Merry Christmas

This is definitely not the Christmas we had imagined. Not the quiet holiday, with just my hubby and I. But we are still surrounded by love. And more importantly, by family. And our Tio is holding on. That's the most important thing.

What a tough holiday it is. You never expect that your family is going to be struggling at this time of year. That you will know someone who is fighting for their life. Or that you are planning on spending the day in a hospital. But we're family. And when times get tough, we stick together. And that is just what we are going to do. Stick together. Support our Tia and Tio. And our prima.

Please say a few extra prayers. My Tio desperately needs them. He is not getting worse, but he's still in ICU. It's a tough time for our family. And we could use all the love and support we can get.

Merry Christmas!

Please Pray

Late last night, we got the call. And immediately we were packing a bag and getting on the road. It had to be the longest 200+ mile, 3 hour drive that my hubby and I have ever made. My prima had called. Her Dad, our Tio, was in the hospital. And they didn't know if he was going to make it.

He's in the ICU. Literally fighting for his life. My Tia and Prima are at his side. And all we ask, is that you keep him in your prayers. They still don't know what caused his illness. Or if he will pull out of it. He's hooked up to so many machines. And we just don't have any answers.

Please, say an extra prayer for him. Just take a second to remember him. That's all I'm asking my readers. My Tio is such a special man. He has such a HUGE Heart! And is always doing wonderful things for everyone. He needs to make it. And we need to be here for him.

Winner!

And the winner to my giveaway is... #79, Maggie! Congratulations! Send me your information, so I can get your package out to you. I'd love for you to receive it before Christmas.

I had such a fun time doing this giveaway. I'm definitely going to have to host more. And soon! I don't want to wait for big things like this. Maybe I'll start some kind of "Giveaway Schedule" or something.

But I did want to say Thank You to everyone that entered. I wish that I could send everyone something. Please visit again. And hopefully, you'll win the next giveaway.

Red and Aqua Christmas

With Christmas just 10 days away, I'm allowing myself to dream a little. And when I came across this picture, well I was just so giddy inside!



For as long as I can remember, Red and Aqua have been my favorite color combination. Our kitchen is decorated in this combo. And I just love it. But to see Christmas inspired pictures...well that just made my day!

Now I have tons of ideas for next year. I just need to start getting everything together. How fun is it going to be, to decorate just like this. These colors really do make me smile!

Giveaway Day!

Woo hoo! I'm so excited about Giveaway Day! I honestly don't know if I'm more excited about hosting a giveaway, or getting to enter all the good giveaways!

But to get down to business here. My giveaway is for a baby blanket. A yellow and white one. I thought that would be a bit more fair. :)

Here is a close up. It's a little more true to color. Ya, don't forget to take your pictures ahead of time. Like me. I just took these, and it's after midnight here. So the lighting isn't the best.

And this is a shot of the blanket. I hadn't noticed how crooked it is. But you get the idea. :)

All you have to do is leave me a message with your favorite Etsy shop. I'm always looking for new places to shop at Etsy. You have until midnight December 19th. Good luck everyone!

Oh, and don't forget to go by my tia's blog, and my prima's blog. They're both hosting wonderful giveaways too!

Cowboy Boots

I recently "splurged." And I bought a pair of Cowboy Boots. Very similar to this pair. And they are so comfy! I've always had at least one pair of Cowboy boots in my closet. The real ones. The kind you go to an actual Western Store for. But when my last pair wore out, I never replaced them.

And what a shame. I hadn't realized just how much I missed wearing boots! They are so comfy! I'm glad I invested in another pair. And I just might have to go out and get me another pair. A pair of brown ones. It's really nice living close by the outlets. We have lots of big outlets not far from where we live. And you can get some really good prices. But there is one thing that is for sure, nothing, and I mean nothing compares to the comfort of a good pair of boots!

New Guest Room

We've slowly been putting our home together. And some things, have just taken a lot longer than others. But finally, after a Black Friday Sale, my hubby and I agreeing, and a deal we couldn't pass up...we finished our Guest Room.



This is the bedding set that we picked out. With curtains, a rug, and a set of lamps, we paid under $200. I don't feel so bad now. We didn't break the bank. And our guests finally have a room that is "put together." It feels nice. 2 guests rooms done!

Honestly, I use to feel bad when people would stay with us. Especially my parents and my in-laws. But now, I feel good. They have pretty and comfy rooms to stay in. Nothing could feel better!

