tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20567904101051384002024-03-05T00:19:27.639-06:00Good For a LifetimeThe Joys & Journeys of Mr. & Mrs. CarterUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-79026882373191362952012-09-26T21:05:00.000-05:002012-09-26T21:05:09.774-05:00Howdeeeee!!!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I feel it is only fair to greet everyone in our new city in the words of the infamous Minnie Pearl. Music City is wonderful and Christopher and I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to move here and call Nashville home! Christopher loves his job at The VA Hospital and I love my job at a chiropractic and wellness center.</div>
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Since our move just a mere two months ago, we have said to each other EVERY DAY, "I just love Nashville." And, that is so true! From the quaint suburbs of the city to the honky tonk bars downtown on Broadway, to the locally owned eateries and southern hospitality, we truly believe God wanted us to call this place home. </div>
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Being in a new city means visitors! </div>
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In August, we hosted a special group...our nieces and nephew! Ridge, Halie and Kennedy flew to Nashville by themselves and spent 5 days with us. We spent time exploring the city, eating Gigi's cupcakes, buying cowboy boots and preparing for a big surprise. Christopher and I took the teenagers to the Grand Ole Opry to see Carrie Underwood. It was definitely the highlight of the week. No words can describe how awesome our time was with Ridge, Halie and Kennedy!</div>
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My Mom and Dad spent Labor Day weekend with us. Again, we spent our time together exploring Nashville and Franklin. We had successful shopping days and found delicious restaurants! </div>
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...Wine Tasting at Kix Brooks' Winery, Arrington Vineyards...</div>
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...Lunch at Nolensville Amish Market...</div>
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It has also been nice being so close to Kentucky. We have been fortunate enough to spend time with Christopher's family as well.</div>
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...At the Kentucky State Fair...</div>
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And, weekend getaway trips are so easy when you're just a few hours from doing fun things!</div>
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...White Water Rafting on the Ocoee River with Amy & Nick...</div>
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...At the FedEx Golf Championship Tournament in Atlanta...</div>
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Now, that we can say Nashville is our new home, we can also say we are very close to planting some roots here too. If all goes well with the inspection and appraisal, we will be first-time homeowners at the end of November; just in time to move in before Christmas!</div>
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...Home Sweet Home...</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Needless to say, all is well in Nashville! :)</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-36064666217569111452012-07-19T10:23:00.000-05:002012-07-19T10:23:10.789-05:00My Sweet Nanny June<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">As mentioned in my previous post, we lost our sweet Nanny June on July 6. She lived a beautiful life of 87 years filled with nothing but pure love and admiration for her children, grandchildren and great-children. She was a wonderful woman who I miss so dearly everyday.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Nanny lived and breathed for her family. She loved to attend church plays, piano recitals, end of school year functions and so much more. But, what was most special to me is that Nanny attended every single dance recital of mine, with the exception of one, and she was always one of the first people to kiss, hug and congratulate me afterwards. She was a proud Nanny of all of her family!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Nanny loved Christmas. Every year, Nanny handpicked a Hallmark ornament for each great-grandchild and each unmarried grandchild. She spent hours looking through the Hallmark magazine and in the store until she found just the right one! She loved nothing more than the family Christmas party and passing out each ornament to each child. I, too, love my Hallmark ornaments and will cherish them for my entire life!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Nanny loved to spoil you. She knew what your favorite candy was, what your favorite ice-cream flavor was and even what your favorite TV show was. She was always ready for company and always had your favorite thing in the kitchen!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Nanny loved the beach. She could lay in the sun for hours soaking up all the sunshine rays. She loved to feed the seagulls, pick sea shells and build drip sandcastles. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I will miss my sweet Nanny June forever. But, I will cherish our sweet memories forever and ever. From sleepovers and late nights of playing UNO, to having her visit my home in Florida, to her falling in love with my dog Derby, to the best back scratches in the entire world, to her contagious smile and beautiful blue eyes, I will cherish these memories forever and ever. </span></div>
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<img class="goog-icon-list-icon-img" closure_uid_rsq1pl="162" height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jHf16mKsK7g/T81jfUa0gMI/AAAAAAAAGLs/Y9qU0z-vNsE/s400/IMG_1226.JPG" width="400" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-78251053687644747162012-07-13T13:22:00.001-05:002012-07-13T13:23:33.127-05:00Goodbye Spring! Hello Summer!<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This is a very outdated post, but worthy of reading. It was to be posted toward the end of May, but do to busy schedules, planning for a move, my grandmother's passing and more, pictures were never uploaded and the post sat in my "drafts" folder. Nonetheless, here it is (without pictures). </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">*****</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It's hard to believe that summer is here and June is almost over! Wow! 2012 is flying by! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Here is a recap of what the Carter's have been up to lately.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">April was filled with fun weekend roadtrips with friends. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">First, we ventured to Atlanta. We packed up the car with Brian & Amanda and our 3 dogs and made way to stay with our friends, Kim & Mike. The weekend was filled with lots of laughs, great food from Highland Bakery, The Flying Biscuit, Fox Brothers and more eateries, plus a day at Piedmont Park and a night rooting on a victory for the Atlanta Braves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Then, we traveled to Jacksonville Beach to celebrate the wedding of Matt & Marie! It was a LECOM reunion for sure. It is crazy to think in just 5 years of knowing each other, there are now 3 married couples, an engaged couple, a baby and lots of successful pharmacists! It was a great weekend of reminiscing, celebrating and having lots of fun together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The first weekend in May would not be complete without a Derby Party! We actually had a Derby-Cinco-Birthday Party...celebrating all things Christopher Carter! The Derby Party was filled with Southern eats, horse betting, and the infamous Mint Julep. After the running of the roses, we ventured downtown with friends for a Cinco de Mayo dinner. No party would be complete without celebrating a birthday; and that's just what we did. It was a great evening with friends celebrating Christopher's birthday, his Kentucky heritage and the fact that he looks Mexican.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Also in May, we ventured to Palm Beach with Christopher's family to enjoy our Christmas present from Christopher's mom, Gayle. We spent the weekend under the sun, on the beach, playing games, drinking wine and just enjoying each other's company. We always have a great time together! Thank you Gayle for a fabulous weekend!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Not long after that, Christopher and I spent the weekend in North Carolina celebrating Nanny's 87th Birthday! We were so blessed to spend the weekend with my entire family. It was Nanny's request to have the entire family at her party. Nanny suffered a stroke the end of January; recovery for her was good and she was released to live at home just a few short weeks after rehabilitation and therapy. Then, 3 months to the date, she had 2 more strokes, this time affecting her speech, gross and fine motor skills. Her birthday celebration was beautiful as she was surrounded by her family. Nanny suffered another stroke just this past weekend, further hindering her ability to swallow and care for herself. She remains in a nursing home facility and is very weak, tired and emotional. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">With the past 3 months of devotion to Nanny's health and well-being, my parents took a much needed break and spent Memorial Day weekend with Christopher and myself. It was a great weekend filled with much needed R&R for them. We did so much...as always! First, no trip to Florida would be complete without a sushi fest at our favorite restaurant, Thai Wasabi. Mom and I enjoyed a day at the Saturday Market, massages and pottery painting. Then, we surprised my parents by taking them out on a boat around Treasure Island. They enjoyed it just as much as we did! I'm so glad they were able to come and enjoy time in the Sunshine State.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">As you can see, it definitely is a dated post. Since the original draft, we have decided to move to Nashville, Tennessee as Christopher received an incredible job opportunity as a staff pharmacist at the VA Hospital. We are moving Saturday, July 21 to Music City! We just returned from North Carolina celebrating the beautiful and incredible life of my sweet Nanny June; as you read her health diminished very quickly over the past 6 months due to several strokes. I plan to write a special post just for her very soon. We hope everyone is staying cool and enjoying the hot summer days!</span> </strong></div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-13571782041135768792012-03-15T09:25:00.020-05:002012-03-15T18:56:06.702-05:00Off to a Good Year!<div style="text-align: center;"><span ><u><br /></u></span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">2012 has thus far been a year of busy weekends, time with family and friends and even a relaxing vacation!</span></div><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 100%; ">In January, we spent a day at the Magic Kingdom with some friends. We enjoyed a day at the park and a delicious birthday dinner for one of Christopher's co-residents, Amy, at the Grand Floridian. We also hosted a fun Super Bowl Party complete with tons of food, burgers and hot dogs on the grill and even a TV outside to watch the game.</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRQQBZCpcRyzqytAQYnKtCWcTtapLs0xOj6CxRW1Cbo17sv-T9hbKr4BetGCZO4eTXg53AEupDurp-Ee2DPadWLaY2nianhyphenhyphenRFHWmb5u4qKvezYsxp3_ujqAq7WQsFDHIOrTNAB8ywro/s1600/Disney.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRQQBZCpcRyzqytAQYnKtCWcTtapLs0xOj6CxRW1Cbo17sv-T9hbKr4BetGCZO4eTXg53AEupDurp-Ee2DPadWLaY2nianhyphenhyphenRFHWmb5u4qKvezYsxp3_ujqAq7WQsFDHIOrTNAB8ywro/s320/Disney.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720274078617447122" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LYlRBcsD3cI/T2J-9b17HYI/AAAAAAAAETU/FjreuxZQFFk/s1600/Disney%2B%25282%2529.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LYlRBcsD3cI/T2J-9b17HYI/AAAAAAAAETU/FjreuxZQFFk/s320/Disney%2B%25282%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720274070625000834" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrpHanXPtZ2k07w2h-eh1jMN8REHHbqT4HBe_iimpUQmoCgh34un0ONpAqfMAwabBV6jXmCxEuc2aHJ4axy11y9ez7qVEx0vyEpqukEyiEF3UqslWS1EMISoOXE_e7Rn8XeZoZ57yNRk/s1600/Disney+%25283%2529.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrpHanXPtZ2k07w2h-eh1jMN8REHHbqT4HBe_iimpUQmoCgh34un0ONpAqfMAwabBV6jXmCxEuc2aHJ4axy11y9ez7qVEx0vyEpqukEyiEF3UqslWS1EMISoOXE_e7Rn8XeZoZ57yNRk/s320/Disney+%25283%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720274070860024914" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">February was complete with a wine tasting event and dinner with friends, a week long visit from Christopher's mom, Gayle, a chili cook-off tasting in Downtown St. Pete and lots of basketball watching preparing for March Madness!</span><br /><div align="justify" style="line-height: normal; font-weight: normal; font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><br class="Apple-interchange-newline"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_NNmytROuOMJ6AkphOvf_GsjEsu_VVkxrRnFHH2q-9KSNG-fhNAi3EdXLD9Inu6tHn4PjfJ6Dzd6QMp2dNmACJom5XP6VBzuZlyOYX6mN_mT5P4zaXdEvAsCVcoWUV5ordKB9agU1xiM/s320/Wine+Tasting.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720272785325690898" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; text-decoration: underline; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cDuKgvJFElk/T2J9y8c0EeI/AAAAAAAAESs/5-MDahO5t28/s1600/Chili%2BCook%2BOff.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cDuKgvJFElk/T2J9y8c0EeI/AAAAAAAAESs/5-MDahO5t28/s320/Chili%2BCook%2BOff.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720272790887862754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a><div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; "><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-841o3w2WuAQ/T2J-9_8WLWI/AAAAAAAAETo/t8LYMjCFzmw/s1600/Dali.jpg" style="text-align: left; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-841o3w2WuAQ/T2J-9_8WLWI/AAAAAAAAETo/t8LYMjCFzmw/s320/Dali.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720274080315616610" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; "><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%; ">In preparation for March Madness, Christopher and I ventured to Gainesville to see Kentucky take on the Gators and add another 'W' to the record. We spent the weekend with our dear friend, John Thomas, and his new puppy, Duke. Duke and Derby had a great time playing, just as much fun as we had with John Thomas.</span></div></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LIqpKoWAHoU/T2KAwNF3iAI/AAAAAAAAEU0/UcvbTrBbAMk/s1600/IMAGE_8FDDC8E9-2BD1-472F-AC37-B974669BF42F.JPG" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LIqpKoWAHoU/T2KAwNF3iAI/AAAAAAAAEU0/UcvbTrBbAMk/s320/IMAGE_8FDDC8E9-2BD1-472F-AC37-B974669BF42F.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720276042350299138" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJut3JuToojz2JNCmFL1QXTlNFqH7pggl1XspH7RAbmzUCpqTQneaYTYYku7e2NSftxdPlDzESpjlLkcx8aM6Hfmbe6kSE5tqORnIH0Q6pvwBFrOD8lpnJoaBHnH7wlNch0WXjeWbyjXw/s1600/IMAGE_74BDAAEA-E29C-460F-964D-7BBBBD32992A.JPG" style="font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJut3JuToojz2JNCmFL1QXTlNFqH7pggl1XspH7RAbmzUCpqTQneaYTYYku7e2NSftxdPlDzESpjlLkcx8aM6Hfmbe6kSE5tqORnIH0Q6pvwBFrOD8lpnJoaBHnH7wlNch0WXjeWbyjXw/s320/IMAGE_74BDAAEA-E29C-460F-964D-7BBBBD32992A.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720276053362337090" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eh9HbkLgdWs/T2KAwl8ib2I/AAAAAAAAEVI/Bt3Ed8cI7MA/s1600/IMAGE_97DD888E-4E88-4FBF-B841-DFE1B72B4CD5.JPG" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eh9HbkLgdWs/T2KAwl8ib2I/AAAAAAAAEVI/Bt3Ed8cI7MA/s320/IMAGE_97DD888E-4E88-4FBF-B841-DFE1B72B4CD5.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720276049022054242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsON8LUfXAiBRl8dpNGI7cssuwSQfxZzKePBq6iqMBtSpNmaQAoMGdMHnsfHboPDLTWGSETngXW3nCxZA3EU6NRpQ7bx6bAOCv67aX2RxatZ7RMCiIy77CXOt3F_FEN2pAhIHfwjcRVE/s1600/IMAGE_39BB5AF0-A40B-40D0-BBA1-83CA6CA97688.JPG" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCsON8LUfXAiBRl8dpNGI7cssuwSQfxZzKePBq6iqMBtSpNmaQAoMGdMHnsfHboPDLTWGSETngXW3nCxZA3EU6NRpQ7bx6bAOCv67aX2RxatZ7RMCiIy77CXOt3F_FEN2pAhIHfwjcRVE/s320/IMAGE_39BB5AF0-A40B-40D0-BBA1-83CA6CA97688.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720276045249744194" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">Christopher and I just returned from a fabulous 4-day cruise to the Western Caribbean. The trip was so relaxing and so fun; we are already looking into planning our next one. He and I both had not been on cruises since our high school graduation trips, almost 10 years ago. Wow! Nonetheless, it was a great time filled with lots of sunshine, great food and drinks and sightseeing in Cozumel.</span><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fvUQsBZaQXE/T2J5UiCmT8I/AAAAAAAAEQI/FczP9RjIJw0/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252813%2529.JPG" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fvUQsBZaQXE/T2J5UiCmT8I/AAAAAAAAEQI/FczP9RjIJw0/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252813%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720267870356000706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D4ReCP51g5g/T2KAxJhRKJI/AAAAAAAAEVg/Bq7Hy4v8i0s/s1600/IMAGE_66B88B89-CCB3-417F-A658-5DA794288EE4.JPG" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D4ReCP51g5g/T2KAxJhRKJI/AAAAAAAAEVg/Bq7Hy4v8i0s/s320/IMAGE_66B88B89-CCB3-417F-A658-5DA794288EE4.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720276058571352210" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwDAYpGzU7vx93gquqCo3a6TFL1KW7VQYGryjObJHk79QSFuEY-TnyDp5TBz6BhIJRTJE7yeGpTctJZU_QTSDvk7Nx5tX4tucANTksu9naX0aTvJ0-m4tb0PQhm-7Z6mA8EQKMwiUFjI/s1600/Jewel+of+the+Seas+%252827%2529.JPG" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwDAYpGzU7vx93gquqCo3a6TFL1KW7VQYGryjObJHk79QSFuEY-TnyDp5TBz6BhIJRTJE7yeGpTctJZU_QTSDvk7Nx5tX4tucANTksu9naX0aTvJ0-m4tb0PQhm-7Z6mA8EQKMwiUFjI/s320/Jewel+of+the+Seas+%252827%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720267882691774114" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SayVAYp8IYw/T2J5Vd6Y_1I/AAAAAAAAEQg/pt3zbPWsq0Y/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252828%2529.JPG" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SayVAYp8IYw/T2J5Vd6Y_1I/AAAAAAAAEQg/pt3zbPWsq0Y/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252828%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720267886427701074" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgdPbn8ZeJgyPRRUSJ_dLipYSPqMwb1AssdT47tFw5g16eXZlskj3IjU_4_FSGccxXt9uG3GlCQSfV2I4pnJAzzkqH59j2wV3t1vfXWZ9dVyjwfGQHhEtkOb6o2Qaa7g5X96N5pW_wnM/s1600/Jewel+of+the+Seas+%252830%2529.JPG" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgdPbn8ZeJgyPRRUSJ_dLipYSPqMwb1AssdT47tFw5g16eXZlskj3IjU_4_FSGccxXt9uG3GlCQSfV2I4pnJAzzkqH59j2wV3t1vfXWZ9dVyjwfGQHhEtkOb6o2Qaa7g5X96N5pW_wnM/s320/Jewel+of+the+Seas+%252830%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720267893333238402" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ep8KQB0XtK4/T2J5WEnOOaI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/hkcemEmUuOo/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252841%2529.JPG" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ep8KQB0XtK4/T2J5WEnOOaI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/hkcemEmUuOo/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252841%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720267896816286114" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iar1A2j58PM/T2J9xfaU5TI/AAAAAAAAESM/GXmAok_zQ8I/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252849%2529.JPG" style="text-align: left; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iar1A2j58PM/T2J9xfaU5TI/AAAAAAAAESM/GXmAok_zQ8I/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252849%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720272765912933682" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Il63YKhkDR8/T2J9w9uPeoI/AAAAAAAAESA/IK-9SuThg9g/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252854%2529.JPG" style="text-align: left; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Il63YKhkDR8/T2J9w9uPeoI/AAAAAAAAESA/IK-9SuThg9g/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252854%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720272756869659266" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-20ynxnJKONY/T2J8pu1A4jI/AAAAAAAAERw/4FdNJOtfudU/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252859%2529.