Our Love Story

One year.

12 months.

52 weeks.

365 days.

It's been a great year, and I've found myself reflecting a lot today, so I decided to share.  First of all, most of you probably already know that B and I dated casually for about a year before we actually became a couple.  During that time, we were both seeing other people.  Yes, I knew he was.  So for those of you who have made comments about how dumb I am for being played...I wasn't being played.  We both knew that we weren't exclusive.  Not that I owe any of you an explanation, but I figured I'd set the record straight.  I was not blind or oblivious to what was going on.

After 11 ish months of dating, and another 1-2 months of dating exclusively, Brandon made it official. 

How, you ask?  Let me tell you...

Last year, I surprised my best friend, Donna, by flying to Alaska for her birthday.  Her boyfriend paid for almost all of my ticket to get me there, and she was completely surprised when I showed up on her door step.  I was there for 5 days, from July 7 to July 11.

I flew home on Wednesday, July 11th, and Brandon picked me up from the airport.  During my layover in Seattle, we had been gchatting about whether or not he was going to a friend's house, or to my house, to wait after work for my flight to come in.  My roommate had been gone the same amount of time as me, so I asked him to turn on my a/c if he went to my house.

When he picked me up, he mentioned he had gone to the friend's house.  But to my surprise, my a/c was BLASTING when I got home.  So naturally, I was pissed.  I thought my roommate had left the a/c on for the last 5 days while no one was there!  So I walk into my bedroom to put my suitcases down, and BOOM!!!

There, on my hope chest, were a dozen BEAUTIFUL red roses, balloons, and a card.  Of course, I was immediately un-pissed.  I knew B had lied and he had been there to turn the a/c on himself.  He was anxious for me to read the card. He even picked it up and handed it to me with a quick, "Come on, read your card!"

I won't say too much about what was written, because it's private.  But the last line read, "So be with me...be my girlfraaaaan?"  Naturally, the tears started flowing and I said, "DUH!"  This was followed by some smooching and hugging and then Mexican food.  And the rest is history. 

It's been a year of bike riding, house-buying, fun-filled adventures.  And laughter. Lots and lots of laughter.  We have the most ridiculous inside jokes, and we crack each other up on a daily basis.  We support each other, we love each other, and we know "this is it."  We're not going to rush into marriage or babies, but we're happy together.  We know this is the real deal, so we work every day to keep our relationship solid.

I am grateful for him and his family, and the influence/impact he's had on my life.  I can't imagine where I could be today without having had the last 2+ years with him. 

Brandon, I love you. Cheers to our first official anniversary, and another cheers to 2 years of fun and excitement!  I can't wait to see what the next year brings us. 

"xoxo <3 toodles muah."

Summer Nights!!

Tonight, is perfect.  It's a cool 70 degrees, there's a light breeze, and "all you need is a light jacket."  Hopefully someone gets that reference.

Brandon treated me to a movie tonight, World War Z.  It was....interesting.  Overall, a great movie.  But I imagine I'll be having nightmares for a few days.  I'm still a child about scary movies.  I cover my eyes at the suspenseful parts, and I squeeze B's hand when something jumps out and scares me.  Luckily, he's strong and brave so he protects me.

After the movie we headed to The Fountains for the First Friday Street Fair. It was 9:30 by the time we got there, so things were wrapping up, but the weather was too perfect to NOT be outside.  And now we're home, enjoying our free HBO in the home we've built together.

It's nights like this that make me so grateful for everything I've worked for, and everything we have.  I've had a lot of really emotional moments lately, just feeling so blessed and full of love.  Aunt Flow is probably on her way. It's the only logical explanation.  Plus the fact that I really do feel this way, I'm just not usually so emotional about it.  

But these Summer nights make me excited for so many things!

The California State Fair

Bike rides at sunset

BBQ's

Rafting down the river

Freshly shaved legs, almost daily

Patio drinking

Daylight savings time

Camping

Our anniversary next week!!!

And we're already more than half way to Christmas!!  The holidays are only a few months away.  My birthday, Thanksgiving, Black Friday shopping, Christmas & New Years.  It'll be 2014 before we know it.  I'm obviously getting ahead of myself, but I'm a big ball of love right now, and I'm very excited.

All this excitement is making me hungry. Good night, God bless, and pay it forward. <3

In Living Color

I am so tired of people who don't love COLOR.  

Colorful clothes, colorful paint colors, colorful couples.

Don't live your life in BEIGE.  Beige is BORING.

Paint the damn walls turquoise.  Or purple.  Or red.

Dye your hair, and dye it again.

Buy the cupcake shoes.  Get the mint green necklace and the coral bracelets.

Take a chance on the animal print wallet or the Christmas green tote bag.