Now if we could just finish the rest of the house...

2 Magical Years!

I'm still amazed. It's been 2 years since I married my best friend, lover, man of my dreams. Fern is honestly, the most amazing man I know. He is so kind and gentle when I need him to be. But "tough as nails," when I need a good kick in the butt!

I can't believe how quickly time is going by. It's just flying! And I'm not sure where it's all going. I feel like it was just yesterday, when we met. And fell in love. But somehow, we're those "married folks." Are we still "Newlyweds." Does that end after 2 years? I don't think so! Especially since it feels like we just got married.

My favorite parts of the day, still include my hubby. Like when we're sharing a quick breakfast before he goes to work, and I head to school. Those quiet moments over coffee. When my sleepy eyes meet Fern's. Or when we're laying in bed. Falling asleep. And my hubby is whispering "sweet nothings" into my ear. Absolute perfection!

I just can't imagine my life without Fern in it. I can't imagine growing old with anyone else. No one. He's the man that makes me a better woman. The person that challenges me. And loves me. Regardless of the things I do.

I don't know if it's possible. But I swear, I love my hubby more with each passing day. I LOVE this chapter in our lives. Just the two us of. Learning so much about each other. Our love growing and getting stronger. I know without any doubt in my mind, I married my best friend 2 years ago.

Happy Anniversary Fern!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving!

This is truly one of my favorite days of the year. When we celebrate our family and friends. Our "togetherness." And we're just happy to break bread together. It's a magical day.

My hubby and I feel so grateful to spend this day with all of our family and friends. To share a meal. And to be part of "the bigger picture." It's important "to grow our relationships." And to make tighter and stronger bonds with each other.

On this day, I wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving! That you may have plenty of delicious food. And lots of "togetherness" with the ones you love!

A Royal Wedding

So what do you think of the upcoming Royal Wedding? I'm really excited! This should be a pretty wonderful affair. Maybe not as over the top as Princess Di's wedding. But still very grand.

I also like the fact that Prince William asked Kate with his mother's engagement ring. That's just a beautiful gesture. And a nice way to incorporate her into the mix of things.

Another thing that I just have to say, didn't Kate just look amazing at the announcement? I think I'm really becoming a fan of this color of blue. At least for clothes. So stunning! I wish the happy couple many years of happiness, love and health.

Shoe Heaven!

Shoe Heaven!

That's what my hubby calls our closet. He insists that shoes come to die in our closet. What does that mean? Well, I'm a SHOE LOVER! I don't care if they're from Payless, or Macy's. Wherever! I LOVE them all!

And our closet is slowly being taken over by shoes. I love and wear them all. But I understand were he's coming from. But honestly, this is my only big thing. You know. The thing that I really splurge on. And honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way.

But I guess I should probably move my shoes to one of the guest rooms' closets. So that my poor hubby doesn't have to fall over a pair of shoes every morning. They're all nicely lined up and organized. But there are so many. Yes, I know that. I need to do something with my ever growing collection. And not buying another pair...well that's not really an option. :)

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween!

I just LOVE Halloween. The dressing up. All the candy. Handing out candy to all the kiddos in the neighborhood. It's all so much fun! And it makes me feel like a kid again.

One of our favorite traditions is ordering some yummy pizza, and making lots of yummy treats! I'm talking a ton of appetizers and desserts. We're ready with a fully decorated house, lots of spooky music, and some fun Halloween movies.

What are some of your favorite Halloween traditions? Do you still dress up? Or am I one of the only 30 something year olds that likes to dress up. You know, just to hand out candy. :)

Cupcake Scarf!!!

Are you serious? Cupcakes and crochet? I do believe I'm in love! And Twinkie Chan, she's super talented. I wonder if she sells her patterns. Because after doing a little research, Twinkie Chan has made some incredible scarves! No lie. They honestly make me super hungry. And yearning to crochet. If you don't mind, I'm going to go get a cupcake scarf started. :)

Aurora

Aurora is Goddess Of The Dawn. How do I know this? Because I found the meaning here. Why am I researching baby names? No, I'm not pregnant. But I just felt like search for some names the other day. Because we've been talking more and more about starting a family. And I have come to realize, I LOVE the name Aurora! It's simple. But beautiful. And just makes me smile.

