Happy Thanksgiving!

Okay, it's been long enough. 7 weeks... 43 days to be exact, but there has been a lot going on in my life. Yes, I know I have said that before and in fact this wasn't my longest dry spell, but I am back now and that is all that matters.

In all honesty, I have had time to blog and actually there have been a couple times where I thought "that could be something to blog about" but then I moved on to my next project and I forgot.

Lets see, where to begin, well...

On the weekend of Halloween, Todd flew up to Chicago and I rented a UHaul and the two of us drove 700 miles back "home" to Atlanta and I've been a Georgia resident ever since.
Todd and I moved all of my "stuff" in and true-to-form, I immediately began "nesting" if you will. I slowly but surely put away my clothes, dishes, hung up pictures, moved furniture, organized, and purged. In the last few week weeks we've been able to transform Todd's bachelor pad into mine and Todd's condo. It's cozy, happy, and best of all it's our home. I love that I wake up laughing and go to bed laughing right next to him everyday. I honestly couldn't ask for anything more. I am so happy :)

Now for work... well, work is work, but I am enjoying my new position. I have real clients, real responsibilities, and real commitments. I am a real business woman now and it is weird. I prayed for a job like this, I prayed for all of these things, and God answered my prayers, but now I feel overwhelmed, not smart enough and not cut out for the job. Why does happen? Is He testing me? I not sure, but I know I need to do a good job, literally. I need to keep reminding myself that I am a very blessed young woman to have this job, in Atlanta. God is good.

And family... Oh how nice it is to be near family again! The saying is true.. "Distance makes the heart grow fonder." My 15 months in Chicago definitely made me realize how much I loved my family and friends. Since I have been home, I have spent several nights just hanging out with my mom, sisters, my dad, Todd, and my girlfriends.. it is so nice not to have a ticking time line until I have to get back on a Delta flight back to Chicago.

Well, that is it for now, but I'll be back soon enough. I have lots to catch you up on.

I hope everyone had a very nice Thanksgiving and was able to spend it with all of your loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for being able to be thankful for so much.

Thank you, Bobby Cox!

I know I have been MIA for the last two days, so I apologize, but I have been training for my new job and unable to blog at work.

Training went really well. I was training on the software, Nexsure, that the new group I am moving into using on a daily basis. The information wasn't that complicated, but it was just A LOT of information to take in all at once. My instructor who is one of the directors of the group, Brian Schneider, was very helpful and thorough. I took excellent notes so hopefully I will not run into too many problems at first.

I hope everyone is having a great week! Oh, and by the way, the Braves lost the other night. Boo. It was the legend- Bobby Cox's last game. He will be missed!


Thank you, Bobby! The Braves games will not be same with out you.

Much love, xoxo.

LET'S GO BRAVES!

LET'S GO BRAVES!!!!!

The Atlanta Braves are in the the ALDS playoff's right now after winning the wild card entry at the very end of the regular season. They are playing the San Francisco Giants and the Giants are leading the series 2-1 right now. I am currently watching the game from my couch in Chicago and rooting on my Braves like I was sitting (standing rather) in the stands at Turner Field. Turner field is bumpin! I have not seen the tomahawk chop that perfect in years! Also, to make it even better, this is long-time Braves manager, Bobby Cox, last season, so we all want the Braves to win it for Bobby! C'mon Braves!!!



CHOP, CHOP, CHOP!!!!

Quote of the Week

Before I say goodbye for the weekend, I am leaving you with this quote!

Thanks, La Dolce Vita!


Have a GREAT weekend everyone!

Much love, xoxo.

"C'mon down, you've won a BRAND. NEW. CAR!!!"

Well, not exactly, BUT, I will be getting a new car soon!

When I graduated college, my dad promised to get me a new car (yes, believe me, I know I'm a spoiled lucky girl) but because I was moving to the big city for my big girl job, I did not need a new car. Chicago has a wonderful public transportation system that is easy to navigate the city. Once I was here, it took some time to figured out North from South and East from West, but I learned to navigate the L-Train and CTA buses quite easily.

Now, because I am moving back to Atlanta within the next three weeks, my dad and I are busy looking at and researching new cars.

I couple things I asked for in a new car:

1. SUV
2. White, Silver, or Black exterior
3. Tan leather seats
4. Sun roof
5. Navigational system

What type of cars are we looking at:

1. Volvo XC60 - sport utility crossover
2. Volve XC90 - larger SUV

Volvo XC60














Volvo XC90

The main differences between the two are one is the XC90 has a third row seat where are the XC60 is a smaller sporty version of the XC90 without the back row seats. Because of this, the XC60 is less expensive than the XC90 but less practical in the long run.

I will keep you posted on what I get!... who knows if it will even be a Volvo! Decisions. Decisions.

BUT before I go, I must say.... I am very, VERY, thankful for my dad. I love him SO much.

Here is a picture of me and my daddy! Besides Todd, there is no other man that I love more.


Much love, xoxo.

Wedding Wednesdays!

Ahhh, my favorite day of the work-week, (besides Friday), it's Hump Day people, and Wedding Wednesday!

What should I talk about today, hmmmm???

I have been working diligently on my Save-the-Date cards! So, I'll share that!

True to form, I wanted to create a save the date that would be both modern and elegant but new, fun, and exciting. I searched and searched for the perfect card, but fell short. I decided it would probably be best to put my creative mind to work and create my very own save the date.

After figuring the many options: magnet, traditional stationary, post card, etc. I decided to go with a post card. I love the new but old feel postcards and its would give me an opportunity to design two different sides, a modern and elegant side and then a new, fun, and exciting side!

Plus, my best friends, Ashley, works at a design company, Phase 3 Media, and she is going to help me with the pricing, a.k.a. cheap, cheap, cheap!!!