And for God's sake, stop looking at interracial couples like they're mutants.  They/We are becoming the majority, so keep your dirty looks and whispered comments TO YOUR DAMN SELF.  Because our babies will be cuter than yours.

The next time you want to wear black, DRESS IT UP with some COLOR.  Or if you want to paint your walls Boring Beige, put some bright art or bold furniture back in the room.

Life is not black and white.  It's bright and beautiful.  

Love it.  Accept it.  Respect it.  Embrace it.

Ali, what have you learned so far?

Learning a whole new job after being at the same place for almost 4 years is hard!  But, I feel important here.  I'm doing work that feels more important than making file folder labels and designing event invitations.  Sure, I was good at those things, but it was so boring I could have stabbed myself in the leg just for something to do.  I need more.

So, here's what I've learned so far, after only 4 days at VSP:

1. Whoever sat at my desk before me likely NEVER wiped down the desktop.  It was covered with dust, and I spent 20 minutes scrubbing it all off.

2. I've peed in all 4 bathroom stalls on my floor, and I've picked a designated stall for all my future potty needs.

3. The coffee provided isn't really coffee at all.  It more closely resembles muddy water.

4. Everything you say and do is potentially being monitored.

5. My supervisor is amazing.

6. I have to scan my security badge before I try to go through the turning doors of all the buildings.

7. The supply room supervisor's last name is Ali.  We're obviously best friends already.

8. It only takes 20 minutes to get to Rancho from our house in the morning if we do 70 mph down Fair Oaks Blvd...30 minutes if we do the speed limit and hit the red lights.

9. My phone battery doesn't die that quickly when I use Pandora all day.  I can actually listen to it for 8 full hours and only use about 12% of the battery life.  Score.

10. Just because we pass the gym on the way home from work, doesn't mean we'll go.

I like to learn something new every day, and I'm on a roll so far.  Despite my list, I really have learned a lot about the actual job duties as well.  My official training starts July 8th, so I'll be better prepared after that.

IN OTHER NEWS...

We are finally FINISHED with all the major changes for the summer.  We're done moving, my parents are done moving, Megan's wedding is finished (and was GORGEOUS, pics below), and the new job is under weigh.  We can finally, finally relax and enjoy this house and each other.  Our anniversary is in 2 weeks!  And to celebrate, we're going on a weekend camping trip with some of our greatest friends and family, KID FREE.  I don't have kids, of course, but I'm excited for all of our friends to come and have a great weekend without their kids around.  Let loose, man!  

Very quick recap of the wedding...Megan & Drake had an amazing ceremony and reception at La Rivage in Sacramento, right on the river.  The whole day was just beautiful.  Megan was a stunning bride, and Drake was a dapper groom.  I was so privileged to be a part of their special day.  I love them, and I know they're going to have a lifetime of love together.

Cheers to you and your friends/family!!  

XOXO

My bridesmaid gift.  A mimosa coozy with an ice pack in the middle! It can also hold 6 beers.

"Cousins, Cousins, There were never such devoted Cousins"

7 of 9 bridesmaids aka sexyBitches

The De Tomasi wedding cake.  No, I did not make it.

Watching the bride and groom walk back up the isle.  I have no idea what I'm doing with my boob.

My studly date.

Team Ginger, walking down the isle.

At the rehearsal dinner.  He is just so damn cute!

Oh yeah, we get down!!

Success is...

What is SUCCESS?

Success isn't measured by how much money you make, your job title, if you're married or divorced, or what kind of car you drive.  Success is measured by hundreds of different factors.  As I sit here at my desk for my last Friday afternoon in this building, I find myself thinking about all the changes coming my way in 10 days.

I'm taking a huge pay cut for this position.  That doesn't mean that this new job will not be successful for me. It has unlimited growth potential, advancement and relocation possibilities, and an amazing corporate structure.  Sure, I'll be making way less money for a little while, but that doesn't mean this won't be a successful change.

This is how I measure success, in all areas of life:

1. Making one Swapportunity (Google it) per day.

2. Getting an up-front parking space at Target.

 3. Finishing my laundry the day I start it.

4. Finally beating level 29 of Candy Crush.

5. Being able to buy the fancy fountain pens at work with your name on them.

6. Having a business card.

7. Owning a home.

8. Being in love.

9. Making it through an entire string cheese without just biting into it.

10. Making it to the gym at least 3 days that week. This includes making it to the parking lot and calling it a day.

11. Fitting into your bridesmaid dress without having to starve yourself for a week. (YES!)

12. Finding free wi-fi.

13. Finding cash when you're doing someone else's laundry. Finders keepers. 

14. Finding that missing earring I've been searching for over the last 6 months.

15. Finding a job with better opportunities for my future.

16. Leaving work early on a Friday.

Any or all of these factors can contribute to your personal success.  It really just depends on how you look at life.  Are you a glass-half-full kind of person?  Or are you a pour-another-shot-in-my-empty-glass kind of person?  Whatever you decide your success is, be grateful.  