Dear Peonies

Dear Peonies,

Hi! It's me, Gabi. Do you remember me? I bought your bulbs about 4 months ago. I careful planted you in the ground. Watered you. Took good care of you. And guess what? You never came out! I never seen a leaf, a stem, or a flower. Where did you go? I had such high hopes for us. I hope you return. If not now, next Spring would also be nice. Don't forget to come back!

~Gabi

Urban Rain Giveaway

My Cakies is having a giveaway for a $25 gift certificate for Urban Rain. I spy a ring and a scarf that I like from Urban Rain. Hurry, the giveaway ends today!

Crochet Horse

Isn't this little guy too cute? I think so! He is today's Free Crochet pattern of the day. :) With all of our friends having babies, I think I should start making some of these. They would be perfect for gifts. They're whimiscal and so much fun!

Apron and DVD Giveaway

Isn't this apron adorable? It just screams summer to me! Megan is giving away an apron and a DVD to a lucky winner. She is so amazing. She did a bunch of giveaways for her birthday too!

So do you like this one? How about any of the 6 on her blog? Hurry up and enter the giveaway it ends really soon! You won't be disappointed. :)

Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July! This is such a special day. To celebrate our country. To remember the men and women who serve, and who have served our country. How special the United States of America is!

I feel so lucky to be an American. To get to celebrate our country's birthday. So special! A time to really reflect on our country. Where it's been, and where it's going. This should be a day of reflection. A day so special. And right.

Happy 4th of July!!!

Missed Email

I feel bad. Last night I was emailing Ruby because I won this giveaway. And while I was trying to clean out my email, I found an email that I had missed. It was in my spam box. An email for my giveaway. But what do I do? I didn't find it until last night. So I figured, for the next giveaway I have, I'll add her in. Because, well, what else can I do?

Much Love Illy Giveaway

Look at this wonderful giveaway on Cakies. You know you want to enter! You have the chance to win a headband, hair pin, and a ring! And everything from Much Love Illy is just beautiful! So go enter!

And The Winner Is...

Tiana, #31! I'm glad that she has a daughter that can use this set! Please send me an email at GabisLove (at) live (dot) com. As soon as I get your address, I'll send out the set. :)

This was such a fun giveaway to host. I hope I can so many more in the future. But in the near future, it looks like I'm going to be co-hosting a giveaway with some lovely ladies. Please come back to learn all about it!

Granny Square Love

It's definitely been a lazy Sunday around here! My hubby and I are just enjoying the warm weather. He's working on a project right now. And I'm sitting out on our back patio. I was searching through some of my favorite craft blogs. And I found this picture at Cakies.

It reminds me of something my hubby's grandma would have made. In fact, Lola has this HUGE granny square blanket that their grandma made her. She loves it to pieces and cherishes it. It's one large granny square made with a variety of colors.

I really like this blanket. I want to start making one like it. I'm going to use this picture as an inspiration. I'm not sure how big or small it will be. But this one is a crib sized blanket, for a baby. I'm not sure, but I'm probably not going to make the same squares. Because I don't know how to make these squares. But I'm going to make a regular granny square. I can't wait!

Gum Ball Necklace

About a month ago, I seen this necklace at Happy Together. It was for a giveaway. And I entered, praying that I'd win. It didn't happen. And I was a little sad. But now that I'm on summer break, I really want to make this. I'm not sure where to start. I'm hoping that Lola can help me with some ideas. She's good at figuring out these things. I really want to make this necklace for summer. I think it would look nice with a white summer dress and some cute cowboy boots!

Giveaway Day 2010

Welcome everyone from Sew Mama Sew's Giveaway Day! I'm so excited to participating this time around. I've missed the deadline twice already! And I nearly did it again this time.

On to the good stuff. If you are like me, I've spent the last 6 months or so making baby gifts. I would say at least 70% the people my hubby and I know, are either expecting a baby or getting married. No lie! I've been super busy making lots of baby blankets, booties, and the such. :)

So for my giveaway, I'm offering a few extra baby items that I made. You just never know when you're going to be invited to a baby shower! In my giveaway, you have the chance to win 3 handmade burp clothes made out of cotton and flannel material. One side has baby bears, and the other is color blocked with pastel colors. There is also a baby bonnet and bootie set, crochet in Baby Bernat yarn. The color is called Cherry Berry, it's a variegated pink and white color.