So, I got started browsing through many different websites and blogs to get inspiration. I found one that I loved on Minted.com and then I found a cute cartoon illustration of a couple in an airplane on another. I merged these two thoughts and came up with my idea. However, this first called for a friend, Sarah Johnson, to draw up a cartoon picture of Todd and I in the airplane.

This is still a work in progress.

Here is a picture of the front of the postcard:

Here is a picture of the back of the postcard:

What is neat about a two-sided card is people will be able to choose whichever side they want to put up on their refrigerator, that is if people do that like me.

So, what do y'all think? Any suggestions?

Much love, xoxo.

2 Year Anniversary

Breaking News! I interrupt the regularly scheduled "Tasty Tuesday's" blog post for an important announcement!

Today is mine and Todd's 2 year anniversary!

Awww, how sweet, I know!

Two years ago tonight, Todd and I met at Dantanna's by Lenox Mall in Atlanta, GA for an early dinner. We ended up staying and talking until the restaurant closed down. The funny thing is, I only ordered a caesar salad and a water the whole evening because I did not think we would be there that long. Needless to say, we had some great conversations that made our time go by really quickly. In all honesty, I think I fell in love with him that night! His charming personality and killer sense of humor really go to me. We'll, I'm glad he liked what I offered too, because from that night on, we were together... forever. That was our very last first date.

The picture below is one we took on our first date. Todd made the poor waitress take probably 5 different pictures because he did not like the way he looked in any of them. This was the one we kept because I finally said enough is enough, we have to keep that one! I love that we have a picture from our first date!

Much love, xoxo!

P.S. I think it is funny how different we look now.

Mix-it-up Monday 3

Ahh, the Monday blues! Everyone feels their effects, but not me... today! I am still gleaming about my new job and moving home!

I had a great conversation with my new boss today and we spoke about the transition into the new group, the time line for my training, and the logistics for the move. Looks like I'll start with them within the next few days and could be moved home by the end of the month!

Now for a funny cartoon my admin sent us today... thought it was appropriate for this email.

Much love, xoxo.

Fun Fact Friday # 4

Yes, I know, I missed the last two days on my blog... two of my favorite days too: Wedding Wednesdays and Thoughtful Thursdays, but I promise it is for a good reason!

I GOT THE JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You know, the one I blogged about a couple weeks ago... "Fingers Crossed."

Wednesday afternoon, I got the call from HR extending the offer to me; however, I wanted to talk to a few people before I formally accepted the offer. So, I was about to talk to my mentor, Michael Drayer, in Atlanta and then Rick DeCoster who is the Regional Managing Director for the Atlanta office. After talking to the both of them and hearing what they had to say, I made my decision.

As of yesterday afternoon, I formally accepted the offer as a Client Specialist and Account Executive with the APRM group in Atlanta, Ga! My official start date with the group is October 18, 2010, but I will not move home until I am finished training in Chicago which will probably be around November.

Needless to say, I am SUPER excited!!!

Good is SO good! This is truly an answer prayer that I am very thankful for!!!

Psalms 107:1 "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever!"

Tasty Tuesday- Vegetable Minestone Soup

Fall is in the Air. Literally.

My morning walks to work are met with a cool crisp breeze. The leaves are starting to change from vibrant greens to luscious yellows. The ever-so delicious Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back at Starbucks, and Halloween candy is beginning to tease me at Target.

Another thing I look forward to able fall are all the different food options that you begin to craze as the weather gets cooler. One in particular, delicious homemade soups.

I have a great recipe to share with you and it is once again barrows by my girlfriend over at The Pioneer Woman blog.

Homemade Vegetable Minestrone Soup

Prep Time: 10 Minutes | Cook Time: 30 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 whole Zucchini, Halved, Cut Into Strips, Then Cubed
• 2 whole Summer Squash, Halved, Cut Into Strips, Then Cubed
• 8 ounces, weight White Mushrooms, Stems Removed And Quartered
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• Kosher Salt To Taste
• 2 Tablespoons (additional) Olive Oil
• 2 whole Carrots, Washed And Sliced (not Peeled)
• 1 whole Medium Onion, Diced
• 3 stalks Celery, Sliced (leaves Included)
• 8 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
• 2 cans Cannelini Beans, Rinsed
• 1 cup (heaping) Cut Green Beans, Fresh Or Frozen
• 1-½ cup Medium Or Small Pasta Shells, Uncooked
• 1 can (14.5) Diced Tomatoes With Juice
• Salt And Pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoons Turmeric (optional)
• Parmesan Cheese, Shaved

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 500 degrees.

Toss cubed zucchini, squash, and mushrooms in a bowl with olive oil and a sprinkling of kosher salt. Arrange onto two sheet pans (to avoid crowding) and roast in the hot oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until brown and black parts begin to show. Remove from oven and set aside.

In a heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add carrots, onions, and celery and stir to cook for 3 minutes. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for ten minutes.

Add cannelini beans and green beans. Cook on low for five minutes. Add pasta and cook for an additional five minutes. Add canned tomatoes, stir, and cook for an additional five minutes on low heat. Check for seasonings, adding salt, pepper, and turmeric.

Add roasted vegetables at the very end. Stir and allow to simmer and heat for a few minutes before serving. Be sure to check seasoning! Add more broth if necessary to increase liquid amount.

Serve with Parmesan shavings and crusty Italian bread.

Enjoy!!!

Much love, xoxo.

I'm Back!

I took a week off... but... I'mmm backkkk!

Where was I, you ask?

I was here...
P.A.R.A.D.I.S.E.

Paradise Island, to be exact.

Todd won an incentive/rewards trip through the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce for all of his hard work on the new member campaign. We spent 4 days and 5 nights on Paradise Island in the Bahamas at the Only & Only Ocean Club Resort. It was right down the beach from the Atlantis resort so we were able to use all of their wonderful amenities as well!

