to sing in the shower is um, this question is weird. I don't sing in the shower. I either pray or just clear my mind.

6. If I found out that the production of Clarisonic Mia's was ending this month, I'd go out and buy as much as I could tomorrow. My parents bought me a Mia for Christmas and I love it! Mom has one and she hasn't been too fond of it, but I feel like mine makes me face much smoother and washing your face actually becomes a fun "chore."

7. One thing I'll never grow tired of is Ryan saying he loves me.

Lean, Green Smoothie

2012-01-31T19:59:00.003-06:00

I think yall know I am not the most healthiest person.

I wake up in the morning thinking I am going to be as healthy as possible...then fail!

This past weekend we had to make a trip home for my friend's little girls birthday party and trying on my WEDDING DRESS for the first time since it came in!

If you've read the news at all then you may have read(heard) about a bridge in KY that collapsed because a large boat ran into it. Yes, these type of Final Destination freaky things do happen!

Well, that's the bridge I take to get to my parent's house from home. I knew I was going to be taking a longer route so I wanted some more energy.

I must admit...it was actually not bad at all!

The major caveat is that Ryan made the drink for me. I just don't think I could physically put the spinach in the blender and be cool with drinking it.

3 cups of baby spinach

1 tbspoon peanut butter(I used Kroger's generic creamy PB)

1 frozen banana(Cut the banana up and freeze it)

1/2 cup Greek Yogurt 0% (I have major love for Fage brand)

1 cup unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze milk

Combine all ingredients in the blender(spinach goes on top).

It's pretty yummy and I plan on making another one today at lunch!
A few suggestions: add a few pieces of ice...and make sure to wash your cup immediately after you are done. If not, plan on having a stained green cup!

I'm a Racer and I know it.

2012-01-28T21:48:00.004-06:00

"You take Vegas, picture the exact opposite of it, and thats Murray," said the senior guard Donte Poole, who grew up in Las Vegas. "There's no lights, no clubs, no places to go after dark. But that transition has made me focus and made me a better basketball player."

Disclaimer: This entire post is not just about basketball..only some of it, I promise!

I'm not sure if I have ever really talked about my alma mater on here or not but now is definitely a good time to brag!

I am proud to say that I am a Murray State University alum twice over.

I received both my Master's and Bachelor's from Murray after spending a brief one year stint at the University of Kentucky my freshman year.

In case you have no clue where Murray State (MSU) is.

It's a small town in the far western portion of Kentucky.

The town of Murray itself has 17,741 citizens and the school has 10,000 students. (According to the 2010 US Census)

You may remember us making a little lot of noise in 2010 NCAA Tournament.

We upset Vanderbilt at the very single last second. (We were ranked 13th and they were ranked 4th).

We ended up losing to Butler(who let me remind you went on to win the title) in the second round.

Cheering the team on at the 2010 OVC tournament. Oh, the college days.

Well this my friends is the season to be a Racer fan. (Yes, I enjoy MSU Athletics all the time but a lot more excitement is in the air around here.)

We have had two sell out games, which is a huge deal for MSU; we've been on various media outlets with some major publicity for our school including a short video about just what it's like to live in small Murray, KY. It's definitely worth a watch.

Banjos and farms are not the only thing you will find around here. No, we are not abunch of hicks. I just love how they used bluegrass music throughout the whole thing. As a matter of in fact, a group of MSU students even created their own rap video. I mean where else can you find a university president who is willing to be in a rap video?

Regardless of where you think we should be ranked, it is definitely quite a big deal to be undefeated even in a small conference. Think about it...you have cameras all of a sudden wanting to film every one of your games for national tv, you have ESPN wanting to film about your small town, Wall Street Journal writing a profile about your team and Dickie V saying he wants to come down and see Murray play for himself. That's big news for a town of 20,000 people! Bottom line, the pressure is definitely on so the ego's have to stay down and I'm sure that is really difficult for the players.

But, we are still standing strong.

The Racers are now 21-0 after tonight's victory and ranked #9 in the Coaches Poll!

GO RACERS!

Wild Purchase

2012-01-25T19:44:00.004-06:00

I must admit on most days I dress like an "old grandma" (as I've been referred to by my friends before).
Especially with this whole work dress code cramping my style.
At work I rarely ever see anyone other than my coworkers on a typical day so most days I just think what's the point on getting all dressed up to be around four guys for eight hours? (3 other women work part-time, but I'm the only full-time woman).
Our dress code is pretty lax. In fact, we don't really have one. I was just told to look presentable and somewhat professional when I was hired. I try to limit wearing jeans to just one day a week and still try to dress that up somewhat.
My normal winter work wardrobe includes khackis and frumpy cardigans.

I've really been wanting to find a good excuse to dress up and look(plus act) my age.
One thing I've really been thinking about dressing cuter for is our honeymoon.
This is where the most revealing dress I have ever purchased comes in.

On Wednesday I purchased this from ideeli.
If you have never checked out ideeli, go there now. It's the best "flash sale" website I have found.

I know my body is not going to look like that in the dress, but I figured I'd give it a shot and try it out. I'm anxiously awaiting the UPS truck to drop it off and see how ~~hideous~~ I look in it. Worst case scenario, it's returnable!

Swim Suit Info

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Remember when I posted this beauty?

Well, I've had quite a few people ask where it came from.

It's from Etsy and the seller's shop can be found here.

The swimsuit is made to order and can be customized in a variety of different colors.

The price is only $85 which is still pretty pricey(for my tightwad self) to spend on a swim suit but it is just so darn cute!

I showed a picture of it to Ryan and he asked if I was buying it for my friend's little girl..Apparently to his male eyes its supposed to be worn by a one year old.

Little does he know I'm in the process of talking myself into buying it for our honeymoon!

Another successful Pinterest recipe

2012-01-18T11:13:00.000-06:00

So Pinterest has taken over the nation.
It seems like last summer only a hand few of people I knew had one and I LOVED it.
Now, every one and their mom has it. (Literally!)

I've gotten a few ideas off of it that are currently in progress around here.
*Remember that chair I was talking about redoing? Well, yeah it's still a project that I'm working on right now. I'm hoping to be done with it....before the end of the year(if I'm lucky ha)

One of my favorite reasons for Pinterest is getting recipes to use.
I know you've seen this recipe.
It's really popular, but yet it looks kinda gross.
I'm here to tell you that it was AMAZING.
Seriously the best Pinterest recipe I've made.

"Easy Soup"
Can of Rotel
Can of corn

Can of black beans(drained and rinsed)

2 frozen chicken breasts

8 oz. cream cheese(I used Weight Watchers)

1 packet dry ranch dressing

1 tbsp cumin

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp chili powder
Put in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low and expect to be blown away!

What is your favorite Pinterest recipe?

Lusting over Lilly

2012-01-17T18:48:00.005-06:00

I've always found some cute stuff at Lilly Pulitzer but never really bit the bullet and made a purchase...horrific new to some of you I know!
I'm just a major tight wad when it comes to spending my own money so I can think of a thousand other things to spend $300 on instead of a new dress.

Well, I recently looked at the new Lilly line and am in love enough to possibly make a few purchases for new summer outfits!
Plus, the outfits I really like are all at reasonable prices.

This one is casual but yet dressy enough for work so I feel like I can make this a purchase!

I love this print!

I love comfy, cute tops that can go great with jeans but yet can be dressed up enough for work.
The Lilly Elsa Top (shown below) is what I'm really on the hunt for.
I'm not really wanting to spend $130 on it so let me know if you know of anywhere that sells Lilly and is having a sale.

**My latest obsession has been all of the new (well new to me) websites and Facebook pages that have popped up where people can sell, trade or buy name brand clothes.
A few of my favorite ones are ReLilly (All Lilly stuff!), Perfectly Preppy Resale, The Pink Re-Cycled Closet.

Do you have new sites I should check out where I can get new or gently used preppy clothes online? Please share!

Aruba, Jamaica..oo I wanna take ya.

2012-01-11T19:38:00.004-06:00

This song has been stuck in my head for the past 24 hours...

Aruba, Jamaica ooh I wanna take you to..
ST LUCIA!

Now, I know that the lyrics are wrong but I'm making my own song up about our honeymoon destination.
Yes, that's right after 7 months we have finally decided (and booked!!!) our honeymoon location.
Sandals La Toc in St. Lucia!

I've heard St Lucia is really pretty so I'm very excited(and it doesn't hurt that I'll be with my favorite person)!

All this tropical talk around here and its supposed to snow in Kentucky tomorrow...ugh
I hate cold weather and hate snow.
I used to love snow when I was in school and had the possibility of getting out but now that this whole real world reality thing hit, I hate it. Snow=still going to work.

For the next five months I'm on the lookout for anything remotely cute to wear on the honeymoon including new bathing suits.
I've never really been one of those girls that spends alot on bathing suits but this year I just might.
(I just bought my first suit from Victoria Secret last year...truth be told the majority of the ones I own come from Wal Mart)

I'm really digging these.

And I'm in love with this new Lilly dress!
I just wonder if the stripes are really that flattering on everyone..
Hm, my vote is no.

Also, I really like the dress that Brandi Glanville wore on Monday night's Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. I know it probably cost her an arm and a foot(ha, get the joke-she has a broken foot) but it is too cute! I wonder where she got it?

Only two more work days until the weekend!
Yessss!

Two Words.

2012-01-10T08:46:00.003-06:00

ROLL TIDE!

Needless to say after last night’s game (um I mean blowout) Mr. Fiance was a happy, happy man. I suppose if I'm going to marry into a sport's fan family at least the team is worth cheering for!

Check out this picture of his mom’s dog all decked out in his houndstooth!

Lately

2012-01-06T21:23:00.007-06:00

Since I went MIA I figured I'd update you on some recent life happenings for a quick second.

What I'm Reading-

It's one of those books that will make you want to quit your job and find what makes you happy. One thing that I love about Kelly is that she's my type of girl-she tells it like it is. One thing I HATE about Kelly she consistently talks about "her divine Goddess" as her form of spirituality. I'm not going to lie about half way through one of the first few chapters when she started talking about what she refers to as her "spirituality" I just wanted to stop reading it. The reason I didn't? I'd already bought it on my Kindle and I know that I believe in God and pray that one day she will too.

Favorite quote so far: “This is an important lesson to remember when you're having a bad day, a bad month, or a crappy year. Things will change: you won't feel this way forever. And anyway, sometimes the hardest lessons to learn are the ones your soul needs most. I believe you can't feel real joy unless you've felt heartache. You can't have a sense of victory unless you know what it means to fail. You can't know what it's like to feel holy until you know what it's like to feel really evil. And you can't be birthed again until you've died.” (By the way I change this up to be PG rated,another thing I don't really care for about her...she cusses worse than a sailor.)

Update on the chair-

The chair was a piece of junk. Yes, I'm still redoing it or attempting to. Here's what happened. I stayed awake last Friday night until 4 in the morning ripping the thing apart. After the millions of nailheads were removed I am smacked in the face with another layer of hideous fabric.

Yes, it's actually better looking like this then the fabric that was on it but still...After ripping this off I find the chair is stuffed with that old, grungy horse hair stuffing not to mention the huge amount of dust I inhaled. At this point, I looked at the chair and just decided to go on to bed. I'm hoping to have it done in the next few weeks, so I'll be sharing a full post then.

Things I want to buy-

A few other bloggers have been talking about BaubleBar so I checked it out. I must admit I'm not a big jewelry type of girl. I normally just wear pearl earrings, a Michael Kors watch and my engagement ring...that's all. But these pieces have my eye. I'd probably 97% of the time never wear them, but they are fun to look at!