If you would like the chance to win, just leave me a comment. Preferably with your blog link or a link to your favorite blog. You have until 10pm MST, May 23. I'll choose a winner using Random.org to pick the winner. Good luck everyone! Oh, and my giveaway is open to US residents only.

Bunting Pillow Giveaway

Can anything get cuter? I don't think so! This pillow is adorable! I really like the look of it. It's a clean look, but fun. And the bunting, so adorable! It really makes me want to have a baby. Just so I can fill up a nursery with all these gorgeous items. You can enter this giveaway for a chance to win this cute pillow!

Happy Birthday Tia!

I want to wish our Tia a very Happy Birthday! She is such an amazing part of our life. So encouraging. Honestly, I don't know what we'd do without her. She is honestly like a 2nd mom to my hubby and I. And we both hope that she has an amazing day!

Tia may all your dreams come true, God keep you healthy, and you receive all the happiness in the world! Happy Birthday!

Lack of Gabi...

I LOVE blogging! I can't believe it's almost been a year since I started. Because this has been such a fun ride. But lately, I've had issues with my blog. Actually since September. After talking with a friend of mine, that's a computer genius, I finally know how to fix my blog. But it's going to take time to sit down and do it. And how many people are really that interested in reading about what I dressed up as for Halloween? I'm not thinking many.

And with school, I don't have much spare time. The little that I get, I like to spend it with my hubby. And with this crazy weather that we've been having lately, we're trying to balance about 50 DIY projects. I'm not lying! But we're trying.

So please bare with me. I'll be back to my blog soon. I'll be posting more than just a link to a pattern. And I'll hopefully fix all the missing posts. That's really frustrating. Because I have a ton of blog posts that I don't think anyone has ever read. So sad! But soon friends, the semester will be over. And I'll be on summer break from all my grad student stuff. I promise!

The Garden Set Giveaway

Lola introduced me to a new blog, Newly Wife. I'm in love! This is the cutest blog! I almost want to start writing some posts with them. Am I still technically a "Newlywed?" I feel like we are. So we'll go with yes! At Newly Wife, there are a couple of giveaways going on. But just until tonight! I could almost kick myself for missing this one! I hope Jessica posts a tutorial on how she made this beauty. But for a chance to win this adorable Garden Set, go to Newly Wife and enter! Don't you just love the little apron? It's my favorite part! Good Luck!

Strawberry Angel Cake

Have you been to the grocery store lately? I went shopping and I found strawberries on sale. They've been on sale since February. But this was a really good deal. They were so cheap that I could pass on the great price. I got a big flat of strawberries for $5. Thank you sale! And it happens to be just in time for the Gooseberry Patch recipe of the week. Who doesn't like Strawberry Angel Cake? Yum! And it was so yummy! Here's the recipe.

Strawberry Angel Cake

Submitted by: Lisa Johnson from Hallsville, Texas

16-oz. baked angel food cake
2 c. whipping cream
2/3 c. strawberry ice cream topping
2 pts. strawberries, hulled and halved

Slice cake horizontally into 4 layers; set aside. In a chilled bowl with an electric mixer on high speed, beat whipping cream and topping until stiff peaks form. Place bottom layer of cake on a cake plate; frost with a 1/2-inch layer of whipped cream mixture. Repeat with remaining cake layers. Frost entire cake with remaining whipped cream mixture, making sure to cover top and sides of cake. Arrange berries over top and sides, pressing firmly into whipped cream. Serve immediately or keep chilled up to 8 hours. Makes 10 servings.

I Won Something, I Bought Something

I recently won a $250 gift card from Dillard's. Our neighbors' kids were selling raffle tickets for their school. So my hubby and I bought $10 worth. You know, we like to contribute positively to our community. I honestly never thought we'd win a thing. But we wanted to help the kids. Well, we won! And we got our gift card 2 days ago.

After my classes today, I decided to stop at Dillard's on the way home. Very convenient that the mall is between our house and school. But I stopped. And I didn't expect to find anything really. Our mall is small. And the Dillard's doesn't have a wide selection. Especially in formal wear. But I found this beauty!



It's the Gianni Bini "Selene" dress. And they had 2 of them there. Only 2! I think you have to order them online. Because I didn't see anything else from this line in the store. And they were in my size! It was like the heavens opened up, and the angels were singing to me. :)

I was actually drawn to the aqua color more (it's called blue lagoon online). We're going to a formal wedding in June. And the theme is Cinderella. So I really thought the aqua would go well.