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-20ynxnJKONY/T2J8pu1A4jI/AAAAAAAAERw/4FdNJOtfudU/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252859%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720271533100818994" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y8V44dGpxFg/T2J9ynrPgOI/AAAAAAAAESU/K_qssMm_pBE/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252855%2529.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y8V44dGpxFg/T2J9ynrPgOI/AAAAAAAAESU/K_qssMm_pBE/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252855%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720272785311236322" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jrEn3q0t3JM/T2J8pMOnAjI/AAAAAAAAERo/ojbIteLc12s/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252879%2529.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jrEn3q0t3JM/T2J8pMOnAjI/AAAAAAAAERo/ojbIteLc12s/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%252879%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720271523812934194" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnzcIeFEbqg/T2J8o-vwpPI/AAAAAAAAERc/p-SIH71dq60/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%2528103%2529.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnzcIeFEbqg/T2J8o-vwpPI/AAAAAAAAERc/p-SIH71dq60/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%2528103%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720271520193881330" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tdlMw4LumR0/T2J8oTYX7HI/AAAAAAAAERM/S2-LJHgEPDY/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%2528104%2529.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tdlMw4LumR0/T2J8oTYX7HI/AAAAAAAAERM/S2-LJHgEPDY/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%2528104%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720271508553067634" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ptSpb127OSo/T2J8n9QlnUI/AAAAAAAAERE/vg7L1ctWu5o/s1600/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%2528118%2529.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ptSpb127OSo/T2J8n9QlnUI/AAAAAAAAERE/vg7L1ctWu5o/s320/Jewel%2Bof%2Bthe%2BSeas%2B%2528118%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720271502614830402" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; text-align: left; ">Now that Spring has sprung in Florida, we are looking forward to some beach time, planting a garden, continuing to be on the job hunt for Christopher, enjoying a beach wedding for Matt and Marie in April, traveling to West Palm Beach for a family vacation with Gayle, Gary and Brandon, cheering on the Tar Heels and Wildcats in the NCAA tournament and so much more.</span></div><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">PS - If UNC and UK make it to the Final Four, we plan to go to NOLA for the championship weekend. Monetary donations would be greatly appreciated for this venture! :)</span></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-457097961328561812012-01-09T09:27:00.018-06:002012-01-24T07:39:47.945-06:00Traveling Near and Far<div><br /><div><br /><div align="justify"><em>This post was to be published a few weeks ago, but I forgot to hit 'publish post.' Although a few weeks late, here is an upate! No pictures at this time as my computer is acting funny.</em></div><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify">Where has the time gone? It is now 2012, and more importantly the day of our second wedding anniversary, and life is good for Christopher and me. I cannot be happier with our lives as we have been so fortunate to travel, see lots of family and friends recently and just have some good ol' fashion fun!</div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_HDKRbv7hkc/Tx6twEzyvuI/AAAAAAAADes/Lw6Tp9A1hjQ/s1600/wedding"></a>As mentioned in my previous post, the end of 2011 was very busy for us!<br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify">In October, we traveled to Bowling Green, Kentucky to celebrate the marriage of Amy and Nick. Amy was in my wedding, and Chris lived with Nick for a month while on pharmacy school rotations; so, we felt very blessed to be able to witness such a joyous weekend of two great friends! It was a great celebration and a fun weekend getaway.</div><br />We also spent a weekend at the Disney Food and Wine Festival. This year we traveled around the world with our friends, Jackie and Alan. We ate way too much food, had delicious drinks and enjoyed the warm, sunny weather at Epcot.<br /><br /><br /><div align="justify">November, let's just say, was very memorable! We spent Thanksgiving weekend with my family in New York City. There was nothing like experiencing the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the hustle and bustle of the city at Christmas time and just being with my family in a different city. Our nieces and nephews were in awe of the parade and the city and were so perfect and well-behaved. We accomplished many things on the to-do list, as the Millers know how to pack in a quick weekend. On top of the parade, we also saw Santa at Macy's, went to Chinatown, rode the subway, saw a Musical, were live on TV at the Today Show, ate a Magnolia's cupcake and so much more. We would definitely recommend New York City at Thanksgiving to anyone; it should definitely be on your bucket list!</div><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify">There is one word to describe December, busy! We had something on the calendar every weekend for the month and enjoyed every minute and memory created during those weekends. </div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Firstly, we traveled to New Orleans for a pharmacy conference and fell in love with this crazy, lively, fun city. It is great for a weekend getaway. Like all of our jet-setting adventures, we saw many sites, ate great food and just had fun.</div><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify">Then, came my birthday weekend and I couldn't have been happier to not only celebrate it with Christopher, but my mom and grandmother came to visit. We did some shopping and ate sushi, of course! We also ventured to Tampa to see <em>A Christmas Story: The Musical.</em> It was just like the movie, pink bunny suit, bb gun, triple dog dare you, leg lamp and more. I am so glad I got to spend some special time with two of my favorite women!</div><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify">Next, was a weekend of Tacky Christmas parties! Christopher and I went all out by creating our own sweatshirts. Imagine, your favorite elementary school teacher...glitter, sequins, bedazzled jewels and more! We decided these are going to be our go-to party outfits every Christmas, and we will add something new each year, only to make it more tacky and beautiful!</div><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify">Then, it was Christmas weekend! What better way to spend the weekend than with both of our families. Although the majority of our time was spent on the road traveling to Kentucky and North Carolina, I don't think we would trade it for anything. We had a great time seeing our families, spending time with each other on the road and just celebrating the real meaning of Christmas.</div><br /><br /><div align="justify">To bring in the New Year, we spent it with Christopher's co-workers. Amanda, a co-worker and a great friend, celebrated her birthday on New Year's Eve. It was a great, Mardi Gras themed birthday bash on the beach at Treasure Island.</div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Now that 2012 is here, we are looking forward to seeing what God provides and where He takes us. Christopher's residency program ends in June, which means we are on the job hunt. We are open to any opportunity (within reason and Christopher's liking toward his career goals), but our first choice is to move Western North Carolina (Charlotte or Winston Salem areas). However, we are okay with staying in the St. Pete/Tampa area for just a little bit longer. All situations in the past similar to this have worked out for the best, so we will just wait and see what God's plans are. </div><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">We hope 2012 is off to a great start for you and that life is good as well! </div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-68578776098888792052011-10-05T08:46:00.027-05:002011-10-11T20:11:31.533-05:00Keeping up with the Carters<div style="text-align: justify;">Wow! I have gotten really bad at this blog update thing. So, here goes another long-winded, yet filled with fun details all about our summer, update!</div><br /><strong>JUNE</strong><br /><br /><div align="justify">We have a Doctor in the house! Christopher graduated from pharmacy school on June 5. It was a memorable weekend filled with many of the family and friends that we love dearly. We could not have asked for a happier celebration to celebrate all of Christopher's hard work and dedication. After all the festivities, we were fortunate enough to have both of our moms stay a little bit longer to help us pack for our move to Saint Petersburg. Their help was greatly appreciated by Christopher and me! </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCqNmIl8CILjxGXlEpHk3v_Eqi8IlR8G6WEf2C6hKJeI8xM1klW8zSJSowRWzIve7yiQs5K5xZyNmD61yIzlhEREvMQTL_cWBi0MbPos629cJ-4ZSmUE9zLnqrtHP-zLXNAtubfLaBgs/s1600/Graduation+%25282%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCqNmIl8CILjxGXlEpHk3v_Eqi8IlR8G6WEf2C6hKJeI8xM1klW8zSJSowRWzIve7yiQs5K5xZyNmD61yIzlhEREvMQTL_cWBi0MbPos629cJ-4ZSmUE9zLnqrtHP-zLXNAtubfLaBgs/s320/Graduation+%25282%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662394690593771202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJQNWyNMRcQ/TpTeBWY0qII/AAAAAAAAB-g/JaDoKeoQ1ho/s320/Graduation%2B%252840%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662394746282485890" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IW7f-Wppu_I/TpTe2duEuuI/AAAAAAAAB-w/Ozj3LDvwwL4/s1600/Graduation%2B%252844%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IW7f-Wppu_I/TpTe2duEuuI/AAAAAAAAB-w/Ozj3LDvwwL4/s320/Graduation%2B%252844%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662395658783734498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px; " /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jQQCUObrF-o/TpTd_6p-uxI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/LuseHnF9xz0/s1600/Graduation%2B%252835%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jQQCUObrF-o/TpTd_6p-uxI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/LuseHnF9xz0/s320/Graduation%2B%252835%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662394721658387218" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5kurzNBGotc/TpTd-34Q-ZI/AAAAAAAAB-I/B3TxUhK5hQE/s1600/Graduation%2B%252830%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5kurzNBGotc/TpTd-34Q-ZI/AAAAAAAAB-I/B3TxUhK5hQE/s320/Graduation%2B%252830%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662394703733127570" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis19N9iILWBY8U2oMt0hl7ymHWszXEOnQ0y3l8iTAOgvv1-adZULLZ94Knu_WwlOgXarlNy9miZa-IRPgnUgvUPyFaPiVVWGeSibWYCxdWkl4Lf2vnQdZ_0w05Hf3Zv9rHzU6GjEd5ixU/s1600/Graduation+%252822%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis19N9iILWBY8U2oMt0hl7ymHWszXEOnQ0y3l8iTAOgvv1-adZULLZ94Knu_WwlOgXarlNy9miZa-IRPgnUgvUPyFaPiVVWGeSibWYCxdWkl4Lf2vnQdZ_0w05Hf3Zv9rHzU6GjEd5ixU/s320/Graduation+%252822%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662394694194120018" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><div align="justify">While Christopher spent most of the month of June studying for his board examinations, I took some time off from work and went to North Carolina for a week. I celebrated my best friend from college, Ashley, and her upcoming marriage at her bachelorette party in Wilmington. We celebrated her in great taste by visiting Duplin winery, soaking up some sun on Figure Eight Island and eating fabulous food all weekend long. After the bachelorette festivities, I spent some time at home with my family. It is always great to catch up with them!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0G2mrFhcAgs/TpTe34Mg0YI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/sEdsS_EQ5Lc/s1600/Ashley%2BBachelorette%2B%252853%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0G2mrFhcAgs/TpTe34Mg0YI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/sEdsS_EQ5Lc/s320/Ashley%2BBachelorette%2B%252853%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662395683070595458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Carolina Girls...Best in the World</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><u><br /></u></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrdQxqEcaps/TpTe28pGFxI/AAAAAAAAB-8/5JrvMj9D6NQ/s1600/Ashley%2BBachelorette%2B%25282%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrdQxqEcaps/TpTe28pGFxI/AAAAAAAAB-8/5JrvMj9D6NQ/s320/Ashley%2BBachelorette%2B%25282%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662395667084351250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Lunch & Wine Tasting at Duplin Winery</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxW9JW4gME2F8YgSc3EX2Uqw-antW2cPIsBvDdqNrw2ipzR1Gsn_uvv8oaJrMUILjGwH2ix1mD7gRq6fA8MIx8UT1EBmr_zRoUHJ1qHyD7a3NNCieP9XPMXA6ObipUHJUOZVKdKGMLGk/s1600/Ashley+Bachelorette+%252849%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxW9JW4gME2F8YgSc3EX2Uqw-antW2cPIsBvDdqNrw2ipzR1Gsn_uvv8oaJrMUILjGwH2ix1mD7gRq6fA8MIx8UT1EBmr_zRoUHJ1qHyD7a3NNCieP9XPMXA6ObipUHJUOZVKdKGMLGk/s320/Ashley+Bachelorette+%252849%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662395669590184818" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Out on the Town in Wrightsville Beach</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_JuCH0x6Nd4/TpTe5EWZM8I/AAAAAAAAB_g/LUXe_doe_oU/s320/Ashley%2BBachelorette%2B%252833%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662395703513134018" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Pi Love </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rpli6U01H3w/TpTokofc5FI/AAAAAAAACDs/cquYJxKGZIs/s1600/NC%2B%25285%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rpli6U01H3w/TpTokofc5FI/AAAAAAAACDs/cquYJxKGZIs/s320/NC%2B%25285%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662406347553825874" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gracie & I at the Pool</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLtTZcfZTuIQpPftWNerQY2HHM5weYa-8hDLWTai_axhbZk1Uc97_3kgQ0WEd8cJTL5jdkvITgFi-BMRTXCkjHlUJE2E9VNOhEiT1CwvRS11D9zeOlc5IyvT4sk5JZdG1a1Pw24EVpds/s1600/NC+%25282%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLtTZcfZTuIQpPftWNerQY2HHM5weYa-8hDLWTai_axhbZk1Uc97_3kgQ0WEd8cJTL5jdkvITgFi-BMRTXCkjHlUJE2E9VNOhEiT1CwvRS11D9zeOlc5IyvT4sk5JZdG1a1Pw24EVpds/s320/NC+%25282%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662406342742113874" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Kai & I Riding in Grandma's Car</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><strong>JULY</strong></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The first weekend in July, we made our "big" move to Saint Petersburg into our adorable, bungalow home in the historic district known as Old Northeast. It is a quaint old home with hardwood floors, a claw-footed bath tub, a fenced in backyard and everything is just our size! We absolutely love the area and feel we can make this area our home.</div><br /><div align="justify">Christopher began his residency program July 5 and has hit the ground running in the program. He absolutely loves the VA Hospital, the staff and his co-residents. I think it has been a great fit for him. </div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I made a professional decision and left my job at Massage Heights. Between the extensive commute to Sarasota, and the unknown expected opening date of the Brandon location, I accepted a position at a managed health care company in downtown Saint Petersburg. It was an excellent decision! I am working for the Human Resources department and am learning new working skills and things about the company everyday. I am hoping to continue to plant more roots in the ground, so to speak, and continue to grow with this company.</div><br /><div align="justify"><strong>AUGUST</strong></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We got to experience our first taste of what its like to be a professional as we attended a pharmacy conference in Orlando. Christopher represented the VA Hospital in hopes of recruiting current pharmacy students for the 2012 residency program. It's a life we can get used to...free car rental (we'll ignore the fact that it was a minivan) and a free night's stay in the hotel. Thank you US Government! Jackie and Alan also participated in the conference; so we were able to enjoy some time with them and ate some great sushi at Dragonfly. We couldn't go to Orlando without seeing Gary and Brandon. They treated us to a fabulous celebration dinner at Ruth Chris' steakhouse; it was a great evening filled with fantastic food and wine. And, of course, our weekend would not be complete without them if we didn't play games!</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FIYhlQobtIA/TpTj5ClZ3HI/AAAAAAAAB_s/iRzCF-WjaNI/s1600/1000000498.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FIYhlQobtIA/TpTj5ClZ3HI/AAAAAAAAB_s/iRzCF-WjaNI/s320/1000000498.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401200597359730" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">The Famous Godzilla Roll</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H5Od-Rnxbl0/TpTj5VWRBEI/AAAAAAAAB_4/W_38sYPFJnA/s1600/IMAGE_1000000501.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H5Od-Rnxbl0/TpTj5VWRBEI/AAAAAAAAB_4/W_38sYPFJnA/s320/IMAGE_1000000501.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401205634139202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><div align="justify">Christopher's residency class has lovingly named time that we (spouses and loved ones included) spend together outside of the hospital "Spring Break Sunday." We have cooked out, gone on boats, played games, eaten pizza, etc. It has been a great way for all of us to get to know each other and spend quality time together. </div><br /><strong>SEPTEMBER</strong><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">With some time off for Labor Day weekend, my parents took advantage of the holiday and drove down to see us. It was a great weekend packed full of things...from shopping at the outlets, to eating sushi, to playing games, to painting the inside our house! We certainly know how to do a few things in a short amount of time.</div><br />We got to spend an afternoon with our favorite football-watching family, the Bradleys. Boone has gotten to be quite the big boy and we loved our time with them!<br /><br /><div align="justify">Earlier in the year, Jackie, Alan, Christopher and I purchased a Groupon for a catamaren adventure in Tampa Bay. We spent a Sunday morning on the open sea with fabulous weather, food, drinks and company! It was so much fun and I am pretty sure we will do it again one day!</div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrRYYd0pctU/TpTlXw5SJxI/AAAAAAAACCU/o3dEAvANOkM/s1600/100_3089.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrRYYd0pctU/TpTlXw5SJxI/AAAAAAAACCU/o3dEAvANOkM/s320/100_3089.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662402827936474898" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0mrIY9EQEh4/TpTlXXDmeoI/AAAAAAAACCI/iDk6t5BA3TY/s1600/100_3097.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0mrIY9EQEh4/TpTlXXDmeoI/AAAAAAAACCI/iDk6t5BA3TY/s320/100_3097.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662402821000428162" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xm8n6hHsuZE/TpTlXGVP2oI/AAAAAAAACB8/OKeIpjxNh5Q/s1600/100_3088-1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xm8n6hHsuZE/TpTlXGVP2oI/AAAAAAAACB8/OKeIpjxNh5Q/s320/100_3088-1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662402816511040130" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cbx1r4hEmw4/TpTlWIBoE0I/AAAAAAAACB0/-cWRb3U1wwk/s1600/100_3086.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cbx1r4hEmw4/TpTlWIBoE0I/AAAAAAAACB0/-cWRb3U1wwk/s320/100_3086.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662402799785743170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><u><br /></u></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MRfACoSfEqY/TpTkl3MAd9I/AAAAAAAACAo/qB4V1C-SzMw/s1600/IMAGE_1000000564.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MRfACoSfEqY/TpTkl3MAd9I/AAAAAAAACAo/qB4V1C-SzMw/s320/IMAGE_1000000564.