Damn, that only killed about 20 minutes of my afternoon. 

Until next time, have a save weekend and love they neighbor...just not thy married neighbor, or thy underage neighbor...

Taylor Renee

What do you say to your friend when she gets pregnant?

Me: "Shut up! I have a pregnancy test here. I want you to take it right now. Just so I can see."

What do you say when you're asked to make the baby shower cake?

Me: DUH!  

What do you say when you find out she's in labor as you're flying home from vacation?
Me: Damn it! I told her to wait 'til I got home!

What do you say when you find out the baby couldn't breathe on her own?

Me: I'm here for you, whatever you need.

What do you say, 2 1/2 years later, when you find out your friend has lost her daughter?

There are no words.

There are no words to console a friend who has lost a child.  And in this case, TWO friends.  I met Justin & Danielle working at Chili's in Lincoln, CA back in 2007.  They were young and in love, and you could just tell that this was a couple who would really make it.  I was fortunate enough to be a part of their lives, and was even asked to be a bridesmaid in their wedding.  

This family was perfect.  Immediate and extended.  They are the epitome of "family."

I was completely overjoyed when Danielle told me she was pregnant in 2010.  They had been trying for so long, and I could think of no two people greater suited for parenthood.  They always say that no one is ever ready to have kids.  Well, Justin & Danielle WERE.

The last two years have been a struggle of joy and tears for them and for Taylor.  I've watched Taylor grow up, mostly in pictures.  There's never a good excuse to lose touch with someone. I never really lost touch with Justin & Danielle, we just didn't see each other as often.  We both had a lot of hard things going on in our lives the last couple years, but we had our dinner/wine dates when we could, and it was always so fun to see Taylor and spend time with her.  

The last time I saw her, she was in the car.  They were getting ready to go somewhere and when she heard my voice, Justin said, "Ali, Taylor wants to say hi."  So I poked my head into the car and said "Hi, Taylor!" She said hi, and she was happy. As I left, "Ali, Taylor wants to say bye." So I poked in again, and she said bye!

She didn't really know me, but like the pastor said during the service today, she was aware of people.  She was aware of everyone, and she wanted you to be aware of her.  Her voice was precious, her smile was contagious, and her laugh was infectious.  She was a blessing. A miracle.  

As her condition worsened in the last month, we all prayed for a miracle.  I never believed in the power of prayer, but I prayed hard for her.  I prayed for a miracle recovery.  But the truth of the matter is, Taylor IS a miracle.  It's a miracle she had such an amazing 2 1/2 years here with her family.  It's a miracle that she was able to touch so many lives, even those of people whom she'd never met.  Her entire life was a miracle.

I can't imagine the devastation of losing a child. Especially a child so small and so full of life.  No parent should ever have to bare that burden.  But it happens all too frequently.  I am blessed to be a part of this family's lives.  I'm blessed to have known Taylor. And I'm certainly humbled by her passing.  She was such a fighter.  The next time I feel like I want to complain about a headache, being tired, being sore, or whatever the case may be.....it will be NOTHING in comparison to the fight Taylor fought.  She fought long and hard. And she did it with a smile and a laugh.  There is nothing in this world worth complaining about, when there's a stronger-than-me 2-year-old fighting for her life and asking to get her nails painted at the same time.  She was a diva to the very end.

The only peace that I can take from Taylor's passing is imagining her finally having some energy.  Finally, being able to sleep, to eat, to play.  I hope that Justin & Danielle can find comfort knowing how incredibly loved their child is; how inspirational.  She touched so many lives and so many hearts.  She'll live forever in each of us.

Please, donate to the Lawhead family here.  Every penny helps.  

Big Changes, Life Rearranges

Well, I've finally done it.  I got a new job.  OMG.

What am I doing?!

It's a pay cut, it's further away, and I'm starting all over.  However, I'll finally work for a corporate office with some STRUCTURE.  Most of you already know about my crazy stories here.  It's not the most professional place to work, but it definitely had its perks.  Now, it's time to move on.

I have 3 weeks left here, and then I'll start my Accounts Receivable Specialist position at VSP.  I've been trying to get hired there for months, and now that I'm settled into my house, I finally found something perfect. It's finance, it's corporate, and there's LOTS of room to advance and move up.  I could transfer to another state, even another country eventually.  The possibilities here are endless.  I'm so excited for this opportunity, I can't even stand it.