But when I was in the dressing room, I got to thinking. For $158, I'll probably get more use out of the black one. You can wear it to many more events. If it's a conservative event, like a funeral or business dinner, you can always add a jacket or cardigan on top. And for more fun and flirty events like weddings, or date nights you can wear it as is.

The general shape is a lot like this dress. But this black dress is made out of a polyester blend. But a more dressy type of material. The top has a sweetheart neckline, and is fitted. But there's no boning. You do get some thin spaghetti strap style straps that you can add or remove. The ruffles are a lot smaller on the skirt. And the skirt fits more like a pencil skirt.

I feel like this dress was a complete success! My hubby and I had talked about how we would spend the money last night. And he wanted me to spend it all on me. But I couldn't do it. Especially since I can wear this dress with these shoes. So after I paid for my dress, I headed across the mall. To the Men's Dillard's. And I picked up some shirts and ties for my hubby! I've got to worry about what he's going to wear too! :)

Feminine Dress

Do you remember these shoes? I think I found a dress to go with them. What do you think? I don't think the shoes compete with the dress, nor does the dress doesn't compete with the shoes.

It was a little tough. Everything in stores right now is extremely short. Or makes me look like I'm going to prom or something. But Lola was telling me about this dress that she bought for a show. I quickly begged for pictures. And I fell in love. Over to Arden B I went and bought it! It comes in light pink or jade. The jade looks more like a minty color. And I like it, but I don't think it would look good on me.

The dress is beautiful! It has a hidden back zipper, with a hook and eye. The top is a satin, polyester, spandex blend. It's ruched and even has boning. With a slight sweetheart neckline. The skirt is tiered chiffon. And I just love the way it moves! It's so feminine! The best part, it was $78, but I got it for $39. And just $5 shipping! Now I don't feel so bad. One complete outfit down, I don't know how many to go...

My Surprise in the Mail

I was talking to my mom the other day. We were talking about all these weddings. And I'm feeling a little stressed about all the dresses I need to buy. And I can't find anything age appropriate at the stores. Hello, what happened to the nice selection at Dillard's, Forever 21, and Macy's? Not to mention the cost of standing in a wedding. Hello!

I don't know, but I can't find anything affordable and still dressy enough for these formal weddings. I know, if it were only 2 weddings, it wouldn't be so bad. But honestly, from the end of May until September, we are going to weddings. Almost every other weekend!

Today, my hubby comes home with a package. I didn't know what it was. Because I haven't done any online shopping lately. I wasn't sure what it could be. Inside where these precious gems. My mom bought them for me! Thanks mom!



They're the Two Lips Tiki Beaded Metallic Sandal in Pewter. They're absolutely gorgeous! And so comfy! I think my mom paid about $70 for them. But these are a nice shoe because you can wear them with a variety of outfits, dressed up or down. A really good shoe! Now, I'm on a hunt for a dress to go with them. Heck, I might just wear them to dinner with some jeans and a nice top. You know, me and my hubby still go on date nights!

Happy Easter

Happy Easter!

I just love this time of year! I feel so "refreshed." Like I've been on this long journey. And I've just reached my "goal." It feels so special. And important. I'm so grateful for my religion. It's so important to me. And to my family.

I hope everyone has an amazing day! Happy Easter to you and all of your families. This has always been such a fun time of year. Everything is beginning to grow. And it feels so new and fresh. I hope you have a wonderful holiday!

Strappy Sandals

These are some shoes that I have! The Dune Bollywood Strappy Diamante Sandals, such a long name! I had to buy them for a wedding that I'm standing in. They look a little scary here. Spiky or something like that. But in reality, they're a pretty shoe. We bought them online, because the shop is the in the UK. And they cost £65, or $95. A little much if you ask me. But it's what I needed to buy for the wedding. So I forked over the $100 and prayed they fit. You just never know what you're going to get online.

Like any good bridesmaid, I tried them on immediately after Cam gave them to me. They fit well. But I've been wearing them at home. When I'm doing laundry, the dishes, or dusting. Because I'd rather have sore and blistered feet now, then on wedding day.