What I've been wearing (that I shouldn't have)-

Have you ever bought an outfit that you thought would be super cute only to look at the pictures later and think 'what the heck was I thinking?' Well, that happened to me last weekend and it was on a purchase I had made less than 24 hours before. A last minute impromptu shopping trip landed me at TJ Maxx the night before NYE to buy two chairs I fell in love with when my grandmother took a picture of them. After the chairs were bought I decided I wanted a NYE dress but really they only had one I thought was semi-decent. I bought it after I tried it on and decided it looked cute. Now, I'm not sure if the mirror in TJ Maxx has some sort of sick marketing trick where it makes you skinnier and more tan but after looking at a picture from the night I wore it, I decided to immediately put the dress in the back of the closet. No, I'm not going to let you see the whole picture(where my butt looks three times larger than Kim Kardashians or where my legs are paler than Casper's) but here's a sneak peak at how horrific I looked on NYE.

(I'm still not sure why so many people talk about how they love my hair so much better when its curly instead of straight...I think I look like a straight up wet dog, but it's easy to fix so I'm going to keep going natural more frequently)

However, I must admit it was one of the funnest nights I've had in a while. A group of my close friends and some of their guys went out to eat then came over to our house before heading out to dance. We ended up staying out pretty late(which is a rarity for me these days) and it was so much fun!

Need some friendly help!

2011-12-29T22:09:00.006-06:00

Friends, long time no talk.

Let's say along with a little holiday vacation I also took a blog hiatus.

No fear, I am alive and kicking today!

I'm in a conundrum.

You know that fickled personality of mine?

It's back to working overtime.

So I need your help, please!

Right now our living room is blah.

We need two accent chairs and a recliner but that's not really my focus quite yet.

See, my current sofa and chair and a half were great while I was in college. The cream microfiber was perfect and easy to clean!

Problem today is that I'm just kinda over it...I've had this for five years but I don't want to part with it.

Instead, I'm thinking white linen slipcovers?

Yes, you heard me right...white

Here's a picture of our rug, which is really are only source of color in the living room right now. I also have a robin's egg blue accent table on my back wall. The rug is pretty in itself but I want to be able to tie all the pieces in the room together to create something comfy and casual chic. Do you think I could pull it off?

What's your opinion? Should I go for it or not?

Today after work I just felt super energized and went to the local thrift store (it's more like vintage,antiques and some new stuff combined).

Anyways, I've been wanting to try my hand at reupholstering.

(Mom, before you go and laugh your head off just know that I've been researching this idea for months and have a whole bookmarked folder of tutorials)

I saw this hideous thing in the corner of a booth with a great price tag on it. I even negotiated with the cashier and got her to knock $10 off it, for a total of $20...a perfect price in case I just royally screw this thing over and end up donating it to Goodwill.

This is what it looks like now

I'm thinking of doing something neutral for this too(keeping with the clean, white look) since it can go in the living room for now and if I want to move it, later on it can go in the guest bedroom. What do you think?

Give me your two cents, pretty please!

Home Style

2011-12-21T19:00:00.003-06:00

Trying to make your house stylish yet comfy has proven to be a task for me.

I'm wanting to buy new living room furniture first, then new bedroom stuff but I'm definitely a frugal shopper and refuse to use a credit card for anything....Thanks Dave Ramsey!

What this means is that I save, and save and save some more before I finally buy something.

(If you asked my parents if I am frugal they'd laugh hysterically but I must admit spending your parents money like it is going out in style while in college and using your OWN hard earned money are two TOTALLY different things.)

Also, I'm not really into buying cutesy little items here and there because I know (well, hopefully) people will buy us a few shower gifts.

Long story short, I want a well decorated home...that is also comfy!

Here are a few of my latest finds that I wish I could try and somehow incorporate into our current "scheme."

Are you more into decorating pretty or comfy? Can you find a combination of both?

A lazy day and giveaway winner!

2011-12-18T15:27:00.003-06:00

Wanna know what I’ve done all day today?

ZILCH.

Okay, I take that back. I picked out some super cute invitations that hopefully will be ours for the wedding and searched for other ideas on Pinterest and online.

Also, I found this super cute Etsy site.
I'm not real sure when I would need a burlap bucket but I want one now!

Check it out here.

Oh, and one more thing.

I did pick (well, Random Generator) picked a winner for the Christmas Giveaway.

Congratulations, Dayna Leigh! I’ll shoot you an email soon to get all of your information.

Make sure to check out her super cute blog, A Bama Belle and A Bucket List here.

Need some gift help!

2011-12-13T11:20:00.002-06:00

Remember this pretty girl?

Senior Year of College

Kate is one of my closest friends and she is actually my maid of honor.

She called me on Saturday afternoon and was acting strange. After asking me about a million questions, she finally revealed that she is ENGAGED!

It all happened on Saturday afternoon and I finally got to see her in person last night! (Unfortunately, this ding dong AKA me forgot her camera so I have zero pictures of our girls Christmas party)

Anyways, she got me a real cute Martha Stewart wedding planner after our engagement. I loved it!

Does anyone know of any cute engagement gifts for a close friend to receive right after the engagement instead of waiting until the engagement party?

My Christmas giveaway is still going on for a few more days, so don’t forget to comment on this post to enter! I’ve had several new followers over the past two days that have not entered. Make sure if you want to enter for a chance to win the goodies that you comment about your entry(being a follower, following me on Twitter, or blogging about it)!J

A Christmas To Remember

2011-12-12T16:30:00.001-06:00

I'm all about memorable gifts.

Last year, Ryan and I exchanged a unique Christmas gift-we went to Nashville for the weekend.

This year, we kept up with the tradition and went to Gatlinburg.

It was so nice to spend time away from our usual environment and just relax.

We ate, ate and ate some more. We did some shopping and then shopped some more. Somewhere in the middle we decided to be a little adventurous and go zip-lining.

P.S. If you ever want to know what my favorite restaurant is, it is by far Dixie Stampede. If you ever want to randomly get me a gift because you love me just oh so much, get the Dixie Stampede Soup Mix from their online store. AMAZING!

Don't forget to enter my Christmas Giveaway here.

Christmas Giveaway

2011-12-11T21:35:00.003-06:00

I've had so much fun getting to know my followers over the past few months since starting Southern Somedays.

In fact, on most days I sadly know more about what's going on in your lives compared to my friend's lives. (Just because I come home and crash with my laptop instead of picking up the phone to call and check in on the girls...sad story, I know. Matter of in fact, I'll give you that as a hint to one of my New Year's resolutions.)

After finding a few things that I just could not pass up during Christmas shopping I decided to give them to my friends... MY BLOG FRIENDS!:)

That's right folks, this is my first giveaway.

You have the chance to win:

A red and green polka dot picture frame with burlap bow

A knitted headwrap from J Crew

Wine koozie that says "The Most Wonderful Wine of The Year"

It's easy to enter.

Just comment on this post and let me know which of these you entries you complete. You have up to 4 chances to win!

1. Mandatory: Follow my blog. (1 chance)

2. Follow me on Twitter here. (1 chance)

3. 2 entries if you write about my giveaway on your blog. (2 chances)

*Make sure to give me links to everything!

Giveaway ends December 18, 2011 at noon(CST).

Pizza Puffs

2011-12-08T18:56:00.003-06:00

So I've mentioned my love for Skinnytaste.
Skinnytaste is a website full of Weight Watchers recipes that are beyond delicious.
Recently, I found Emily Bites. It has the same concept as Skinnytaste so of course I love it too!

Even if you aren't on Weight Watchers these websites are a great resource for cooking healthy.

Ryan said this recipe was so good it should be on the "Taste Watchers" plan instead of Weight Watchers...I think that's his way of saying it was two thumbs up!

Pizza Puffs
From Emily Bites

Some random picture I found on the internet of pizza puffs...so but this busy girl rarely has time to make food, much less take pics of food :)

Ingredients:

¾ c white whole wheat flour

¾ t baking powder

1 T Italian seasoning

1/8 t salt

1/8 t crushed red pepper flakes

¾ c skim milk

1 large egg

1 c reduced fat 2% shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ c grated Parmesan cheese

4 ½ oz sliced turkey pepperoni, quartered

½ c pizza sauce (for dipping)

Directions:

1. Pre-heat the oven to 350. Lightly mist a muffin tin with cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, salt and red pepper. Add the milk and egg and whisk together to thoroughly combine. Add the mozzarella, Parmesan and pepperoni and stir until combined.

3. Divide the batter evenly amongst the prepared muffin tin cups. I baked mine for about 25 minutes. Serve with warm pizza sauce for dipping.

Yields 6 (4 puff) servings. WW P+: 6 per serving

Picture, Picture On The Wall...

2011-12-06T08:23:00.000-06:00

So, I live by Southern Living.

I squeal like a little girl when I get each month’s issue.

To be featured in Southern Living would be a dream come true one day. Obviously, I have a ton of decorating, party planning and cooking to do before it becomes Southern Living worthy but a girl can dream right?

When I received last month’s issue I felt like I had finally reached Southern Living worthiness.

All because I purchased a Christmas gift BEFORE it was featured in the magazine.

This past fall, Clay Rice came to one of my favorite gift shops.

My first instinct was to get a silhouette done of both Ryan and I as children.

Then I realized that the portraits were super small…and that my friends would totally make fun of me for doing this.

In all honesty, the only reason I chose not to do this was because of the first issue.

Instead, I purchased one of these for a family member.

No, I’m not going to tell you who because they have not received it yet.

I’ll post a picture after Christmas though!

It was easy.

All I had to do was give him a picture of the person, animal or object I wanted a silhouette of.

Pay my $45 and wait a little bit for him to finish it.

Then off I went!

What a great, easy gift that can be remembered forever.

Not to mention, silhouettes are really in style right now.. But, hey when did they ever go out?
Check out the Southern Living article here or Clay's website.

Oh {Skinny} Christmas Tree!

2011-12-05T16:00:00.000-06:00

If you read this post, then you probably realize that I was NOT and will not pay for an overpriced Christmas tree.
They may be normally priced in your book, but to me that is just crazy.
I mean how can Mr. Claus expect us to buy a tree and then decorate it with pretty ornaments too?
He must realize we are going through a recession!

So, what does a ~~semi~~ frugal girl like myself do?
Borrow an old tree from her parents
THEN
somehow spend a small fortune on ornaments.
Okay, okay maybe it wasn't a fortune but it was enough for a nice dinner out somewhere..
See, how everything somehow equates to food for me?
Admittance is the first step after all....

Anyways, back on track.

I do this EVERY year.
Last year I decided I wanted a red, green and plaid Christmas tree.
This year I decided I wanted a silver and gold tree.
I have decided to talk myself into keeping the same ornaments around for a while so I might have splurged a little bit(but I had a gift card to the gift store) so it doesn't really matter anyway.. :) (this is my self assurance talk so I feel fine about buying these ornaments!)

I was really wanting a BIG, FLUFFY tree this year.

But after seeing the outrageous prices I decided I'd stick to my skinny handy me down until after Christmas when hopefully they go on sale!

This is how the tree process began.

1.I carried the whole thing into our house by myself(Ryan was at work)

then realized I must have lost a screw for the bottom somewhere between my parent's house and ours(only 70 miles apart somewhere)

2. Go to Lowe's and try to find a matching screw only to get home and realize it doesn't match up

3. Wait for Ryan who is obviously not wanting to decorate the tree tell me "Well you know it's not going to stand up right if the screw isn't matching up"

YES, I KNOW THAT BUT I WANT THE TREE UP NOW!