More news to follow shortly...

How do you know when you've found "The One?"

I've been asked on more than one occasion, "So, do you think Brandon is The One?"  

My response the last time I was asked: "How do you ever really know? How can you ever be sure?"

It's been a few months since I've been asked, but if someone asked me today, the answer would be:

"Without a doubt, YES."

So, how do you know?

There comes a point in every relationship where you just...know.  Whether you want to admit to yourself that that point has come is up to you, but it is always there.  For my previous relationship, I knew early on that it was never going to work.  I went along with everything and stayed with him because I was young, dumb, and comfortable with our life and income.  I didn't want to start over.  But I don't think I was happy at all, the entire time.  

I'd been waiting for the aforementioned "sign" with Brandon. I've though for a long time that he's perfect for me, we're amazing together, and I tell him that.  But there's always one pivotal moment in a relationship where you're certain that you're either all-in, committed to your spouse in that 'til-death-do-you-part kind of way...or you're not.  

That moment for me, was his dad's heart attack this week.

My thought process was simple:

Stop. 

Your family needs you.

Go.

Now.

Simple as that.  Brandon is my family. His mom, his dad, and him. They're part of my life and a part of me.  My parents took Brandon into our family with no questions, no concerns.  He makes me happy, and they love him for that.  They've gotten to know him, and they appreciate who he is as a human being. I like to think Brandon's parents think the same of me, as a part of their family as well.  It was obvious after Reggie's heart attack. I was there with them for whatever they needed.  A ride to the hospital, to pick up dinner, adjust pillows, crack a joke, whatever.  Because that's what your family is for.  We're all family now.

Brandon and I have built a life together..a home.  We talk, we laugh (a lot), we dance, we kiss, and we love each other.  He tells me he's past his return date so I'm stuck with him now. I don't look at it as being stuck, of course. I can't imagine life with anyone else.  And I don't want to.  Whether or not we ever get married or have kids doesn't matter. As long as he's in my life, I'll be happy.

He's "it" for me. 

He's The One.

And that's how you know.  When you'd stop your life to help them, to make sure they're okay, to make sure they're happy.  When you can't imagine your life without them in it.

xoxo.

Confession Wednesday

Today's confession: I'm a hypocrite and I feel very entitled when it comes to the right-of-way.

...for instance...

If you aren't using your blinker while you're changing lanes and turning, you better beLIEVE I am honking my horn, swearing, and giving you the bird from my car.

Then I don't use my blinker for the rest of the day.

And if someone is getting crazy with ME, thinking MY driving is bad (they'd be right), I do not care. I will slow down, and they will just have to wait for me.  I have a golf club in my car for a reason. Don't test me.

And all you losers who drive 65 mph in the fast lane can suck it!  You know who you are.

Then again, when I get in the fast lane and someone is tailgating me, I just slow down to piss them off. Hypocrisy 101.

Another example, was in Walmart yesterday.

I was walking through the isles rather rapidly, as I was on a lunch break and had a lot of errands to run in an hour.  Of course, all the old folks go to Walmart in the middle of the day, and they are the worst LOLLYGAGGERS ever.  They take their sweet time, and I got annoyed. So I very dramatically went around them and quickly walked to the checkstand.

If the roles had been reversed and someone were trying to go around me, I would have thought, "That little b**ch can just wait for me."

So you see, I am a hypocrite on the road, and it's in everyone's best interests to just stay far away from me when I'm driving. Also, don't drive like a bag of dicks.

Happy Hump Day! Carpe diem.

XOXO

Manic Monday: Then & Now

It's Monday, once again, and I'm so done being tired all the time. No matter how early I go to bed, or how many naps I take during the day, I can never seem to get enough sleep to feel fully rested.  I'm exhausted ALL the time.  

Today, in my state of exhaustion, I find myself thinking about how much things have changed/not changed in the last 2 years.  Some things about me have changed for the best, and other things that were already awesome about me have stayed the same...like how incredibly humble I am.  Or things like:

Then: I loved teal accent walls.

Now: I still love teal accent walls.

Then: I didn't own a bicycle.

Now: I have ridden from downtown Sacramento to Davis and back in one afternoon.

Then: I was single and living with my Aunt.

Now: I live with my amazing boyfriend and own my own home.

Then: I had one real friend.

Now: I have more friends than I've ever had in my life. I actually have a life now.

Then: I had never held or shot a gun.

Now: I have held and shot a .45 mm, a .9 mm, a semi-automatic shotgun, and an AR-15.

Then: I had never been to a real bar or club.

Now: I've done my time with the Sacramento night scene...

Then: My relationship with my parents was mediocre at best.