We had such a nice time together just relaxing by the pool, walking on the beach, and reading some good books! I started and finished the new Nicholas Sparks book Safe Haven and it was really good- definitely different from his normal love stories, but I liked it none-the-less.

Hope everyone had a great week!!!

Lots of love, xoxo.

Being Thankful

Todd pointed something out last night while we were having our routine long-distance phone call right before bed... as usual we were talking about our days at work, what we did, who we saw, etc., and then we started talking about out plans for the upcoming week... he pointed out that I have quite the two weeks lined up and I am one lucky girl! I have so much to look forward to, but more importantly, I have SO much to be thankful for!!

Here is how the next two weeks of my life lines up:

Friday (as in tomorrow): flying home to Atlanta and we're driving straight to Athens, GA
Saturday: UGA vs. AK game at Sanford Stadium. Tailgating with ALL of my UGA friends.
Sunday: Buckhead Church with my family.
Monday: Todd and I are leaving for the Bahamas!!!
Monday - Friday: Todd and I are staying at an all-inclusive resort on Nassau Island FREE OF CHARGE!
Saturday: Wedding dress shopping (all day) with my crew.
Saturday night: Mine and Todd's Engagement Party!!!
Sunday: Buckhead Church again with my family.

See... I have so much to look forward to, I mean, wow!

BUT...

I need to send a BIG THANK YOU to the man upstairs. I am a lucky lady, I recognize that, and I will greatly enjoy the next two weeks.

2 Corinthians 9:15 "Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!"

Much love, xoxo.

Wedding Wednesdays!

As if I haven't been excited to share wedding updates in the past, I am exceptionally excited about this next post....

*~*~* The Wedding Dress *~*~*

Every bride's dream coming to reality.

I am really excited to go wedding dress shopping. Me and my crew are going next Saturday, September 25th for an all-day wedding dress extravaganza! We are going to Wedding Angels in Roswell, GA at 10:00 AM, followed by Bridals by Lori in Sandy Springs, GA at 1:00 PM, and finally ending at Kelly's Closet in Atlanta, GA at 3:00 PM.

I am hoping to find THE DRESS at one of the first two locations and not have to go to the third location. I think visiting three different bridal stores in one day would be a little overwhelming to say the least!

Now, for the details...

What kind of dress do I want?
I THINK I want a strapless, A-line gown that has both sparkle and lace. I love soft, feminine fabrics like organza, lace, and tulle but I do not prefer shiny silks or satins.

What designers do I love?
There are so many to choose from, but if I had to name a few, I love: Jim Hjelm, Tara Keely, Lazaro, Rivini, and Priscilla of Boston.

What do I want the dress to read?
I want the dress to be sophisticated, romantic, and feminine. I want people to think the dress was made for me, meaning it matches my personality and they can definitely see why I picked THAT dress! (I hope that means something to someone other than myself! When I re-read that statement, I sound crazy, I know, but hopefully some one else knows where I am coming from.)

I will let you know how the dress hunt goes in a few weeks! I cannot wait to share what I found! Ahh, the anticipation is killing me!

Much love, xoxo.

Tasty Tuesday- Pecan Pie Muffins

Y'all know I have a sweet tooth, but what you didn't know (until now) is that I have a slight obsession with breakfast foods as well.

That aside, one of my good friends- Jennifer- and I were talking about pies this weekend. Why? She is going to her boyfriend's house for Thanksgiving this year and she wants to bring something homemade with her when she visits. Of all the desserts out there to choose from, we both agree that we don't particular like pies, but there is something so charming and traditional about pies that you gotta love'em! It seems like every family has their own pie tradition during the holidays.

For me, my grandma (my dad's mother) made the most amazing apple pie and we've carried on her tradition by making this a all family holiday gatherings. My Mimi (my mom's mom) made the most amazing chocolate meringue pie that I loved even before I loved chocolate (yes, when I was younger I hated chocolate- wish I still had that issue today!) Jennifer was telling me that they love their pecan pies in her house and she wants to make and bring one to share with her boyfriend's family. All this talk about pies had me craving one, the pecan pie in particular, by the end of the conversation.

Strangely enough, yesterday, while reading one of my all-time favorite blogs, The Pioneer Woman, I came across this little beauty-- a delicious recipe for homemade Pecan Pie muffins.

Here is the recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar
• ½ cups All-purpose Flour
• 1 cup Chopped Pecans
• ⅔ cups Softened Butter
• 2 whole Eggs Beaten

Instructions:

Preheat oven 350 F.

Grease your muffin pan (whatever size) or use the silicone cups. I grease my silicone muffin cups with Crisco or lard.

In a medium bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour and pecans. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and eggs together until smooth. Stir into the dry ingredients just until combined. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups. Cups should be about 2/3 full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Cool on wire racks when done.

Option: when you take them out of the oven, place a slice of butter on top and eat warm. You may also use walnuts instead of pecans.

Here's a picture of the finished product:

Enjoy!!!

Much love, xoxo.

Fun Fact Friday # 3

It's not a fun fact, in fact, its not fun at all but it is worth mentioning before I go away for the weekend.

Tomorrow is September 11th.

In reality it is just another date in the standard calendar, but after the tragic terrorist attacks nine years ago tomorrow, September 11th is forever changed.

I don't need to say much more. We all know the story: who, what, when, and why it happened, but we all need to remember this day and honor the innocent lives that were lost on this dreadful day in American history.

I pray for the families of the loved ones that lost their lives. I pray for the business men and women that lost their fellow co-workers. And most of all, I pray for this GREAT nation. We have moved on, but we will never forget! God Bless America.

Fingers are Crossed!