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401970632161234" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Derek Jeter's Home - The Size of a Best Buy</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><u><br /></u></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXu8VHLc7Fr1hfJtwWV3oaTiauGwOvodIoCYLEu34lSUGGiAkJFyP_LAF79kYThWLchKqx1UxGERX7nrNy5j4ftGFEZRK_2ZBuVgr-k8c7OUlNQKMr3vBNTD8NiGHyiZI7Q5SdHSpX0oc/s1600/IMAGE_1000000563.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXu8VHLc7Fr1hfJtwWV3oaTiauGwOvodIoCYLEu34lSUGGiAkJFyP_LAF79kYThWLchKqx1UxGERX7nrNy5j4ftGFEZRK_2ZBuVgr-k8c7OUlNQKMr3vBNTD8NiGHyiZI7Q5SdHSpX0oc/s320/IMAGE_1000000563.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401231031958306" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ve-53EHBzAU/TpTj6TquTJI/AAAAAAAACAQ/NXiH6bf95S8/s1600/IMAGE_1000000562.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ve-53EHBzAU/TpTj6TquTJI/AAAAAAAACAQ/NXiH6bf95S8/s320/IMAGE_1000000562.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401222362942610" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Vu5K94WldI/TpTj53ci-yI/AAAAAAAACAE/xH2H6PIpoW0/s1600/IMAGE_1000000560.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Vu5K94WldI/TpTj53ci-yI/AAAAAAAACAE/xH2H6PIpoW0/s320/IMAGE_1000000560.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401214787287842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div align="justify">I made a quick 48 hour trip home to North Carolina to celebrate Ashley and Andrew's wedding. It was everything Carolina and was absolutely beautiful and perfect for the two of them! I was truly honored and felt so special being able to come and be a part of a wedding where two people truly care about and love each other.</div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty9BUaXbfOU/TpTklwnYhCI/AAAAAAAACA4/PfWvEt15Yq0/s1600/IMAGE_1000000578.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty9BUaXbfOU/TpTklwnYhCI/AAAAAAAACA4/PfWvEt15Yq0/s320/IMAGE_1000000578.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401968867935266" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My Beautiful Niece, Kennedy</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-44MXnUOrJvY/TpTknfYIcZI/AAAAAAAACBQ/ZYhaShy3kqI/s1600/IMAGE_1000000592.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-44MXnUOrJvY/TpTknfYIcZI/AAAAAAAACBQ/ZYhaShy3kqI/s320/IMAGE_1000000592.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401998600302994" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">The Gorgeous Bride!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><u><br /></u></span></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-83tw3CiYj3Y/TpTknNdo8oI/AAAAAAAACBA/vRiBEuYsBKk/s1600/IMAGE_1000000586.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-83tw3CiYj3Y/TpTknNdo8oI/AAAAAAAACBA/vRiBEuYsBKk/s320/IMAGE_1000000586.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662401993791566466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><div align="justify">Christopher's family came to visit us last weekend. Again, another packed weekend of fun for us! From shopping, to playing games, to spending time outside, to family portraits in Palmetto, we had a great time together.<br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">I have recently developed an interest in cupcake making. I have brainstormed ideas and have begun playing in the kitchen. I think Christopher loves having weekly treats to munch on! In my dream world, I will one day open a shop called <em>Sweet Southern Comfort</em> and all its yummy treats will be inspired by the fabulous cities of the South. Take a look at some of my creations!</div><div align="justify"><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ye7gmdrfNY/TpTlWGxisnI/AAAAAAAACBk/qNvD5WL0MnQ/s1600/IMAGE_1000000554.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ye7gmdrfNY/TpTlWGxisnI/AAAAAAAACBk/qNvD5WL0MnQ/s320/IMAGE_1000000554.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662402799449846386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The Memphis - Banana Cupcake with Peanut Butter Frosting</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhFjuzI2YEsWq3DuyQhxxuxgvbjKvgda6Kc3voYzGmj1UKEfrLFeOG5JyWytxWBsIrvmji_1h342y9FhZlBrd9fTHdkblJa5MqRwGEh4Fqehp8o4a3dQAod2hibRh-L6C5kgC3TlFcks/s1600/IMAGE_1000000597.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhFjuzI2YEsWq3DuyQhxxuxgvbjKvgda6Kc3voYzGmj1UKEfrLFeOG5JyWytxWBsIrvmji_1h342y9FhZlBrd9fTHdkblJa5MqRwGEh4Fqehp8o4a3dQAod2hibRh-L6C5kgC3TlFcks/s320/IMAGE_1000000597.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662402008600570338" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">The Louisville - Chocolate Bourbon Cupcake with Chocolate Frosting - Topped with Pecans</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_o1Zs4PHPI/TpTolDQp86I/AAAAAAAACD8/0e1moaV_i94/s1600/IMAGE_1000000606.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_o1Zs4PHPI/TpTolDQp86I/AAAAAAAACD8/0e1moaV_i94/s320/IMAGE_1000000606.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662406354739524514" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The DC - Spice Cupcake Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting - Filled with Apple Pie Filling</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="justify">Now, that you are yet again caught up with the Carters, we hope this update finds everyone doing well and getting ready for the fall, and even, holidays season! It is hard to believe Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner! We will be traveling A LOT in the next coming weeks...Amy and Nick's wedding in Kentucky, Orlando for Epcot's Food and Wine Festival, Thanksgiving in New York City with the Miller family, New Orleans for Midyear Pharmacy conference and a quick drive to Kentucky and North Carolina for Christmas. As they say, it's the most wonderful time of the year!</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><strong></strong></div></div></div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-5917016584422386542011-05-24T17:51:00.016-05:002011-05-24T19:30:47.782-05:00Long Overdue!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gcw37r2AKV8/TdxJllq1jsI/AAAAAAAABHE/Ejdc4QkK0RQ/s1600/photo.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, so much for keeping my new year's resolution. I guess that is the way most of them work out anyway...good intentions, but not enough time. So, to recap the past 4 months, I believe bullet points are sufficient (Right, Kimmy?!)...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">----------------------------------------------------------</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christopher spent his January pharmacy rotation at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We hosted a Super Bowl party complete with hotdogs, hamburgers and all the "fixins."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLZ9wBBUlpyJ8EoZB3msqcTpB33FhPF5Fxg5Vw_0VyMVN-C1JcwJAzn4gRQk8w0AbdjmiZYSsNnhKSvQ_vk770iyNmowrc6SUbRL9DWqI_EpBA2R8Nz05aHikrBowZrnlWBt_wcOcuIw/s320/1000000077.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610435708935915762" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christopher applied to 7 residency programs and received 4 interview offers...1 in Kentucky, 1 in North Carolina and 2 in Florida.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christopher spent his 2 final rotations in Kentucky. He was able to enjoy quality time with family and friends, eat gingerbread men and drink great coffee from the Hub. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I had the joy of experiencing my first call to jury duty. After spending 8 hours in the courthouse lobby waiting to be called for questioning, I was not asked. Thank goodness for iPhones and new apps!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My mom came to visit me for a week while Christopher was away. We thoroughly enjoyed our time together exploring Venice, the Ringling Museum, eating great food, doing lots of shopping and getting facials. It was a lot of great mother-daughter time with lots of laughter and fun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-adu31ePbcAc/TdxFjxaIUTI/AAAAAAAABDI/y00ewhaATpo/s1600/DSCF0048.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-adu31ePbcAc/TdxFjxaIUTI/AAAAAAAABDI/y00ewhaATpo/s320/DSCF0048.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610435716657467698" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GXvimfxkR4I/TdxFji246XI/AAAAAAAABDA/_9b53BNcbHs/s1600/DSCF0041.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GXvimfxkR4I/TdxFji246XI/AAAAAAAABDA/_9b53BNcbHs/s320/DSCF0041.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610435712751561074" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christopher matched at Bay Pines Veteran Affairs Hospital in St. Petersburg.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I spent a long weekend in Kentucky with Christopher. We toured bourbon distilleries with our good friends, Amy & Nick. We also ate at the infamous Wallace Station and watched the disappointing Final Four basketball game in downtown Lexington. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sEsuoya2EZU/TdxGI400zjI/AAAAAAAABDw/nrlO9TdZ2Wg/s1600/1000000223.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sEsuoya2EZU/TdxGI400zjI/AAAAAAAABDw/nrlO9TdZ2Wg/s320/1000000223.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610436354303643186" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qESc9Q3bCSo/TdxGISLhqlI/AAAAAAAABDo/3klUCLysKw0/s1600/1000000219.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qESc9Q3bCSo/TdxGISLhqlI/AAAAAAAABDo/3klUCLysKw0/s320/1000000219.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610436343929875026" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 320px; " /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NNin7MNTnU4/TdxGIACPS4I/AAAAAAAABDg/8MGBmZlzncc/s1600/1000000214.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NNin7MNTnU4/TdxGIACPS4I/AAAAAAAABDg/8MGBmZlzncc/s320/1000000214.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610436339059084162" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Gayle, Christopher's mom, came to visit me for a weekend. We, too, had a great time shopping and eating great food.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Before Christopher's return to Bradenton, he spent some time in Atlanta. He visited with his distant cousin, Cheryl, and her family, as well as our friends Brady & Sean. I think it was a great taste to the city life we are about to endure!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Once Christopher returned home, we set out to find our "new" home in St. Petersburg. We spent numerous hours on the Internet and the phone as well as traveling to the area several nights per week in search of a home. Finally, after 3 weeks of searching, we found a home that will be perfect for us. We will be moving to an area called Old Northeast, which is part of the historic district of St. Petersburg. Imagine brick streets, oak trees covered with moss and picket fences; that's the neighborhood we will be living in. We are excited we will be able to walk to the beach, shops, restaurants, bars and church. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gcw37r2AKV8/TdxJllq1jsI/AAAAAAAABHE/Ejdc4QkK0RQ/s1600/photo.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gcw37r2AKV8/TdxJllq1jsI/AAAAAAAABHE/Ejdc4QkK0RQ/s320/photo.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610440145912565442" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We have ventured to the beach a few time to enjoy the Florida sunshine.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Earlier in the year, we purchased a 4-day Disney pass. On May 1, we visited Animal Kingdom. The weather was perfect for the rides, the food and seeing the exotic animals.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify; "><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IogpHHZ7LtI/TdxFkS8TyWI/AAAAAAAABDQ/cYKKnUZJjUI/s1600/Animal%2BKingdom%2B%252824%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IogpHHZ7LtI/TdxFkS8TyWI/AAAAAAAABDQ/cYKKnUZJjUI/s320/Animal%2BKingdom%2B%252824%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610435725659195746" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yBWdIBNC8Yo/TdxFkhUX3WI/AAAAAAAABDY/sKqCaND0mkA/s1600/Animal%2BKingdom%2B%25282%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yBWdIBNC8Yo/TdxFkhUX3WI/AAAAAAAABDY/sKqCaND0mkA/s320/Animal%2BKingdom%2B%25282%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610435729518222690" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IogpHHZ7LtI/TdxFkS8TyWI/AAAAAAAABDQ/cYKKnUZJjUI/s1600/Animal%2BKingdom%2B%252824%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div>This past Saturday, we went to Disney's Hollywood Studios and spent the evening with Gary & Brandon playing games and drinking wine. We always have a good time with them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-djj0vzdPJwc/TdxGJPQEhPI/AAAAAAAABD4/DB75yU_Afj4/s320/Orlando%2B-%2BHollywood%2BStudios%2B%25284%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610436360323499250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-awF7QXwkSFc/TdxGJfha5pI/AAAAAAAABEA/M6suOknVXpQ/s320/Orlando%2B-%2BHollywood%2BStudios%2B%25283%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610436364691236498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We just returned this evening from a weekend getaway to St. Augustine. I surprised Christopher by taking him there for his graduation gift. We had an incredible time in the old city touring by bicycles, sightseeing, eating TOO much food and staying at an adorable B&B. We definitely plan to return as we said it is one of new favorite cities. We also have decided we will be purchasing bicycles when we move to St. Petersburg. It is the way to travel the town!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><u><br /></u></span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CoZAr3t6E_c/TdxIU88PdQI/AAAAAAAABFw/DFam0wifRVw/s1600/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%2528123%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CoZAr3t6E_c/TdxIU88PdQI/AAAAAAAABFw/DFam0wifRVw/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%2528123%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610438760590177538" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55oISRH-V7qDjWi0Y4xyNlXrbinIQDmIQF-YkCf6LuBnwiqAqH0CpYWi_I1BGhO4sgI1DVbdQhOkvgtD84CFzwxE_xfGJuYJAUBv0gmwgo3wB5rfnvN4-fQS9Eo1vn7tCcA8phSfuRdA/s320/Saint+Augustine+%252819%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437134318050338" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkW3PbrKQFc/TdxG2hroePI/AAAAAAAABEQ/dTVJ27_Rl7w/s1600/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252825%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkW3PbrKQFc/TdxG2hroePI/AAAAAAAABEQ/dTVJ27_Rl7w/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252825%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437138365053170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--t7a0h4F374/TdxJlXBi1-I/AAAAAAAABG8/OlWl90GVxLQ/s1600/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252814%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--t7a0h4F374/TdxJlXBi1-I/AAAAAAAABG8/OlWl90GVxLQ/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252814%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610440141981276130" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x8vUdROIrRo/TdxJlNE0kqI/AAAAAAAABG0/YnIS61eq4vc/s1600/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252816%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x8vUdROIrRo/TdxJlNE0kqI/AAAAAAAABG0/YnIS61eq4vc/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252816%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610440139310666402" style="text-align: justify; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbIMsej4zyCE7aN_GXBnWZ25R8KCrE7TCwRXGTWmuZkC-2rRKMXfU2eR_fFiIGLt3QuzaQ42CnSZlUnR3LEaE8UdNeNfJqVKuQkJvcd7WaIJIHvTC6cUGuhavujklrV0o5WLzx9iX_QY/s1600/Saint+Augustine+%252835%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbIMsej4zyCE7aN_GXBnWZ25R8KCrE7TCwRXGTWmuZkC-2rRKMXfU2eR_fFiIGLt3QuzaQ42CnSZlUnR3LEaE8UdNeNfJqVKuQkJvcd7WaIJIHvTC6cUGuhavujklrV0o5WLzx9iX_QY/s320/Saint+Augustine+%252835%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437143206562146" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8v5df0-0WGY/TdxJk270M9I/AAAAAAAABGs/7kvS_tolkN4/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252831%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610440133367313362" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "></span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BwkbffOQtfc/TdxG3OWSi2I/AAAAAAAABEg/XKeHZWubcPY/s1600/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252843%2529.JPG" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); " onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BwkbffOQtfc/TdxG3OWSi2I/AAAAAAAABEg/XKeHZWubcPY/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252843%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437150355131234" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></a></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-9QgSxMVWoHxRfz8tFSgLYpNIQDJzE3sE0zxJuxx4XqcR8FvX2TyTSH-I0_zHr0yZGdmXna2f1Qj22nm8ZGJKm9Zq9gxLzal2zZJ7_UW9_6pkCom232hCutWvFsKY-NdrFUcVeHNZxg/s320/Saint+Augustine+%252852%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437152355966722" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></span><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BeiVcdUtNYo/TdxHiFATGCI/AAAAAAAABEw/lIx3aRTly3A/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252863%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437886581348386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px; " /></span></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVb1c-9aeLo/TdxHibdmRBI/AAAAAAAABE4/atF3g9KRBZg/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252869%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437892609819666" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxzFYwkQg6w/TdxHiviME3I/AAAAAAAABFA/TYqtFo5FzoY/s1600/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252875%2529.JPG" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); " onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxzFYwkQg6w/TdxHiviME3I/AAAAAAAABFA/TYqtFo5FzoY/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252875%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437897997783922" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" ></span><span class="Apple-style-span" ></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnA8Y9J-rMlqkPh-EDgp2Q-6ZXvlNpolvoN2QKqXc7XVlqo4afGrtrQe3KvH5RwTcN8tzZgB9M8if3l_d-oZtTvoeaWZjA6-PozdM9ay2cCQOxkSFTuStY5HW9qfA39pI-mIORwEfeTA/s1600/Saint+Augustine+%252898%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnA8Y9J-rMlqkPh-EDgp2Q-6ZXvlNpolvoN2QKqXc7XVlqo4afGrtrQe3KvH5RwTcN8tzZgB9M8if3l_d-oZtTvoeaWZjA6-PozdM9ay2cCQOxkSFTuStY5HW9qfA39pI-mIORwEfeTA/s320/Saint+Augustine+%252898%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610438750564138946" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I4jahvU09KE/TdxHi5Ge5mI/AAAAAAAABFI/1DOpNRv87qw/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252878%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437900565931618" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center; "><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClZjE4nDP-I/TdxHjQylFDI/AAAAAAAABFQ/e0nUbBYT7E4/s1600/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252888%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClZjE4nDP-I/TdxHjQylFDI/AAAAAAAABFQ/e0nUbBYT7E4/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%252888%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610437906924901426" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q35JOul1r6c/TdxIUvzhPkI/AAAAAAAABFo/HKnKkfvRXPo/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%2528116%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610438757063933506" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JmFCK353yvA/TdxJkjW2C5I/AAAAAAAABGk/J-I1zjcw7mg/s320/Saint%2BAugustine%2B%2528114%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610440128111971218" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55oISRH-V7qDjWi0Y4xyNlXrbinIQDmIQF-YkCf6LuBnwiqAqH0CpYWi_I1BGhO4sgI1DVbdQhOkvgtD84CFzwxE_xfGJuYJAUBv0gmwgo3wB5rfnvN4-fQS9Eo1vn7tCcA8phSfuRdA/s1600/Saint+Augustine+%252819%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-awF7QXwkSFc/TdxGJfha5pI/AAAAAAAABEA/M6suOknVXpQ/s1600/Orlando%2B-%2BHollywood%2BStudios%2B%25283%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-djj0vzdPJwc/TdxGJPQEhPI/AAAAAAAABD4/DB75yU_Afj4/s1600/Orlando%2B-%2BHollywood%2BStudios%2B%25284%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-djj0vzdPJwc/TdxGJPQEhPI/AAAAAAAABD4/DB75yU_Afj4/s1600/Orlando%2B-%2BHollywood%2BStudios%2B%25284%2529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">----------------------------------------------------------</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, now that you are all caught up, I will let you in on what is in the future in case I frequent this website later as opposed to sooner...