Now: I talk to them almost every day, and see them both at least twice a week.

Then: I drove a 2011 Honda Civic Coupe, and then a 2008 Scion tC.

Now: I drive a 2006 Kia Sorrento SUV.

Then: I had shorter, brown hair.

Now: I have long, dark auburn hair.

Then: I cared way too much about what other people thought.

Now: IDGAF.

It's just amazing how much can change in such a short period of time. Even from just one year ago, things have changed so drastically, and for the best.  I couldn't imagine being happier than I am right now.  I have amazing things coming up the rest of this year:

1. Yelena's graduation, May 25th. 

2. Megan's wedding, June 22nd.

3. Our first official anniversary, July 11th.

4. A big camping trip, July 12-14th.

5. Great America, July 28th.

6. Donna & Katie coming to visit, October 11-20th.

7. My 4-year anniversary at work, October 12th.

8. Holidays in my new house.

With all this to look forward to, how could I possibly complain?  Sure, around that time of the month, I find plenty to complain about.  But as soon as my better half reminds me to be logical, I can come to terms with myself and realize how amazingly happy I am and how good life is.  

"If you have zero debt and $10 in your pocket, you're richer than 95% of Americans."

I guess I've been pretty lucky. =)

Confession Wednesday/How to be a Red Head

This week's confession:

I constantly take the last bit of coffee/toilet paper/paper towels/soap/etc. and I don't replace it.
Yes, it's me. 

And now, I've reached that point in my work day where I'm going to stop working and do whatever I want. That being said, I've decided to share some tips for being a Ginger. There are a lot of people who try to be gingers, when in fact, they are not.  If you're going to dye your hair red, please abide by the following:

Redhead Rules
1. Kool aid is not an acceptable way to dye your hair red.  Just don't do it.
2. Don't get offended by the word "Ginger." It's an adorable term. Get used to it.
3. Don't hide or be ashamed of your freckles. If you're a real redhead, you have them. Be proud.
4. Click here for ginger makeup tips. Follow them.
5. Avoid red lipstick.
6. Understand that the same outfits you wore as a blonde or brunette may not look good as a ginger.
7. Do not avoid red clothing. But know how to wear it.
8. Wear sunscreen. Especially all of us Irish and Scottish women.  We weren't meant for sunlight.
9. Get glosses to prolong your color. Red fades quickly.
10. And last but not least, kick anyone who believes "Gingers don't have souls" right in the groin.

Follow these simple guidelines and you're guaranteed to have a happy life as a fiery redhead. It opens doors. Trust me.

xoxo

Confession Wednesday is late this week.

To combine Flashback Friday with Confession Wednesday (since I'm late), I'm going to fill you in on a little blast-from-the-past facts about my life.  You know, just for funsies...a little "get to know Ali."

1. I used to be a lifeguard. And teach swim lessons.

2. I permed my hair once in 2008. I looked like a poodle, that looked like Richard Simmons.

3. At my heaviest, just over 2 years ago, I weighed 178 lbs. Yikes.

4. I took classical piano AND singing lessons as a teenager.

5. I am a huge sucker for Billy Joel and Huey Lewis. The obsession started at a ripe young age of 8 years old.

6. I was accepted to the Natomas Charter School of Performing Arts, and I turned it down.

7. I didn't go away to college so I could stay in town for a HS boyfriend. That didn't work out.

8. I ran a red light day I got my driver's license.

9. Ryan Bast was the only boy allowed in my room until.....well, even now.

10. I used to swallow my peas like asprin, without chewing it, because it made me gag.

11. I always dreaded the day when my brother would be bigger than me and could kick my ass in return for doing it to him. That day has come.

12. I didn't have my first kiss until high school. 

13. I had a spider bite on the inside of my leg that gave me a scar.

14. I used to know every word to The Lion King movie. I still might.

15. I always wanted more siblings.

16. I got suspended in 8th grade for telling a substitute teacher to F*** off. And then tried to lie about it.

17. I tipped over someone's motorcycle in high school and tried to lie about that. I got caught.

18. I was absolutely terrified of Y2K. 

19. I used to eat raw cookie dough bits out of the box when I worked at Leatherby's. I'd keep them in my apron. I was fat.

20. And last but not least, there was one day during Oak Hill's spirit squad practice when Erin Bacay (?) shoved me for absolutely no reason. I have no idea why she did it, other than maybe I was just standing too close to her, but I still think about that.

I'm off to celebrate my babe's birthday a little early. It's a big, busy weekend of traveling, packing, moving and unpacking.  I am excited, I am READY for 4 days off, and I cannot wait to move. Everyone have a great weekend, and stay safe out there!!!

xoxo

A Couple Before & Afters

Just a couple before and after shots of the house. 