Hello, hello! I took a week hiatus, but for no reason in particular. Life just got BUSY! I can't believe a week has gone bye! Since last Thursday, a whole lot has happened, and I am exhausted! Last week, I was called about a position that became available in the Aon Atlanta office, had an in-person interview, two phone interviews, and now I am waiting for their response. They (as in HR) said I should hear something no later than next week. EEeeeKKkkk!! I can hardly contain my excitement or more like nervousness as I sit at my desk waiting for the answer. With that said, my fingers (and toes) are crossed ever so tightly! I will let you know as soon as I hear something- whether I got the job or not! Prayers are needed! I WANT TO GO HOME!!!

10 things that I can't wait to go HOME to:

1. my future-hubby
2. frequent family get-togethers
3. nights out or in with my girlfriends
4. Buckhead Church
   
5. UGA football and visiting Athens in general
6. Chick-fil-a
7. driving in a car & listening to the radio
   
8. doing future wife things, a.k.a. "nesting"
   
9. shopping at my favorite stores again
10. running outside or in the park

That's all for now! Again- prayers are needed for me to get this job!

Much love, xoxo

Wedding Wednesdays!

We found our WEDDING BAND - no, not the shiny wedding thing that goes around your finger - the wedding band that will be our incredible entertainment at our wedding reception, of course!!!

The band is called CITY HEAT and they are HOT, HOT, HOT! Well, figuratively, not literally!

They are a six-person, Atlanta based band that has been playing together for over ten years! They play all genre's of music but specialize in R&B, Soul, Oldies, Beach Music, and they also cover lots of modern or Top 40 songs! We are really excited about them and cannot wait for them to get the party started!

I have to give credit to my amazing fiance for finding our wedding band. From the very beginning, Todd wanted this to be HIS task for the wedding, and I must say, he did a great job!! Upon getting in touch with a former contact at EastCoast Entertainment, Rick Stowe, Todd was able to get a list of several bands that would play "our type" of music, be a source of entertainment and interaction, and most importantly fit out budget! We were very pleased with the list, but we quickly narrowed it down to two. After receiving several references, Todd called a few folks that had used City Heat at their wedding or event and all four references gave City Heat outstanding reviews!

Rick was a pleasure to work with and I would recommend him to anyone if you're interested!

Can't wait to get this party started!! 276 days and counting!!!

**Note: If you're attending out wedding, YOU BETTA BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES!!!**

Much love, xoxo!

Tasty Tuesday- Sugar Cookies w/icing

In honor of my best friend, Ms. Ashley Dempsey, coming to visit me this weekend in Chicago, I would like to prepare one of her favorite treats... homemade sugar cookies! Her likings for this delicacy goes back to our college days. When we were freshmen, on the meal-plan, we would treat ourselves to at least one, two, or maybe three of the delicious sugar cookies that the dinings halls made on random days of the week. They were devine. The perfect combination of soft centers and crunchy edges with their mouth-watering buttery sweetness inside. Writing this post is making me crave them even more.

After doing some research, I've decided to use the recipe below for the cookie dough and even give some homemade icing a whirl while I am at it. I've never made icing from scratch before so I'll be sure to let you know how it goes. I pulled these recipes from the GREAT, Amy Atlas' blog.

Here is the recipes:

Sugar Cookies:
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
1 cup confectioner's sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
(can add 1 1/2 tsp almond extract here. Yummy. I do that.)
2 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp salt

Cream butter and sugar. Add egg and blend well. Add extracts and blend. Mix flour and salt and gradually add. Cover dough with plastic wrap (I usually put mine in a gallon size Ziploc bag) and chill dough for about 2 hours. Working with about 1/3 of the batch at a time, briefly knead the chilled dough and roll about 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch thick. Cut out shapes. Bake cut out cookies on parchment lined baking trays at 375 for 12-14 minutes. Note: You can also freeze dough. After mixing, put dough in a gallon size Freezer ziploc bag (or wrap well) and freeze. Thaw overnight or for at least a few hours in the refrigerator in the ziploc bag. If too chilled to handle, let sit at room temperature for about 1/2 hour to 1 hour until it's workable. Chilled is good, though, don't let it get too mushy.

Frosting:
Note: This frosting is similar to royal icing, but I add shortening and flavoring to make it taste delicious. Thus, it dries hard enough to handle and pack when left overnight, but not rock hard, like traditional royal icing. The consistency is NOT the runny kind used for flooding. It's stiffer. Take a spoonful, turn it over the bowl. The frosting should cling to the spoon and slowly fall into the bowl. That's the right consistency.

4 tblsp meringue powder (available at many supermarkets and in most craft stores)
1/2 cup water
6-7 cups confectioner's sugar (may need more or less, see the consistency advice above)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup Crisco

Whip the meringue powder and water on high speed for a looooong time, several minutes, until it's fluffy and peaks form (use an electric hand beater or the wire whisk of your standing mixer). Gradually add the rest of the ingredients to desired consistency. Store at room temperature in a sealed container for up to a month.

Enjoy!!! Much love, xoxo.

Mix-it-up Monday 2

Ah, Monday. I'm torn between the feelings of the Monday Blues and let's-hurry-and-get-this-week-over-with. Isn't that sad. What has my life become? I know, it has literally become one giant countdown until A. When do I get to see Todd next? B. When do I get to move home to Atlanta and C. When can I leave the office? See, I told you so, it's really sad! (Insert the classic line) "Be thankful for what you DO have." Yes, that is true. I am thankful and yes, my life isn't all that bad. I did have a pretty good week even though I wasn't with Todd, home in Atlanta, or in the office for that matter.

