Yes, world, I'm still here

Sometimes, do you just get annoyed with writing about yourself? I do, so you can understand the lack of posting lately. However, I'm back and better than ever! Ryan and I have been trying to plan our future lately, so any thoughts I had were devoted to that, and frankly, I just didn't want to talk about it. Who knew I would become a private person?

Anways, on Sunday Ryan and I were unfortunately released as Primary Teachers for the 5 yr olds. Then, in a surprising twist, I was called to be first counselor in the Primary Presidency. Ahhh!!! I can't imagine possibly doing it without Ryan, but I'm going to give it my best shot! In honor of this, I would like to tell you all about our favorite classroom activity. Since we have 10 very active wiggle worms, we have what we call "Shake It Out Time." Ryan or I will say, "Shake It Out Time" and then "Ready, Set . . ." and when we say, "Go" all the kiddies have until we count to 10 to shake all their wiggles out. Everyone always makes noises and laughs, but when we say "TEN!" everyone sit quiet and still in their seat. I love it!

Also, I have a new car! I bought a brand new 2009 Midnight Blue Mazda 3. I've never had a brand new car before, but Ryan and I have been extra watchful over our finances, and it paid off! We love it! I've always loved little cars, and this one gets 30 miles per gallon!

New Me

Let me preface this by saying, there are 3 major football games left this season. I'm beyond excited to have my husband back!!!

Ok, now onto other things that have nothing to do with play-offs, fantasy leagues, ESPN stats, or draft picks . . .

This year, for the first year ever, I've decided to lose weight and get healthier. Now that my asthma is under control, Ryan and I have been hitting the gym almost every night! In fact, last Monday, I came home from work to find brand new hot pink running shoes (right size, too!), a new hot pink ipod nano, and an ipod armband!

Needless to say, I was ecstatic that my wonderful husband had been so thoughtful, and I was more geared up than ever to get to work! So far, I have lost 3 pounds! I must say, Ryan is joining in and has lost weight, as well! Watch out swimsuit season!!

P.S. "The Hills" spin-off "The City" is my current guilty pleasure. Check it out if you enjoy super-edited reality shows about spoiled twenty year olds!!

Camera snaps

Some of my lastest creations: Veggie Lasagna
Adam's birthday cake! Strawberry jell-o cake (thanks for the recipe, Megan!)

Our Christmas-themed dining room. I'm trying to be a good decorator!

Our Christmas tree and my new hair color. I love it! I believe every girl should have the right to be blonde once in her lifetime. I lived it, loved it, and have now moved on. Rock on sista friend :)

Just Because

Friday night Ryan and I headed up to Atlanta to attend a Christmas party hosted by our friends Charity and Derek Carter. We had so much fun! There is nothing like the company of good friends, especially during the holiday season. A couple of days before, Ryan decided to book us a night at the Westin downtown just because we had the opportunity. If you haven't been there, I highly recommend checking out the Sundial restaurant. The restaurant slowing turns, giving you a complete 360 degree view of Atlanta. The restaurant is on the 73rd floor of the hotel, and the only way to get there is to ride a glass elevator to the top. Unfortunately, the elevator's windows were blacked out because a tornado took out a lot of the windows, windows that are still been repaired. All in all, it was great! So romantic! I'm so grateful for my marriage and all the things I've learned and have yet to learn about loving someone to the fullest. I love you, honey!

Best Mashed Potato Recipe

I tried this recipe for Thanksgiving, and it was such a hit! Thank you Paula Dean and Liz!

Ingredients:
5 cups water
4 cups frozen hashbrown potatoes (shredded)
7.6 oz pkg butter & herb instant mashed potato mix
1/2 c butter
4 oz cream cheese
1 c monterey jack cheese
1/2 c sour cream
1/2 tsp garlic salt
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
2 c canned french fried onion rings

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Boil the water and add hashbrowns. Cook for 5-10 minutes. Drain.
Prepare mashed potatoes according to the package directions. Mix in the hashbrowns in a large bowl.
Soften the butter and cream cheese in the microwave. Add to the potato mixture in bowl.
Mix in jack cheese, sour cream, and seasonings.
Place in a greased 3 quart casserole dish.
bake 25-35 mins, or until golden on top.
Sprinkle the onion rings on top and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes.

Makes 8-10 servings

Tis the season, but not just because it's the season

I find myself so humbled today with my life. In these trying economic times, I have a great job, a wonderful husband, a lovely home, and a knowledge of the true gospel in my life. I'm very aware that circumstances change and are changing all over the country for millions of people who thought their life was set and job secure. My heart aches for all the people out there who are struggling because I know, at any moment, that could be me. As I learn and grow and appreciate things so much more, I grow in my love of the Thanksgiving holiday.
I found this quote today, and it has struck a chord inside me:

"The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving."

Amen to that.

Relief might be in sight

Went to an urgent care clinic yesterday since I couldn't get into see my doctor. Tonight I will have been on steroids and a new and stronger round of antibiotics for 24 hours. Hopefully, my husband will be able to sleep in the same bed as me (my humidifier and coughing are not good sleeping aids). Columbus definitely has allergy issues, so if this is going to be a reoccuring theme, I'm going to really think about my future plans here.