Moving day is SUNDAY!!!!  Cinco de Drinko in the new house =)

Ay ay ayyyyy!!

Kitchen, BEFORE

Kitchen, AFTER

Kitchen, AFTER

Master bedroom, BEFORE

Master bedroom, AFTER (The decor will make it look less like a jail cell.)

"Hobby room," BEFORE

"Hobby room," AFTER (this is B's territory. We don't know what he's gonna do with it yet.)

Living Room, BEFORE

Living Room, AFTER

Diary of a New Homeowner

April 29, 2013

Dear Diary (and blog readers),

I finally closed escrow and got the keys to my house last Wednesday!  That's when the work started.

Not only does the whole place need a new coat of paint, but the old owners left the garage full of their trash, and left their disgusting couches in the living room.  Those couches were covered with cat hair, smelled like pet urine, and it all cost ME $20 to take to the dump.  And before that, it cost me $230 to fix a pipe that had burst in the entry way before my appraisal.  They sure weren't going to pay for it.

I shouldn't complain much. My dad has done the majority of the work since I got the keys.  He patched the huge hole in our ceiling, and it looks brand-spankin' new.  He installed our new dishwasher, Mom patched all the holes in the walls, cut the front lawn and all foliage surrounding our walk way, cleaned out the garage, and helped us load everything for the dump.  He and my mom have been a God-send during this whole process. He even got me a contractor discount on all the paint I had to order.  I would be a whole lot poorer without him.  My parents are truly the best.

Yesterday, I proudly installed the new washer and dryer with a little assistance from Brandon.  I felt so handy, and hopefully would have made my dad proud by doing it alone.  It was a big deal for me.  The new stove was also delivered and installed, which makes the kitchen look phenomenally better and cleaner.  The old stove was embarrassing to look at, and now that it's gone, everyone is welcome to come see the new place. I could have never fed my family out of that thing. It was disgustingly dirty.

Now that all the appliances are in place, the holes are patched, the garbage is gone, and the cleaning company has come and gone, we can finally prep and paint this week.  If we hustle as we plan to, all the painting will be done by Friday night and we can move in on Sunday. The U-haul is reserved, Public Storage has been given 30-day notice, and we'll be in the new house by this time next week, just in time for Brandon's birthday.  Moving and unpacking isn't exactly what I had in mind for his birthday this year, but we'll make it a fun and exciting day anyway.

We have 2 new cars, a new house, and a new life living together...alone...coming up very soon.  It's all so exciting that I could just pee.  Lots of pictures will be posted as we get moved, unpacked and settled in.  I can't wait...

Until my next entry...

xoxo

Ali

Slow & Steady

Now, if you know me AT ALL, you know that I have never been the most patient person.  I am an instant-results kind of girl.  On the flip side, I have waited for things, and they've been worth it in some situations.

Some things I've waited for that have been completely worth it have been:

1. Waiting for enough time to pass to enjoy my job.

2. Waiting to grow up and have a better relationship with my Dad.

3. Waiting to save enough money to purchase my first house ON MY OWN.

4. Waiting to officially be with Brandon.

AND NOW

WAITING TO MOVE INTO MY HOUSE.

The hardest thing I've ever had to do is wait for this short sale.  And as far as short sales go, this has been the fastest, smoothest transaction I've ever heard of.  I first looked at the house on March 17th. Today, April 23rd, only one month and 6 days later, my wire transfer is complete and I will have my keys by Friday.  6 weeks from start to finish on a short sale is completely unheard of.  I got extremely lucky.  

Is the house move-in ready? No.  I'll have to wait even more after I get the keys, so that we can install a new toilet, kitchen appliances, get the whole house cleaned, painted, and THEN we can move in.  But it will be worth it.  To have a house that is all mine/ours, that we can share together, and do whatever we want with it.  It's a scary thought, but I/we are so ready for this.  

Waiting has never been my strong suit, but I waited for Brandon, I waited for my house, and now there's nothing left to wait for.  Life is knocking, and I'm answering.

Wow, that was cheesy.  Sorry.

I'll have more pictures to post as we progress.  I can't wait to get those keys in my hand!!!  And then immediately change the locks...

tC vs. Sorrento

On the left: Betty

2008 Scion tC

On the right: Name TBD

2006 Kia Sorrento

Betty was going to need her windows tinted before summer, had no roof rack or place to put our bikes, had no trailer hitch, and was only a 2 door with minimal backseat space for additional passengers.  Betty was also a 5-speed manual transmission, which was fun to drive, but a pain in the wrist to drive. Literally. My arthritis was not havin' the stick shift anymore.

My Sorrento already has a tow hitch, tinted windows, AND the roof rack.  Plus, it's an automatic, V6, seats 5, can fit a car seat if I ever needed it to, and the back seats fold down flat for any future cake deliveries I may need to do.  I also don't give a f*** when someone is following too closely behind me.  I hated that with the tC, because the lights were blinding!  Now, it doesn't phase me, and it's awesome.  

Not only that, but between my car note and insurance, I lowered my payment $80 per month!!!

Now the cons:  The Sorrento is huge, so I can't be Nascar-ing around town as I normally would.

It also takes a lot more money to fill the gas tank.  I put $20 in last night, and another $50 in today to fill it up. Ouch.

Other than that, I haven't seen many negatives yet.  I've had it for less than a week, but I'm really pleased with it.  It's comfortable, functional, sporty, and will really come in handy next weekend when we start moving (hopefully).  

EEK!  Squeals of joy...

It doesn't have to be Veteran's Day to thank a Veteran

It doesn't have to be Veteran's Day to thank a Veteran.

It doesn't have to be Valentine's Day to tell someone you love them.

It doesn't have to be someone's birthday to give them a gift.

It doesn't have to be a special occasion to have a party.

It doesn't have to be a funeral to celebrate life.

There doesn't need to be a terrorist attack to stand united as a nation.

There doesn't need to be tragedy for America to show support.

And yet, this is typically how it happens.  

1. Tragedy strikes.. a terrorist attacks.

2. The American people come together, wearing support t-shirts and holding candle vigils and prayer circles.

3. People slowly get back into the swing of their daily lives; America lets her guard down just a little bit.

4. Terrorists attack again.

The circle of life and terrorism.

I'm so tired of our news stations stopping our daily news stories to broadcast 24/7 coverage of the Boston Marathon bombing, the Newtown shooting, etc.  I am NOT trying to downplay these tragedies at all.  However, what about the rest of the world news that has been posing threats to us for so many years?  What about the constant threat North Korea is posing to us right now?  It JUST started being news recently, but it's been an issue for YEARS.  And hardly anyone really knew about it.

Do you even know why they're threatening us?  Without Googling it...

Pick up a damn newspaper and find out what's going on in the world.

I think it's about time for this country and its citizens to start taking a united front ALL THE TIME.  Not just when there's a death of a child or a massacre.  

Do you know how many bullshit stories were posted about the attack on Monday, too?  

The man holding his wounded girlfriend on the sidewalk - he wasn't going to propose. Someone made that up.

The little girl "running for the Sandy Hook victims" - she was too young to even be allowed in the Boston Marathon. Her race number was from some 5K race in Virginia. She wasn't there.

The twitter post that said "RIP to the two 8-year-olds who died. One was a boy, one was a girl." - BOGUS.  Only one 8-year old was killed.

"Race organizers will donate for retweets" - Another lie.  No money will be donated as a result of your retweet.

I'm just so flabbergasted by people's use of these tragedies to make up stories, start a prayer circle, hold a candle vigil, and turn the attention around on them somehow.  It's not about you, bro.  Where were you and your donations last week?  

Long story short, do the right thing before another bad thing happens.  

Thank a Veteran today, just because.

Tell someone you love them, just because.

Give someone a card, just because.

Hang your American flag every day, just because.  Why wait for a holiday or tragedy?

And for God's sake, celebrate life together. Because it could be over tomorrow.

Civilian vs. Veteran

The passage below is from my cousin, Tim, and his fellow Veteran, Drew.  
Read it. 
Think about it. 

"This was emailed to me by a fellow Veteran. His name is Drew Mo and I appreciate his ability to put into words the feelings all of us have but can never get them out. 

'When a Veteran leaves the 'job' and retires to a better life, many are jealous, some are pleased, and others, who may have already retired, wonder if he knows what he is leaving behind, because we already know.

1. We know, for example, that after a lifetime of camaraderie that few experience, it will remain as a longing for those past times.

2. We know in the Military life there is a fellowship which lasts long after the uniforms are hung up in the back of the closet.

3. We know even if he throws them away, they will be on him with every step and breath that remains in his life. We also know how the very bearing of the man speaks of what he was and in his heart still is.

These are the burdens of the job. You will still look at people suspiciously, still see what others do not see or choose to ignore and always will look at the rest of the Military world with a respect for what they do; only grown in a lifetime of knowing.

Never think for one moment you are escaping from that life. You are only escaping the 'job' and merely being allowed to leave 'active' duty.

So what I wish for you is that whenever you ease into retirement, in your heart you never forget for one moment that you are still a member of the greatest fraternity the world has ever known.