Saturday, I went to an all-day photography class called Digital in a Day at the Chicago Photography Academy. My instructor, William Benson, was very intelligent when it came to photography and had a very witty sense of humor than made the 8 hours class all that more interesting. For all of you SLR camera lovers out there, this is the setting he told us to keep our Nikon, Canon, or Sony cameras on:

1. The exposure mode should be A or Av
2. Please use Autofocus
3. White balance should be Auto or A or AWB
4. ISO should be 400
5. All shots should be at 1/60^th second or faster

On Sunday, my friend Jen and I went to see Carrie Underwood at the Ravinia Festival which is an outdoor amphitheater about 30 minutes North of Chicago by train. We had a great time picnicking before the concert, singing and dancing to Carrie's awesome songs, and none-the-less just enjoying the summer evening. Here are some shots that my super-duper ZOOM lense was able to capture of Carrie doin' her thang!

It was a great weekend but I am SO looking forward to the neck weekend - LABOR DAY WEEKEND! Todd is coming to Chicago to see me and my best friend, Ashley, and her boyfriend, Whit, are coming to see me as well! I'm a lucky girl!!!

Much love. xoxo

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to my older sister ALI NICOLE REIMANN who turns 26 today!!! She's only a year and a half older than me so it sort-of feels weird to know I'm not far from being over 25... which sounds old to me... yes, I know, I'll look back on this post 5 or 10 years from now and laugh! .... But, none-the-less, I wanted to give her a Birthday SHOUT-OUT just to let her know how much I love her!

26 things I love about ALI for her 26th Birthday!!

1. She's my older seeeester.
2. Her strikingly beautiful baby blue eys
3. Her sense of style
4. She loves everything turquoise
5. The way she quickly falls in love
6. Her love for babies and children
7. She is always willing to go shopping with me
   
8. Her amazing ability to save a person's life as a nurse
9. Her sweet tooth- it's probably bigger than mine!
10. The way she laughs
    
11. She loves anything that sparkles
12. Her ideas and dreams
    
13. She is always willing to help out a friend
14. Her obsession with weddings
15. She has exceptionally good taste
16. Her support as a sister
17. Her unconditional love as a sister
18. Her friendship
    
19. She is an avid reader
    
20. Her love of redecorating rooms
    
21. She is always willing to order dessert
22. The memories we had as children
23. Her ability to hate me then love me in the same day
    
24. She is a good listener
    
25. The way she surprises you in different ways
    
26. And most of all, I love her just the way she is.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALI. I LOVE YOU!

Love you, Grandpa!

For my Thoughtful Thursday section, I wanted to send my love to my Grandpa today. He passed away 6 months ago today, and I know he is shining down on all of us from Heaven. He's in a better place (the best place) and I know he is enjoying being with my Grandma again :)

Grandpa was the rock of our family and everyone loved him very much. He's the reason that my family lives in America today and from an earlier post, you know I'm Proud to be an American.

WE LOVE YOU GRANDPA!!!
Much love, xoxo

This is the last Reimann family picture with Grandpa from Lindy's wedding last June.

Wedding Wednesdays!

This is probably my favorite day to write on my blog! It's Wedding Wednesday and I could not be happier to share with you these fabulous photos by Ali Harper Photography!!

About three weeks ago, Todd and I had our ENGAGEMENT PICTURES taken by the wonderful photog. herself, Ali (no, not my sister Ali). We had a two-look shoot: the first look was a more fun and flirty shoot taken at the Frosty Caboose where Todd and I had fun eating our favorite ice cream flavors while Ali shot us in the act. The second look was a more formal look taken at Oglethorpe University right outside of in Atlanta. It has a gorgeous campus and the lighting was just beautiful!

We are thrilled with the way they turned out! Ali is SO talented and we LOVE her creative and artistic eye! Thank you, Ali!!!

Okay, enough already... here is the site: Mandy & Todd's Engagement Pictures

And here is Ali's blog + website where you can see her favorites form our shoot and more of her work: Ali's Blog and Ali's Website.

Much Love, xoxo.

Tasty Tuesday- Black Bean Recipes

I've been reading more and more about how black beans are one of the world's healthiest foods. Also, realizing I need to add more lean protein to my diet, I figured I would hunt down a few tasty recipes incorporating these little protein-packed goodies. Here is what I've come up with:

1. Quinoa and Black Beans
   
2. Black Bean Soup
3. Black Bean Quesadillas
4. Black Bean Salsa
5. Black Bean Patty Cakes

Any of these recipes should get your taste buds going! Remember, you can also substitute other (less healthy) ingredients for their healthy version or option i.e. cheese made with skim milk, canned beans without additives or sodium, etc. It's simple and will save you many calories in the long run! Enjoy!!!

Mix-it-up Monday 1

Another great weekend with the fiancé! This past weekend Todd and two of our friends, Austin + Emily, came to visit me in Chicago. We had a great time and the weather was beautiful! It is so nice to have friends come to visit- It makes my weekends the highlight of the week and my time here even better. I love to show people around this beautiful city!
Friday night we went to dinner at a cute little pub near my place in Bucktown. The pub, Northside, has a great vibe with a fun patio. We enjoyed catching up with some yummy, (not so good for you) food and some refreshing adult beverages. Saturday, we hit the town early and started with a tour of Millennium Park and then went 103 stories to the top of the Willis (a.k.a. Sears') Tower. The Skydeck is a popular tourist destination where you can walk out onto a glass box and look down to the streets way below you. It is an Eerie feeling, but so worth the experience. Then we took a cab up to the infamous Wrigley Field to watch the Atlanta Braves play the Chicago Cubs! We had great seats right on the 1st base line, but unfortunately the Braves lost. Later that night, we had some fun at Murphy's Bleachers and then grabbed pizza from Piece Brewery. Delicious! Sunday, we had a great breakfast at Clarke's then took at cab to Lincoln Park, walked around for a little, then took another cab to Michigan Ave. We walked all the way down Magnificent Mile, picked up some Garrett's Popcorn then headed back to my place before my visitors had to pack up and leave Chicago.
The weekends always go by too quickly; I wish they could have stayed longer! Now, I get to look forward to Labor Day weekend when Todd and my friends Ashley + Whit are coming to visit! I can't wait to enjoy the long Holiday weekend!!! We're already planning...