The shoes are actually very comfortable. I wasn't sure what to expect with the heel and the cage style front. But they really are comfortable. The spiky things you see on the front, those are diamantes. Or what us Americans call, rhinestones. :)

So I have the shoes. And I decided that I'm going to get my money's worth out of them. I decide to wear them to another wedding. About a month before. Because honestly, where else am I going to wear these sparkling gems? And we're invited to so many weddings this summer! It's relatively the same circle of friends. So I have to figure out different outfits, without breaking the bank!

We're actually invited to another formal wedding. For a young, hype, and fun couple. The color scheme is pink. And it's going to be a nice venue. So all I have to do now, is find a dress to go with these shoes. I've got about 2 months. Wish me luck!

Coasters or Potholders...Either Way, A Ton of Fun!

I found this pattern, and just had to make these coasters. Do I have a real use for them? Not really. But they came out slightly larger. Because I used a size G hook. And after sitting in a drawer, for over 2 weeks, I finally used them. :) As potholders! Tonight we cooked outside, and I used these as potholders. They really worked well, on our outdoor table. And they are absolutely a ton of fun! And a great way to use up scraps of yarn.

Egg Animals

These are just too cute! I really want to make a few of them. I could see them decorating our Easter table. Believe it or not, this is the free pattern of the day at Free Crochet. I just might have to take a study break to make a few. :)

Bunny Baskets

Aren't these adorable? These Easter basket bunnies are the free pattern today at Free Crochet. I just love them! If only I had more time to crochet. I would make a few to put around the house. But I really have to get back to studying.

Life Unexpected

I probably shouldn't be watching anymore TV. But Lola was telling me all about this new show, Life Unexpected. I started to watch it. I think I missed the first 2 or 3 episodes. But I caught up online. I had to get a little creative there. I watched 1 episode on their website. And the others on YouTube. But it's such a cute show! It reminds me a lot of Gilmore Girls. I have to admit it, I was a big fan of that show! I'm just hoping this one sticks around. I'm pretty sure, it would crush me if it got cancelled.

Ash Wednesday

What an important day today is. A time to begin our reflection. To serve our Lord. And to make the world a better place. I look forward to Ash Wednesday, and Lent every year. It's a time of renewal. When I feel most alive. I'm happy to be serving my Lord!

Mardi Gras

Today is Mardi Gras. Time to get our last minute sins out! That sounds really funny. Especially since my hubby and I don't really drink. Neither of us smoke. We don't really do too many "bad things." But we are giving up some thing for Lent. And today, is all about getting as much of those things as possible.

I've got the perfect stash of chocolate, sodas, and my favorite fried foods available. Let's hope that I don't make myself sick. My hubby and I are also planning a fun night out with friends. Nothing wild and crazy. More to just enjoy some good music!

Happy Valentine's Day

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Happy Valentine's Day! I hope your day is filled with lots of love, happiness, and lots of time with your loved ones.

There was once a time when I hated Valentine's Day. I really hated it! But now, I understand that it's more about the people that you love. Not just the "romantic love." Take some time to just love the people in your life. Whether it's romantic love, or love for your family and friends.

And if you're anything like me, you'll enjoy lots of chocolate. Maybe some flowers. And lots of time trying to get smiles from your favorite people!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Charleston Rose Blanket

I just adore this pattern. I really need to learn how to crochet quicker. And I need a break from studying. This would be the perfect blanket to cuddle up with tomorrow. Roses and your sweetheart. What more can you ask for? This is the free pattern of the day at Free Crochet.

Tulips

This time of year always has me dreaming of tulips. Lots of them! As in fields and fields of tulips. I planted some bulbs in from of our house. We have some flower boxes there. But they're barely cracking through the ground. I think they may be a little confused, with the odd weather that we've had around here.

Whenever I see lots of tulips, I dream about living somewhere in the country. Where I can plant hundreds and hundreds of them. Because, let's be honest, tulips just look better in HUGE fields!

Happy New Year!

I just want to wish everyone a very Happy New Year! I always look at the New Year as a time to "start over," and to grow. I like to set lots of goals for myself. Not short term, but the long term goals. The ones that will truly make a difference in my life.

Today my hubby and I are doing just that. Making goals for ourselves. Things that include finances, goals as a family, and things we'd like to accomplish. It's important to us. It helps us to grow not only as individuals, but as a couple.

For all of you, I hope that 2010 will bring lots of happiness. Lots of achievement. And lots of peace. All the things that are really important in life. It's all at our fingertips on this new day, and new year.

Happy New Year!