4. Superman somehow finagles the screw to work.

5. We undo the million of tiny lights only to realize that one strand was blown and another strand has a short.

6. I tell him we are not buying lights this year so we will only have to make do.

7. My part of finally getting to decorate comes after he lights half of the tree.

He pauses during the middle of the football game and constantly asks "So what exactly do you think when you step back and look at the tree..Like what should go on next or what?"

Hours later I am feeling like the Christmas spirit is in the house, regardless of how much of our tree will go without lights this year or trying to ignore the fact that at any given point our tree could come falling down.

In all of it's beauty...

Notice the middle has very very few lights....yea, just ignore that.
Oh, and while you're at it...ignore my thrown together tree skirt.
That would be leftover burlap from my kitchen window project.
ANOTHER frugal decorating tip ;)

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas around here!

Christmas Card

2011-12-04T11:00:00.000-06:00

I debated on sending out a Christmas card since we are not married and all that jazz yet.
But, obviously I didn't care what other people think about it.

I ordered our cards from Tiny Prints and printed the enveloped myself using a custom font I downloaded from Kevin and Amanda's blog here. Their fonts are easy to download and use plus FREE! I chose "Pea Roxygirl" for the delivery addresses.

Did you send out a Christmas card? If so, I want to see!

Dear Santa (Part Six)

2011-12-03T09:00:00.001-06:00

Yall know my love for anything monogrammed.
In fact, I would love to have some Pickard monogrammed china.

But after realistically realizing that 99.9% of our guest list would not be forking over $275 for china, I have found my cheaper alternative.

Cue the music, please.....

I BRING TO YOU PREPPY PLATES!

Literally, that's their name!

And for a little Christmas cheer!

Last but not least is my favorite Christmas plate!

At around $25 they are more expensive than your normal melamine plates but oh so cute!

Dear Santa (Part Five)

2011-12-01T12:00:00.002-06:00

Anyone who knows me knows I love (more like obsess) anything monogram.

If I could monogram every single thing I own, I would.

Trust me, I have thought about carving our monogram into the walls before.

Dear Santa,

I'll take one of these found here.

I'd like one for our front porch to be a year round wreath.

And while you're at it, ask your elves to pick up another one..

I'm sure I can make use of it somewhere!

And Were Off..

2011-12-01T08:00:00.002-06:00

Life has been so busy lately.

Ryan's having foot surgery next week so we decided a little getaway was not only desired but a necessity.

I think people don't vacation enough. Even if we are only going for three days, it will be filled with lots of memories and time just spent together out of our element.

We keep calling it our "halfway to wedding date trip" since we are almost to six months before the big day.

We're going to my favorite restaurant ever.

Dixie Stampede.

To me, it's Heaven on earth. I hope it doesn't disappoint this time! Ryan has never been so I'm keeping my finger's crossed.

What I'll be doing for the SIX hour car drive!

Listening to Chris Young's latest cd on my iPhone.
I LOVE IT!
Favorite song is "When She's On." Seriously check it out!

Reading this on the Kindle.

A friend that recently got married told me to purchase it and I'm so glad I did.
It's wonderful. Plus, it has questions and exercises to ask your significant other about "important topics." Like "Do you really need more clothes, the closet is full?" or "Are you going to take out the trash before animals start beating down our doors because of the atrocious smell?"
I'm kidding, but really it does have some great topics to discuss with each other.

If you know of anything fun in the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area please let me know!

Dear Santa (Part Four)

2011-11-30T10:00:00.001-06:00

I wanted this necklace for my birthday and did not get it.
I was told to wait closer to our wedding time.
Wellll, our wedding is in six months.
So I would like one SOON please!

Dear Santa,

Please bring me this.

Preferably in the medium size.

In gold.

Appreciate it,

Courtney

Dear Santa (Part Three)

2011-11-29T10:00:00.000-06:00

This may seriously be one of the most enjoyable gifts you can get/receive all year long...

and its only a candle!

Well, not really any candle BUT the most amazing candle I have ever lit in my entire life.

This was another fabulous find at the Nashville Christmas Market.

This lady had a booth set up that was only just candles and me being in such awe of the wonderfulness of the market decided to step in.

I sniffed the first two I picked up and was instantly hooked.

I couldn't decide between Candy Cane or Christmas Cookies so I asked her which one was her favorite.

She told me Candy Cane was definitely a more seasonal smell where as Christmas Cookies would smell good all year long.

I handed over my $20 and off I went with a candle I had originally bought as a hostess gift to give.

I got home and sniffed it a couple of times before I realized two things.

1. I was keeping it and it was going to be lit immediately to see if it really smelled that good after it was burning

2. Why did I not buy more? I kept kicking myself about the fact that I only had one candle to use for the rest of the season.

Ryan came in the house and immediately said "wow, it smells just like Christmas in here."

I knew someone else was hooked too..

The thing about the candle is that even when it's not lit you can still smell it..It's seriously beyond words(I can't believe I am gushing over a candle like this, but I am in love!)

I got online and found the website. You can check it out here or on their Facebook page.

I will definitely be purchasing another candy cane candle very soon(like next week) and maybe even hope Santa brings me a Christmas cookie one too!

If I was taking full advantage of Cyber Monday...

2011-11-28T19:46:00.005-06:00

I'd definitely hit these steals up!

Tracy Negoshian Bell Sleeve Dress

$108.00

Sale today: $34.50

Zumba At Home Kit On Amazon

Today's Price: $86.00

Elizabeth McKay Out of Town Dress

Originally $285

Today $142.50

I have been very wise today and bought zilch!
I'm planning on making up for it at the end of the week by shopping on our little getaway.

Dear Santa (Part Two)

2011-11-28T09:00:00.000-06:00

So, yesterday I wrote about a sad, depressing post.

I just think its important that sometimes we stop and really remember how blessed we are.

I told you that I was having a hard time coming up with things to ask people....and that is still true!

But, I am going to start listing things(cheap and then rather expensive) that I would love to have but do not expect anyone to purchase.

My first gift idea would be great for any woman, especially THIS woman (aka me).

I saw Lauren Dunn Designs at the Nashville Christmas Market a few weekends ago (which reminds me I never wrote a post about my findings, I will get on that this week.)

See I have this weird thing about pictures...

I love pictures and picture frames in other people's homes but I'm concerned to put too many up in mine. I think it just kinda makes the walls look super gaudy if they are not in an organized order. (Yes, that means that currently we have ONE picture that has been hung in the new house...and I'll give you a clue as to what it is. It's a football picture of Ryan's favorite team and it's in his office. I only let him hang it because he kept getting so mad about not hanging anything up, plus it's actually a really cute painting)

Then I saw Lauren's booth at the Christmas Market and FELL IN LOVE.

This is a picture from last year's booth that was on her Facebook page.

She had a gorgeous mirror that was in her booth and I seriously wanted to get it so bad.
It was like that little story where you feel a little red devil on your left shoulder saying "go ahead Courtney, it's beautiful and would look great in your living room" and then an angel on the right shoulder saying "yes, it's pretty but are you seriously willing to spend that much money right now after you just read Dave Ramsey's book?".....STORY OF MY LIFE.

Anyways, I came home without anything from her booth.
But I WILL have a picture frame of hers in my house after the wedding, I just want to make sure the color matches the picture I pick out and our house.

How perfect would a cream/white one be for a wedding picture? Oh, so lovely!

Seriously, go check out her stuff on her website or on her Facebook page.

It's amazing.

Dear Santa (Part One)

2011-11-27T16:10:00.003-06:00

This year it saddens me to say that I am having a hard time coming up with a "wish list" of things I need/want for Christmas.

The reason it is so saddening is because I realize what that truly means...

I have so much ~~crap~~ stuff that I cannot think of anything else to ask for.

I realize that there are people who are suffering daily just to make ends meet or put food on their table to feed their children or find a blanket warm enough to hold their baby so they are not sick from the cold air.

Part of this realization has come from realizing just how truly blessed God has been to me and the other part stems from a recent outing I had(which I will share about later on in the week).

I heard the song "My Grown Up Christmas List" last year but for some reason it rings more true to how I feel this year.

"Do you remember me? I sat upon your knee

I wrote to you with childhood fantasies

Well, I'm all grown up now and still need help somehow

I'm not a child but my heart can still dream

So here's my lifelong wish

my grown up Christmas list

not for myself

but for a world in need.

No more lives torn apart,

that wars would never start

and time would heal all hearts.

And everyone would have a friend

and right would always win

and love would never end,

this is my grown up Christmas list."

There are many things that our world needs and the more time that we are able to sit around and ponder about life's serious issues we realize how trivial small(or large) Christmas gifts seem.

I would wish for everyone to have the opportunity to know Jesus.

I would wish for cures to all sicknesses so no one was ever in pain and family members would never have to feel grief.

I would wish that family and friends all got along.

I would wish that children never have to feel hungry because their parents cannot afford to provide three meals for them.

See how this list could go on and on forever?

The important thing to remember here is that everything does happen for a reason and there is a reason (and lesson) in understanding why God has created the life he has given to each of us.

On a much lighter note!!

If it seems I have completely become like Mr. Grinch for Christmas you are definitely wrong. My heart was just heavy and I felt like I needed to write this for some reason.

Starting tomorrow, I will continue on with my Christmas list in a more materialistic way.

What would be on your "grown-up Christmas list?

Pictures Galore...Engagement Pics that is!

2011-11-22T10:00:00.005-06:00

I loved all of our engagement pictures, but these were some of my favorites.

The old beat up truck was randomly at the farm we were taking our barn pictures at.

And let me explain that Ryan's family owns a Ford dealership(and he works there) so it was only fitting that we take some with it. They turned out so cute!

Also, no I'm not a Tiger Woods pro golfer. I do like to go with Ryan and just started playing since we started dating(much my dad and brothers dismay...they are HUGE golfers)I'm horrible at it but its fun when we go together and I like to see Ryan get so excited that I'm golfing with him!

Which one is your favorite?

Remembering what single life feels like

2011-11-19T19:29:00.003-06:00

No, Ryan and I have not called off our engagement!!!
He's just out of town for the evening for his best friend's bachelor party.

What I have done all day:
cleaned(I was actually pretty excited about tackling this since our house has been disgusting the past two weeks since I've been under the weather...side note I HATE sinus infections), napped, caught up on tv shows, and am about to get ready to go out with some of my friends! Tomorrows plan consist of going to church, cooking and then Thanksgiving dinner at a friend's house.

As much as I love Ryan and our relationship, it's been nice to simply be home alone doing what I want...do not send me to jail for saying that!
Just being honest :)

I was hoping to start decorating our house for Christmas but after seeing the beyond ridiculous prices on trees yesterday at Trees and Trends I have decided to wait...

I'll be using my parents old tree and saving a whopping $200. I don't know who was more confused about why FAKE Christmas trees are so expensive, me or him?

In the meantime, I will let you know that I ordered our Christmas cards.
I got the proof the other day and immediately picked up the phone to call and increase our quantity! Funny story, but apparently TinyPrints was having a sell that day so by increasing our quantity I actually got money back...strange,huh? I'll take it though!

I actually do PLAN on blogging this week.
As a matter of in fact, I'm going to prewrite some posts so I can guarantee they will be there throughout the week.

One thing that will definitely be posted on here this week...
ENGAGEMENT PICTURES!

Here's a sneak peek!

Scarf Swap!

2011-11-15T18:43:00.004-06:00

Yes, I’m still alive..but after last week’s illness I thought I may make the turn for the worse(sorry for being overdramatic but it was HORRIBLE!) I haven’t really posted in almost a week so I figured it was about time.