I'm Proud to be an American.

To kick off the Thoughts Thursday section I was thinking about going with a personal classic. This is a thought that re-circles my mind and I am sure some of you have thought the same thing... What is it you ask? Well, it's quite a simple thought, but there are so many different answers and I think that is why I find it so fascinating. Okay, okay, I will get to the point. The thought that I often have is...

Why am I an American? How did I get so lucky? Why did God give me this gracious gift? Okay, I know, that's three thoughts not one, but all of them can be grouped into the same thought. Have you ever thought about this before?

There is really no correct answer, but it does make you wonder, right?

Bottom line, I am not sure how or why I was giving the gift of being an American, but I am truly grateful! We live in the greatest country in the world, have freedoms unlike any other, and can live the life we dream of... but do you ever look up and say "Thank you, God." "Thank you for letting me live in this amazing country." ??? If you never have, maybe is the time that you do.

Wedding Website

So, as I start my first Wedding Wednesday specialty, I am beyond thrilled with all the things I am going to share during this time of planning. I have SO much to talk about and such great things to share, I don't even know where to start!

I think the best place to start is with the Wedding Website. This little project (well, I can't exactly call it little) was definitely a Labor-of-Love for both Todd and I over the last two months. I got started on the website right after we got engaged. I was so excited to get it started, but then it took us roughly two months to complete mainly because I was requiring Todd to finish up some last minute details... and you know how guys can be! Well, after a little nudge, and then maybe a slightly harder shove, he got the message and finished his portion of the website: the Proposal Story and his Groomsman's bios- not a hard job!

And without further ado, here is the debut of our Wedding Website: www.MandyandToddwedding.com

I hope you ALL enjoy checking it out and don't forget to take the quiz and sign our guest book, thank you!!!

Much Love XOXO

In Need of Motivation

Well, it's been another two week dry spell. I am disappointed in myself, once again, for not posting anything the last two weeks. I have come up with a plan to fix my lack of motivation... I am going to feature special days to give me more incentive to write everyday.

- Monday: Mix-it-Up Monday
- Tuesday: Tasty Tuesday
- Wednesday: Wedding Wednesday
- Thursday: Thoughtful Thursday
- Friday: Fun Fact Friday

I might change it up every now-and-then, but hopefully this will be the start of a more consistent blogging lifestyle :) Wish me luck!!!

Fun Fact Friday # 2

Smoking... I've NEVER tried it, and I have NO desire to try it in my lifetime! But I am continuously amazed at how many people still smoke in this world!!! Actually... "Worldwide, about 1.35 billion people smoke. The world population statistic in 2009 stood at 6.8 billion meaning almost 20% of the world’s population smokes," says QuitSmokingHub.com. Also, "1,000 teens become NEW smokers every day in the United States." It's really hard for me to believe so many people continue to smoke cigarettes given all that we know about how harmful and sometimes deadly smoking cigarettes really is!

You might be asking, "Why am I blogging about this?" Well, this issue, "cigarette smoking," bugs the YOU-KNOW-WHAT outta me! On my way to work each morning, I walk about 1/2 mile outside in the city from my train to my office. I find myself constantly dogging the people in front of me who are smoking. I absolutely HATE getting a whiff of their 2nd hand smoke! In fact, it really really upsets me. Oh, and watching the smokers throw down their cigarette bud when they've finally sucked out the last bit, ooooh, boy does that upset me too! I sometimes have to refrain myself from walking passed the smoker and calling them a "Litter-Bug!!" Ahhh, if people would just stop this nasty habit, the world would be a better place. Literally.

Here are some facts about smoking. Credit to QuitSmokingHub.com.

Now, not to be a hypocrite, but I could also write a blog entry about my hatred for tanning beds, but then... I would be guilty for indulging in this disgusting habit. (Thank God my cheerleading-days are behind me now. My skin is thanking me too.) However, I am making a vow, right now, on my bog, that I will NEVER EVER climbing into a nasty, cancer-causing, tanning bed again! It's sunless tanning or spay-on tans for me from here on out! Promise.

Ok, bye for now, Happy Friday!!! Much love.

Baby Bliss!!!

I am thrilled to announce that one of my very best friends is EXPECTING!!! David and Heather Hoyt are having a baby and I could not be happier for the 2, well make that 3, of them! Heather is only 8 weeks along and she's due March 1st. My mother actually told me that I was due on March 1st as well! Crazy coincidence, I think, but I told Heath that I would be more than honored if the bundle of joy decided to debut on my birthday, February 25th!
David & Heather went to a baseball game last night at the Rome Braves stadium. David was given access to the company suite so they were able to invite both sides of the family to get together without anyone thinking it was suspicious! After everyone arrived, David read a poem that Heather and David wrote together and had printed on beautiful stationary... this is what it looked like:Mid-poem, it announced that they were expecting a little baby or rather a precious "gift from above!" They also had a cute, cute, cute cake made that was girly pink on top and boyish blue on the bottom!
What a fun and memorable way to share the GREAT news!

This is the first picture of the parent-to-be after they shared the news:

David & Heather - I love you both and I am beyond thrilled for you! I wish you ALL the best of the next seven months and I can't wait to meet the little one soon!

Much love.

Fun Fact Friday # 1

I am thinking of new ways to become more active on my blog so I came up with this idea... well, today, Friday! Introducing Fun Facts Fridays!!! I'll post something fun and fascinating every Friday from here on out (I hope). The subject matter doesn't matter- it will vary depending on what I discovered during the week.