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christopher is graduating from pharmacy school Sunday, June 5.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We are moving to St. Petersburg July 1.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christopher begins his residency July 5.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have been offered and have been accepted the position as Retreat Director at a new Massage Heights in Brandon, Florida. I am very honored and happy about this position. The Retreat will open later this fall. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Until next time, we hope everyone is doing well, loving life and having fun! We certainly are! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-11837068747929334332011-01-16T18:46:00.007-06:002011-01-16T19:09:11.042-06:00Happy 2011!<div style="text-align: justify;">Wow! Again, I am really terrible and have gotten oh-so-slack at the blog updates. Anyway, it is a new year and a new decade. Double Wow!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To recap...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Our Christmas season was great! We enjoyed visiting our families in Kentucky and North Carolina. We are so blessed and fortunate to be able to travel in one week's time and feel the immense love from our families and friends. We spent 2 days in Kentucky eating gingerbread men, enduring the cold weather and celebrating Christmas twice. On Christmas Eve, we drove to North Carolina where we celebrated Christmas. What was supposed to be another 2 night visit, turned into a 4 night visit due to the 15 inches of snow that fell on the 26th. It was the most beautiful snowfall I had ever seen. After being snowed-in for a few days, we were able to safely get back on the road and head to Bradenton just in time to celebrate the New Year.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">New Year's was a quiet evening. We celebrated with our friends Jackie and Alan. It was an evening of lots of laughs, good food and plenty of champagne!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here's a triple wow! Our first anniversary was last weekend. It is so hard to believe that it was a year ago that we celebrated such a special day with our families and friends. We can only smile and laugh when looking at this past year, and smile even more to know that our futures are so bright. We celebrated all weekend long; we ate a great dinner on the riverfront in Bradenton and then played with Mickey and friends at the Magic Kingdom. It was a great way to celebrate such a special day!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As 2011 is in full swing, we are excited to see what this year brings. Here's just a few highlights of the year to come:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">- We have begun the P90X workout regimen (If the results are what they say they will be, we will be happy to share those pictures).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Christopher is graduating from pharmacy school in June (Time sure does fly by).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- We will be moving to a new home (either St. Petersburg, Winston Salem, Charlotte, Wilmington or Lexington) in July.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We hope that 2011 only brings happiness and good health to you and your loved one. We look forward to hearing from you soon as we hope to continue to keep you in touch with the Carter family (I guess I can make that my new year's resolution). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhWtM4AI/AAAAAAAAAc0/zmIe5qXHWkU/s320/232323232-fp73399-nu%253D3383-476-274-WSNRCG%253D3364-8-935346nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562954364996083714" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Walking in a Winter Wonderland</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhUv2JsI/AAAAAAAAAc8/KLxmZPWuW9U/s1600/232323232-fp538-8-nu%253D3383-476-274-WSNRCG%253D3364-8%253B%253B9-346nu0mrj.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhUv2JsI/AAAAAAAAAc8/KLxmZPWuW9U/s320/232323232-fp538-8-nu%253D3383-476-274-WSNRCG%253D3364-8%253B%253B9-346nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562954364470306498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Our Beautiful Nieces & Nephews</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center; "><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVh3HHjHI/AAAAAAAAAdE/hXUarGqpLzQ/s1600/Anniversary.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVh3HHjHI/AAAAAAAAAdE/hXUarGqpLzQ/s320/Anniversary.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562954373694721138" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 241px; " /></a></div><div>One Year Later</div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVilCPgrI/AAAAAAAAAdU/s4HyzcZ6SvU/s1600/Magic%2BKingdom%2B%252817%2529.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVilCPgrI/AAAAAAAAAdU/s4HyzcZ6SvU/s320/Magic%2BKingdom%2B%252817%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562954386022302386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a>Where Dreams Really Do Come True</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhz8sQRI/AAAAAAAAAdM/VJRaXKEahB4/s1600/Magic%2BKingdom%2B%252814%2529.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhz8sQRI/AAAAAAAAAdM/VJRaXKEahB4/s320/Magic%2BKingdom%2B%252814%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562954372845682962" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even Mickey Knew It Was Our Anniversary</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhWtM4AI/AAAAAAAAAc0/zmIe5qXHWkU/s1600/232323232-fp73399-nu%253D3383-476-274-WSNRCG%253D3364-8-935346nu0mrj.jpg"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhWtM4AI/AAAAAAAAAc0/zmIe5qXHWkU/s1600/232323232-fp73399-nu%253D3383-476-274-WSNRCG%253D3364-8-935346nu0mrj.jpg"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVx-K-6OI/AAAAAAAAAdc/B-0F3E7c8qg/s1600/Magic%2BKingdom%2B%252816%2529.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVx-K-6OI/AAAAAAAAAdc/B-0F3E7c8qg/s320/Magic%2BKingdom%2B%252816%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562954650467887330" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Lunch Date at the Magic Kingdom</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhUv2JsI/AAAAAAAAAc8/KLxmZPWuW9U/s1600/232323232-fp538-8-nu%253D3383-476-274-WSNRCG%253D3364-8%253B%253B9-346nu0mrj.jpg"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TTOVhUv2JsI/AAAAAAAAAc8/KLxmZPWuW9U/s1600/232323232-fp538-8-nu%253D3383-476-274-WSNRCG%253D3364-8%253B%253B9-346nu0mrj.jpg"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-24002801779008651632010-11-02T19:38:00.008-05:002010-11-02T20:12:30.404-05:00Here Comes Santa Claus<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Well...maybe not, but close!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Christmas is Just Around the Corner</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Do You Need a Gift for Yourself or Your Mother?</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Candy Canes, Presents and Glitter Galore</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A Perfect Decoration for a Wall or a Door</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Special Colors, Sizes and Ribbons Too</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">They are Made With Love and Uniquely for You</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">----------------------------------------------------------</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The Christmas spirit has hit me and I could not think of a better way to share the season than to paint!</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I am selling 8x10 canvas boards. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">$10 for one</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">$25 for three</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Customized colors and sayings are included. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Other sizes are available upon request (pricing will vary).</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Extra fees may apply to cover shipping costs.</span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Please contact me for further information, questions and orders! Pass along this blog post to your family and friends!</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">----------------------------------------------------------</span></span></p></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvvqYFfkI/AAAAAAAAAVI/im5KyIPt8Jk/s1600/CIMG0541.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvvqYFfkI/AAAAAAAAAVI/im5KyIPt8Jk/s320/CIMG0541.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117175402364482" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvveN5FPI/AAAAAAAAAVA/65qecf9_pkY/s1600/CIMG0540.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvveN5FPI/AAAAAAAAAVA/65qecf9_pkY/s320/CIMG0540.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117172138382578" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvJ0mJnlI/AAAAAAAAAUg/ImRbwDp3u1c/s1600/CIMG0533.JPG"><img alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvJ0mJnlI/AAAAAAAAAUg/ImRbwDp3u1c/s320/CIMG0533.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvKSswJiI/AAAAAAAAAUo/DQKqeu0klmM/s1600/CIMG0535.JPG"><img alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvKSswJiI/AAAAAAAAAUo/DQKqeu0klmM/s320/CIMG0535.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikm1qn3qHqnAtKZ9effZ6-onwdHbaGaeXLFDK4St-OIMoc6lM5cLL4ZSXNtQfrz8VXyjYbDESC2LKfTt_EiHLiK7o7QexXNU9_yT-2OEaOO-F6J1BqlU2sS_vQPArAoaNXTs6RuVpKHBI/s1600/CIMG0536.JPG"><img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikm1qn3qHqnAtKZ9effZ6-onwdHbaGaeXLFDK4St-OIMoc6lM5cLL4ZSXNtQfrz8VXyjYbDESC2LKfTt_EiHLiK7o7QexXNU9_yT-2OEaOO-F6J1BqlU2sS_vQPArAoaNXTs6RuVpKHBI/s320/CIMG0536.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvLDKDp0I/AAAAAAAAAU4/LTOBWbtQ1Ok/s1600/CIMG0538.JPG"><img alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvLDKDp0I/AAAAAAAAAU4/LTOBWbtQ1Ok/s320/CIMG0538.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 16px; ">----------------------------------------------------------</span></div><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwLSW6O1I/AAAAAAAAAWI/B4sw_f_u75I/s1600/CIMG0554.JPG"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwJ7yh47I/AAAAAAAAAVo/AKNYhpeQKFo/s1600/CIMG0549.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwJ7yh47I/AAAAAAAAAVo/AKNYhpeQKFo/s320/CIMG0549.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117626753278898" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvxg6BXXI/AAAAAAAAAVg/2WacKSoUAi8/s1600/CIMG0547.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvxg6BXXI/AAAAAAAAAVg/2WacKSoUAi8/s320/CIMG0547.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117207220084082" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvw2EujFI/AAAAAAAAAVY/oymuIH_a0y0/s1600/CIMG0544.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCvw2EujFI/AAAAAAAAAVY/oymuIH_a0y0/s320/CIMG0544.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117195722263634" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhikSTsCsdp0qZT5xpDdXfsPq05JawH2EWK_UyNu87n6FRSZ11h0jnmu6xsMgB-ob0wqIx1mCHoWqmMrve0eU0gVv517CfVvlPU_DPGURsfUbAzB5-iDP29GKEYl42iQqVBcmrIF-gjeco/s320/CIMG0543.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117181511827730" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwKQ33MjI/AAAAAAAAAVw/Gd1FIwiabpE/s1600/CIMG0550.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwKQ33MjI/AAAAAAAAAVw/Gd1FIwiabpE/s320/CIMG0550.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117632412791346" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDI-7RgOeOpVBTJJAulN4VAWDdgKS42634F0x_jgOzDy9qyEbX5j4gOoWlNIbeXjrGhvpLKlolGkly7rp9FotsCxARjCN_ZM6Qq-6MgtCi7iq2zhL-9v1HnRU3hBDcRAoI8g8NAGHyE4E/s320/CIMG0551.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117643248778834" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwLMjRzSI/AAAAAAAAAWA/x7GnhRqcdMY/s1600/CIMG0552.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwLMjRzSI/AAAAAAAAAWA/x7GnhRqcdMY/s320/CIMG0552.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117648432581922" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwLSW6O1I/AAAAAAAAAWI/B4sw_f_u75I/s1600/CIMG0554.JPG" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwLSW6O1I/AAAAAAAAAWI/B4sw_f_u75I/s320/CIMG0554.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535117649991318354" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TNCwLMjRzSI/AAAAAAAAAWA/x7GnhRqcdMY/s1600/CIMG0552.JPG"></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-77538091472725281822010-09-27T07:31:00.004-05:002010-09-27T08:03:26.103-05:00Time for an Update<div style="text-align: justify;">Wow! I seem to have failed miserably at a Carter update as it has been close to 2 months since my last post. So, here is a brief recap of August and September!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Throughout the month of August, Christopher enjoyed his time in Kentucky with both his family and his rotation in Louisville. He worked at a nuclear pharmacy and was able to experience some new things in the pharmacy world. He lived like a nomad, staying with friends and family members throughout the state of Kentucky and even Indiana; it seemed he was sleeping in a different bed every night when we called each other. His rotation was easy with short hours, which enabled him to spend a great deal of time with his family. From playing lots of golf, to eating good food, to venturing out to Kentucky sightseeing adventures, Christopher had a great time in his home state. While he worked and played, I did the same in Florida. Although it seemed like a long, and at times a lonely month, it truly did go by fast. I was able to enjoy time with Derby, scrapbooking our wedding albums and visiting with friends throughout the month. From dinner dates with Kimmy, to beach day trips with John Thomas, to "me" days of shopping and spa visits, I took care of myself. Then, on August 21, Christopher and I were finally reunited! It was a great day when he walked through that front door. I do not know who was more excited: me, Christopher or Derby! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Carter family was all together again. And since, Christopher's return home, we have managed to stay very busy. I think that is what we do best! Here is our month of September in summary. We have bought a king size bed, redecorated almost our entire home, gone to a friend's wedding, gone to the Lady Antebellum concert and enjoyed time with both of our moms as they each ventured to the state of Florida in September. Gayle was in the Orlando area over Labor Day weekend dog-sitting her "granddogs" while Gary and Brandon ventured on a cruise vacation. She brought along some friends with her, so it was great to visit with them, shop with them, and of course, eat with them; we always have a great time together. My mom and Nanny came to Bradenton just a short time ago for a long weekend. It was Nanny's first time to our home and she thoroughly enjoyed herself. We could not have asked for better weather and a better time together. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now that we are all caught up, pictures and more details will come later. As October approaches, Christopher has begun his 4th rotation in Target at St. Petersburg; only 5 more to go! All is pretty much the same with me; I have begun to tackle many projects at home from repainting a canvas, knitting (thanks to my mom for teaching me) and scrapbooking. I will be venturing to North Carolina for a quick 48-hour trip home at the end of October. We are looking forward to the cooling weather. Florida is still hot, but it is getting better. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-88836538514424795712010-07-31T20:15:00.016-05:002010-07-31T21:18:41.171-05:00Fun in the Sun<div style="text-align: justify;">Last weekend was absolutely incredible! My family went on vacation in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. It was only a 2 day vacation, but we were able to pack in lots of memories and fun!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christopher and I were fortunate enough to take a few extra days off and enjoy the drive to North Carolina. Before our road trip, we dropped Derby off in Orlando and Gary and Brandon's house on Wednesday. They graciously agreed to "dog-sit." Derby apparently had a great time running and chasing her 3 cousins while we were gone. Christopher and I drove to Savannah, the half-way point to NC, and stayed the night.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thursday, we woke up bright and early and made our way to North Carolina. Before heading to the beach, we stopped at Duplin winery for lunch and wine tasting with my mom and dad. The food was delicious and the wine was great! We each stocked up with some of our favorites to take home with us. The 4 of us were then beach bound! My mom just recently got a new car, and it was only natural that she and I drive it...a 2002 BMW convertible! We set out on I-40 with the top down and the beach music playing. It was great! Once we arrived at the Sunspree Resort, mom and I headed to the pool, while the boys napped. For dinner, we ventured to a new restaurant, Kefi. It is bar style food with a Southern and Cajun flare. We enjoyed for the first time fried pickles; they were great! After dinner, we rode in the convertible under the moonlight and then headed back to the resort for a good night's sleep as the rest of the Miller clan would be joining us the following morning.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWRiEWMTI/AAAAAAAAAQY/J3Wod5bc_Ok/s1600/232323232-fp-82-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-469-2335nu0mrj.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWRiEWMTI/AAAAAAAAAQY/J3Wod5bc_Ok/s320/232323232-fp-82-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-469-2335nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500256641617375538" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">...Wine Tasting...Yummy...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWRVBHZHI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/81p3ZUS4uz8/s1600/232323232-fp-79-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-465-8335nu0mrj.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWRVBHZHI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/81p3ZUS4uz8/s320/232323232-fp-79-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-465-8335nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500256638114161778" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">...Off to the Beach...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Friday morning, mom and I woke up bright and early to enjoy the ocean before it got too crowded. But, boy was it already hot at 8:00am. We drank coffee poolside and then took a walk on the beach to the Johnny Mercer pier. After sweating in the sunshine, we knew it was time to put on our bathing suits and grab some chairs and umbrellas by the pool. The only way to enjoy the summer heat was to stay in the pool. Around lunchtime, Russell's family arrived and then Gary's family arrived not too long after that. After lunch and an application or two of sunscreen, the entire Miller family, all 14 of us, were in the pool! We played games, threw the kids, got in trouble by doing triple deckers and laughed a lot. Before heading out to our favorite restaurant in the Wrightsville Beach area, we dressed our best in khaki and white and took pictures on the beach. They turned out great! After pictures, we were off to Freddie's at Kure Beach. This restaurant is amazing! Although it is deemed to be an Italian restaurant, they are known for their porkchops and homemade salad dressing. Wow! This place gets better every year that we visit it. It was only natural to enjoy dessert after eating dinner at Freddie's. We made our way to Carolina Beach to taste Britt's donuts. This one fryer donut shop had a line wrapped around the block at the Boardwalk at 10:00pm. It was unreal. These donuts are unlike any that we have ever tasted. Double glazed is the way to go! The kids enjoyed playing in the arcade before heading back to the resort.