Lots of new, exciting things have come along including our engagement pictures being sent to us that I will post about later on this week!

So the other day as I’m putting on a scarf (yes, Kentucky weather can be 70 one day and 50 the next) I realized that I had wrote a post about my blog scarf swap but forgot to actually publish it!

I feel horrible for just now publishing this, but better late than never in my book.
Make sure to go check out the blogger who hosted it, Sweet Tea Diaries.

I was paired up with Jodie from here. She posts about some of the cutest stuff on her blog, Ramblings of Fabulous Brunette(P.S. how cute is that blog name? Why couldn't I come up with something so clever?!) From the emails we exchanged I could tell that she was very bubbly and full of life so this was a lot of fun! I also realized that she was super girly when it comes to picking out scarves, which I know I am the complete opposite so I figured this would be a challenge. I found a scarf that I believed would be perfect for Jodie and sent it on her way. She sounded so thrilled with the scarf I sent so I was one happy camper.

Now, let’s go back to the thought of how I am the most boring dresser ever…I mean the

majority of clothes I own are black, gray, and brown for crying out loud. I told Jodie that I would love any type of scarf and let me just tell you she sent a wonderful one.

(Sorry for the crappy iPhone picture, I couldn't find my camera)

It had ruffles and was reversible (black and gray) which goes perfectly with my black winter jacket. It’s made out of cotton, but the ruffles make it dressy so it can go either way. The most perfect scarf swap partners ever!

Don’t forget to go check her out.

I'm Loving Lots of Things This Wednesday!

2011-11-09T22:11:00.000-06:00

What I'm Pinning This Week

My G.G. (my great grandmother who passed away a few years ago..and quite possibly one of the most classic ladies ever) used to make me hot chocolate when I was younger after school. She made the real deal hot chocolate with milk over the stove. So I definitely think a "hot chocolate bar" is an awesome idea for a winter party!

Genius! This is seriously brilliant..

Don't we all need to be reminded of this?

Write love letters to each other and place into a box along with a bottle of wine.nail it shut at the wedding. When you have your first fight, open it up, pour the wine, go to separate corners, read the love letter & remember what it's all about.

Craziness I've Been Thinking

For years, I've been really wanting to run a mini. Let's be honest, some of it is for the wrong reasons like wanting to get a cool bumper sticker and become on of those "insane marathon freaks" that have running bumper stickers on their car that Ryan hates. The real reason I would want to do it...because it would just be so awesome to know I completed something that huge!I'm still considering it but should probably attempt to finish a 5k or even a mile first haha! Also, this year the Nashville mini marathon is to benefit St. Jude's which makes it even more worthwhile!

What I'm Planning For The Wedding
Now that all of our vendors are booked, we can focus on the more fun things like invitations. This is the look I am going for (just in a different color)

What I've Been Cooking
Skinny Buffalo Chicken Dip
I made this our work Halloween party last week and the guys(90% of our office is male) loved it! I even told them it was a healthier version and they still went back until the crockpot was empty!
You know I love this healthy website, so I must tell you to go there. It's where the recipe was found!

4 oz reduced fat cream cheese, softened

1 cup fat free sour cream

1/2 cup Franks hot sauce (or whatever hot sauce you like)

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese

1 tsp white wine vinegar

2 cups (2 breasts) cooked shredded chicken

Mix the first 5 ingredients together until smooth. Add the chicken and put this in the crock pot on low for 3-4 hours. Serve warm. Makes 5 1/2 cups.

What I'm Wearing (Or Would Love To)

Anything from J Crew including these two cardigans

What I Bought

My maid of honor's birthday was last week so I got her a picture frame and a month's subscription to Birchbox. For those of you who have asked, I have not committed to Birchbox yet(I just want to see how much I really like it, so I tested it out with Kate haha..not really but I wanted to see if it was worth getting it every month)

Last, but not least..I'm Loving...
That tomorrow is my Friday! :)
I have taken off work to go to the Nashville Christmas Village with my mom and grandmother. Then Friday night one of my good friends from high school is getting married out of town so I will be going to that as well. Hopefully, I'll be feeling alot better than I am today. I thought I had hit some lucky strike since practically everyone in my office and even Ryan was sick last week with a cold, but apparently not.. It hit me today!

Linking up for What I'm Loving Wednesday with Jamie.

The MOST Wonderful Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-11-07T20:42:00.004-06:00

No, these are not healthy..but they are dang good!

The intern at work is known for bringing in desserts that are healthy but this recipe is not one of those..when I tasted one of these today I told her immediately I needed the recipe!
Props to her for losing alot of weight by doing the right things(exercise and eating better) but she is majorly sabotaging my weight loss due to almost bringing in tasty desserts daily.

Our company "chef" AKA intern who loves to bake!

MOST AMAZING CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES EVER
1/2 c margarine, softened

1/2 c butter, softened

1 c sugar

1 c tightly packed brown sugar

2 eggs

2 3/4 c flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Cinnamon to taste(little more than a pinch)

Bag of milk chocolate chips

1 c coconut

Directions: Beat the butters and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition. Add the pure vanilla extract. Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, in cinnamon in a large bowl. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture (What this means is you add a third of the flour mixture at a time, beating well between each addition.) Stir in the chocolate chips and coconut.

Take 3 Tablespoons of the cookie dough and roll into balls and place 3 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet (This is for jumbo cookies, but she made all different sizes.) Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes or until the bottom edges are light brown.

This would be great to take to Christmas cookie swaps! Thanks Jessica for giving me the recipe and letting me post it!

Engagement Dinner Pictures

2011-11-06T18:52:00.003-06:00

Our Engagement Dinner was so nice. It was great to have our families and closest friends all together. It has been almost 6 months since we became engaged but because of a crazy summer schedule we waited until fall for it. I just love my parents for hosting it, it was awesome (and not to mention that it was at one of my favorite restaurants!)

Can't you tell who this is? My mom(who everyone thinks we are sisters) and my grandmother, NaNa.

Some of the groomsmen.

Everyone showed up except one of my bridesmaids and Ryan's best man(who works out of town). It was such fun to have a room full our family and closest friends all together!

My bridesmaids and some of their boyfriends!

At the end of the meal, the restaurant crew came out and sang "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" and let me just tell you I was mortified!!

Mom said "this would be the last Christmas card picture of the four of us"..how depressing, but yet so exciting!

Unexpectedly, my friends brought us gifts..AWESOME gifts! A silver serving bowl, silver picture frame, 1001 Ways to Cook Southern Cookbook, His Needs Her Needs(a book for the couple to read together) and a wedding plate. I loved them all!

Engagement Dinner=SUCCESS!

Thanks again mom and dad(I know you're both reading) for making all of my wedding dreams come true!

Fill In The Blank Friday

2011-11-04T20:44:00.005-05:00

Linking up with Lauren for Fill In The Blank Friday.

1. My favorite thing about this week was/is our engagement party tomorrow night J

2. Colder weather makes me wish I lived somewhere with year round warmer weather

3. Three things that make me terribly happy as of late are knowing that Christmas is near, my family and Ryan, and fish (yes, I just said fish makes me happy. As of lately I’ve had an obsession with tuna and baked fish!

4. If I could only wear one kind of shoe for the rest of my life, I'd choose Uggs. I don’t care that you think they are ugly, they are comfortable and fuzzy!

5. My personality type is TYPE A ALL THE WAY!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-11-02T20:48:00.004-05:00

If you follow me on Pinterest here, you know that I have a board called mish mash.

I just put all of the random stuff I love in it...which is what today is

MISH MASH LOVE

Next year's Halloween costume..possibly?!

Clearly, I'm loving anything that can be inspiration for beginning(yes, you heard that correctly..) to decorate the new house. Also, I LOVE Christmas (year round) so around this time of year I realllly love anything Christmas related!

Weepublican

2011-11-01T08:48:00.002-05:00

When we have kids (don't worry Mom & Bev, it won't be for a while!)

this little onesie will definitely be a "must have."

Especially for a big election year..maybe 2016?

If you feel the need to purchase this for the future (or even for a baby you know), check out this cute online shop I read about today on another blog. Go to Lulu McGee here!

We had a small child who was dressed up as a Playboy Bunny?!

2011-10-30T20:39:00.010-05:00

So I've really been wanting to jump on the Erin Condren party. If you aren't familiar, go check it out here!
I've been drooling over the life planners for quite some time, but just couldn't talk myself into spending fifty dollars for a planner. I live by my planner, but usually keep it at work. I write down things I want to blog about on certain days, how many blog followers I have that day (so I can see when I gain new followers...don't judge, it just makes me happy when I can look back and see that I gained 5 one week!), and all of the million wedding planning that must be done.
So needless to say, I've been on the lookout for a new 2012 planner.

Yesterday, Plum District was having a sale(I received some extra promotions thanks to blog world where I learned about it)and I scored an Erin Condren life planner for $12.50!!!
Talk about EXTREME Couponing!

This is the beauty I ordered, I cannot wait until November 15 when it's set to ship (yes, that's how long I have to wait due to their popularity!)

So these planners allow you to personalize them with your name printed on the front or you can even upload a picture. I have a slight small confession. I may have (or may have not) ordered mine as Courtney Noland. (Ryan thought this was only appropriate since the calendar is for 2012 and I will become a Noland for the majority of the year) :) I know it was kinda silly, but it's over and done with now. It kinda reminded me of middle school when all of my friends would doodle our names with the last names of the cutest boys in the class...except that last name will be my last name for the rest of my life now!

In other news...I've talked about my love for this one before.

SHE'S ALREADY GETTING A DIVORCE (72 days)?!?!

Kim K-0 vs Divorce-2

I still love her, but maybe just not as much after today.

I knew I never really liked Kris that much, but he's still pretty cute..

I just feel bad for her because all she's ever wanted was to be in a relationship (or so it seems...it's not like I haven't talked to her in a while haha)

Let me just tell ya...I'm not really a Halloween person, never really was (except for like twice in college and I think I only dressed up because everyone else did!)

I was a golddigger haha. I had a gold dress, a gold chain that had a money sign and a gold hat with a light on it. Amanda was tinkerbell and Hailey was a trophy wife....Clearly, Amanda missed the memo on dressing up with a money theme!She's so innocent(or at least looking,haha)

This year, I was supposed to go to a friend's Halloween dinner but was forced to stay at home to pass out candy in our new house.

I bought two bags of candy because I was unsure of how many trick or treaters we would have and let me just tell you...WE HAD ALOT!

Finally at around 8 we ran out of candy (just in time for my boss to show up with his kids!)

This is what I learned from my first passing out candy experience:

1. I will NEVER dress our child up as a Playboy Bunny. (One little girl showed up in the whole ensemble, including a strapless black dress in the 50 degree weather!!!RIDICULOUS for so many reasons!

2. Kids say the darnest things. We went all summer without seeding grass and let me just tell ya, our yard looked f-u-n-k-y. One little boy came up to get his candy and said "I like yall's new grass finally!" haha, I just had to laugh and tell him that we do too!

3. Teenagers still dress up to get candy. We had two boys who had to be at least 15 come dressed up in their favorite football and basketball sweatshirts. Ryan coincidentally had his Alabama hoodie on and one boy said "Alabama? Ew." haha, just another time I laughed about it and once the door was shut Ryan said "I should've told him to get off my lawn."

I vow next year to be a little bit more festive...well maybe?

Rules for Dads with Daughters

2011-10-30T13:12:00.000-05:00

I am the spitting image of my dad.
(I look like my mom, but seriously have my dad's personality times two.)

People have always said, "wow you are your father's child."

I take this as a huge compliment. My dad has overcome a lot in his life. He is ambitious, strong-willed, opinionated, hard-working and always wanted the best for his family.