NOW... Civilian Friends vs. Veteran Friends Comparisons:

CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Get upset if you're too busy to talk to them for a week.
VETERAN FRIENDS: Are glad to see you after years, and will happily carry on the same conversation you were having the last time you met.
----------------------------------------------------
CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry.
VETERAN FRIENDS: Have cried with you.
---------------------------------------------------
CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Keep your stuff so long they forget it's yours.
VETERAN FRIENDS: Borrow your stuff for a few days then give it back.
--------------------------------------------------
CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
VETERAN FRIENDS: Could write a book with direct quotes from you.
---------------------------------------------------
CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that's what the crowd is doing.
VETERAN FRIENDS: Will stand by you no matter what the crowd does.
---------------------------------------------------
CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Are for a while.
VETERAN FRIENDS: Are for life.
---------------------------------------------------
CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Have shared a few experiences...
VETERAN FRIENDS: Have shared a lifetime of experiences no citizen could ever dream of...
---------------------------------------------------
CIVILIAN FRIENDS: Will take your drink away when they think you've had enough.
VETERAN FRIENDS: Will look at you stumbling all over the place and say, 'You better drink the rest of that before you spill it !!' Then carry you home safely and put you to bed...
----------------------------------------------------
A veteran - - whether active duty, retired, served one hitch, or reserve is someone who, at one point in their life - - wrote a blank check made payable to 'The Government of the United States of America ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life'.

From one Veteran to another, it's an honor to be in your company. Thank you for your service to our country and defending the freedoms we enjoy.

Life is neither a spectator sport, nor a dress rehearsal.'"

Wednesday Confessional

Today I've decided to start blogging again, and for several reasons:

1. I'm so bored I could cry.

2. Sometimes I have a lot to say, and no one to say it to, so I have to "write it down."

3. A lot of people asked me why I stopped.

4. I feel like it.

I've also decided that, to get back into the swing of things, and to possibly gather more readers, I'm going to conduct a personal confessional. Feel free to judge. It's your God-given right and I can't stop you.  

So, here goes:

1. If we're FB friends, you already know that I wear my platform heels to make my male coworkers feel small and uncomfortable.  It's a daily joy in my life.

2. My entire life I've been singing, "Hold me closer, Tony Danza."  I've recently learned it's "Tiny Dancer."  I'll still probably sing Tony Danza.

3. The tops of my feet get hairy every now and then, and I have to shave them.  I feel like a hobbit.

4. I enjoy a lot of old-lady-like crafts. Sewing, knitting, crocheting, etc.  If I could find a knitting circle in Roseville, I'd totally join.

5. I absolutely hate talking on the phone. If you call me, I will not call you back.

6. I joke about not wanting kids right now, but I really do think I'd be a great mom.  

7. Cats are not real pets.  They are furniture ornaments.

8. When I sing alone, I really think I could quit my day job and win American Idol.  But I don't sing the same in public because I'm terrified people won't like it.  So I pretend to sing a different way.

9. I cheat on my diets almost every single time.  Some of the health food pictures I used to post in my fatter days were Google images.

10. Sometimes I say I don't know if I want to get married again. But I do.

So there it is. 10 secrets I can think of off the top of my head.  Some embarrassing, some just honest.  

There will be a LOT to blog about in the next couple of months, so stay tuned :)

Memories and Birthdays

I miss my grandpa every day.  It's been 16 years, to the day, since he decided to leave us.  And yes, I do believe that he decided it was his time to go.  

He was supposed to schedule his heart surgery that day.  He had been putting it off, and telling my mom and uncle that he didn't want/need it.  He finally agreed.  But he went to sleep that night and never woke up.  In my heart, I believe that was his way of telling us he wouldn't have made it through the surgery anyway.  I was so young when he passed, but if I remember correctly, he had already had a heart attack (or two).  

I can still vividly remember the last time I saw him.  He was standing in the door way of Grandma Lee's house, waving goodbye.  He had just given me my Grandma's vintage sewing machine.  And of course, I still have it.  It doesn't work anymore, but I have it.  

I just miss him.  I wanted to buy his old house last year, but the area is so bad now that it just wasn't safe.  I have the piano that was purchased in that house, and the dining room table and china cabinet that belonged to my grandma in that house.  It would have meant a lot to be able to put them "back where they belong," but safety was an issue.  There were bullet holes in the windows.  The same neighbor next door and across the street still live there.  They seem to be doing fine, but my mom and Brandon talked me out of it.  

My grandpa probably wouldn't have wanted me to live there anyway.

But enough sadness, today is also Jenn Hughes' birthday.  Happy 5th Anniversary of your 21st birthday, my darling!  I cannot wait to celebrate with some cocktails and conversation!!

Happy Monday, folks <3