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7F3JKFXftZjPRGM19OppnvEPh19O3iRd31ZYi_Hbl-0PWyp4EqZNopG6nRiF6HnQAoZ_GnEnhP62NAAoOEn24NEa_lMp0xlyl4zo2MCM2oHkvXAw7XYAep_uEwNoUBfeUV3bIxr-y98U/s320/232323232-fp-7;-nu=32-5-689-487-WSNRCG=3383-46-3-335nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500256630968070770" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWxSGPSLI/AAAAAAAAAQo/PF7Hsq1vGtY/s320/232323232-fp-86-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-44%3B92335nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257187086158002" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWRwR42WI/AAAAAAAAAQg/-1YUOz3xFXg/s320/232323232-fp-85-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-45873335nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500256645432269154" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTUTMYsJTI/AAAAAAAAAPA/vARXkyoJuYk/s320/WB2010+(13).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500254471133603122" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 166px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">...The Gang's All Here...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); 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margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 245px; " /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTT_mjKyjI/AAAAAAAAAOo/9fESiUHGwFY/s1600/WB2010.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTT_mjKyjI/AAAAAAAAAOo/9fESiUHGwFY/s320/WB2010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500254134559492658" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWyCkbmnI/AAAAAAAAARA/5awHPfOpXgc/s320/IMG_3898.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257200097696370" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIYXJWgz-durkiB_8Hb-kMnidD6NZp6JRSfW6Y2AZY_wm37nbPVIbZGePkZCZWEUWR6WlhZyeV3FZSDWkLuD-bsbv-AUTLbn1nCUlblIJtadu1Liw4xBfMtOPwHaxZ8OFgMDNNIZlHdo/s1600/IMG_3917.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIYXJWgz-durkiB_8Hb-kMnidD6NZp6JRSfW6Y2AZY_wm37nbPVIbZGePkZCZWEUWR6WlhZyeV3FZSDWkLuD-bsbv-AUTLbn1nCUlblIJtadu1Liw4xBfMtOPwHaxZ8OFgMDNNIZlHdo/s320/IMG_3917.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257208768015730" style="display: block; 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margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWx8YOZZI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/R7ylSC7q2aM/s320/IMG_3844.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257198435886482" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTXVY8mzOI/AAAAAAAAARo/Np7r3e35UUo/s1600/IMG_3971.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTXVY8mzOI/AAAAAAAAARo/Np7r3e35UUo/s320/IMG_3971.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257807400094946" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCa5QRixn38mZ8p7_zdfWCaM6ikW8frg1FV2qdJ3NxLL1Zjr9sGh3D0g1_67Lz_0NPm__4wNhvs3kD0qE5OkFtZhDJslAlsql0GbDn59JVCW6EoRjVdAQ9bg72XiVtbaUXCp7NEJ9djDE/s1600/IMG_3969.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCa5QRixn38mZ8p7_zdfWCaM6ikW8frg1FV2qdJ3NxLL1Zjr9sGh3D0g1_67Lz_0NPm__4wNhvs3kD0qE5OkFtZhDJslAlsql0GbDn59JVCW6EoRjVdAQ9bg72XiVtbaUXCp7NEJ9djDE/s320/IMG_3969.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257801950906562" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTXUcNDZ2I/AAAAAAAAARQ/n-XpWgRZxfM/s1600/IMG_3980.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTXUcNDZ2I/AAAAAAAAARQ/n-XpWgRZxfM/s320/IMG_3980.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257791094515554" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWyCkbmnI/AAAAAAAAARA/5awHPfOpXgc/s1600/IMG_3898.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></a></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWx8YOZZI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/R7ylSC7q2aM/s1600/IMG_3844.jpg"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWx8YOZZI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/R7ylSC7q2aM/s1600/IMG_3844.jpg"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWx8YOZZI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/R7ylSC7q2aM/s1600/IMG_3844.jpg"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Saturday was a bittersweet day. Christopher had to leave that afternoon for Kentucky as he was beginning a pharmacy rotation in Louisville. I wanted to soak up all the time I could with him. Before heading to the beach with the family, Christopher, Russell, mom and I enjoyed coffee poolside. Then, it was time to ride waves, make drip sandcastles and soak up the sun with everyone. For lunch, we enjoyed wraps and daiquiris poolside. The younger ones napped and the older ones continued to play throughout the afternoon. It was then time for Christopher to begin his next roadtrip. Before leaving, he gave me a going away gift and surprised me with Lady Antebellum tickets. We are going to their concert in Tampa in September. The good-bye was like reliving our long-distance relationship days, a few tears and a few laughs. But all-in-all, we know it is temporary and it is only for the betterment of our future. After Christopher's departure, my family and I continued to enjoy the sunshine. Before we knew it, it was 7:00pm and dinnertime. We knew there would be no way 13 people could get ready, be seated at a restaurant and return back to the resort at a decent hour. So, we ordered pizza and enjoyed a private pool party as no one but us was there. It was so fun and great! Overall, we stayed in the sun for 13 hours on Friday. Now, that is crazy!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify; "><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTUrnbmjvI/AAAAAAAAAPg/Gvqv5FZdY9E/s1600/WB2010+(36).JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTUrnbmjvI/AAAAAAAAAPg/Gvqv5FZdY9E/s320/WB2010+(36).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500254890710437618" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTUnQKsDJI/AAAAAAAAAPY/bSVmc0amJ-Y/s1600/WB2010+(34).JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTUnQKsDJI/AAAAAAAAAPY/bSVmc0amJ-Y/s320/WB2010+(34).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500254815746002066" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: justify; "><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTU1Xccm2I/AAAAAAAAAPo/OMDuChA8x9Q/s1600/WB2010+(43).JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTU1Xccm2I/AAAAAAAAAPo/OMDuChA8x9Q/s320/WB2010+(43).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500255058217704290" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div></div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWxqgx2FI/AAAAAAAAAQw/hYe8Kcb_APY/s1600/232323232-fp-86-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-45845335nu0mrj.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWxqgx2FI/AAAAAAAAAQw/hYe8Kcb_APY/s320/232323232-fp-86-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-45845335nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500257193639925842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTWRwR42WI/AAAAAAAAAQg/-1YUOz3xFXg/s1600/232323232-fp-85-nu%3D32-5-689-487-WSNRCG%3D3383-45873335nu0mrj.jpg"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHKDwWW7woOVgKatWyp5sPGJzAOQSefPK0QsZdeBQLOJqEd_e79L7fhe6-NkWrlpOVZb3SOgnBhfBDkDZH7Ww1dYA-HIrnBvBA0CDy-7fDoSVXXjRhcpQfnDY15FQlOt6VWNDONZBnZo/s1600/232323232-fp-79-nu=32-5-689-487-WSNRCG=3383-457-8335nu0mrj.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHKDwWW7woOVgKatWyp5sPGJzAOQSefPK0QsZdeBQLOJqEd_e79L7fhe6-NkWrlpOVZb3SOgnBhfBDkDZH7Ww1dYA-HIrnBvBA0CDy-7fDoSVXXjRhcpQfnDY15FQlOt6VWNDONZBnZo/s320/232323232-fp-79-nu=32-5-689-487-WSNRCG=3383-457-8335nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500256636383175842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTVBjjKf8I/AAAAAAAAAP4/5eQzITO7vDw/s1600/WB2010+(46).JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTVBjjKf8I/AAAAAAAAAP4/5eQzITO7vDw/s320/WB2010+(46).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500255267625533378" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTU8R8fLRI/AAAAAAAAAPw/aGXQhdcWeH0/s1600/WB2010+(45).JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTU8R8fLRI/AAAAAAAAAPw/aGXQhdcWeH0/s320/WB2010+(45).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500255177000561938" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TFTU1Xccm2I/AAAAAAAAAPo/OMDuChA8x9Q/s1600/WB2010+(43).JPG"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sunday, we enjoyed brunch buffet before we all headed in our own directions. After saying our goodbyes, Russell and his family enjoyed some more beach time, Gary and his family took a daytrip to Myrtle Beach and mom and I hit up some shopping before she and dad took me to the airport. A great surprise to our trip was that Brady happened to be enjoying a beach weekend getaway too. It was great to see her for a hot minute. It was not too long after that, it was time for me to get to the airport. I flew from Wilmington to Sanford, where Gary and Brandon picked me up. After a quick pit-stop at their home, Derby and I made our way back home where it is just the two of us until the end of August.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ultimately, our family vacation was great. We certainly know how to pack some fun in a short period of time. It is what the Miller's do best!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-14636698182329863182010-07-15T18:26:00.009-05:002010-07-15T18:54:54.209-05:00Welcome to Our Home!In the words of Elvis Presley, "Welcome to my home. Won't you come on in." The past 6 weeks or so have been incredibly busy filled with visits from family and friends. Here is a recap of who came to Florida and what fun in the sun we had.<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />First, Brady, my best friend from high school, came for a 4 day visit during the middle of June. Unlike her visit from the previous year, we had great weather and took full advantage of the sunshine. Brady arrived on a Thursday evening. We enjoyed sushi and wine once she got into Bradenton. On Friday, after Christopher and I finished our day at work, the three of us ventured to Plant City to enjoy an evening outside at a winery, called Keel & Curley, listening to live music. The drinks were delicious and the music was great. We even brought our own picnic basket filled with yummy food to accompany the fruit-based wine. On Saturday, we enjoyed the morning at the beach and lunch at a local pizzeria. For dinner, Brady and I enjoyed a girls' evening and spent the night at St. Armand's Circle. We enjoyed dinner and mojitos at Columbia Restaurant and managed to find great finds at the local and unique shops. Sunday, before I took Brady to the airport, the three of us searched for a great cheeseburger for lunch. After driving around Bradenton for one hour, we finally ate lunch at a new local restaurant in downtown Bradenton. It was then time to take Brady to the airport and to prepare for another set of visitors.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-eP09AhAI/AAAAAAAAANU/h_w6PV4YKZo/s1600/Brady+%285%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-eP09AhAI/AAAAAAAAANU/h_w6PV4YKZo/s320/Brady+%285%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494284065165050882" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-eISyHnKI/AAAAAAAAANM/2nCOBU8yV1E/s1600/Brady+%284%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-eISyHnKI/AAAAAAAAANM/2nCOBU8yV1E/s320/Brady+%284%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494283935733488802" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-d_tME09I/AAAAAAAAANE/iwEdOPQ78fo/s1600/Brady+%282%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-d_tME09I/AAAAAAAAANE/iwEdOPQ78fo/s320/Brady+%282%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494283788202857426" border="0" /></a><br />The following weekend, Christopher, Derby and I traveled to Orlando as Gayle was in town with her best friend, Carol. Carol surprised her daughter, Alissa, by planning a trip to Disney World and Sea World. While they enjoyed the theme parks, we were able to enjoy the resort. The Grand Cypress Resort and Villas were wonderful; the hotel offered all-inclusive activities. We played par-3 golf, went bike riding, swimming and more. It was a great getaway even if it were only 24 hours.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://m.travelpn.com/images/orlando/hotel/0/000989/Recreation_G_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 338px; height: 400px;" src="http://m.travelpn.com/images/orlando/hotel/0/000989/Recreation_G_2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.worldgolf.com/images/repository/florida/the-villas-of-grand-cypress-resort-overview-1.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 283px; height: 227px;" src="http://www.worldgolf.com/images/repository/florida/the-villas-of-grand-cypress-resort-overview-1.jpeg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Over July 4th weekend, Cayla and Chris were able to join us to celebrate the holiday weekend. We welcomed the happy couple with a shrimp boil. On Sunday, the weather was not great. We were worried we would not be able to enjoy the festivities of celebrating America. We showed Cayla and Chris the town of Bradenton, ventured to the outlets in Ellenton and prepared for a great evening in Sarasota. Like with Brady, we too ate dinner at Colombia Restaurant. It has become one of our favorite places to take our friends. After dinner, we made our way to downtown Sarasota, and enjoyed the block party before the fireworks festivities. They were a great show. Monday the rain continued so we thought it would only be best to enjoy the bad weather with a movie marathon. We went to Walmart, purchased ice cream, popcorn, frozen pizza and more junk food, and then hopped into our pajamas and laid on the sofas watching movies for the rest of the evening. Cayla and Chris left Tuesday morning only to welcome another couple later that evening.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-e1EOn7-I/AAAAAAAAANs/emefw5d4ATI/s1600/July+4+%287%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-e1EOn7-I/AAAAAAAAANs/emefw5d4ATI/s320/July+4+%287%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494284704920629218" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-eq1V33jI/AAAAAAAAANk/ghR68Oiy0v0/s1600/July+4+%283%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/TD-eq1V33jI/AAAAAAAAANk/ghR68Oiy0v0/s320/July+4+%283%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494284529125809714" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXWaRmW7dfYIgpZUZ7jOvNfS-tvcX2yahI_V5PVUCAQhKotCHGqOGb1qikzjs-uiIY-frDyhkooRYamjVJwH_lC-X1NDIPxU5UXSmRZIIE7WKwNZ_mR-fIZF8GwP3Sx6VNPTPipU53tI/s1600/July+4.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXWaRmW7dfYIgpZUZ7jOvNfS-tvcX2yahI_V5PVUCAQhKotCHGqOGb1qikzjs-uiIY-frDyhkooRYamjVJwH_lC-X1NDIPxU5UXSmRZIIE7WKwNZ_mR-fIZF8GwP3Sx6VNPTPipU53tI/s320/July+4.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494284239336749890" border="0" /></a><br />Alicia, Christopher's best friend from high school, and her fiance, Matt, were able to enjoy south Florida for an entire week. They were able to experience Thai Wasabi, Siesta Key and the outlets in Ellenton. Over the weekend, we took them to Universal Studios so they could experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. While they played at Universal, Christopher and I were able to play at camp. It was nice to catch up with old friends and campers.<br /><br />As July comes to a quick end, we have even more things to look forward to. Derby is getting spayed tomorrow. We are traveling to North Carolina next week for the Miller family vacation. at Wrightsville Beach. After vacation, Christopher will head to Kentucky for a rotation in a nuclear pharmacy and I will fly back to Florida to continue to work and be with Derby. It is hard to believe that we recently just celebrated our sixth month wedding anniversary. We could not be happier and more in love. Life is good!<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-84335138889967031952010-06-01T19:17:00.003-05:002010-06-01T19:41:45.836-05:00Whirlwind Vacation<div style="text-align: justify;">We went on our first "family" vacation about 2 weeks ago to spend some quality time with our families in North Carolina. We spent just as much time in our parents' homes as we did in the car! The 6 day trip went by so quickly; we managed to see everyone, get lots of love and hugs and introduce everyone to Derby!<br /><br />We set out on our adventure Thursday, May 20. Christopher finished his last final EVER and we hit the road. Derby did great in the car (both coming, in between and going); we were a little hesitant of the way she would travel as she had been timid and nervous in previous car ride experiences. She loved to play with her toys on the floorboard and loved to take naps in her crate. She is easy to travel with, which makes Christopher and I excited for future trips! We stopped half-way to North Carolina for the evening. <br /><br />Friday morning, we set out for Rocky Mount. We arrived home around lunchtime where Mom and Dad greeted us. Soon after a quick bite to eat, we set out for family visiting. We first saw Russell, Robin, Halie and Gracie. It was great to see Halie as she had been recently discharged from a scary time in the hospital with a urinary tract infection, strep infection and pneumonia. We were so glad to see a recuperating, young girl. Gracie, as always, was quite entertaining with her funny antics. After a short visit there, we, along with other family members went to the wonderful K&W Cafeteria to eat dinner for my grandmother's 85th birthday. It is where she wanted to go as they had her favorite meal for dinner, chicken livers. Although I do not care for chicken livers and sometimes the "old folk" scenery at the cafeteria, it made for an entertaining dinner with our friends (Get it, Russell?), I mean family. <br /><br />Saturday, was the day to celebrate Nanny! All of our nieces and nephews came over early to play outside. We played with sidewalk chalk and on the playground, ate popsicles and prepared for Nanny's birthday party. Our family was able to enjoy the warm weather all day. We ate hamburgers and hot dogs for dinner, danced on the porch and so much more! There is never a dull moment of laughter and entertainment with the Miller family! <br /><br />Sunday, soon came and it was time for us to hit the road and head to Kentucky. After lunch with my mom and dad, we endured the long 8 hour drive to Christopher's mom's house. We made it there around 9pm and were greeted by Gayle and Aunt Susan. We spent the evening on the patio drinking coffee and eating banana pudding! <br /><br />Monday was a day of visiting family! We spent the morning running outside with Derby at Gary's home. Derby loved the grass and open fields! We ate lunch with Granny; she always has great stories to tell and normally a "honey do list" for Christopher. For dinner, we spent the evening with Christopher's dad's family celebrating Christopher's recent 24th birthday. We ate steaks, fresh vegetables and more. As always, Gee cooks a fabulous dinner! After dinner, we found ourselves on the patio again with Gayle and Susan enjoying coffee and conversation.<br /><br />Tuesday came and the road was again calling us! We spent the morning and afternoon visiting and saying our goodbyes. Before heading out of town, we got to meet Christopher's second cousins. Hadley and Hudson, twins, were born on the day of our wedding. We were so excited to meet them as well as congratulate their parents, Street and Erica. Those babies are adorable! After dinner with Gayle, we hit the road to head to Chattanooga for the night.<br /><br />Wednesday morning, we hit the road again and made the lengthy and boring trip on I-75 back to Bradenton. It was nice to be able to break up the trip in Gainesville; we stopped to see John Thomas for about 20 minutes. After saying goodbye to him, I was able to introduce Christopher to Pita Pit. We also discovered Mochi frozen yogurt. I felt like I was back on Franklin Street in college enjoying Pita Pit and The Yogurt Pump; it was AMAZING! We finally made it to our home, sweet home!<br /><br />Our whirlwind trip was fun and exciting! We love being able to spend time with our families, even if it is a short amount of time. We are now back in our same routine, except Christopher is not in school! He began rotations for pharmacy school today. It is hard to believe that this time next year he will be graduating from pharmacy school and will be a Doctorate of Pharmacy! Time flies by! Hopefully, as his rotations progress, I will be able to get him on here to blog about his experiences! Summer is in full force here; temperatures reach 90 degrees and with humidity, it is close to 95-100 already! If anyone needs a vacation or getaway, we are just a phone call, e-mail or text message away! :)<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-85210140997693614312010-05-02T11:55:00.007-05:002010-05-02T12:28:57.000-05:00It's A......Puppy!