My brother is more like mom. They are both a little more fun-loving and outgoing while dad and I are just outspoken and very driven.

I found this over at Meg's blog. It's rules for Dads with Daughters. Some of these made me laugh and some of these brought tears to my eyes. Here are some of my favorites:

3. Save the day. She’ll grow up looking for a hero. It might as well be you. She’ll need you to come through for her over and over again throughout her life. Rise to the occasion. Red cape and blue tights optional.( I will never forget the time Dad had to save me from a catastrophe that happened on my first college spring break..long story short we spilled some kool-aid in our room and the hotel was about to kick us out for the whole week. This was just one of many times he has came to the rescue!)6. Buy her a glove and teach her to throw a baseball. Make her proud to throw like a girl… a girl with a wicked slider. (Of course, this one is one of my favorite because my dad taught me to play softball at a really young age. I played all throughout high school and often played on two teams throughout the year)

7. She will fight with her mother. Choose sides wisely.11. There will come a day when she asks for a puppy. Don’t over think it. At least one time in her life, just say, “Yes.”

12. It’s never too early to start teaching her about money. She will still probably suck you dry as a teenager… and on her wedding day. Oh goodness, I love that my parents are paying for our wedding but hate that they are..it just makes me feel so guilty but at least I know that it will be the best day of my life!

16. Take her fishing. She will probably squirm more than the worm on your hook. That’s OK. (My mom has an old picture of a day when Dad took me fishing when I was like 3..it's one of my favorite pictures of me when I was little)

22. She’s as smart as any boy. Make sure she knows that. (Both of my parents made sure that I knew I was smart and could do anything I set my mind to)

30. Never miss her birthday. In ten years she won’t remember the present you gave her. She will remember if you weren’t there. (When I was little, Dad always was at a conference out of town on Valentine's Day. I'll never forget for years how Dad always sent me flowers to school and I felt like the luckiest girl at school!)

36. Few things in life are more comforting to a crying little girl than her father’s hand. Never forget this. (Dad hates to see people cry, but there have often been times when he has sucked it up and listened to me cry...just like yesterday for example!)

Sometimes life passes us by without ever thinking about the little things that our parents have done for us throughout the years that have molded us into the people we are today.

P.S. Mom, just because this is about Dad's don't even think I love him more than you. Y'all are both great...I just happened to find this article.

For the rest of the rules, go here.

Still here..

2011-10-25T19:03:00.006-05:00

So much for thinking I was going to have time to catch up on my blog last weekend while we were in Nashville.
We did some shopping, eating at fun restaurants and more shopping.

Check out my new finds from the shopping excursions..

My new favorite toy!!
The "running stick" is a hand held massager that you roll over sore leg parts...By the time I walked out of the running store I felt like a marathon runner. Ryan even joked that I should've bought the 26.2 mile sticker haha.

New tennis shoes

I got custom fitted for new shoes after months of being pain struck trying to work out...I will say I'm not sure if its "the stick" or my shoes but I haven't been in as much pain(knock on wood)! (side note: I can barely run 1.5 miles which is really embarrassing to say..just don't want y'all to think I'm a real runner).Woo hoo!

Now for the real fun stuff..

The best foundation ever! I used to be a MAC girl, but not anymore. This stuff has great coverage (which I really try to get because I hate my freckles!) It definitely makes your face look airbrushed.

Face primer. I've heard all about this "that gal" stuff so I figured I'd give it a try out. I've only used it twice this week and can tell a slight difference when I wear it, but nothing too major.

Eyeshadow..this was just a last minute purchase. You know how stores have all that junk around the cashier's line for idiots who impulsively buy more junk they don't need? Yes, I'm one of those idiots.

I've really been slacking off on my blog last week, but not anymore. I've vowed to blog three times this week,promise! I've got some fun stuff to blog about in the next few weeks...engagement pictures, recipes, engagement party and much more! So just stay tuned!!

I'm horrible..

2011-10-21T19:07:00.005-05:00

I know this week I've been HORRIBLE with blogging...
truth be told I've been tired and out of town for work.

This weekend if you need me, you can find me here...

My favorite "go to" city, Nashville!
We live only two hours away and this is usually where I come to shop and I just love the honky tonks downtown, plus all the eclectic shops and restaurants. When I heard I had a work conference here I just got so excited and have planned seriously every minute after tomorrow with things we have to do. (Ryan is coming down to do some shopping for our engagement picture outfits and just to spend sometime together away from our "norm")

This is exactly what I plan on buying tomorrow..

Tomorrow night hopefully you can find me here...

Arrington Vineyards. This is Kix Brooks' (YES!!from Brooks and Dunn!!) vineyard. I've been dying to go and it seems tomorrow night may just be the time to check it out (we're just going to ignore the freezing weather).

I'll check back in after the weekend and I PROMISE I will be a better blogger next week :)

Potato Soup that is actually good for you!

2011-10-18T14:21:00.002-05:00

Okay, it's not really good for you but much better than the more fattening version I love!
I found this in a WW magazine and actually enjoyed it, plus it is super easy to make.
At 6 Points Plus per serving it definitely cannot be beat!!

3 cups 2% reduced fat milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 24 oz package of Simply Potatoes refrigerated country-style mashed potatoes ( I actually got the traditional mashed potatoes and everything turned out fine..it was just really thick)
1 cup reduced fat cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 cup crumbled bacon(3 slices)
1/2 cup sliced green onions

Combine the first four ingredients in a large saucepan, breaking up the potatoes with a wooden spoon. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce heat and then simmer while pot is uncovered until thoroughly heated. Keep stirring frequently with a whisk. Remove from heat, stir in 2/3 cup shredded cheese.
Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with remaining cheese, bacon and green onions.

One serving size is 1 cup of soup and it's only 220 calories!
Definitely a new favorite WW recipe...
by the way did I mention I lost 3 lbs last week? aghh I was so excited :)

Weight Watchers Chicken Enchiladas

2011-10-12T06:30:00.000-05:00

It seems like each week I talk about our love for Mexican food..
but this week I was sick and tired of feeling guilty about it so I decided to whip up a healthier version.

Yes, I am using a stolen internet image because I am too lazy to get my camera out to take my own picture..don't judge me

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas


	1 spray(s) cooking spray
	8 oz Kraft Velveeta Light Reduced-Fat Pasteurized Processed Cheese Product
	1/2 cup(s) fat-free sour cream
	1/4 cup(s) fat-free evaporated milk

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

3 cups chopped chicken

5-6 whole wheat tortillas

low-fat shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat a 9-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cheese product and sour cream; cover and microwave on high power until cheese melts, about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Remove half of melted cheese to a small bowl and stir in evaporated milk; set aside. Add red pepper flakes and chicken to remaining cheese mixture; stir to coat.
Spoon about 2/3 cup of chicken mixture down center of each tortilla; fold in sides of tortilla to cover filling and place tortillas in a single layer in prepared dish; spoon remaining cheese sauce over top and then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and olives.
Bake until cheese topping is bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes. Yields 1 enchilada per serving. You can pour some salsa over them if you are feeling extra spicy!

WW Points Plus= 8 (1 enchilada)

A bucket list letdown.

2011-10-11T09:15:00.000-05:00

No, I did not take back my dress!!I know that's what you were thinking!

Here's what went wrong.

I've mentioned my LOVE for Pat and Gina Neely (Down Home with The Neely's on Food Network)

One of the things on my to-do list(smaller bucket list) was to visit their Memphis restaurant.
After taking a 30 minute detour to visit the restaurant we finally arrived!

Pulling up we saw a sign that said "We are not responsible for your valuables. Please lock your vehicles." Well, that's always reassuring.

After making our way inside and getting seated.
We waited..and waited..and waited some more for someone to come take our order.
Let me just say that there were probably 10-15 other people in the restaurant so it was NOT crowded.
Finally, after twenty minutes someone came and took our order.
I ordered BBQ chicken nachos, which came out cold! :(
I also ordered a side of mac and cheese, because I love their mac and cheese(if you remember, I posted about this a few weeks back..check it out for the recipe!)
It seriously tasted like Velveeta..major disappointment.
Mom even thought her pulled pork sandwich was a let down.

I'm not sure if we just had our expectations set so high that the food was a major letdown or if it was the HORRIBLE service...but mom said it right, "They should stick to acting instead of doing the restaurant thing."
Maybe we went on an "off" day, but I was really disappointed.
I will continue to love their show, but will never visit the restaurant again.

Have you ever marked something off your bucket list only to find out it really wasn't all it was cracked up to be?

It's Official We're Really Getting Married!

2011-10-10T20:40:00.004-05:00

On our five hour car ride back home I called Ryan and our conversation went like this..
Me: "Well, it's official we are really getting married now. I FOUND A DRESS!!"
Ryan: "Well, it's about time but I'm pretty sure we were getting married regardless."

Yes, you read it right..
After trying on at least 30-40 dresses (okay okay maybe I am exaggerating but at least 20)
Visiting five different cities
and six different dress shops
I HAVE FOUND THE DRESS!

If you live anywhere within driving distance to Arkansas and are engaged....make the long haul down to Low's, it is so worth it!

We drove down on Friday night and stayed the night about thirty miles out of town.

Saturday morning we got up early and headed to Brinkley. Brinkley is serious one of the smallest towns ever and it seems like Low's is the best and biggest thing in the town.

We pulled up at about 8:45 and quickly noticed that a line was forming..we were car #2 out of 9 in a line waiting for the gates to open.

Yes, gates. They have gates that I never thought would open but sure enough right at 8:50 they opened automatically.

I told mom to hurry up and park because it looked like only one employee was working(there was only one car in the parking lot) and of course I jumped straight out of the car and to the front door before anyone else.

As soon as I walked in the door about 30 women anxious to assist the brides and their families were in a circle. The owner told us that everyone would join in prayer and then the days would get started. Talk about starting the day off right!

Following the prayer, we met our consultant Teena who was the sweetest person ever.

She stayed with us even after finding my dress to look at the bridesmaid dresses. I tried on about five then I put the perfect one on! It was everything I wanted and I instantly saw how relieved mom looked.

Conclusion: Visit Low's before you go to any other bridal store. There is a reason they call it the "bridal mecca of the South!"

After we bought the dress, we got back in the car for the long ride back home...then something very upsetting happened.
STAY TUNED!

Midnight train to Memphis.

2011-10-07T12:37:00.003-05:00

No, I'm not going to Memphis but I am going thru Memphis.
This is where I will be this weekend right after I leave work...

Lows Bridal- Brinkley, Arkansas

Also known as "the bridal shop of the South!"

Dear Lows Bridal,
Please have the perfect dress for me. I have tried on at least 30 and hated them all..I am traveling a very long way with very high expectations, so please don't let me down!
Sincerely,
Courtney

Following?

2011-10-07T08:24:00.000-05:00

I've had several people tell me they follow my blog...actually, you don't technically follow my blog unless you have really "followed" it.

I'm thinking about making the move to having my blog viewed only as a private blog soon, which means that those who are not following(you don't show up as a member on the right side bar) you will not be able to view the blog anymore.
Also, I plan on doing a giveaway once I get to 100 followers, so that should be even more incentive to follow me :)

Alot of people have asked me how to really follow a blog so I just figured this would be the easiest explanation.I copied this post from Google, so to learn more about it go here.

Do you have a favorite blog and want to let the author and readers know that you are a fan? Well now you can do that and more with the Blogger Following feature! You can even keep track of the blogs you follow via your Reading List on the Blogger dashboard.

How do I become a Follower of a blog?