So, for today's first Fun Fact Friday, I am sharing behind the scenes coverage of the filming of "Transformers 3" the movie. Right now, a big sections of Michigan Avenue (the main road in downtown Chicago) is shut down from Friday - Monday for the filming. On my very hot and long walk back from lunch today, I took a few pictures for you to see as well! On Thursday, we received emails at work reminding us of the filming and the road closures that would take places over the weekend. We were told not to be alarmed if we heard gun shots, fire bombs, multiple sirens, etc. How does one not sit at their work desk (on a Friday, mind you) and not be alarmed if they hear a giant "fire bomb" explode? hmmm. Well, I must admit, I haven't heard any fire bombs explode today, but the road closures were certainly annoyed on my way to work this morning.

Well, that's my post for today's introduction of Fun Fact Friday. Hope everyone has a GREAT weekend! Much love.

Birthdays and Babies!

This past weekend we celebrated my wonderful fiancé's (oh how I love saying, fiancé!) birthday. His birthday was on Saturday, July 10th and I spoiled him like a little boy! He woke up by me serving him breakfast-in-bed: buttermilk pancakes (his fav.), scrambled eggs with cheese, fresh fruit on the side, and cup of coffee! It was quite the feast! Then I surprised him and took him to Natural Body and Spa for a 1 hour deep tissue massage and scalp massage = heaven! Then we went shopping at Lenox Square Mall where he got a few outfits from Banana Republic and three, count them- 3, awesome pairs of shoes from Johnston & Murphy! Later that night, all of his friends and some of my girlfriends got together for dinner, drinks, and fun games to celebrate at a new bar called Ormsby's. It was really a fun place to hang out in- they had bocce ball, ski ball, pool tables, darts, all sorts of games. After Ormsby's we went to the Buckhead block party and continued the fun into the wee hours of the morning! It was quite the day!

Todd and I also had time to stop by a caterer that I am interested in hiring for the wedding. We were blown away with their showroom filled with the tables, linens, dishes, and decor they will use with our wedding reception. I am definitely thrilled to be working with them!

And as if we couldn't fit anything else into the weekend, we stopped by Piedmont Hospital to visit Sarah and David Preston as Sarah just gave birth to twin boys: Robert Baylor and Hunter Brooks! They were adorable!

Well, I'm glad I got in an update before another three months went by. I'll try to make this a habit!

By for now! Much love!

I'm embarrassed!

OK, so I am really really embarrassed. I started this blog hoping that I would be able to keep up with it, but it looks like that has been unsuccessful; however, I am determined to not let it be a failure. I hate failing, and I'm not about to fail on this blog. So, on that note, let's play catch up one more time and hopefully for the last time!

Where did I leave off, that's right, Easter. Has it really been three months? Wow! Well, let me just say that a lot, I repeat, A LOT has happened in three short months. Let's see here,

- In late April, my family and I went to NJ to celebrate the passing of my grandpa (Dad's dad) and boy did we have a great time celebrating his long-lived years. He was my last living grandparent and we shared a special relationship. Well, he had a great relationship with all of his seven grandchildren. My grandpa is the reason I live in the U.S. today and I am grateful for that. His family came to the U.S. in 1929, right before the Great Depression I might add, when he was 10 years old. My grandpa went to school without knowing English, worked side jobs doing all sorts of things to help put food on the table, graduated HS, went to Rutgers University where he worked and paid his way through college all by himself. Talk about determination! He then went on to work for Exxon Mobile (Esso back then) in NYC. I am so proud of all of his personal accomplishments and most importantly, laying a solid foundation for my family to grow up with the American Dream! At the funeral/life celebration, I learned other things about my grandpa like he was captain of the Glee Club in HS, took classes at NYU, and had blonde hair! I only remember him with grey hair, and I particularly would like to put the little hair he had left into a mohawk while he was napping :) He would wake up and just laugh! Gosh, I love that man and I miss him, but I am happy he is with my Grandma in heaven. I know they are both shining down on our family!

My loving Grandpa: Paul Reimann
3/1/1918 - 2/26/2010

- In late May, Todd surprised me with a long weekend get-away for the Memorial Day holiday! A few months before, I told him that I really wanted to go to the beach as it had been a good year and I had endured the freezing cold temperatures of a Chicago winter (I certainly deserved a beach vacation, right?) Well, it didn't work out, and Todd said it be nice to spend the long weekend in Chicago as it would probably be the last Memorial Day that I would be living there. So, I thought my beach vacation was out-of-sight, until three weeks before Memorial Day, Todd called me after work and said, "guess what? we're going to the beach!" I was SO happy! You have no idea! Well, we made plans for me to fly home to Atlanta and then we made the 7 hour drive to Bald Head Island, NC for the much-needed beach vacation. The first night we were there, we took a long walk down the beach and watch the sun go down and the moon rise over the ocean - sooo pretty! - but that night I was telling him everything that was on my heart... how lucky the two of us were, how fortunate we were that God put us together on that plane, etc., but I won't bore you with the mushy-gushy stuff. The next day we had a great day on the beach and by the pool at the Shoals Club, and later that night he had planned for us to have dinner at the Shoals Club. As we were getting ready for dinner that night, Todd was being so sweet! He brought me a glass of wine, told me how pretty I looked, and asked if we could go down to the beach and take pictures before dinner. Well, we went down to the beach, I set up my self-timer and after we took our last picture, Todd grabbed me and began pouring his heart out too... it didn't take long for me to realize this was a proposal!! Todd got down on one knee, pulled out the most incredible diamond ring and said, "I would be honored if you would be my wife?" and... of course I SAID YES!!! Moments later, after I jumped on him and kissed him, Todd put me down and we turned around to a photographer taking pictures of the whole engagement! I am so happy to be able to share this magical moment with family and friends for years to come! After the beach proposal, we went to the nice dinner at the Shoals Club, then I proceeded to call alllllll of my family and friends! We had such a great night celebrating and spreading the exciting news! The next few days at the beach were incredible yet so relaxing with my fiance! When we arrived home in Atlanta, we met our family and friends for dinner to continue celebrating our engagement. THAT WEEKEND WAS DEFINITELY THE HIGHLIGHT OF MY LIFE SO FAR! Thank you, Todd, for planning and successfully delivering the most amazing proposal a girl could ask for, I am one lucky lady!