<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />We are proud owners of a brand new AKC miniature schnauzer! Here is the little story about how our new baby came to be a part of our family.<br /><br />This past Monday Christopher spoke with our landlord in regards to staying at our condo for another year. He gladly said yes to our request. Christopher asked if we could get a puppy as it was not in our contract from the previous year. He also said yes to that only if we would send him a picture once we brought her home. With that in our heads, we knew we were on a mission. And, as my mom said when we told her we were looking for a puppy, "When you two are on a mission, you succeed quickly."<br /><br />Originally, we set out to find a puppy from a rescue center or the humane society. We looked online and on Craig's List. We found a few puppies that we were interested in, but nothing that we seriously fell in love with.<br /><br />Friday afternoon after work and school, we began the search for our puppy. We visited adoption centers and the human societies , but all the dogs were either too big for condo living or too old for us to truly enjoy. We also visited a pet store and fell in love with the puppies, all of them. Of course, they were too far out of our price range. We went home Friday night without a puppy, but had a clearer mind of what exactly we wanted, a schnauzer.<br /><br />While I was at work Saturday morning, Christopher continued the search. He found that the sister pet store had a miniature schnauzer on sale. He told them we were very interested and would be in later that afternoon to meet her. We arrived to the store and saw her in the window and thought she was adorable. We also played with a yorkie poo and thought she was adorable too. Although they both were very cute, playful and sweet, we knew the schnauzer was for us. It was not much longer that she was in my lap driving home to our house!<br /><br />We brought her home and she immediately began sniffing her surroundings and becoming acquainted with her new home. We then gave her some food and water and put her in our bathroom while we went to Target and Walmart to get some puppy supplies. We bought her toys, food and water bowls, a crate, puppy treats, a collar and a leash. The majority of everything was pink; I am not sure how much Christopher enjoys the fact that everything is pink. Oh well, she is a girl.<br /><br />When we came home we began the quest for her name. We had a few in mind, but wanted to spend some time with her before we named her. She loves to fetch her toys and play tug of war. At first, she was not crazy about going outside or climbing up and down the stairs, but by the last time we took her out Saturday night, she was going up the stairs. Saturday night, she spent most of the late evening sleeping on me on the sofa. We placed her in her crate, "her home," for the night and only heard a small whimper from her for about 10-15 seconds. She did so great.<br /><br />This morning we woke up to see that she had not had any accidents in her crate. We also had a name for her when we woke up...Derby! We named her Derby because we brought her home on the day of the Kentucky Derby.<br /><br />She has been great all day long. Derby has not had any accidents in the house today. She loves to chase Christopher around the house. She also watches TV throughout the day. If she in near the computer, she has discovered the mouse and tries to get that as well. She is a very quiet dog as she has only barked twice in the past two days.<br /><br />Here is just a bit more information about Derby. She was born January 11, 2010, the day we left for our honeymoon. She is currently 8-9 pounds and is expected to only be 10-12 pounds. We are so excited to have Derby and cannot wait for everyone to meet her!Enjoy the pictures below!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S9219EYLP2I/AAAAAAAAALQ/mdSPqWCV7UA/s1600/Derbi+%286%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S9219EYLP2I/AAAAAAAAALQ/mdSPqWCV7UA/s320/Derbi+%286%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466725583449440098" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S9210_3ekjI/AAAAAAAAALI/xwPtW93zj04/s1600/Derbi+%287%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S9210_3ekjI/AAAAAAAAALI/xwPtW93zj04/s320/Derbi+%287%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466725444799599154" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S921telReLI/AAAAAAAAALA/9Jcl866ncjk/s1600/Derbi+%2810%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S921telReLI/AAAAAAAAALA/9Jcl866ncjk/s320/Derbi+%2810%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466725315605788850" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S921lhEq6II/AAAAAAAAAK4/eheY-yF4zY4/s1600/Derbi+%2811%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S921lhEq6II/AAAAAAAAAK4/eheY-yF4zY4/s320/Derbi+%2811%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466725178835396738" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-92169081216112732282010-04-12T20:12:00.020-05:002010-04-12T21:03:54.371-05:00Spring Break!Well...we technically did not have a Spring Break, but we had a great week with Holly's family last week.<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />Our week long visit began last Monday afternoon when Holly's Mom flew into Tampa. Holly's oldest brother, Gary, his wife, Blair and their 4 children flew into Orlando on the same day. They made it to Bradenton just about the same time we arrived from the Tampa airport. That evening we spent quality time together at our house. Boy, was it fun finding places for luggage, toys and a place for 6 extra people to sleep in our 2-bedroom condo; it was like we were at camp! Once everyone got settled, Mom, Blair, Christopher, the 4 kids and I went to the pool. The kids enjoyed the water and we enjoyed the sunshine. As Mom, Blair and I sat with our feet in the water, Mom made the comment, "When we get back to the room, it will be so nice to have dinner ready." How funny of a "blonde moment" for Mom as she must have thought she was at a bed-n-breakfast; it provided for some great laughs. For dinner, Gary made a delicious Italian feast complete with Italian sausage, spaghetti, salad and garlic bread.<br /><br />Tuesday seemed to be a normal day for Christopher and I; he went to school and I went to work. Mom and Blair dropped me off as they had acupuncture appointments. Gary spent the morning with the kids as he prepared to leave for Orlando later that evening for a business training meeting. Mom, as always, enjoyed her acupuncture treatment. Blair got to experience it for the first time and found it interesting and different. Later that day, I was able to enjoy lunch with the girls at Jason's Deli. After Christopher and I finished our normal day, the whole family ventured to Bradenton Beach for some fun in the sun. Although the water was a bit chilly, Ridge, Kennedy and Connelly did not mind one bit. After a few hours on the beach, we ventured to Cortez Kitchen for dinner. The food was great as always. Kai became quite hungry as we waited for our food and proceeded to say, "eat," while blowing kisses to people in hopes they would share their food with him. The boy sure does love his food! After dinner, Gary left for Orlando, and we headed back to our home to call it a night.<br /><br />On Wednesday, I took Mom, Blair and the kids to Red Barn so they could experience was a true farmer's market was like. They found all the fresh produce to be heavenly. They picked out a yummy feast for dinner as Christopher would be studying and I would be at work. For lunch, we ventured to Thai Wasabi for sushi. As always, it is so yummy!<br /><br />Thursday was an all day fun day at Siesta Key Beach! Although it took an hour to get there and find a parking space, it was so worth it! We packed sandwiches and snacks for a picnic lunch and spent all day in the sunshine. We later found that the Florida got the best of us as most of us came home with sunburned shoulders, cheeks and legs. As Ridge, Kennedy, Connelly and Kai played in the water and the sand, Blair, Mom and I found pure enjoyment in people watching; we saw 2 groups of college boys walking in American flag speedos stopping for pictures, singing songs and providing great laughs. We found it to be quite hilarious! On our way home from the beach, we enjoyed frappucinos from Starbucks. We ended the evening by eating pizza and enjoying massages from yours truly.<br /><br />Friday was a more relaxed day as we spent the morning shopping at the outlets. Blair found some great clothes and accessories for the children. After shopping, we met Christopher for lunch at Subway. We spent the afternoon at our house. The girls played outside and Mom and I were able to look at our proof albums from our wedding photography. Gary came back to Bradenton that afternoon and for dinner we visited Thai Wasabi once more! It was a great, relaxing day to end the visit.<br /><br />On Saturday, we said goodbye to Gary, Blair and the children as they flew back home to North Carolina. After we sent them on their way, Christopher spent the day studying and Mom and I spent the day shopping and exploring Sarasota. I introduced Mom to Kohl's as she had never shopped there before. We both found lots of great deals and racked up on some great new clothes and jewelry for our wardrobe! We then ventured to downtown Sarasota to see the waterfront and the infamous replica statue of the Kissing Sailor. After walking the waterfront and taking a few pictures, we then drove to St. Armand's Circle for more shopping and fun. We walked in and out of stores imagining that we were not in Florida anymore. We fell in love with <span style="font-style: italic;">Tea and Spice Exchange </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">The Olive Company</span>. We purchased some great additions to our kitchen cabinets since we both love to cook. After shopping and a gelato break, we ate dinner at Pei Wei. When we arrived home, Mom and I went from shopping girls to redecorating girls; we rearranged furniture and accessories in our living room and kitchen to give everything a fresh new look. The "new" room looks great. After redecorating, we ended the evening by watching <span style="font-style: italic;">The Blind Side.</span><br /><br />I took Mom to the airport Sunday morning and returned home to begin getting ready for the new week. The house was quiet when I returned home and somewhat messy. But, Christopher and I would not trade anything for the world. We enjoyed every minute of our week with our family. We cannot wait to spend more time with our entire family in May to celebrate Nanny's 85th birthday. Enjoy the pictures below of our great and memorable week!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDw6vhZ0t5X783rN9eW0t63SsEPNLnHQG6lJ-9sOrwoUTjdmJs5efKwVFpWVz0PhBWSc0H11bhPHPveWTAd7_HyRkPNIN5sBQ8pJCRwcsXP6dVMweuNXnQ_E2Go6muA0OMldtPxI1a0xc/s1600/Spring+Break+%282%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDw6vhZ0t5X783rN9eW0t63SsEPNLnHQG6lJ-9sOrwoUTjdmJs5efKwVFpWVz0PhBWSc0H11bhPHPveWTAd7_HyRkPNIN5sBQ8pJCRwcsXP6dVMweuNXnQ_E2Go6muA0OMldtPxI1a0xc/s320/Spring+Break+%282%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459431923285344850" border="0" /></a>...Pool Side...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PMf_fVpxI/AAAAAAAAAIU/qKoAmVczdfI/s1600/Spring+Break+%284%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PMf_fVpxI/AAAAAAAAAIU/qKoAmVczdfI/s320/Spring+Break+%284%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459432023294060306" border="0" /></a>...Splish-Splashing...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PMzs03YbI/AAAAAAAAAIk/pR6rqGNIans/s1600/Spring+Break+%286%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PMzs03YbI/AAAAAAAAAIk/pR6rqGNIans/s320/Spring+Break+%286%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459432361881461170" border="0" /></a>...The Beautiful Beach...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzx6LR-vF9dQpL2x-W5v0JSHLjKR8nKgjwvKR9KfR9lq5s3_FTgOPf4XULybDjPlav47K5LyvlkZlWhxk06CXLT6gpGVK9A5iLnk0TbsVzttDD0o5Q3kpBUsl__JCyerdiSP0_oh3QxTY/s1600/Spring+Break+%2817%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzx6LR-vF9dQpL2x-W5v0JSHLjKR8nKgjwvKR9KfR9lq5s3_FTgOPf4XULybDjPlav47K5LyvlkZlWhxk06CXLT6gpGVK9A5iLnk0TbsVzttDD0o5Q3kpBUsl__JCyerdiSP0_oh3QxTY/s320/Spring+Break+%2817%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459432690361307906" border="0" /></a>...The Carters...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PM8Y12jgI/AAAAAAAAAIs/qTJviXLB498/s1600/Spring+Break+%2813%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PM8Y12jgI/AAAAAAAAAIs/qTJviXLB498/s320/Spring+Break+%2813%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459432511135714818" border="0" /></a>...The Millers...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNOnXvqBI/AAAAAAAAAI8/df-huNoNUfg/s1600/Spring+Break+%2818%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNOnXvqBI/AAAAAAAAAI8/df-huNoNUfg/s320/Spring+Break+%2818%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459432824273610770" border="0" /></a>...Ha! Ha! Russell...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNU7Fe6sI/AAAAAAAAAJE/MneaqG65Y5k/s1600/Spring+Break+%2821%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNU7Fe6sI/AAAAAAAAAJE/MneaqG65Y5k/s320/Spring+Break+%2821%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459432932644940482" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNu85z1FI/AAAAAAAAAJk/kQS0zYCWMfY/s1600/Spring+Break+%2839%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNu85z1FI/AAAAAAAAAJk/kQS0zYCWMfY/s320/Spring+Break+%2839%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459433379809449042" border="0" /></a>...Kai Loves Trucks...<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8k83ZUK1xQmgQJSuEt01YV7pSOazu7NnI36eNEp5TFC6DL3NsSUgcjtz9Dll9pcy3i6y32iRbPpa2u2XUKgOSMF7GgfL9fEisuWWoZjXHTUAUaAzgbvQ9bKWScoUvEwiTxE2x-D7xoyU/s1600/Spring+Break+%2826%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8k83ZUK1xQmgQJSuEt01YV7pSOazu7NnI36eNEp5TFC6DL3NsSUgcjtz9Dll9pcy3i6y32iRbPpa2u2XUKgOSMF7GgfL9fEisuWWoZjXHTUAUaAzgbvQ9bKWScoUvEwiTxE2x-D7xoyU/s320/Spring+Break+%2826%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459433255491590642" border="0" /></a>...The Joys of People Watching...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNiv8zu8I/AAAAAAAAAJU/EmwudXb1BEA/s1600/Spring+Break+%2835%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PNiv8zu8I/AAAAAAAAAJU/EmwudXb1BEA/s320/Spring+Break+%2835%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459433170173934530" border="0" /></a>...One Handsome Young Man...<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUg-czPa_m13FuYk5WbYbpsyyIkWMrdMZkODsklAO_B500nmv0VMilnHDPY010i6J-JmmxLTkU6P9djPvK_Q_HNYFlLTQrJzC8PGFcLHLH_HKujk0XPNh7wM8ezK4arzvsJtnFB84qjw4/s1600/Spring+Break+%2824%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUg-czPa_m13FuYk5WbYbpsyyIkWMrdMZkODsklAO_B500nmv0VMilnHDPY010i6J-JmmxLTkU6P9djPvK_Q_HNYFlLTQrJzC8PGFcLHLH_HKujk0XPNh7wM8ezK4arzvsJtnFB84qjw4/s320/Spring+Break+%2824%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459433085799407122" border="0" /></a>...Sandcastle and Hottub Builders...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLB0URKi6403wmoDdwMMuDVbuvpA3sSrO7YRasm2UscU2z-DQHL4A2P75O_ptlrK2lJyt42wcY5Ae-6REByMfOOrmP7i_lUeTW-J-AUX3gA4CFufGR6mRFaNmSBYVdAGh4nQeSahWr68o/s1600/Spring+Break+%2843%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLB0URKi6403wmoDdwMMuDVbuvpA3sSrO7YRasm2UscU2z-DQHL4A2P75O_ptlrK2lJyt42wcY5Ae-6REByMfOOrmP7i_lUeTW-J-AUX3gA4CFufGR6mRFaNmSBYVdAGh4nQeSahWr68o/s320/Spring+Break+%2843%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459433466516010898" border="0" /></a>...Can you find the Real Models?!...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PN54gw8-I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/nhfuSeD0Frk/s1600/Spring+Break+%2847%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8PN54gw8-I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/nhfuSeD0Frk/s320/Spring+Break+%2847%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459433567609222114" border="0" /></a>...Sweet, Sweet Children...<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POAl_mIwI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/5yGnOUgOVfs/s1600/Spring+Break+%2849%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POAl_mIwI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/5yGnOUgOVfs/s320/Spring+Break+%2849%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459433682897347330" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POUveGQcI/AAAAAAAAAKM/JveWdHdLfeA/s1600/Spring+Break+%2856%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POUveGQcI/AAAAAAAAAKM/JveWdHdLfeA/s320/Spring+Break+%2856%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459434029038584258" border="0" /></a>...Beautiful Downtown Sarasota...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POoT-OqBI/AAAAAAAAAKk/tzZYYWii5O8/s1600/Spring+Break+%2851%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POoT-OqBI/AAAAAAAAAKk/tzZYYWii5O8/s320/Spring+Break+%2851%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459434365254543378" border="0" /></a>...The Kissing Sailor...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POu7nSMhI/AAAAAAAAAKs/cxxmXWi5Y7M/s1600/Spring+Break+%2857%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S8POu7nSMhI/AAAAAAAAAKs/cxxmXWi5Y7M/s320/Spring+Break+%2857%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459434478974939666" border="0" /></a>...At Marina Jack's...<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-20509529699150923772010-04-05T08:04:00.012-05:002010-04-05T11:51:34.093-05:00Happy Easter!<div style="text-align: justify;">What a BEAUTIFUL weekend we had in Florida to celebrate our first easter as Mr. & Mrs.! The sun shined all weekend long, which made it so easy to be thankful for our Savior and the great things He has done in our lives.<br /><br />Friday night, Christopher and I retreated to our childhoods and dyed Easter eggs. It was quite fun and exciting. We laughed a lot at each other, from Christopher forgetting that a white crayon may be used to write secret messages, to Holly being disappointed that the pink dye was more of a pastel pink and not a bright, highlighter pink.<br /><br />On Saturday, Christopher's brother, Gary, drove from Orlando for an early Easter dinner. I got in touch with my inner Paula Deen and made a delicious, Southern feast. The menu included ham, biscuits, green been casserole, pineapple casserole, fresh corn, mashed potatoes, deviled eggs and strawberry pie. The food was delicious! The company around the dining table was great too; Matt came over to enjoy the meal.<br /><br />Yesterday, we enjoyed a great service at our church dressed in our pastel best! The message focused on forgetting the things we should not remember, and remember the things that we should remember. After church, we treated ourselves to Dunkin' Donuts and then returned home to do some spring cleaning to prepare for arriving guests today! We took a lunch break to eat leftovers; Mike joined us for lunch. Again, it was great to surround ourselves with fun conversations and good laughs. We ended the day by baking banana bread and homemade pimento cheese (Thanks for the idea, Mike!).<br /><br />Today, Holly's mom and oldest brother, Gary, and his family arrive for their Spring Break vacation! It is going to be in the 80s all week long; that means lots of trips to the beach, the pool and playing outside! Sushi, seafood, acupuncture, massages and more are on the agenda for the week too!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7nis5UQMkI/AAAAAAAAAFk/Kz9LHu9ygKc/s1600/Easter.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7nis5UQMkI/AAAAAAAAAFk/Kz9LHu9ygKc/s320/Easter.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456641684463956546" border="0" /></a>...Getting Ready...<br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHZxRWdR_SoUQDwmzIPAsf_BnQYXQa6mr4eCCGaumvWHTEdrUEMvy4xuQfCzY0ItFo_sKDr8YKGBbgt8k1UlI3zWGZ_P4dxnybo2wpAuZlQG-EMEy9fIFDF5TrdN3dzk5yLfwzlcPKJM/s1600/Easter+%284%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHZxRWdR_SoUQDwmzIPAsf_BnQYXQa6mr4eCCGaumvWHTEdrUEMvy4xuQfCzY0ItFo_sKDr8YKGBbgt8k1UlI3zWGZ_P4dxnybo2wpAuZlQG-EMEy9fIFDF5TrdN3dzk5yLfwzlcPKJM/s320/Easter+%284%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456641809464076146" border="0" /></a>...Before...<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7njDfcKtiI/AAAAAAAAAF8/mgVRb3IhXo4/s1600/Easter+%288%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7njDfcKtiI/AAAAAAAAAF8/mgVRb3IhXo4/s320/Easter+%288%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456642072654820898" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7ni7uscWQI/AAAAAAAAAF0/flLuAVGJK4I/s1600/Easter+%285%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7ni7uscWQI/AAAAAAAAAF0/flLuAVGJK4I/s320/Easter+%285%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456641939310663938" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Qkg2JxWqk_4D5FcpMPHGDUnyxx4ls5p4_3QIotFJImq7lRxtE15k2XakOIukcT89I-S9MKb69fyPu-PYCU_qA5quZxChPTaR9d9WriZWo08yrYyjggITXt4KWg7F3NS2UrU_0zIRYVA/s1600/Easter+%2821%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Qkg2JxWqk_4D5FcpMPHGDUnyxx4ls5p4_3QIotFJImq7lRxtE15k2XakOIukcT89I-S9MKb69fyPu-PYCU_qA5quZxChPTaR9d9WriZWo08yrYyjggITXt4KWg7F3NS2UrU_0zIRYVA/s320/Easter+%2821%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456642341984756466" border="0" /></a>...Christopher's Secret Message - "I love my wife"...<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7njJHLZavI/AAAAAAAAAGE/5wz1BRS9Zgs/s1600/Easter+%2814%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7njJHLZavI/AAAAAAAAAGE/5wz1BRS9Zgs/s320/Easter+%2814%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456642169221245682" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7njZvaX8zI/AAAAAAAAAGU/QWvy2Yqt9U4/s1600/Easter+%2823%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7njZvaX8zI/AAAAAAAAAGU/QWvy2Yqt9U4/s320/Easter+%2823%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456642454899389234" border="0" /></a>...After...</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-30104722202318825332010-03-29T08:33:00.005-05:002010-03-29T08:56:22.292-05:00March Has Come and GoneIt has been quite some time since our last post. March has been a month full of visitors, traveling and more.<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />Ashley & Andrew came to visit the second week in March while on their Spring Break. We had such a great time visiting with them. Nothing says fun like a seafood dinner at Cortez Kitchen followed by wine and board games at home! Although the visit went by quickly, we are looking forward to doing it again real soon.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7CwsnCj0uI/AAAAAAAAAEc/b4NCmrRXlPI/s1600/P3090959.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7CwsnCj0uI/AAAAAAAAAEc/b4NCmrRXlPI/s320/P3090959.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454053429186122466" border="0" /></a>...The Best Seafood & Cold Beer Anyone Could Ask For...<br /></div><br />The following weekend, we spent in Orlando with Gary & Brandon. We spent the weekend together, along with Gayle, celebrating Gary's 30th birthday. Friday night, we spent the evening outside cooking steaks on the grill, drinking wine and playing board games. Saturday was spent by the pool. The weather was gorgeous! We then ordered wings, ate Italian ice and played board games. If you have not played <span style="font-style: italic;">Balderdash</span>, we highly recommend it! We were also excited to be at Gary & Brandon's home over this weekend, as they welcomed home their newest puppy, Bella. She is an adorable miniature greyhound!<br /><br />This past weekend, Christopher was busy with his fraternal organization, Kappa Psi, as they inducted their newest pledge class. Sunday evening was a night of celebration as they participated in their first inaugural founder's day and initiation dinner. We enjoyed a great dinner, slide show and awards ceremony. Please give a round of applause to Christopher as he won the scholarship award for the third year pharmacy student with the highest grade point average in the fraternity!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NV1_7_hgAF-TYzyd5RFgS6pFz8_JGF1lxhPJoZo11KLXwoGO1t16cpJtJfPGR36c3HiNya3qnbR801M43rJYpmVfW-6gu6yQvednWXkssW_QUVjY8Nc88I42VAgzpPAYLlQMfHEBLX0/s1600/24336_10100367195289511_2011201_66168030_5871606_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NV1_7_hgAF-TYzyd5RFgS6pFz8_JGF1lxhPJoZo11KLXwoGO1t16cpJtJfPGR36c3HiNya3qnbR801M43rJYpmVfW-6gu6yQvednWXkssW_QUVjY8Nc88I42VAgzpPAYLlQMfHEBLX0/s320/24336_10100367195289511_2011201_66168030_5871606_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454053720935598674" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7CxDpVrG_I/AAAAAAAAAEs/LkbFSZwE66o/s1600/24336_10100367195294501_2011201_66168031_7148396_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S7CxDpVrG_I/AAAAAAAAAEs/LkbFSZwE66o/s320/24336_10100367195294501_2011201_66168031_7148396_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454053824940153842" border="0" /></a><br />Some other things we have been able to enjoy over the past month include: dinner dates at Hickory Hollow, flower and garden shopping, date nights-in with fondue and cooking on the grill and more.<br /><br />This past month, Christopher also received his rotation assignments. He will be able to enjoy 3 rotations in Kentucky and the rest will be in Florida, mostly within driving distance to Bradenton. We are both very excited for the opportunities that are before him as it will better help me decide what and where he wants to practice pharmacy. Although we know the 3 months he will be away from Bradenton will be difficult, we know that is a short, temporary thing and it is for the betterment of our future.<br /><br />As April approaches, we are excited to celebrate our first Easter together and welcome Holly's mom for a week long visit. Also, Gary, Blair and their children will be coming for a visit. As the weather continues to get warmer, we hope to make trips to the beach, go for walks outside and maybe play some golf.<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-40842249564201555622010-02-22T19:55:00.005-06:002010-02-22T20:27:56.035-06:00A Week or So of FirstsIt has been a week of firsts here in the Carter home.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">ONE. We were able to enjoy a sweet Valentine's weekend together. Friday, we watched the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics while enjoying chocolate fondue. We lit candles and pulled blankets and pillows on the floor as we indulged in yummy fruit and chocolate and drank wine. It was a fun evening! After a day of working and studying on Saturday, we enjoyed dinner-in and were able to talk to my entire family via skype as they were together celebrating my biggest brother, Gary, as he turned 40! It was fun to see everyone and chit-chat even if it were only a few minutes. Sunday, I worked for a few hours while Christopher spent the day studying. We enjoyed dinner at Thai Wasabi, our favorite restaurant! We ate delicious sushi.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S4M8ZKLYouI/AAAAAAAAAC0/mYIIqlcjNpo/s1600-h/CIMG0452.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S4M8ZKLYouI/AAAAAAAAAC0/mYIIqlcjNpo/s320/CIMG0452.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441259177720193762" border="0" /></a><br />...Our First Valentine's Day as Mr. & Mrs...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S4M8fP3r8rI/AAAAAAAAAC8/lK-pfSn-tLU/s1600-h/CIMG0451.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S4M8fP3r8rI/AAAAAAAAAC8/lK-pfSn-tLU/s320/CIMG0451.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441259282327401138" border="0" /></a>...Always Something Fun & Silly Between Us...<br /></div><br />TWO. This past week I was diagnosed with an inflammatory disorder called erythema nodosum. Here is a summary of how it all came to be. I came home from work Tuesday evening with itchy legs. I took a shower and I soon looked like a lobster, red on all my extremities. I took a benadryl and basically hurt all over. After a sleepless night of burning and itching, I woke up Wednesday with blotchy rashes all over my body. I went to the acupuncturist for what was to be a routine session, but we ended up focusing on the rashes. They were completely confused. They treated me to release some of the heat associated with the rashes and inflammation. As the day progressed, my rashes began moving all throughout my body, mainly in the extremities. I don't have any rashes on my stomach, chest or back. I went to urgent care where they diagnosed me. I will have the symptoms of burning, moving rashes for about 6 weeks. This also explains the malaise and joint aches that I have been having as it as a common symptom as well. I am going to be taking OTC aleve for the pain and then a prescribed medication to help relieve the itch discomfort, but that will make me sleepy so I am only taking it at night. Erythema nodosum is not contagious and over 50% of the cases are diagnosed with no known cause. It could be caused by anything from strep, birth control pills, cat scratch fever, allergies to food/lotions and so much more. I was lucky enough the rashes only lasted a little over 24 hours. I woke up very stiff, Thursday morning, but thought that if I get moving, ate breakfast and took my medicine then I would be good to go when I arrived at work. I had already spoken with my boss the night before and she assured me that taking care of my body should be my number one priority. I felt relieved from our conversation. I went to work and I guess God was carefully watching over me as my appointments at the spa were canceled. I decided it was a sign that I needed to go home and rest. I napped off and on throughout the day on Thursday. Overall, I felt pretty lousy...sore muscles, stiff and swollen joints, skin warm to the touch but no fever, etc. I looked like an old woman walking around the house. I was able to get some sleep Thursday night, but it took my body a long time to settle down and get comfortable. I woke up Friday morning feeling about the same. I decided not to work again today as it seems rest is the best thing for my body and healing right now. I napped off and on throughout the day and felt much better when I woke up this afternoon. Since Christopher had a meeting, I thought I would cook dinner. I chopped a few vegetables, picked up a frying pan and began to make a fritatta. I put in the oven, sat down and noticed my left hand (my dominate hand) had a rash on it and was swollen again. My arm began itching and a small rash appeared on my forearm. In about 20 minutes, the rash faded. Saturday, in summary, was pretty much the same as Friday. I was able to go to the grocery store with Christopher, but the walking I did around Walmart fatigued me. In flash-forwarding to Sunday and today, I feel so much better. The soreness is concentrated to my knees and wrists. I am so thankful for the prayers and concerns from our family and friends! I am going to see a dermatologist this coming Thursday to talk about ways to care for the signs and symptoms associated with this disorder.<br /><br />THREE. We attended our first wedding as a married couple. Saturday evening, my chiropractor got married. We felt so honored to be invited to her reception to celebrate her marriage. The reception was so fun and intimate, only 90 guests. The bride and groom looked so happily in love and beautiful. We enjoyed cake and desserts, wine and dancing. Funny story...the DJ played <span style="font-style: italic;">The Cupid Shuffle.</span> Christopher and I were the only ones on the dance floor; no one else knew how to do the dance. We even got a round of applause when it was over. As we were slow dancing, Christopher said to me that he finally felt like we were a married couple. It was very sweet!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S4M8mrNHfpI/AAAAAAAAADE/wWH9l6rlkPg/s1600-h/CIMG0456.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S4M8mrNHfpI/AAAAAAAAADE/wWH9l6rlkPg/s320/CIMG0456.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441259409924128402" border="0" /></a>....Celebrating Kristin & Rob in Downtown Bradenton...<br /></div><br />FOUR. Our friend, Kimmy, came to visit us Sunday. She was able to spend the afternoon with me while Christopher studied at school. Kimmy and I enjoyed great conversations about our honeymoon, camp, friendships, life and so much more. I thoroughly enjoy the time that she and I get to spend together. Kimmy's visit originated from her 2010 goal list. She wanted to watch the sunrise on the east coast of Florida, and watch the sunset on the west coast of Florida. Well, clouds and scattered storms set in Bradenton Beach, so the sunset was really not there. But, we did find a piece of a sand dollar while walking on the beach. We went to a local seafood restaurant for dinner with Christopher. Over dinner, Kimmy explained the wonderfully new, yet somewhat old, hobby of geocaching. It is a treasure hunting game where you use a GPS to hide and seek containers with other participants in the activity. It is amazing! Christopher and I cannot wait to explore Bradenton one day while finding hidden treasures. Go to www.geocaching.com to find how many hidden treasures are in your zip code.<br /><br />FIVE. Christopher and I learned so much today at the Honda car dealership. In seeing lots of advertisements on TV, we decided to check out the deals on leases to see if we could lower my current payments. Boy, was it tiring and tedious! It took a lot of patience, communication and wheeling and dealing! After 5 hours of trying to get in the driver's seat, we finally made a deal on a 2010 Honda Civic. We were able to lower my payment by $70. We accomplished our goal and learned so much. We feel like big kids now!<br /><br />Marriage is great. We are learning and loving each and every day!<br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-73486529035912713362010-02-10T09:05:00.006-06:002010-02-10T09:13:32.720-06:00Extra! Extra! Read All About It!<div style="text-align: justify;">Our first wedding announcement was posted in <span style="font-style: italic;">The Nashville Graphic,</span> of Nashville, North Carolina today. Rocky Mount's <span style="font-style: italic;">Telegram </span>will feature our announcement this Sunday on Valentine's Day; how appropriate!<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S3LLnFcvYbI/AAAAAAAAACM/PBRhp0Q5ZQQ/s1600-h/newspaper+portrait.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 261px; height: 396px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Jp3oBUcrQ6s/S3LLnFcvYbI/AAAAAAAAACM/PBRhp0Q5ZQQ/s320/newspaper+portrait.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436631572527669682" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:22px;" >Miller - Carter unite in marriage</span><br /></div><br /><br /></div><table style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-align: left; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px;font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12px;" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td valign="top"><span style="font-size:100%;">Holly Lynn Miller and Christopher Lewis Carter were married Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, at Nashville United Methodist Church, Nashville. The officiating minister for the traditional 5 p.m. ceremony was Pastor Wayne Hicks.<br /><br />The bride is the daughter of Lou and Sharon Miller of Rocky Mount. She is the granddaughter of June Ward of Nashville.<br /><br />The groom’s parents are Gayle Spoonamore and Gary Carter of Stanford, Ky. He is the grandson of Katherine Spoonamore and Carl and Mary Carter, all of Stanford, Ky.<br /><br />A program of nuptial music was presented by Rev. Sylvia Sutter, organist. Soloist was Gary Miller, brother of the bride.<br /><br />The bride was given in marriage by her parents. She wore an ivory draped satin bodice with slightly dropped waist featuring beaded, embroidered detail with an allover beaded lace chapel train. She carried a bouquet of white calla lilies and roses.<br /><br />The maid of honor was Brady Keeter of Raleigh.<br /><br />Bridesmaids were Rebecca Arcebido of Bradenton Fla., Ashley Bass of Chapel Hill, Amy Potter of Louisville, Ky., Kelly Sims of Charlotte and Cayla Williams of Abbeville, S.C., all friends of the bride.<br /><br />Junior bridesmaids were Halie Miller and Kennedy Miller, both of Rocky Mount and nieces of the bride.<br /><br />Flower girls were Connelly Miller and Gracie Miller, both of Rocky Mount and nieces of the bride.<br /><br />Gary Owens of Sanford, Fla., brother of the groom, was best man.<br /><br />Ushers were Clay Carter of Danville, Ky., cousin of the groom, Matthew Antonopoulos, and Michael Riner, both of Bradenton, Fla., John Thomas of Lake Butler, Fla., all friends of the groom, and Russell Miller of Rocky Mount, brother of the bride.<br /><br />Junior groomsman was Ridge Miller of Rocky Mount, nephew of the bride.<br /><br />Ring bearer was Kai Miller of Rocky Mount, nephew of the bride.<br /><br />Program attendants were Crystal Collier of Raleigh and Victoria Broome of Bradenton, Fla.<br /><br />The bride is a graduate of Rocky Mount Senior High School and UNC-Chapel Hill and is employed as a lead massage therapist at a spa.<br /><br />The groom is a graduate of Lincoln County High School and University of Kentucky, and is currently enrolled at LECOM School of Pharmacy seeking a Doctorate of Pharmacy degree.<br /><br />Following a wedding trip to Napa and San Francisco, Calif., the couple will make their home in Bradenton, Fla.<br /><br />A rehearsal dinner was hosted by Gary Carter on Jan. 8 in Nashville.<br /><br />Courtesies<br /><br />A couple’s shower was hosted by friends of the groom on June 6 in Stanford, Ky.<br /><br />A bachelorette weekend was hosted by Brady Keeter on Aug. 13-15 in Savannah Ga.<br /><br />On Sept. 6, a recipe shower was hosted by friends of the groom in Danville , Ky.<br /><br />Sept. 11-13, a bachelor weekend was hosted by Gary Owens in Lake Blackshear, Ga.<br /><br />On Nov. 28, a Christmas shower was hosted by family of the bride in Rocky Mount.<br /><br />A bridal shower was hosted by friends of the bride on Nov. 29 in Rocky Mount.<br /><br />On Jan. 7, a lingerie shower was hosted by Brady Keeter in Rocky Mount.<br /><br />A bridesmaids luncheon was hosted by Gayle Spoonamore on Jan. 8 in Nashville.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-32880790765739199532010-02-07T15:14:00.002-06:002010-02-07T15:28:44.027-06:00A Month...ALREADY?!<div style="text-align: justify;">It is hard to believe it has been one month (well, almost...Tuesday, February 9) since our wedding. Time sure does fly by! It has taken some time getting used to the routines of life, work and school again. But, we are enjoying every minute of married life.<br /><br />Since our return from our honeymoon, Christopher has been diligently studying. His first exam is Monday, February 8. I have been extremely busy at work; the spa is averaging close to 70 appointments daily. At home, we spend much of our time at the dining room table together, Christopher studying and me scrapbooking. We enjoy making dinner together and have been lucky enough the weather has been good enough to eat and enjoy our screened-in porch. Sunday nights is our date night on the sofa; we routinely watch <span style="font-style: italic;">Desperate Housewives </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">Brothers and Sisters. </span>We have also enjoyed receiving gifts and cards throughout the past weeks from family and friends. It makes opening the mailbox a whole lot more fun. About a week after our honeymoon, my mom sent us a package with random odds-and-ends, like makeup, Christopher's infamous gloves he wore during the garter toss, and Starbucks gift cards, that we had left in North Carolina. She also gave us a "design your own" yearly calendar. One afternoon I sat down and created each month with stickers, cut outs, etc. It is now sitting on our desk and we are documenting our first year of marriage. We have documented such things as, "Dinner Date at Thai Wasabi," "Church & Grocery Shopping" and "Day Trip to Tampa." It is going to be a great addition to our keepsakes to be able to see what we did during our first year of marriage.<br /><br />In the coming week, my dad will be visiting us for a dinner date. He is also bringing more wedding gifts and Sun Drop! We will also be celebrating our first Valentine's Day together as husband and wife. We have no set plans yet, as Christopher will be studying for another exam and I will be working over the weekend. I have a feeling sushi, fondue and Duplin wine will be on our list of things to enjoy.<br /><br /><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-90048405531897150782010-01-25T21:04:00.003-06:002010-01-25T21:25:41.654-06:00Now Introducing Mr. & Mrs. Carter!<div style="text-align: justify;">It is official! We are now a happily married couple!<br /><br />It has been quite some time since the last post. The past 5 weeks or so have been absolutely incredible! We were able to spend Christmas with our families, enjoy a great New Year's at a fantastic restaurant with Holly's parents and her aunt and uncle as well as prepare for our incredible wedding weekend together.<br /><br />Throughout the month of December, Holly and her mom spent a portion of everyday working on wedding tasks including traveling to Duplin winery, making programs, creating jewelry and hairpieces and so much more. Christmas at the Miller household was exciting. Sandra and Barry were able to experience the organized chaos of 6 children opening Christmas gifts at one time. Plus, it was Kai's first Christmas, which was a great thing to celebrate. Christopher enjoyed time home in Kentucky, but soon returned to North Carolina for the New Year's eve festivities. We had so much to celebrate. We enjoyed dinner at <span style="font-style: italic;">On the Square</span>, a great boutique restaurant in Tarboro, North Carolina. The fixed menu was phenomenal and the conversation and laughs were timeless! Then it was pre-wedding week. A scare of snow had us a bit concerned earlier in the week, but it blew over and the weather was cold, but perfect for the wedding weekend.<br /><br />The wedding weekend began Wednesday evening as a portion of Christopher's family made their way to Rocky Mount in anticipation to miss the snow storm that was hitting the Appalachian Mountains. Thursday, Holly and her mom decorated cupcakes at church; they made over 300 for the weekend festivities. Thursday evening, we welcomed the wedding party with a pizza party. It was then an evening of boys versus girls as the guys went to Holly's brother, Russell's, house to play cards and pool, while the ladies enjoyed wine and a lingerie shower. On Friday, the ladies enjoyed the bridal luncheon at Birchwood, while the boys ate BBQ and went bowling. Dress rehearsal was a fun time. Seeing everyone have a great time and laughing made for a true testament as to the great friends we have. We then had dinner at <span style="font-style: italic;">The Nashville Exchange</span>. Laughter was heard throughout the room all evening. We enjoyed our last evening as a single person by exchanging our wedding gifts; Christopher gave me a uniquely created diamond pendant necklace and I gave him silver monogrammed cuff links. Then, it came! Our wedding day was absolutely perfect! We could not have scripted our day to have gone more smoothly or be more memorable. Our dreams came true!<br /><br />After traveling back from Rocky Mount to Bradenton, we set out for our honeymoon! What a great adventure it was. We spent 3 days in Napa and 3 days in San Francisco. We had such a great time that we are already looking forward to the one day that we may return to California. From wine tasting to eating great food, Napa was full of beautiful scenery. San Francisco offered so much of the fun touristy things we wanted to do. Like our wedding, we could not have asked for a better honeymoon getaway.<br /><br />Now, we are back in Bradenton finding our routine once again. Christopher, again, is hitting the books hard. However, this is his LAST semester of classes! We can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel that his professors so lovingly spoke of at his white coat ceremony 2 years ago. I have started back at work and am glad to be on a schedule again. Our home finally looks normal as the gifts have been put away (even though they are in the guest bedroom closet) and the Christmas tree is finally wrapped and put away too. We are enjoying married life. We love being in love.<br /><br />(Pictures to come soon.)<br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-86909612577227463552009-12-09T21:39:00.012-06:002009-12-09T22:40:07.055-06:0025 Memories from the 25th Birthday CelebrationAfter a WONDERFUL 25th birthday celebration, I thought I would do something a little different and post 25 memories to recap the happy day!<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />1. Getting a wake-up phone call at 8:00am from Mom & Gracie. They sang "Happy Birthday" to me!<br />2. Christopher making me breakfast-in-bed...eggs, turkey sausage & apple juice.<br />3. Getting Dunkin' Donuts peppermint latte before hitting the road to Disney's Hollywood Studios.<br />4. Listening to Christmas music in the car & holding Christopher's hand the entire way to Orlando.<br />5. Getting in FREE to Hollywood Studios. Happy Birthday to me!<br />6. Receiving fast passes to Toy Story Mania. Later we found out that all the fast passes had been distributed by 12:00pm. Thank you to the stranger who gave us those fast passes; otherwise, we would not have been able to ride the new ride.<br />7. Riding Aerosmith's Rock-n-Roller Coaster.<br />8. Riding Toy Story Mania. It is one of my newest, favorite rides at Disney World.<br />9. Receiving text messages & voice mails throughout the entire day.<br />10. Eating free chocolate mousse at lunch for dessert.<br />11. Dancing in the middle of the street during the Block Party parade.<br />12. Being told "Happy Birthday" by complete strangers all day long.<br />13. Watching all the great and entertaining shows.<br />14. Seeing the true meaning of Christmas, a beautiful nativity, in the heart of Hollywood Studios.<br />15. Riding The Tower of Terror in the front row.<br />16. Eating free carrot cake at dinner for dessert.<br />17. Picking out a special ornament to commemorate my wonderful birthday.<br />18. Watching the opening ceremony of the Osbourne's Light Spectacular show.<br />19. Looking up at the night sky and seeing snow. Yes, it was fake!<br />20. Standing in the middle of 35 miles of Christmas lights.<br />21. Christopher twirling me and holding my hand while walking through the park.<br />22. Watching Fantasmic.<br />23. Kennedy reminding me that our wedding is only 1 month away.<br />24. Ending the evening with a wonderful rendition of "Happy Birthday" from Halie & Gracie.<br />25. Seeing all the Facebook messages when we got home.<br /><br />Needless to say, the day was wonderful, beautiful, memorable, exciting, fun and so much more! Enjoy the photos and videos below of the magical day!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzGEfFW5I/AAAAAAAAAQo/roC3ieWhvbg/s1600-h/disney+birthday+%283%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzGEfFW5I/AAAAAAAAAQo/roC3ieWhvbg/s320/disney+birthday+%283%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413453300219861906" border="0" /></a>The Birthday Girl<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzRVjyBCI/AAAAAAAAAQw/2-6H-G2CJXg/s1600-h/disney+birthday+%284%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzRVjyBCI/AAAAAAAAAQw/2-6H-G2CJXg/s320/disney+birthday+%284%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413453493781529634" border="0" /></a>Watching "Beauty and the Beast"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzZhxHeeI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/q2bhrGBusog/s1600-h/disney+birthday+%287%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzZhxHeeI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/q2bhrGBusog/s320/disney+birthday+%287%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413453634497640930" border="0" /></a>The Coolest Ride Ever<br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzukftFhI/AAAAAAAAARI/TQVfDzmQFaM/s1600-h/disney+birthday+%2827%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzukftFhI/AAAAAAAAARI/TQVfDzmQFaM/s320/disney+birthday+%2827%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413453996007167506" border="0" /></a>"Hi. My name is Mater."<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzhAcJNnI/AAAAAAAAARA/Lkp9fYsQ_Pc/s1600-h/disney+birthday+%2811%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBzhAcJNnI/AAAAAAAAARA/Lkp9fYsQ_Pc/s320/disney+birthday+%2811%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413453762990257778" border="0" /></a>Jesus is the Reason for the Season<br /></div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBz49D_mRI/AAAAAAAAARQ/11yPzvui6ic/s1600-h/disney+birthday+%2836%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyBz49D_mRI/AAAAAAAAARQ/11yPzvui6ic/s320/disney+birthday+%2836%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413454174400518418" border="0" /></a>Absolutely Incredible<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyB0Au5hv0I/AAAAAAAAARY/VKG4D7IUiLs/s1600-h/disney+birthday+%2842%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SyB0Au5hv0I/AAAAAAAAARY/VKG4D7IUiLs/s320/disney+birthday+%2842%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413454308037476162" border="0" /></a>Merry Christmas from the Soon-to-be Carters<br /></div><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dycfkbVnzXu_jhqVusVIhzATa-YsusNhSCapGwMjTaMRTJH3ZGg8JsbCCQFWkdllV2yaXxsTzhX1Rx0JWq_7A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-29868753389863234332009-12-04T18:11:00.006-06:002009-12-04T18:39:40.696-06:00What a Week!It has been quite some time since our last post, but here is an update of our busy month of November.<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />The Saturday before Thanksgiving, Christopher's mom and aunt flew to Florida to visit us for their third annual "Turkey on the Beach" vacation. However, unlike in the past years, Gayle and Susan stayed with us at our home instead of renting a cottage on the beach. We were fortunate to spend a great deal of time with them in between work and school. We shopped at the outlets and ate good food. They ended their week long vacation in Orlando, where Christopher's brother lives. They enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday there.<br /><br />I, on the other hand, spent Thanksgiving with my family in North Carolina. Christopher dropped me off at the airport on his way to Orlando with his mom and aunt. Thanksgiving in North Carolina was a fun-filled day. Mom and I spent the day decorating the front yard with Christmas decorations. My family joined us for dinner; we had quite the spread of food. It was delicious! We had so much food, we did it all over again the next day. Blair, Robin and I were part of the many crazy people who went shopping on Black Friday. We had great success!<br /><br />Along with the Thanksgiving holiday, I was blessed to have two bridal showers while I was home. Saturday, Blair and Robin hosted a Christmas shower. Christopher and I received several pieces of our Christmas china, Christmas tree ornaments, decorative serving pieces and a Willow Tree nativity set. It was a shower filled with great company and good food. Sunday, my church hosted a shower. I was able to spend wonderful quality time with my church family who has watched me grow up over the past 20 years. Their gifts and words of wisdom were greatly appreciated!<br /><br />While at home, I was able to accomplish more wedding tasks! Monday, Mom and I met with the wedding director at church. We were able to cover many of the details that will accompany the wedding weekend. I have great confidence in our wedding director as she is organized and will be very helpful on our big day. I also had my bridal portrait session. The day at the portrait studio was so fun. Unfortunately, I cannot share details. You will just have to wait until January 9 to see the beautiful picture. I will tell you this; the photographer loved the photograph so much she wants to put in on display in the studio. Now, that is exciting!<br /><br />As the Christmas season approaches, I will continue to work until Christopher and I travel to North Carolina on December 19. Christopher begins final exams the week of December 14. We also plan to go to Disney's Hollywood Studios to celebrate my 25th birthday. Not to mention, we have just 36 days until our wedding day. What a busy, yet beautiful, time of year!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmqdfvcjAI/AAAAAAAAAP0/q7LFAwbkdD8/s1600-h/thanksgiving+%2825%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmqdfvcjAI/AAAAAAAAAP0/q7LFAwbkdD8/s320/thanksgiving+%2825%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411543850975792130" border="0" /></a>Thanksgiving with Kai and Gracie<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmqtYcmTlI/AAAAAAAAAP8/W-t4v4ZAY-c/s1600-h/christmas+shower+%282%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmqtYcmTlI/AAAAAAAAAP8/W-t4v4ZAY-c/s320/christmas+shower+%282%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411544123895598674" border="0" /></a>Christmas Shower with Nanny<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Sxmq4FZXtYI/AAAAAAAAAQE/8TbmfUb1J0E/s1600-h/christmas+shower+%289%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Sxmq4FZXtYI/AAAAAAAAAQE/8TbmfUb1J0E/s320/christmas+shower+%289%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411544307760346498" border="0" /></a>My Sweet & Beautiful Nieces<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmrCb_w2cI/AAAAAAAAAQM/bVxxjeYH7kg/s1600-h/christmas+shower+%2821%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmrCb_w2cI/AAAAAAAAAQM/bVxxjeYH7kg/s320/christmas+shower+%2821%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411544485625649602" border="0" /></a>The Wonderful Hostesses - My Sister-in-Laws<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmrRfYR-uI/AAAAAAAAAQU/nbGw0fgjWQU/s1600-h/christmas+shower+%2817%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmrRfYR-uI/AAAAAAAAAQU/nbGw0fgjWQU/s320/christmas+shower+%2817%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411544744231828194" border="0" /></a>Carolina Girls...Best in the World<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmrlqrKd4I/AAAAAAAAAQc/TfKoTWqNAh0/s1600-h/shower+aftermath.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/SxmrlqrKd4I/AAAAAAAAAQc/TfKoTWqNAh0/s320/shower+aftermath.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411545090861201282" border="0" /></a>Where to Put All of These Gifts?!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-22405911764217102022009-11-01T17:18:00.001-06:002009-11-01T19:22:24.079-06:00'Cause This is Thriller, Thriller Night<div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4Z_0SyIKI/AAAAAAAAAPc/qncTb1uk7Xo/s1600-h/halloween+%283%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4Z_0SyIKI/AAAAAAAAAPc/qncTb1uk7Xo/s320/halloween+%283%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399281587423682722" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And we're off! No, we know it is not May, but we made the Kentucky Derby look good in October. Halloween was quite the thriller night. After a morning filled with work for me and studying for Christopher we were ready to enjoy the afternoon and evening with friends.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><br />We spent the afternoon at our friend, Rebecca's house. Some people worked on Halloween costumes whiles others watched the Florida v. Georgia football game. We snacked on sausage balls, spinach dip, salsa, wings and drank some cold beer. It was so nice not to worry about work or studying; we were just hanging out with our friends.<br /><br />That evening we headed to a local restaurant that had been rented out unofficially by Christopher's pharmacy school. The costumes were so good this year. It made for a tough costume competition. Christopher and I were in the running for most creative, but unfortunately lost to two guys who dressed up as care bears. I know the care bears are cute, but that is not as creative of an idea as a horse jockey and a derby darling. The DJ for the evening thought the care bears should have won for scariest costume. Until next Halloween; maybe we will go together as husband and wife. :)<br /><br />Enjoy the pictures from the evening!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4Zzeprt9I/AAAAAAAAAPU/6S4Ijlk2_vg/s1600-h/halloween+%282%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4Zzeprt9I/AAAAAAAAAPU/6S4Ijlk2_vg/s320/halloween+%282%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399281375455721426" border="0" /></a>...I Think He is a Winner...<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4aDdItrcI/AAAAAAAAAPk/l8lQyv2MQc4/s1600-h/halloween.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4aDdItrcI/AAAAAAAAAPk/l8lQyv2MQc4/s320/halloween.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399281649926909378" border="0" /></a>...The Gang's All Here...<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4aQPybO2I/AAAAAAAAAPs/Lul5y9pJgWI/s1600-h/halloween+%285%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f7PIiAjl2io/Su4aQPybO2I/AAAAAAAAAPs/Lul5y9pJgWI/s320/halloween+%285%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399281869682064226" border="0" /></a>...All the Single Ladies...<br /></div></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056790410105138400.post-28278507251141359552009-10-27T20:52:00.000-05:002009-10-27T21:14:33.379-05:00Home Sweet Carolina<div style="text-align: justify;">What a busy, fun, exciting, successful weekend! I flew home to North Carolina for a quick 48 hour trip. I went home with goals and can say that my mom and I successfully accomplished everything on our list!<br /><br />I landed in Raleigh in the late morning on Saturday. I was welcomed home by my mom, my aunt and one of my sister-in-laws. We began our "girl day" by showing my aunt, who recently moved to my hometown, around Chapel Hill. I showed her all the highlights and we shopped at the student store. She is officially a Carolina girl as she added to her wardrobe the perfect t-shirt. All true Carolina girls should have one in their closet; it simply states, "Carolina Girls...Best in the World." After touring Chapel Hill, we made our way to Raleigh to eat sushi. It was delicious! My mom, sister-in-law and I claim that we can eat it every day! After sushi, what else would girls do? Shop! The Junior Guild of Raleigh hosted a shopping spree at the civic center in downtown Raleigh. The exhibit is every Southern girls' dream...monogrammed purses, bows for little girls, adorable Christmas decorations, yummy food to taste and so much more. We had a ball. After a long and fun day of shopping, it was time for some much needed beauty sleep.<br /><br />Sunday was a family-filled day. My uncle came into town to visit my aunt as he has not yet moved to Rocky Mount (2 weeks and counting!). My brothers and their families came home after church for a favorite meal of my family, rigatoni with Italian sausage, garlic bread and salad. I was able to play with all my nieces and nephews, spend time with my Nanny and talk some wedding things with my sister-in-laws and brothers. I even had the joy of asking my brothers to participate in our wedding; Gary is going to sing and Russell is going to usher the grandparents. It is truly going to be a special day!<br /><br />Speaking of weddings, Monday was a great day. Mom and I ran all over Rocky Mount and Nashville and finalized so many of the wedding details. First, we went to Birchwood Country Club, where the reception is going to be held. We met with the country club manager in the ball room and discussed all the details of the reception. We planned the lay out of the ballroom, napkin and tablecloth colors, the menu and more. Mom and I left knowing that the reception is going to be absolutely beautiful! Next, we headed to the Nashville Exchange restaurant. Our rehearsal dinner is being held here. While eating delicious homemade soup and chicken salad sandwiches, we spoke with the owner and was able to finalize the menu there as well. After lunch and coffee, we headed down the street to the florist shop. The place smelled delicious! It was so nice to leave the florist shop knowing the manager knew exactly what my mom and I wanted for flowers. After the running around in Nashville, Mom and I headed to the hotel where she had previously reserved the block of rooms for our out of town guests. I must say, the Country Inn and Suites is adorable! The ambience and atmosphere reminds me of walking into someone's cozy home. Cookies and coffee are available all the time. A fireplace is roaring in the lobby and the guest rooms feel like home. It is going to be such a perfect place for our guests to stay! We made one final stop in Rocky Mount at Belk; my mom reminded me of an upcoming shower that my church is hosting for me. She kindly told me how the elderly women love to buy China for new brides. We went to Belk to register for some items so that the ladies may shop away! After our fun-filled day, it was time to head to the airport. However, we could not go to Raleigh without one more sushi trip! Mom and I ate yet another delicious meal at the same restaurant that we went to Saturday for lunch. What can I say, we love sushi!<br /><br />It was so exciting that Christopher picked me up from the airport. We talked the entire way home about all the details of the wedding. Not that it did not seem real before, but it is here and our day is coming! 74 days and counting!<br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0