There are several ways to become a follower of a blog. One of the easiest ways is to visit a blog that has added the Following widget and click on the "Follow" button under the "Followers" widget:

You'll then see a popup window with the options to either follow publicly or privately:

Select how you'd like to follow the blog, then click the "Follow this blog" button. It is that simple, you are now a follower of the blog! If you elected to follow the blog publicly, your profile picture will be displayed on the blog with a link to your Blogger profile (Note: The widget may not show all followers of the blog. If this is the case all followers will be linked from the widget). When you become a follower of a blog, the blog will also be added to your Reading List on your Blogger dashboard and this site will also show on your FriendConnect profile for all the sites you've joined using Friend Connect. Additionally, you can become a follower of any blog or URL (even if the blog doesn't have the Followers widget) by adding the blog to your Reading List on the dashboard.

Who I really am.

2011-10-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

I found these questions on another blog and figured I'd participate and answer them too!

1.Favorite color?
Gold, orange, black...not really a favorite color.

2. Favorite food that you make:
Well it's definitely not healthy, but probably BBQ Chicken Pizza or Mashed Red Potatoes. Also a toss up with the ham and gruyere cheese sliders!

3. Favorite Food Network Chef:

Down Home With The Neely's. They are seriously the cutest couple ever and watching them just puts me in a good mood, plus they cook some mean food! I really thought I would like the Pioneer Woman's first show, but I was really let down so I will stick with Down Home with the Neely's.

4. What is the last beauty product you bought, and are you liking it?
Okay, I have a deep confession. I am not at all girly (in the way that most girls obsess over makeup, nail colors, hair products,etc). I think most of them are overpriced and it's just ridiculous to cake tons of makeup on everyday. (On most days I just wear mineral powder during the work week and foundation for the weekends).

5. What are your top 3 beauty products:

Glytone refreshing toner.
I love toners for weird reasons. They burn my face, so I actually can tell its working plus it makes you skin feel tighter. I started using this line to prep for "glowing skin" on the wedding day so I guess time will tell if it really works or not.

Gillette Venus Breeze.

I totally wish I would have created this. How genius is a razor that has shaving gel built in? It's the smoothest shaving razor I have ever used and absolutely love when I see coupons for it(which reminds me I should do a couponing post soon,I kinda have an obsession).

Nars blush in Orgasm.
I got this blush a couple of years ago at a local boutique and love it. I bought some of that amazon staying on all day crap and hated it, I walked around feeling like a clown(maybe the makeup girl just gave me the wrong color?)

7. Essie or OPI?

Essie. I like OPI for their summer colors but that's about it. Essie is more classic to me.

8. How often do you workout?

I hate this question, talk about a guilt trip. I have been working out two-three times a week but come October I vowed to work out three times no matter what every week.

9. Iced or hot coffee?

Either. In the mornings, I like things hot but by the time I need afternoon coffee I want something iced.

10. Favorite celebrity couple:
Can I pick Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in Pretty Woman? If not, I'm going to say The Neely's.

12. Place you have never been but would like to go:

Tahiti or Fiji.

13. What gift did you get from your wedding registry that you get the most use out of?:

Well, I haven't registered quite yet but I'm sure the answer will be pots and pans or maybe a K-Cup Coffee Maker? :)

14. Biggest pet peeve?
Smoking..it's gross, it stinks and it's killing you..so just stop.

15. Best guilty pleasure:

Mexican food. I firmly believe that one of the reasons God put us together is because I love Mexican food and Ryan longs to have it every.single.night..

16. Favorite book:

The Help without a doubt.

17. Do you subscribe to any magazines?

I love when I see that I have magazines in the mail! I get Southern Living, Cooking Light, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, and I always steal mom's Semi-Homemade. I'm about to sign up for Garden and Gun.

18. Favorite Halloween costume?
I dislike Halloween(other than candy corn and decorating with mums and pumpkins).

19. Drink of choice?

Sweet tea or diet coke, it's a toss up.

20. What advice would you give your 17 year old self?

um, this list could go on. I was a stupid, stupid little one. These are the top few ones.

1. Listen to your mom and stop giving her such a hard time, she only means best.

2. The guy you are dating is a loser, well "loser" would be an understatement. Stop worrying so much about boys, you will meet the PERFECT one when you aren't even really looking.

3. Reconsider not wanting to study so much during high school and college.

4. Stop cheating on your math tests, it will only catch up with you in College Algebra when you realize you know nothing.

5. Reconsider your college major, and who cares if you change it 10243 times? It's oh only something you will have to do the rest of your life.

6. You know how you hate softball practice every single night? Start to enjoy it, you will seriously miss playing more than you know.

7. Go visit your grandparents and great-grandparents more. They can teach you alot of life lessons without really saying much.

8. Stop trying to grow up so fast, you have the rest of your life to do that.

9. Set your alarm clock for 6:00 every morning for the rest of your life so when you are 23 and have a real job you will not hate waking up so "early."

10. Learn to love who you are, if you can't appreciate your own self then noone else likely will.

Fall Wreath DIY

2011-10-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

Pinterest is the most genius website ever.

A few weeks ago I attempted to make my first Pinterest craft.
Let me just start out by saying I am no Martha Stewart and have zero artsy, crafty bones in my body.

I saw this wreath and knew I wanted it for the beginning of fall.

I decided to give it a shot.

It was not as cute as the picture, but definitely a cheap fall wreath for the door!Plus, it's super simple.

What you need:

Wreath
Moss(1 big package and 1 little one..I would probably get 2 big ones if I had to redo it)
Glue gun
Craft Pumpkins(all I could find was fall craft branches that have leaves and pumpkins so I just ripped the pumpkins off)

Obviously, it's self-explanatory. Just hot glue the moss around the wreath. Next, just hot glue the pumpkins. (Tip: make sure to do this outside or put newspaper down, the moss will get everywhere!)

I would have covered the whole wreath with pumpkins..I think it would have looked much better.

BUT at least I can mark one of my "to-do Pinterest crafts" off my list!

I did not use a burlap bow originally and was planning on making one to put on this past weekend...only to find out that after about a week my moss had seriously faded to almost tan. Major disappointment, but I'm pretty silly for thinking it wouldn't fade on the front porch where it would get alot of sun!

Weight Watchers Recipe+Crockpot=Winning!

2011-10-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

I've announced my love for using the crockpot for meals before.
It's simple, easy to clean up and always hot when you get home!

A few years ago my mom bought a Weight Watchers cookbook called "The Lighter Side of Southern Cooking." The cookbook is basically a mix of comforting, Southern dishes that are fit for a Weight Watchers member.

I joined Weight Watchers two weeks ago..there I said it, now you can hold me accountable.
I'm not going to lie and say I've already lost 15 pounds, but I have lost a few.

7 hour chicken
8 oz fat free sour cream
can of fat-free or reduced fat cream of mushroom soup
5 frozen chicken breasts
1 packet of onion soup mix

Put the frozen chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Mix all the other ingredients together and spoon on top of the chicken. Cook in crockpot on low for 7 hours.

Ryan really seemed to like this, but I thought it could use something else to spice it up. Maybe adding some spice or something? I'd give it a 7/10.

The recipe says it was 6 points, but that was before the new PointsPlus system became effective. Either way, it's a lightened up crockpot meal!

New Friends

2011-10-03T12:17:00.002-05:00

Let's start off with some new friends.
The blog world has really brought up many great conversations with others(strangers).
Over the past month of being officially in the blog world, I have really found out that if I lived closer to a few of these wonderful ladies we would probably be best friends.

Kelli is so awesome!
I always finding myself relating to all of her posts! To me, she is basically my friend version of the "Pioneer Woman!" You'll have to read more on her blog to find out why(hint:it has something to do with a farm of course!)
Check Kelli out here.

Holly reminds me of a couple of my closest friends!
We emailed each other this week and she is so fun and lively. She's really philosophical(but in a fun,truthful way!) Like this post she just wrote, it definitely hit home, except my sabotage is the fiance. She definitely makes me want to run to the gym, workout and then run back.
Check Holly out here.

Lindsey has posts that I should just copy..we both like the same things!
Something else we share in common is that we both do marketing. After all, this is the post where I saw that black dress I want!
Check Lindsey out here.

Michelle is another one of those wonderful girls who shares the same interests as me!
I might fall a week behind on Pinterest but I can go to her blog and instantly find something worth pinning! Go check Michelle out here.

Christina was one of the first blogs I ever started following so when she sent me an email one night after I commented on her post, I shrieked! She is another one of those girls that gives you so much motivation to be healthy and fit that I love her blog. She even won the local blogger award in Charleston, now that's a big deal! She's super fun and her blog makes me want to call her up and hang out.
Check Christina out here.

Rammer Jammer.

2011-10-01T20:37:00.008-05:00

My marriage is bringing me many different gifts.. One being that I'm becoming an Alabama fan by marriage.
(The truth is in 2010 I remember Hailey and I cheering on Texas in the National Championship because they had cute players..Jordan Shipley and Colt McCoy)

I've never been a huge football fan really. I live in Kentucky and well let's just be honest here our state is not known for great football...but I do love some UK basketball(I was able to catch a few games in Rupp while I was enrolled and can remember my parents going to San Antonio in 98 to watch them win the Final Four)!

Anyways....

Ryan is OBSESSED with Alabama football. When we first started dating and I went to the bathroom in his apartment for the first time I was taken aback....the shower curtain, trash can, rugs, everything was all Alabama themed.

Last year we made a trip down to Tuscaloosa to watch a football game. I really got into the Alabama spirit once we there. These people live, breathe, eat and sleep Bama football. It was crazy but yet exciting at the same time.

So...my love for Alabama while being forced has officially been voluntarily sparked.
Now days I'm finding myself loving everything that is crimson, black and houndstooth.

But the real reason I wrote this lengthy post...I'm debating on turning our office (aka Ryans room he is allowed to put all of his stuff in that doesn't mix in with the rest of the house) into Alabama inspired.

Crimson walls

Houndstooth chair

Black Desk

With these little accessories..

The crimson walls may be way too Bama-ey..but I'm definitely really considering a houndstooth chair. My friend Brittany(who's also an amazing interior designer) said houndstooth is about to really blow up in the home decor market!

Okay, gotta get back to the fiance yelling at the tv..someone needs to bring me some advil(large bottle please) in the event they happen to fall behind and lose.

Roll Tide!

Engagement Party Invitation.

2011-09-28T21:10:00.006-05:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I love stationary or party invitations?

I love stationary so much that one of the first things I did after our engagement was ordering custom thank you cards for the sweet gifts we got!
I always say that I am going to write thank you cards every time I receive a gift, however I am just now realizing that my birthday came and went without anyone receiving any...sorry everyone, but thanks y'all!

Now, this post isn't entirely random.
My parents have offered to throw us an engagement dinner here so I was given the job of finding invitations.
The dinner is only our immediate family(parents,siblings, and grandparents) and our bridesmaids and groomsmen along with their guests.
After dinner we are inviting our bridal party along with other friends to the local bar.
Sounds like a great night,huh?

Back to my invitation search.
I LOVE Etsy! It's a great way to support small businesses and these shops always have the cutest things.

By the way, I'm not getting paid or anything for mentioning these shops. They just deserve some attention!

Seriously, she has some of the cutest ideas. Check it out here.

As far as the engagement dinner goes..I'm wanting something that has a "fall" feel since it will be the first week of November and fall will be full in session. I'm loving a few of these designs.

Check all of these out here!

What do you think? Does anyone have any other suggestions to find cute invitations?

I need wedding help...BAD!

2011-09-26T21:41:00.007-05:00

So long, no talk.
Blogging has taken the back road this week.
Work has been abnormally busy(not to mention a promotion!)

Anyone who says planning a wedding is fun...is lying or has planned their wedding since 4.
Wedding dresses are hideous and I cannot find a single one that I like.
Want to see what I mean?
I asked Ryan to pick out a dress from this website that he liked....

Never in a MILLION years would I wear this. (Sorry if it's your dress, but it's not for me)
Here's the problem. I am NOT a girly girl (hints why I have no clue on any wedding decisions..yes,peach,pink,salmon and coral are all the same to me so any will do)
Not being a girly girl to me means that I want a simple, but elegant dress and every store we have been to has mainly ball gowns.
This one sales girl even made me try on a veil and as soon as we left, I told mom that veils are just too bridey for me..her response "well you do want a wedding, right?"

QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Please let me know where you found your perfect wedding dress. I'm thinking that a road trip is the only option left and we are looking at Low's in Arkansas or Cincinnati Bridal District. Any other good shops that carry simple,elegant dresses?

I just have to let everyone know this(mom don't laugh if you are reading). We were in Nashville this past weekend and had an appointment at one store that I really thought was going to be "the store"...major fail, they had nothing. We went to the next store on the list and sure enough after 45 minutes of getting lost and stuck in traffic we roll into the parking lot only to find a sign on the door that says they are closed for the day, sorry for any inconvenience. YES, THAT IS INCONVENIENT!! Next, we went to The Bride Room. Let me preface this by saying that I rarely(actually never) write bad reviews on the internet. After all, I am in marketing so I know how detrimental one bad review can be...but this was unacceptable. We walked in to find the girl(who is apparently an owner) tell us that "sorry they're no rooms available to try on a dress today" then she walked off. Mom and I proceeded to look around and find some dresses to try on. The girl finally came back and said "I'm so sorry, you'll have to make an appointment" I tried to explain that we were from out of town and asked if I could even try just one dress on upstairs and she still denied me....I was not asking for her assistance in trying a dress on, I just wanted to put one on even if it was in a closet. We walked out and mom said "Well I just felt like we were Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman." Let me finish this long story by saying that their website says "appointments kindly appreciated" which to me means they are not required, just desired. In the business world, these ladies must be doing fabulous since they are denying people to spend alot of money on a dress...what a great way of showing customer service.

Now, that I'm off my rant.

On a side note, I just want to thank my wonderful parents for always being there thru the ups and downs...and for putting up with my crazy wedding demands including trying on a minimum of 50 dresses before picking one!:)
They have planned a great engagement dinner for us in November and I am so grateful for them going above and beyond.

Blog Swap

2011-09-21T21:49:00.005-05:00

Let me just tell you, I am definitely a person that LOVES doing things that are planned surprises. (I take real surprises really weird and become super awkward, it's a major flaw).

When Leann mentioned on her blog that she was going to be doing a Blog Swap I quickly jumped on board.
She paired us up with a fellow blogger to swap some of our "favorite things" that were around $20.
I (being the OCD,type A personality) immediately got my swap buddies name, researched her blog and bought the gifts that night.

My first thought was " wow she's from Oregon!" I've only known one other person from Oregon(well that doesn't even count because he's from Kentucky but moved to Oregon) so I knew this was going to be super fun.

I always love meeting new, fun people.

April and I quickly swapped our addresses and sat back and let the post office do their thing.

Here's what I sent her:

1. I LOVE gold jewelry. I mean, like love. I wear basically the same gold earrings, gold watch and my engagement ring every single day. Gold jewelry=obsession, which is why I sent her this cute bracelet.

2. I love Essie nail polish(even though I hardly ever paint my nails at all). This color just screams early fall to me so I thought it would be perfect.

Here's my fabulous gift April sent:

1. I have needed new perfume for seriously so bad so I really enjoyed opening my box up and seeing a sample of Coach perfume!

2. How cute is that necklace?! It has pearls on it but adds some flair with the flowers.

3. Wisps, only the greatest invention ever. Take along toothbrushes on the go!

4. Burt's Bees lip balm. Gosh,I've needed some chapstick lately too and just refused to go buy any so thanks again April!

5. Pond's makeup remover cloths. They smell so good and it seriously does soothe your skin after using it.

6. Headbands. I love using headbands when I work out to keep the hair out of my face so this was another great gift.
Clearly, I was a slacker blog swap buddy who sent a less than perfect package and the gift she sent me was amazing! Thanks again so much April, I seriously did love it.

I knew her package was going to be great and I was so excited to open it that I may have ripped it open slightly...well quite a bit.

Thanks again to Leann for organizing the swap and April for being the BEST swap buddy in blog history! Go check out April's blog, she's got some really cute stuff going on including a new makeup tutorial.

Modpodge of What I'm Loving Wednesday.

2011-09-18T20:14:00.010-05:00

1. I'm loving that our engagement pictures are in one month! I'm hoping we have some time to change into a relaxed, Southern outfit by the barn, a more "formal" look, and a fun outfit for the golf course.

For the "formal" look, I'm thinking about ordering this beauty.

Or maybe this one?

Both are Elizabeth McKay and I really like both, but I'm not sure that I like them(or any other outfit I've looked at) enough to look at them in pictures for the rest of our lives.

Speaking of engagement pictures...how perfect is this one?

2. I'm loving that some of my favorite shows are back on. Yes, I know I watch garbage but I love watching these shows! Now, if only Friday Night Lights was still on tv I would be in tv Heaven.

Criminal Minds

Rachel Zoe Project (latest new fav) "That is banana's" is slowly being added to my vocab.

Real Housewives of New Jersey. This is the ultimate show that lets you feel good about yourself (thinking dang, I'm not really thaaat crazy compared to them)...Also, some of them need to be smacked with reality. It's hilarious, start watching it to get a good Sunday night laugh.

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Yet again, drama filled with very unrealistic women. Clearly, I'm a "Housewife" junkie.

3. I'm loving that fall is getting closer. I'm so ready to wear this little beauty I just purchased. Yep, I know some people (aka my fiance) think it looks like roadkill but I will def be rocking this with a black turtleneck when colder temps hit.

This was by far the most random picks for What I'm Loving Wednesday..I'm far aware.

Weekend Websites&Blog Award!

2011-09-18T14:06:00.012-05:00

I have barely done anything all weekend and it feels G-R-E-A-T!
In lieu of trying to find something to do all weekend I have pretty much watched tons of tv and played around on the computer.

I found some great websites to share!

First, I love Vestique. I have never ordered anything from there but they have cute, simple little dresses that are cheap for just another night out. But what I really love is all of the unique, funky necklaces they sell!

I love turquoise jewelry, especially this!

Pair it with this dress, some boots and a jean jacket and you are ready to go!

Also, I found this site through Pinterest.

Seriously, how cute is this return stamp? It's handwritten calligraphy!(Let me just tell you, calligraphy is ridiculously hard. I bought a kit right after we got engaged to try to learn how to do it thinking I could self address our envelopes..ha major fail)

I found the Dating Divas on Pinterest too.(See this trend where my whole life is starting to revolve around Pinterest?) These girls have some great advice, tips, and free inspiration on keeping the fun in your relationship! I have only spent a few minutes on their site and have already bookmarked it. You know that there are tons of days when you wish you could think of something cute and creative for that special person in your life but just hit a mental block? These ladies help with all of that! One of my favorite ideas is creating a "Bad Day Box" that has all kinds of goodies inside to turn those frowns upside down!

Remember how I said there was this one thing that has really been making me upset? Well, I've prayed about it for quite a while but over the weekend I just now realized that I haven't fully turned it all over to God.

Lastly, I won my first blog award!:)
Thanks to Michelle over at Texas Tanners. She likes alot of the same things I do, so definitely go check out her blog!Since this is my first blog award you know I am way over excited about it! Definitely made my day and gave me motivation to keep blogging. At least I know that I have one blog fan;)

Part of the award is to share 3 random facts and then pass it on to 5 other people.

My random facts: (let me just go ahead and say I hate random facts,I'm never good at doing this type of stuff!)

1. I'm left handed, but I do everything with my right side(I throw a softball right handed, kick right handed, everything.) Also, I'm only one of two family members(extended) that is left handed. The other left handed family member is my dad's sister who also shares the same birthday with me!
2. I dislike movies. Before you go thinking I am absolutely insane, hear me out. I rarely go to the movies(in the past year I have gone TWICE). I can hardly ever sit still long enough for two hours without thinking about other things that can be done during that time plus it's insane to pay $10 to go see a movie when in two months you can rent it on Redbox for $1 in the comfort of your own cozy home...I just think it's a major waste of money! Also, I own fewer than probably 10 DVD's. I can't stand to watch the same thing over and over again so it's useless. The only things I will ever rewatch is Friday Night Lights(tv show), Sweet Home Alabama, Pure Country and Country Strong.

3.I love checking the mailbox. Now, this IS a super random fact. You just never know what you are going to find and when I am expecting a package, I go all the time(like three times yesterday still waiting on my Blog Swap package) to just check the mailbox!

Passing on the award to 5 others:

Lindsey @ Keep It Classy, Ala bama

Sarah @ Belle In The City

Megan@FriedGreenPickles

Kelli @ Southern Blessed Life

My Blog Swap Pal, April @ Dot.Dot.Dot

Whoa, it was hard picking five of my favorite daily reads but these ladies have been so encouraging to me to keep blogging!

This week's inspiration.

Fill In The Blanks

2011-09-16T12:20:00.002-05:00

So a lot has gone on this week and I’ve been too busy to even blog!I’ll have to explain later on but for now just know that I am 100% thankful that God gave me such a great person to love. Ryan is always so supportive and there for me thru everything. Today is fill in the blank Friday!

You should always time to remind people how much you care because tomorrow may never be there.

Shopping makes the world a happier place.

I can hardly wait for the day when I am content .

(I know there will never be a day when anyone is fully content but there is one main thing that is really bringing me down…and no that is definitely not a relationship/friendship so no worries there!

Saturday is my favorite day of the week.Something dumb and totally ridiculous that I love is Bravo. If there were no other tv channels in the world I would be completely content. I’m in love with all of the Real Housewives, Flipping Out, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, and the Rachel Zoe Project.

If I could I would go back to school to become a teacher or a nurse.

I rather like sleeping in(which now means sleeping to 9 am!)

Say Yes To The Dress!

2011-09-13T16:44:00.003-05:00

I have something I have been wanting to blog about for the past 24 hours, but work and sleep have gotten in the way. It was something super exciting for me(but most people would not even think it was a big deal!)

I received a phone interview yesterday for “Say Yes to The Dress!”

Before you go and get all excited thinking I am going to be on tv showing my drama just calm down…it was just a preliminary interview. Let me tell you how it started out…Two months ago I was super bored on a Sunday afternoon and watching the show when I decided to apply. Never in a million years did I think I would hear back!

1:30 p.m. (I’m about to fall asleep at my desk and dreading the next few hours trying to get something accomplished.)

Phone rings.

“This is Courtney”

“Hey Courtney, this is Kelsey with Say Yes to The Dress” (Not even sure that Kelsey was her name because I honestly thought it was another stupid sales call from the Bridal Show and immediately perked up when she said Say Yes to The Dress.)

“Umm…yeah, hello Kelsey” (Completely floored, I actually walked-okay ran out of my office from shock with no shoes on and started frantically pacing back and forth in the parking lot)

“Do you have maybe ten minutes to talk? I have a few questions for you?”

“Sure yeah just let me put my shoes back on.” (I cannot believe I just said this, but I am in such shock...she was probably thinking this is exactly why we do not have many Kentuckians on the show)

She laughs and says “Sure, just let me know when you're ready.”

By the time she asks the first question I am completely floored and in such shock that I can hardly breathe much less talk.

“So, your application says that you liked Ryan before he even knew who you were? Really? Tell me more about that."

I laugh and say "wow, you make me sound like a stalker but yeah that’s the beginning. Then I babble on for the next five minutes as she’s laughing at our story.”

We talk for about 15 minutes as she asked me a set of questions and it was more like talking with an old friend instead of a phone interview for a television show. She explains that the phone interviews are to help further narrow down candidates for the October show. Her last words were “Well I love your personality over the phone and if the casting director picks you, she will call you in the next few days.”

Being the type A person I am, I say "Does that mean before the weekend or when? I am just trying to know because if not, I am looking for my dress soon.”

“Yes, the next few days.”

So…last night I may/may not have Googled ‘phone interview for say yes to the dress’ to try to find out if anyone else had blogged about their experience(yes I know I am super odd like that). The answers were mixed and some people said they were immediately asked after their interview and some said it took days, even weeks for someone to return the call. I guess I should be glad I was even chosen for a phone call, but you have to know my personality to really understand why I am feeling a little “down” today about it all. I’m an overachiever and super competitive so part of me is feeling like “Yeah you were good enough for that, but not good enough for the real deal” while the other side is saying “Wow, that was cool..it at least woke me up from falling asleep at my desk!”

It's at least part of our wedding story that will make us that much more unique and something fun to talk about. Mom suggested that if I am not picked maybe I should apply for "My Big Redneck Wedding" haha! :)

Where were you when the world stopped turning?

2011-09-11T14:22:00.006-05:00

I was 13 and in the 8th grade..

I don't remember much about it other than I immediately wanted to call my mom to find out where my dad was. See, my dad travels alot for his job and is frequently flying. That morning he was indeed flying, but thankfully was safe. His plane landed in Austin where the airport was locked down for five hours. I remember hoping he never flew again but of course he would.I was too young to understand exactly what the attacks meant and how our country would be impacted.

I'm a news fanatic. I read the newspaper daily(even in the 8th grade I enjoyed it) and enjoy watching the news to stay updated on current events. I watched the towers fall over and over. And 10 years today I guess some things never change, I woke up and instantly turned on the tv to watch the dedication ceremonies. It was hard to watch as loved ones of those who lost their lives read off the names especially when children read off their parent's names. One boy looked extremely young and I can only imagine that he was an infant when his father was taken from him ten years ago.

‎"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty." - President John F. Kennedy

I hear people saying we don't need this war
But, I say there's some things worth fighting for
What about our freedom and this piece of ground
We didn't get to keep 'em by backing down
Have you forgotten when those towers fell?
We had neighbors still inside going thru a living hell
And you say we shouldn't worry 'bout bin Laden

Have you forgotten?

Today is also a reminder that every single day we should be grateful for the men and women of this country who fight for our freedom. Also, everyday we should be grateful for all those who have the jobs of being a first responder. Those who went in after fellow citizens to try to bring them out, they became heroes who should never be forgotten.

Justice will be served and the battle will rage

This big dog will fight when you rattle his cage

You'll be sorry that you messed with the US of A

Because we'll put a boot in you...it's the American way

Man, we lit up your world like the fourth of July

BROUGHT TO YOU COURTESY OF THE RED WHITE AND BLUE!

A few years ago, mom and I went to NYC during Thanksgiving break. The experience of going down to Ground Zero was one I will not forget. Being able to look in the museum where memorabilia from that day has been preserved left us a speechless. The museum was quiet with people just looking around still in awe-even years later. The experience was one I will never forget. The following pictures are some I took inside.

A marriage of my two favorite things.

2011-09-10T10:19:00.004-05:00

Lauren Lauren...you are probably one of the luckiest girls in the world(in my opinion).

Here's why.

You are part of the Bush family (yes, she is the niece of G.W.) and now married to the Lauren family(yes, as in RALPH Lauren)!

If you are totally confused right now let me break it down.

Lauren Bush (Neil's daughter) married David Lauren (Ralph Lauren's son) last weekend at the Lauren ranch in Colorado.

It is rumored that President George H.W. and Barbara said that they were unable to attend the wedding due to the high altitude of the ranch...Seriously? Y'all couldn't pick somewhere where your grandparents could come? Reportedly, the grandparents sent a video message that was played during the rehearsal dinner.

Of course, Lauren wore a custom designed dress by her father-in-law.

I could not find ONE single picture of any wedding details online...kinda love that since it proves that it was a small affair therefore no photos were leaked!

Lauren told Bazaar that she would most likely be called Lauren Bush-Lauren.

"I think it's nice to have the same name as your husband. I am sort of old-fashioned in that way."

Oh, two of my most favorite iconic families joined together...just love it!

Birchbox anyone?

2011-09-07T10:30:00.003-05:00

I've been contemplating on signing up for Birchbox for quite some time.

Basically, Birchbox is a little box of makeup,skin care, and beauty goodies that you receive in the mail once a month for $10. Each month you receive 4-5 samples to try out.

Here's why I'm even considering to sign up.
1. I never,ever(well rarely ever) purchase beauty products.

2. I hate buying expensive makeup and then getting home and hating it.

3. I had been using the same exact makeup routine for four years until I broke down and tried out some new stuff and then I loved it!

4. I love getting mail, especially packages. (I know it's a stupid reason,but whatever)

See, I think it's a good deal because it would allow me to try some stuff out before I fork over a ton of money and instantly have buyer's remorse(like the time I tried out a new blush and ended up looking like a circus clown). BUT...I've heard mixed reviews on people who either love or hate Birchbox.

Have you signed up for Birchbox before? What did you receive for your favorite month?

Recipe: Triple Threat Chicken Bake

2011-09-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

Once again, Pinterest has done it again. I found a recipe that will soon be added to my own recipe box.I have to give credit to the wonderful lady who created this, so go check out her site!

I'm linking up for Tuesdays at the Table here.
(All that means for all y'all that are confused is that I am contributing a recipe and so are some other wonderful blog buddies,so go see what else you could whip up this week.)

Triple Threat Chicken Bake

(Called triple threat because all that cheese is dangerous for ya, but dangerously good too!)

I made this last weekend and it hit the spot on the dot!It was cheesy and perfect for a lazy Sunday dinner. (I seriously have been trying to watch what I eat like tuna for lunch for everyday so I figured I could splurge one night).

What you need:

1 (16-ounce) package penne or elbow macaroni
2 (10-ounce) containers refrigerated Alfredo sauce
1 (8-ounce) container sour cream
1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
2 garlic clove, minced
3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cups mozzarella cheese

Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain and return to pot. Stir together all ingredients except mozzarella cheese. Spread mixture into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Out with the old, in with the new

2011-09-05T08:49:00.007-05:00

Labor Day to me means that the summer is winding down and practically over, hasta la vista...bring on the fall,I am ready for it(other than purchasing some more boots)!

In Kentucky a "cold front" is coming through this week. On Wednesday the high is supposed to be 68. I know I was saying I was ready for fall, but maybe some temps a little warmer would be an easier adjustment.

Honeymoon decisions.

2011-09-04T13:02:00.004-05:00

So, I love following blogs that talk about wedding plans. The colors, reception food, church decorations..I love it all!
BUT...

I want our wedding to be a surprise for all of the guests so I will not be sharing detailed information on alot of it. I might share five options, but not let you see what we chose.(there's gotta be some surprise factor on the day, right?!)

Over the weekend we met with a "honeymoon agent." He is a certified travel agent but specializes just in honeymoon and anniversary vacations...(insert:my future dream job)

I figured Ryan was dreading this and would be super quiet, but once we arrived he would not shut up! The agent asked us about 50 different questions(half of which I had not even considered) and Ryan cheerfully answered them all.

We were able to narrow it down to two locations for the agent to research for us over the weekend. Once he does the research it is up to us to choose where we decide to go.

As of now, our two choices are the Caribbean or the South Pacific.

Because none of these look too shabby,I'm anticipating to see what the agent has decided should be our top three choices and make some decisions! Where did you go on your honeymoon? Where would you go if you could do it over again?

2011-09-01T21:06:00.003-05:00

I entered my first blog swap today! A blog swap is when you volunteer to swap a $20 gift via mail with another fellow blogger who was randomly picked. I am really excited to find out who my "swap" is and figure out some gifts to send. Any suggestions? If you want to join, sign uphere.

So last week I talked about how I fell in love again with my Crock Pot. Well this week, the online world has fell in love with Crock Pot Girls. These ladies are on a mission to bring more home cooking to the lives of busy women using none other than a crock pot. I'm definitely going to try out one or two of the recipes over the long weekend and let you know how we liked them.I mean they have over a million Facebook followers, so obviously they are LEGIT!? They have a zillion and twenty recipes so it will be hard to narrow down a few, go check all of them out.

Can I get one of these please...for each room of the house?

Football Season Fashion.

2011-09-01T20:12:00.000-05:00

Tailgating is the quintessential fall party.
It has food, sports, cute clothes and is fun for both genders!

People often worry about what food they will fix for a tailgate but often forget about wearing something cute! In today's time, tailgating in the South with a tee shirt and jeans on is not favorable(yes,yes I realize I might have shown up a couple times in a t-shirt last year but this post is supposed to be a reminder to myself of how to properly dress this year!)

Tonight marked the beginning of football season for my alma mater, Murray State!
Even though we may have lost, we still have a whole season to come out on top.
Here's some of my fav picks for supporting the blue and gold!

Go Racers!

(Have I mentioned how much I love navy lately?)

Pinterest Pretties

2011-08-31T19:54:00.000-05:00

I'm OBSESSED with Pinterest

so it is only fitting that I participate in "Oh,How Pinteresting Wednesday" with Jamie!

If you don't know what Pinterest is ask me.

If you are already on board, follow my boards here.

My favorite pins this week: FALL.

All of these pins are making me beyond excited for colder weather, sweaters, boots and hot drinks!

Anxiously waiting for fall for all of these reasons and a million more....
including our ENGAGEMENT PICTURES:)

This is what mac and cheese should taste like!!

2011-08-29T21:27:00.006-05:00

I hate Velveeta mac and cheese. It's cheap, easy to make and you can tell.
Up until a year ago, I had never tried my hand at homemade mac and cheese.
1. It's calorie overload

2. It seems difficult because of all the ingredients

That is until I finally went out and purchased the Down Home With The Neely's cookbook.
They are so fun to watch and I typically love what they are cooking up!

Meet the mackdaddy of Mac and Cheese!!

Now, yes it is still time consuming and loaded down with calories but just pretend it doesn't and loathe in the most magnificent taste ever!

Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 6 (or for two as a meal if you are Ryan and I and go back for thirds)

Ingredients
6 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups milk, warm
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Dash salt and freshly ground black pepper
Dash hot sauce
Dash Worcestershire sauce
3 cups shredded Cheddar
1 pound cavatappi pasta, cooked al dente
1 cup crushed potato chips
5 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, for topping

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a large saucepot over medium heat. Add flour and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Whisk in the warmed milk and bring to a boil, continue to whisk constantly. The mixture will thicken as the heat increases. Continue to stir while adding

the dry mustard, nutmeg, cayenne, salt, pepper, hot sauce and Worcestershire. Stir in the 3 cups of Cheddar until it melts.

Pour the cheese sauce over the noodles and add to a 3 quart casserole dish.

Sprinkle the chips, bacon and Parmesan on top and bake for 35 minutes.

This is perfect for any meal, but reminds me of fall because it's so comforting!