- Let the wedding planning begin! So far we have successfully secures the wedding date: June 4, 2011; the site for the wedding ceremony: Peachtree Christian Church; the site for the Reception: Greystone at Piedmont Park; and we have almost secured The Peachtree Club for the Rehearsal dinner! We're well under way and I promise I will continue to update this blog as the planning continues!

Peachtree Christian Church:

Greystone at Piedmont Park:The Peachtree Club:

- That's all for now, see you soon!

Pictures from Easter Weekend 2010

Todd and I on Easter, 2010.

Todd and I at Sugar Falls

Sugar Falls

Happy Easter

Happy Easter, everyone!

I had a wonderful Easter spent with almost all of my loved ones at home in Atlanta. I flew back to Atlanta after work on Friday and Todd picked me up at the airport. Saturday, my mom, sisters, Todd and I drove to Heflin, Alabama where my mom's side of the family and we call it Sugar Falls. It has been in the family for over 4 generations! All of the cousins and their kiddos where there to celebrate my Great Aunt Dot's 91st birthday. It was a lovely day and it was so great to visit with everyone. Sunday, my mom, Clark, Todd and I went to Buckhead Church then to brunch at Haven restaurant off of Dresden. We sat outside and ate lunch on their patio. The food and company was wonderful. I flew back Sunday night, and after several complications, I made it home safe.

Well, that is what my Easter weekend was filled with in a nutshell, or should I say Easter egg, but more importantly, it was a wonderful weekend praising God for this incredible event that took place over 2000 years ago. We learned the EASTER was an EVENT, not a religious belief. Easter was an event that actually took place and their are witnesses and writings to prove it. God sent his very own son into this world, Jesus said he would die and on the 3rd day he would change everything that the world knew and he ROSE FROM THE DEAD!!! NO ONE predicted this to happen. NO ONE believed this man would actually rise, but HE DID. He kept all his promises and for that, he changed the world.

Jesus died and rose again for YOU. He died to wipe away all of YOUR sins so that YOU too could live an eternal life in Heaven with our Beloved Maker. No one else has done this. No one else in history can say that they predicted their own life and actually kept their promise that they would rise on the 3rd day in order for YOU and every one who loves God to be able to live an eternal life in Heaven. HOW AMAZING!!!

Easter is an incredible time. It is a time to spend with the people you love, celebrate the life of Christ and the mark of Spring- Ironic that Spring is the season of new-birth, and especially to praise God for the gracious gift he gave us: his son Jesus who came into this world, was persecuted, beaten, and crucified, BUT kept all of his promises and rose from the dead in order to SAVE me, you, and any one else that believes in HIM. Jesus Paid it All.

While I was away...

NYE 2010 in Las Vegas, NV

Surviving a Winter in Chicago

1 Year anniversary

Fall in Chicago

1st UGA game, not cheering

Peachtree Road Race

1st day of work!

My bedroom in Chicago

Teny's Wedding

Heather's Wedding

Summer in Chicago

Girlfriends visit to Chicago

Heather's Bachelorette Party!!

Graduation

Girlfriends

Best Friends

Roommates

3rd date

2nd date

last season cheering

Alabama Blackout- ESPN College Gameday

KD Seniors

Wow... where did a year and half go?

My first (and last, for the time being) post was on July 3, 2008. I made an honest effort in getting started, but ironically, like my first post clearly stated, I didn't have enough time, to keep the post coming. Not having enough time for all my ideas = story of my life!

Well, what have I been up to in the last year and a half... A LOT!
Let's see here:

1. Summer '08: I interned with what would be my future employer.
2. Fall '08: I started my Senior year at UGA!
3. Sept. 21, 2008: I MET A BOY, an amazing man at that!
   
4. Fall '08: I cheered at my last Georgia Football game :(
   
5. Fall '08: I fell in L<3ve!
6. Winter '08: I accepted a full-time job with Aon Corporation in CHICAGO!
7. Winter '08: For what it is worth, I cheered my last Georgia basketball game.
   
8. Spring '09: I enjoyed every last waking minute at UGA with my best friends.
9. May 9, 2009: I GRADUATED!
10. Spring '09: Vacationed in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I with the whole family!
    
11. Summer '09: Spent a summer relaxing, doing nothing before life got serious.
12. Summer '09: Ran the Peachtree Road Race!
    
13. Summer '09: Worked occasionally as a Disney Princess @ Peachtree Gymnastics.
    
14. July 5, 2009: MOVE TO CHICAGO, IL!
15. July 20, 2010: Started working full-time in the real-world.
16. Fall '09: Was a bridesmaid in 2 of my best friends weddings!
    
17. Fall '09: Explored the Windy City while committing to a long-distance relationship.
18. Winter '09: TRIED to stay warm in Chicago Winter.
19. Winter '10: Went to VEGAS for NYE2010!
20. Spring '10: Survived the Chicago Winter!
21. Spring '11: RE-STARTED MY BLOG!!!
    

It has seriously been THE BEST year-and-a-half of my life!!!

I am excited to start-up my blog again. Hopefully, I will be able to keep up!

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN...